1A Birding To Help Revitalize Conservation Efforts
Apr 1, 2025
Amanda Rodewald, a leading ornithology professor at Cornell, Bradley Wilkinson from the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, and wildlife ecology expert Drew Lanham dive into the alarming decline of bird populations. They discuss how over one third of species require urgent conservation. Amidst these challenges, a surge in birding interest offers hope, as volunteers gather data to support conservation efforts. Personal stories of birdwatching reveal an emotional connection to nature, highlighting the vital role birds play in indicating environmental health.
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Widespread Bird Declines Across Habitats
- Grassland and arid land birds experienced the steepest population declines, losing 43% and 41% respectively since 1970.
- Declines span almost all US habitats, including eastern forests, warranting attention and reversal efforts.
Causes of Bird Population Decline
- Habitat loss and degradation are the primary drivers of bird population decline, including conversion and intensification of land use.
- Climate change exacerbates habitat degradation through extended droughts and increasing temperatures, impacting bird resources.
Listeners Observe Bird Loss
- A caller named Katie noticed a decline in scrub jays and an overall decrease in bird songs and activity in her yard.
- Another caller mentioned their bird feeder now takes days to empty, highlighting the reduced bird presence.
