WASHINGTON — Recently published findings have revealed a troubling trend: Over the past half-century, the populations of at least 112 bird species native to North America have dwindled by more than 50%. Among those most affected are the Allen’s hummingbirds, Florida scrub jays, golden-cheeked warblers, tricolored blackbirds, and yellow-billed magpies.
“This is a stark reminder of the risks we face if we fail to protect vital bird habitats,” remarked Mike Brasher, a senior scientist at Ducks Unlimited and co-author of the study.
Historically, waterfowl have been a success story for conservationists, with substantial increases in duck populations across the nation despite declines in other bird categories. However, the latest figures indicate a reversal of this upward trend. Specifically, populations of dabbling and diving ducks have plummeted approximately 30% since 2017, largely due to the degradation of grassland habitats and a persistent drought affecting the Great Plains’ crucial prairie pothole wetlands. Overall, waterfowl numbers have decreased by 20% since 2014.
This comprehensive report was crafted through the collaboration of numerous prestigious institutions, including Cornell University, Ducks Unlimited, the American Bird Conservancy, the National Audubon Society, and the American Ornithological Society. Their research utilized data garnered from various sources, including the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and citizen science projects like Cornell’s eBird. With over 2,000 bird species residing in North America, about one-third fall into high or moderate concern categories due to declining populations, loss of habitats, or other significant threats.
Amanda Rodewald, a co-author from Cornell, emphasized the necessity of quick conservation actions, observing that avian population trends signify the overall health of their ecosystems. The research highlighted birds that depend on unique environmental conditions found in forests, grasslands, and coastal areas. Grassland birds, such as the Bobolink, are particularly vulnerable.
Peter Marra, a biologist from Georgetown University uninvolved in the study, emphasized the importance of previous successful conservation efforts in the U.S., citing the remarkable rebounds of species like bald eagles, egrets, and osprey. “We’ve demonstrated our ability to counteract negative trends with strategic conservation measures,” he noted, “but we cannot simply ignore the problem and hope for the best.”
