Kirtland’s Warbler Conservation Team addresses decline in songbird’s population

LANSING – A team of conservation experts from state and federal agencies and nonprofit groups is undertaking a long-term plan to stabilize the population of the once-endangered Kirtland’s warbler.

The 2025 census of the colorful songbird indicates a decline in the population. According to the recent survey, there are 1,477 breeding pairs of Kirtland’s warblers in Michigan, which is home to 98% of the global population. Another 12 pairs were counted in Wisconsin, for a global population of 1,489 pairs, with Ontario’s numbers yet to be reported.

The last census, in 2021, estimated the global population at 2,245 pairs.

The decline is projected to continue over the next few years before the Kirtland’s Warbler Conservation Team’s efforts can stabilize the population through innovative strate