Whitpain Township was named Pennsylvania’s 108th Bird Town by Bird Town PA, an environmental group that works to make communities safe for birds and wildlife. Bird Towns are municipalities that have committed to protecting birds through habitat restoration, municipal actions and other conservation measures. The President of Bird Town PA, Heidi Shiver, presented the Whitpain Board of Supervisors with two street signs to recognize this achievement.
The presence of birds signifies healthy ecosystems and can reduce pests and benefit people’s mental health, according to the National Audubon Society. Along with Whitpain, neighboring areas like Upper Dublin, Lower Gwynedd and Horsham Townships are also recognized Bird Towns.
To live up to its new status, the Whitpain Park and Open Space Board and Bird Town committee are asking for volunteers to help keep the township bird-friendly. Volunteer projects include nest box installation, bird walks and educational programs. Interested individuals can contact Whitpainparkandopenspaceboard@gmail.com for more information.
Photo – Whitpain Township