As the woodlands of Indiana come alive with the sights and sounds of spring, one voice rings especially sweet — the flutelike song of the Wood Thrush! Thanks to the work of Indiana Audubon’s joint-collaborative Chasing Melody project, we’re thrilled to share that six of the 26 Wood Thrushes banded in 2024 have already been resighted during their return migration!
Among these is one very special bird: Kevin, the very first Wood Thrush banded last May at the Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary, was also the project’s very first banded Wood Thrush. Kevin triumphantly returned on April 23, reclaiming his territory and filling the forest once again with his unmistakable call. His safe return is a testament to the importance of migratory bird conservation efforts and the critical role of habitat protection.
The Chasing Melody project is entering its second full season, with 25 new Wood Thrushes currently slated to be tagged around the state. Each bird’s journey tells a vital story about the health of our forests, the pressures birds face across international borders, and the miracles of migration.
Recent federal funding cuts, program withholdings, and tariffs have reduced available resources for wildlife research nationwide. Continued member and donor support is now more essential than ever — not only for Chasing Melody, but for all of Indiana Audubon’s conservation research programs. We invite you to be part of this inspiring story. Adopt a Wood Thrush today and follow the journey of one of the 2025 cohort as it migrates across continents and back home to Indiana. Your support ensures we can continue studying, protecting, and celebrating these incredible birds for generations to come.
👉 Learn more and adopt your bird at indianaaudubon.org/chasingmelody
Tags: chasing melody research
