The Attwater’s prairie-chicken is one of the rarest birds in North America, with wild populations reduced by habitat loss, severe weather, and invasive species. Once abundant across the Gulf Coast prairie, this endangered grouse now survives thanks to intensive conservation and captive breeding programs.
The Sutton Center plays a critical role in restoring the Attwater’s prairie-chicken through a dedicated, science-based breeding and release program. Our facility raises birds from fertile eggs originally supplied by Texas zoos in 2019, forming the foundation of a genetically healthy flock. Each year, Sutton Center–raised chicks are released at the Attwater Prairie Chicken National Wildlife Refuge and on private conservation lands in Goliad County, helping rebuild this fragile population.
Although captive breeding is vital, long-term recovery depends on restoring and managing the coastal prairie ecosystem. Through this program, the Sutton Center is advancing techniques that also support conservation of other declining grassland birds, including bobwhite quail, lesser prairie-chickens, and additional grouse species.
