tection they so desperately needed. "This centennial surely commemorates one of the most important laws of the land in wildlife conservation," said Dan Brauning, Game Commission Wildlife Diversity Division supervisor. "Think of how much good it accomplished for all wild birds over the past century. Our outdoors would be a different place without the diversity of birds and their songs." From ruby-throated hummingbirds to Canada geese, wild birds enliven America's fields and forests and backyards with their striking beauty. Bald eagles still stop people in their tracks. The whistle of a Baltimore oriole or the whinny of screech-owl still bring memories and reassurances to most of us. And a yard without hummingbirds would be a summer of disappointment. Culturally Significant The cultural significance of wild birds also is daunting. Industries and destinations are built around them. Their images JUNE 2016 define our art. Watching and feeding wild birds remain important forms of recreation for millions of Americans. In fact, it might be hard for almost anyone to imagine a day in his or her life without birds. Besides being mood enhancers, birds also provide important environmental benefits, from preying on gypsy moth caterpillars to pollinating plants. They also serve as environmental barometers and help farmers with rodent and insect control. They matter, a lot. "Countless Pennsylvanians can easily make a case for the importance of wild birds," emphasized Brauning. "That's why they're so important to Penn's Woods and to most of us. It's also why the Migratory Bird Treaty Centennial is so meaningful. "But just imagine for a moment what might have followed if Americans didn't rally for wild birds. That thought alone should be enough to keep conservation on course for another 100 years!" 15