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Studies show that 37% of the bird population in North America is in danger of extinction. There are almost 350 species of migratory birds that travel the territory each year, among which tropical forest birds, ocean birds and grassland birds.
The 2016 North America Bird Report
The results of the report are troubling for the scientific community. The decrease in migratory bird population might have a paramount consequence on natural life, including for humans.
The factors involved in the bird population decline are ranging from habitat loss to global climate modifications and pesticides. There has been no single factor determined for this change in the number of birds. A multitude of events and practices have impacted wildlife in time.
Canadian biologists stated that migratory birds are connecting the nations from the North America, and a collective effort must be made to ensure the preservation of these species. The author makes a call to all involved territories to start taking initiatives towards biodiversity conservation.
International Conservation Efforts
Scientists, policymakers, and non-governmental organizations have met in Ottawa to analyze the results of the Birds report and to find new strategies for conservation. Three countries participated at this conference, all nations from North America: The United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Canadian Minister, also present, supports the international collaboration in preserving migratory birds, as joined efforts may have extraordinary results in biodiversity.
A successful example of conservation actions is the case of wood ducks. Their population has decreased in numbers over the last decades. The negative factors involved were the loss of habitat and hunting for commercial purposes. By combined efforts of governments involved, the wood duck population has again increased their numbers.
Actions for the future
America is still at risk of losing almost half of its bird species. The author of the bird study says that conservation efforts in Canada should be complemented by actions taken by the territories in their vicinity.
Migratory birds should be continuously monitored, and closer attention should be given to their number and behaviors. Close communication between states on their findings should ensure that everyone is making efforts towards conservation.
One of the reasons for which migratory birds have suffered in the last years is, in fact, the lack of coordination between governments in their preservation strategies. Almost 90% of the bird population is not thoroughly protected along their migratory paths.
Image Source: Wikipedia
