Birds are a major indicator of ecosystem health.
Their sensitivity to ecological changes make them ideal species for monitoring environmental shifts.
The National Marine Sanctuary System provides feeding and nesting grounds for many types of birds.
Shorebirds frequent shorelines, wetlands and marshes for food.
Many migrate thousands of miles each year.
Seabirds like albatrosses spend much of their lives out at sea.
Other birds, like gulls and pelicans, also rely on the ocean, but live near shore.
The oldest known wild bird is Wisdom, a Laysan albatross.
Wisdom nests at Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge within Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.
She is at least 64 years old, but she still lays healthy eggs!
Managing these special places helps recover populations of vulnerable bird species.
National marine sanctuaries and marine national monuments are dedicated to protecting these important animals.
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