To clarify, we did succeed in raising $40,000 (woohoo!) but we still don't know how much it will ultimately cost to save this colony. We are also making agreements with other farmers who have colonies. All funds raised will go to Tricolored Blackbird conservation. We hope to know more soon. Thank you again for your support.

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We sent the word out that we needed to save a Tricolored Blackbird colony that contained a quarter of the bird's global population. Boy, was that message heard loud and clear. We are so impressed by the traction this story has. Here is an update on the situation from our Working Lands Program:

Roughly 24 hours ago, we sent an appeal to you requesting immediate assistance to save a Tricolored Blackbird colony at risk of being harvested. Thank you so much for responding and for supporting Tricolored Blackbirds. The outpour of donations and encouragement has been overwhelming and inspiring! When bird lovers like you get together, you really can make the world a better place for birds.

I have some good news to share, the dairyman has agreed to delay his harvest another week in order for all parties to work out an agreement. In other words- we have nearly saved this colony (but we are not done yet!). But your involvement will be felt beyond this colony. California and Federal decision makers now know that when Audubon gets involved they need to listen. Your involvement today will mean Audubon can save more birds tomorrow. 

This emergency hasn't distracted us from the goals of our Tricolored Blackbird conservation plan. We are still engaging other farmers to help save additional colonies as the breeding season begins; we are still raising money to create a fund that can be on-hand for the next emergency; and we are still trying to prevent the birds from using agriculture by creating natural wetland habitat. We will keep you updated on our efforts to save this bird.

Together we can save this bird from extinction.

Thank you for being a bird hero today!

Meghan Hertel

Working Lands Program Director