Over one-third of U.S. bird species face conservation threats, with 112 at risk of extinction. The report warns of a crisis but also highlights successful conservation methods that can be expanded.
A new report reveals that over one-third of U.S. bird species face high or moderate conservation threats, with 112 species at critical risk due to rapid population declines.
State of the Birds Report: A Dire Warning
The 2025 U.S. State of the Birds report, unveiled at the 90th annual North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference, presents a grim picture: 229 bird species require urgent conservation action. This includes 42 critically endangered "tipping point" species such as Allen’s Hummingbird, Tricolored Blackbird, and Saltmarsh Sparrow.
Marshall Johnson, Chief Conservation Officer at the National Audubon Society, issued a stark warning:
“Birds tell us that we have a full-on emergency across all habitats.”
These findings follow a 2019 study that documented a loss of three billion birds in North America over the last 50 years.
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Why Birds Matter: Economic & Mental Health Benefits
Beyond conservation, birds play a vital role in the U.S. economy and public well-being.
- 100 million Americans participate in bird-related activities, generating $279 billion in economic output and supporting 1.4 million jobs.
- Studies show that regular interactions with birds reduce stress and improve mental health, providing another incentive for stronger conservation programs.
Alarming Trends Across All Habitats
Bird populations are declining across nearly every ecosystem, with even traditionally stable species, like ducks, now showing declines.
Amanda Rodewald, Director at Cornell Lab of Ornithology, stressed the urgency:
“If conditions are not healthy for birds, they’re unlikely to be healthy for us.”
Conservation Success Stories Offer Hope
Despite the alarming trends, the report provides proven strategies for reversing declines, including:
- Science-based conservation planning
- Private land programs & habitat restoration
- Seabird translocation efforts
- Ranching partnerships & wetland conservation
Steve Adair, Chief Scientist at Ducks Unlimited, emphasized:
“We’ve shown that strategic wetland conservation works. Now, we must do more.”
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