Natural Areas
Bird Conservation & Research
About Birds of Bernheim
In 1929 Isaac W. Bernheim wrote of his intentions to create ‘a sanctuary for birds.’ Today, we continue that legacy through dedicated bird conservation efforts.
Birds of Bernheim
A Sanctuary for Birds
Bernheim is committed to protecting and restoring the landscapes and migratory stopovers that birds depend on. Our dedicated staff and volunteers lead educational programs that highlight the crucial role birds play in maintaining our healthy ecosystem.
Each year, thousands of birders visit Bernheim to observe and listen to these incredible creatures in their natural habitats.
Bird Research
Golden Eagles
For decades, Bernheim staff has participated in annual eagle counts for golden and bald eagles. In 2015, we began tracking a male eastern golden eagle, Harper, from his wintering grounds at Bernheim to northern Manitoba. In 2019, we added Athena, a female golden eagle, to our research, and in 2024, Hermes became the latest eagle to be tracked. Each year, these efforts expand our understanding of their migration patterns.
Read more about these magnificent raptors and the latest updates on Bernheim’s Golden Eagle Research.
Get Involved & Explore
Learn with Bernheim
Birds of Bernheim
Our work advocates for bird populations, supporting conservation efforts both locally and globally.
Birding at Bernheim
Download eBird and Merlin Bird ID apps to your phone to gain deeper insights into the bird species.
Bird Conservation
Addressing Bird Decline
The decline in bird populations calls for urgent action. Bernheim is actively engaged in protecting bird habitats and collaborates with local, national, and global bird communities to conduct research, education, and outreach to understand these challenges.
Conversation Efforts
Reintroducing Species, Restoring Habitats
Turkeys were first released at Bernheim in the 1930’s. By the 1980s turkey numbers at Bernheim were large enough to relocate to other parts of Kentucky. In the past two decades, Bernheim has reintroduced bobwhite quail and restored over 300 acres of prairie habitat.
Many of these reintroduced bird species have utilized wildlife corridors to reestablish populations throughout our communities.
