Conserving and restoring habitat is one of Audubon’s core strategies for bending the bird curve, but this work is becoming increasingly challenging in Texas. With the state’s population expected to double by 2050, rapid development threatens to outpace the protection of open lands and neighborhood green spaces. And with most Texans now living in urban areas, the health of our communities—for birds and people—will increasingly depend on the conservation actions we take today in our cities. But it’s not only cities that deserve our attention; university campuses and large, institutional landscapes play a critical role as well. 

Bird City Texas was created to address the challenges from rapid urbanization by helping communities reduce threats to birds while improving habitat, public engagement, and environmental stewardship. Building on that successful model, the Bird City Team decided it was time to expand and invite a new partner to create bird-friendly communities—college and university campuses!   

The new Bird City Campus certification program adapts this science-based, community-centered framework specifically for higher education institutions expanding bird-friendly communities to where we live, work, learn, and recreate.  

The potential impact of this shift is staggering. Texas is home to roughly 200 campuses, covering approximately 30 square miles of developed land. More importantly, these institutions reach over a million students.  

To build the most diverse and resilient Audubon flock, we must meet the next generation where they are. Over the past year, we’ve seen a surge of energy from students and faculty alike, passionate voices calling for bird-friendly architectural designs and data-driven plans to reduce window collisions. This certification isn't just a badge; it’s an action plan that allows students to lead the charge in transforming their own backyards.  

Bird City Texas’ 15 certified communities have taken over 100 actions for habitat, 90 actions to reduce threats, 120 engagement actions, and 15 sustainability actions. By bringing campuses into this mix, we aren't just adding acreage; we are empowering a new wave of conservationists. We are currently piloting the program with a few select schools and are filled with happy anticipation of announcing our very first official Bird City Campuses by next year.   

When we design college campuses with birds in mind, we create healthier, more vibrant spaces for everyone. After all, a student body that cares for its birds is a community that cares for its future.