The Institute for Bird Populations

Fire provides long-lasting benefits to bird populations in Sierra Nevada National Parks

Low to moderate-severity fires boost bird populations with effects lasting up to 35 years, contrary to traditional fire suppression practices. Forest managers can use controlled burns and pyrodiversity to benefit majority of birds in the forest.

SourceThe Institute for Bird Populations·JournalFire Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 9, 2025

Whitebark pine declines may unravel the tree's mutualism with Clark's Nutcracker

A study suggests that whitebark pine's reliance on Clark's Nutcracker for seed dispersal and germination makes the partnership vulnerable to population declines. The researchers found a dramatic decline in Clark's Nutcracker within Mount Rainier National Park, where healthy whitebark pine populations have also declined.

SourceThe Institute for Bird Populations·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 14, 2020

Megafire does not deter Yosemite's spotted owls

Researchers found that Yosemite's Spotted Owl numbers and nesting rates remained stable after the Rim Fire, which burned one-third of their habitat in 2013. The owls' ability to thrive despite the fire can be attributed to the park's unique history and management strategy.

SourceThe Institute for Bird Populations·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateSep 3, 2020