Wildlife

In support of rare and threatened wildlife

Wisconsin’s unique geography means our state is rich with wildlife species that live in different types of habitat. We are one of the only states with endangered species such as the Kirtland’s warbler, the whooping crane, the Poweshiek skipperling butterfly, and the rusty-patched bumble bee.

However, more than 400 Wisconsin species are considered Species of Greatest Conservation Need. This means that they are already listed as threatened or endangered, or that their populations are low or at risk, and will continue to decline without our help.

Dollars for wildlife

Wildlife projects funded

Dollars for bird conservation

Our wildlife strategy

Partnerships

We partner with existing organizations and agencies that are already engaged in wildlife work. By leveraging their skills, experience, and resources we can help do more for Wisconsin’s wildlife.

Habitat

Access to high quality habitat often decides the fate of our rare and threatened wildlife, which is why we focus our land efforts on the restoration of native plant communities and wildlife habitat.

Monitoring

The kind of research and conservation that makes a difference for wildlife takes time. We ensure long-term support for research and monitoring efforts to obtain meaningful outcomes.

Our wildlife support

Since 1986, we’ve contributed millions of dollars toward efforts to protect and restore Wisconsin’s most imperiled and ecologically important wildlife communities. Below is a small sample of the wildlife we have supported.

Monarch Butterfly

Habitat, monitoring, and partnership with Monarch Joint Venture. Photo by Collette Jarvela Kuhnen.

Kirtlands Warbler

Research, monitoring, and habitat. Photo by Kim Grveles.

Wisconsin bats

Research and monitoring. Photo by Joshua Mayer.

Trumpeter Swan

Research, monitoring, and habitat. Photo by Bruce Bartel.

Eastern Massasauga Rattle Snake

Monitoring and habitat. Photo by WDNR.

Whooping Crane

Research, recovery efforts, and habitat. Photo by Bruce Bartel.

American Marten

Research and monitoring. Photo by Michele Woodford.

Gray Wolf

Research and monitoring. Photo by Tracy Brooks.

Help us save Wisconsin’s incredible diversity of wildlife.

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Impact in Action

Hundreds of ‘Birdathonners’ Raise Funds for Bird Conservation Efforts in Wisconsin

The Great Wisconsin Birdathon is one of the most popular “bird-a-thon” style fundraisers in the nation, bringing in over $400,000 since it was created in 2012 to raise funds for bird protection efforts for Wisconsin birds.

Wisconsin’s threatened reptiles

We have 36 species of reptiles in Wisconsin and more than half of them are listed as endangered, threatened, or a species of special concern. These animals are vulnerable and critically important to the health and balance of our ecosystems.

2018 CD Besadny Conservation Grant Awardees

The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin has awarded $28,043 to 30 organizations across Wisconsin through the C.D. Besadny Conservation Fund. The fund annually awards grants up to $1,000 that support grassroots conservation and education projects.