A priority species is one that is particularly threatened in terms of the species' long-term survival.

All priority species have been selected through rigorous scientific analysis, and most represent a broad array of other birds and wildlife that use the same habitat type. Conservation focused on priority species is almost always focused on priority habitats as well. Audubon has identified 32 priority-bird species within the Atlantic Flyway.

We at Patterson Park Audubon Center, with the help of Audubon Maryland-DC science experts, have identified five priority bird species which regularly visit and/or breed in Patterson Park, and therefore will be most impacted by our conservation efforts.