Under the Center for Waterbird Studies, BRI has established a variety of taxa-specific programs focused on the scientific study of the biology, ecology, status, management, and conservation of waterbirds.

‘Waterbirds’ encompasses a large group of birds that rely on aquatic habitats for part or all of their annual life cycle, including marine, coastal, and freshwater ecosystems. Given their reliance on these critical habitats, waterbirds can be useful indicators of ecosystem health and viability.

BRI’s Center for Waterbird Studies includes programs that focus on loons, waterfowl, and marine birds (including shorebirds). All of these programs assist state and federal agencies in the capture, banding, sampling, and tracking of waterbirds. Our research findings are generally relayed to decision makers and the general public through reports, management plans, and communications pieces.