Sutton Avian Research Center
Sutton advances bird conservation through applied research, specialized conservation breeding, and education.
Sutton Avian Research Center · Founded in 1984
We restore the native birds of the grasslands by recovering endangered and declining species through science, conservation breeding, and education-bringing the sounds of life back to our prairies.
Birds are part of the living diversity of grasslands. Understanding where they thrive—and why they struggle—helps focus conservation work.
Based in Oklahoma. United by a future for birds.
Get to know Sutton →Explore our work
Where are birds thriving, and what is changing? Applied conservation research asks practical questions to help guide conservation decisions.
One example: our Oklahoma bird atlas compares surveys across decades to document changes in where birds nest.
Explore the Breeding Bird Atlas →Specialized breeding is one part of recovery. Sutton works alongside partners whose release efforts and habitat management support endangered birds’ return to the wild.
Curiosity can be the beginning of conservation. Discover birds and the science behind their conservation through Sutton’s educational programs.
Find opportunities for students, families, educators, and communities to learn and participate.
Explore educational programs →
Conservation in focus
What does it take to help return an endangered bird to the wild? For the masked bobwhite, the work begins long before release.
At Sutton, chicks are paired with bobwhite foster parents before transfer for release at Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge in Arizona. Conservation partner LightHawk helps fly these family groups from Oklahoma to Arizona.
Breeding and transport are steps toward the goal: self-sustaining wild populations. Recovery also depends on suitable habitat, release partners, and long-term work in the wild.
Read the masked bobwhite story →Be part of the story
Find educational opportunities for students, families, classrooms, and communities.
Discover ways to contribute your time and talents.
Explore stories and updates from Sutton Avian Research Center.
Scientists, conservation partners, ranchers, and landowners: start a conversation about shared conservation interests.
Help birds thrive
Specialized care, scientific investigation, and long-term recovery work take sustained commitment. Wherever you live, your support helps keep this work moving forward.
Support bird conservation →Explore membership →