Songbird SOS

I've been an environmental health scientist for a long time now, but i'm still learning about all the ways that our environment is linked to our well-being. So, when I had the opportunity to screen a new indie movie about how our future is linked to the future of birds, I curled up on the couch with a big bowl of popcorn and no expectations. The movie, called The Messenger, is a documentary that features breath-taking views of birds. Little colorful songbirds, big fierce raptors, still-featherless baby birds, and - sadly - dead and dying birds.

The movie draws a link - in delicate, colorful, playful, and active birds - between the health and well-being of these 'canaries in the coal mine' and daily perils from human activity, including pesticide-intensive agriculture, city buildings full of glass, nighttime lights, and outdoor cats.

Okay, I admit, I'm not much of a birder. I love looking at them, but I couldn't tell one bird call from another, although I can reliably identify Canadian geese, blue herons, and mallards. When it comes to songbirds, well, I'm pathetic. But, the fantastic cinematography in this movie kept my eyes glued to the screen.

The movie lets the scientists and experts in the field do the talking, so the facts are accurate and up to date. That's important for a science geek like me.

The message of the movie is important - we must protect the songbirds to protect ourselves - and it is wrapped in such a colorful and informative package that you will be entertained and uplifted.

Watch the trailer and take a friend to the movies - this one you'll want to see on the big screen.

Then go to NRDC's website to learn more about how pesticides threaten human health and wildlife including bees and other pollinators (yes, birds are pollinators too!), and how NRDC is using the law, science, and public action to stop the over-use of harmful pesticides.

You can even Take Action on NRDC's website to let the EPA know that it can do a better job of protecting our pollinators.