Could Over 500 Bird Species Face Extinction in the Next Century?

New Delhi, June 24 (NationPress) A staggering over 500 bird species are at risk of disappearing from our planet within the next century, primarily due to climate change and habitat loss, as revealed by a recent study released on Tuesday.

Researchers from the University of Reading in the UK discovered that this figure is threefold compared to all bird extinctions recorded since 1500 CE.

Published in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution, the study highlights that the bare-necked umbrellabird, the helmeted hornbill, and the yellow-bellied sunbird-asity are among the most at risk.

The loss of these birds would significantly diminish the diversity of bird shapes and sizes globally, adversely affecting ecosystems that rely on such unique avian species for essential functions.

Alarmingly, the scientists indicated that even with total protection from human-induced threats like habitat destruction, hunting, and climate change, around 250 bird species could still face extinction.

“Many birds are currently so endangered that merely reducing human impacts will not suffice. These species require dedicated recovery initiatives, such as breeding projects and habitat restoration, to ensure their survival,” stated lead author Kerry Stewart from the University of Reading.

“We are confronting an unprecedented bird extinction crisis in modern history. Urgent action is necessary to mitigate human threats across habitats and to implement rescue programs for the most unique and endangered species,” Stewart emphasized.

The researchers analyzed nearly 10,000 bird species using data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

They assessed extinction risk based on the various threats each species encounters.

The findings revealed that larger birds are more susceptible to hunting and climate change, while birds with broad wings are particularly impacted by habitat loss.

Additionally, the team outlined conservation strategies to maintain both the diversity of bird species and their ecological roles.

In addition to halting threats, the researchers advocated for complementary conservation measures, including breeding programs and habitat restoration, to help as many as 250-350 species endure the next century.

“Focusing conservation efforts on just 100 of the most unique and threatened birds could preserve 68% of the diversity in bird shapes and sizes, which is crucial for ecosystem health,” said Professor Manuela Gonzalez-Suarez, senior author of the study at the University of Reading.

Preventing habitat destruction would benefit the majority of birds overall. However, reducing hunting and avoiding accidental deaths would particularly aid birds with more unique characteristics, which play a vital role in maintaining ecosystem health, the team concluded.