Launched in 2024, the Sam Shine Foundation’s Bird Conservation Program is designed to improve habitat and reverse population declines for a select group of target - or “ambassador” - bird species. While our work centers on these focal species, the conservation actions we support benefit many other declining birds, mammals, amphibians, and insects that depend on the same habitats.
Birds are widely recognized and deeply valued by the public. By focusing on bird conservation, we create meaningful opportunities for people to engage in conservation efforts that deliver long-lasting, far-reaching benefits across entire ecosystems.
Our Conservation Approach
The Foundation is currently developing comprehensive conservation projects around several priority species, including the Cerulean Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Henslow’s Sparrow, and Chimney Swift. These efforts are centered on landscapes in Indiana and Florida where the Foundation owns or manages land that can provide significant conservation benefit.
Our work follows a full life-cycle conservation approach. While improving breeding habitat is critical, it is only one part of the solution. We also work with partners across the United States, the Caribbean, and Central and South America to ensure these species have safe, healthy habitat during migration and throughout the winter months. Protecting stopover and overwintering areas - and the resources birds need to fuel long-distance migration - is essential to long-term population recovery.
