Urban Forest Climate Series with Ed Dominguez | Urban Forests and The Birds That Need Them

Urban Forest Climate Series with Ed Dominguez

As seasons grow hotter and climate impacts become more visible, understanding the role of urban tree canopy is more important than ever. Here in South Seattle, the reduced access to shade stands in contrast to other areas of the city, leaving local residents especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

Ed Dominguez is a passionate Seattle-based naturalist, renowned bird expert, local educator, trusted voice in conservation, and former member of our Audubon staff. His research on trees and his understanding of the effects of climate change highlight the importance of urban tree canopy. Ed also understands the issues and politics that have brought us to our current situation and shows us how we can all play a part in creating cooler, healthier, and more resilient communities.

Seward Park Audubon Center is excited to team up with our beloved partner in conservation for a three-part series of presentations designed to educate, inform, and rally our friends and neighbors to take action on this critical issue of trees and climate. Each of these free public events will take place at the Rainer Art Center in Columbia City, or you can participate live on the Seward Park Audubon YouTube channel.

Urban Forests and The Birds That Need Them

Urban forests are more than shade and greenery, they are vital habitat for birds and other wildlife that depend on trees for survival. As climate change and development reshape our city, these habitats are shrinking, with serious consequences for the species that rely on them.

In this final installment of our Urban Forest Climate Series, Ed Dominguez brings his expertise as a renowned birder and naturalist to explore the deep connection between urban tree canopy and bird life. Drawing on his years of observation and research, Ed highlights how trees support migratory and resident birds alike, and how the loss of canopy disproportionately impacts biodiversity, especially in areas like South Seattle.

Participants will gain a better understanding of which birds depend on urban forests, how climate change is affecting their behavior and survival, and what we can do locally to protect and restore the habitats they need. From planting and caring for trees to advocating for bird-friendly policies and spaces, this talk offers meaningful ways for individuals and communities to support the wildlife that make our city vibrant and alive.

Join us to discover how protecting urban forests also means protecting the birds that define and enrich our shared environment and how, together, we can help ensure they continue to thrive.

This event is sponsored by: Washington Department of Natural Resources