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Grasslands are among the most threatened and rare habitats in Connecticut. The nine species of breeding grassland birds and four birds of prey that make use of grasslands as their primary habitat are all steadily declining in Connecticut. Increasing development pressures on two of Connecticut’s most important grassland habitats, Rentschler Field in East Hartford, and Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, exacerbates this situation.

Why are grasslands important to Connecticut? Grasslands have been a part of the natural landscape of Connecticut since at least the last ice age.

• It is estimated that in pre-colonial times up to 20% of the state was grassland habitat.
• The abandonment of agricultural lands in the 20th Century, more intensive use of existing farmlands, and the increasing urbanization and reforestation of the state have taken a toll on grassland habitats and the species that depend upon them.
• Today there is less grassland habitat in Connecticut than at any other time in history, threatening further species loss, and reducing Connecticut’s biodiversity.
• This problem is not a localized phenomenon, the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Breeding Bird Survey reported in the 1990’s that declines of grassland birds has been steeper, more consistent and more geographically wide-spread than any other ecological grouping of birds.

What can be done? Many grassland species have strict and differing habitat and area requirements. Contiguous habitat blocks of 500 acres or greater are required for some to nest successfully. Additionally, grasslands require maintenance to prevent natural succession from rendering them unsuitable for species that require this habitat. The following measures will stabilize populations and prevent the loss of these birds and other grassland species from Connecticut.

• Give priority to grasslands and lands that can be restored to grassland under State land acquisition programs.
• Establish of a 5,000-acre network of large blocks of protected natural grasslands.
• Coordinate and establish programs to work with farmers and other private landowners to ensure a network of 3500 acres of managed late-harvested hayfields, allowing successful nesting of species that will utilize hayfields.
• Ensure adequate long-term management of grassland habitats.

Audubon Connecticut, an operating unit of the National Audubon Society with
over 13,000 members in the state, works to protect birds, other wildlife
and their habitats through education, research, conservation and legislative advocacy.