American Oystercatcher
Latin: Haematopus palliatus
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A priority species is one that is particularly threatened in terms of the species' long-term survival.
Photo: Don Mullaney
What is a priority species?
A priority species is one that is particularly threatened in terms of the species' long-term survival. All priority species have been selected through rigorous scientific analysis, and most represent a broad array of other birds and wildlife that use the same habitat type. Conservation focused on priority species is almost always focused on priority habitats as well. Audubon has identified 32 priority-bird species within the Atlantic Flyway.
For a complete list of Audubon's priority-bird species click here.
Bird species that are included in the Audubon North Carolina Conservation Plan
American Oystercatchers are the most recognizable of all North Carolina shorebirds. They can be found along the North Carolina coast year-round, nesting on sandy beaches and islands.
Black Skimmers are named for their unique foraging behavior: Using their brightly colored bill, they skim the surface of the water, and when they come into contact with prey—usually small fish—they snap that bill closed.
With reforestation of abandoned farmland and further development of the region, the Bobolink population has seen a dramatic decline.
The Brown-headed Nuthatch is fondly known to Audubon North Carolina (ANC) as our quintessential southern bird.
In North Carolina, Brown Pelicans are found in coastal marine and estuarine waters. .
Cerulean Warbler is one of the species of highest conservation concern and is been considered for listing under the Endangered Species Act.
The small, agile, fast-flying Chimney Swift is readily identified by its characteristic "flying cigar" profile.
The rapid decline of the Golden-winged Warbler since the 1980s cannot be explained solely by habitat loss, and that mystery has attracted many scientists to study this beautiful warbler.
The first to arrive and last to leave, the Green-winged Teal spends a very short period wintering in southern states including North Carolina, so spotting one may require some planning.
Piping Plovers are federally threatened and endangered shorebirds, which inhabit wide, open beaches, shorelines and dry lakebeds in North America.
Saltmarsh Sparrows are tiny, social birds weighing less than 1 ounce. It can be difficult to spot this bird as they spend most of their time on the ground within the tall grasses of a salt marsh where they make a home.
The Tundra Swan is known for its exquisite features and courting rituals, which have made it revered throughout history.
White Ibis may be seen foraging on lawns or neighborhood ponds, especially in August after nesting season concludes, but marshes, swamps and other wetlands are their native habitat.
As its population has declined nearly 40 percent, the Wood Thrush has been designated a priority for conservation within our global and state IBAs.
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