Functional traits offer a rich quantitative framework for developing and testing theories in evolutionary biology, ecology and ecosystem science. However, the potential of functional traits to drive theoretical advances and refine models of global change can only be fully realised when species‐level information is complete. Here we present the AVONET dataset containing comprehensive functional trait data for all birds, includi...

Summary Restoration and management of natural ecosystems is a critical strategy in mitigating global biodiversity loss. This is exemplified in the American Midwest by efforts aimed at reclaiming historical grasslands lost to high‐yield agriculture. While restorations traditionally take the form of plant reintroduction and management, advances in microbial analyses suggest that soil communities could be indicators restoration s...