The Scarlet Tanager is a striking, red bird that migrates and breeds in the large forest blocks of southern Illinois. They find their meals of berries and insects and make their nests in mature oak trees.
The National Audubon Society has listed the Scarlet Tanager as one of the birds most vulnerable to weather extremes. Spring heat waves endanger young birds in the nest. Heavy rainfall can flood their nests and impede parents from feeding their chicks. Haphazard, sprawling development demolishes trees and habitat in the places birds need.
The birds need healthy and substantial oak-hickory forests. As our region’s forests become weakened by invasive species, such as bush honeysuckle, pesticide drift, and extended periods of drought, extreme heat, and flooding, the oaks they need are dwindling.
It is critical to preserve and care for southern Illinois woods and forests so that birds and other wildlife like the tanager can survive.
Thanks to community support, HeartLands Conservancy is actively preserving and caring for forests throughout southern Illinois. One recent example is Grisley Woods Land & Water Reserve in Williamson County.