Science Friday How Conservation Efforts Brought Rare Birds Back From The Brink
Sep 19, 2025
In this conversation, Dr. Tom Langen, a biology professor and conservation biologist, discusses the encouraging recovery of bird species like merlins and sandhill cranes, driven by conservation efforts and habitat restoration. He highlights the impact of factors such as the DDT ban and public awareness on these successes. Langen also delves into his work on restoring the threatened moon eye fish, addressing migration barriers and innovative engineering solutions for river ecosystems. His insights paint a hopeful picture amidst broader environmental challenges.
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Merlin Recovery From Pesticide Ban
- The merlin rebounded after pesticides like DDT were banned and they adapted to towns and cities.
- Reduced persecution and cleaner environments allowed their breeding success and range expansion.
Pileated Woodpecker Return Story
- Pileated woodpeckers declined after eastern forests were cut and people shot them, leaving birds only in large old forests.
- As forests regrew and shooting declined, pileateds returned and moved into suburbs and cities with big trees.
Restore Wetlands To Bring Cranes Back
- Restore and protect wetlands to recover wetland-dependent species like sandhill cranes.
- Implement no-net-loss wetland policies and return marginal farmland to wetlands to rebuild habitat.