Switzerland: Bird species in poor condition
BirdLife International presents a scientific report on the state of bird populations worldwide. Just over 13% of bird species (1’469) are on the global Red List, with a further 9.3% on the watch list. At least 40% of bird species are declining globally, while only 7% are increasing. Even species such as the grey partridge, lapwing and turtle dove, once familiar to every child,
BirdLife International presents a scientific report on the state of bird populations worldwide. Just over 13% of bird species (1’469) are on the global Red List, with a further 9.3% on the watch list. At least 40% of bird species are declining globally, while only 7% are increasing. Even species such as the grey partridge, lapwing and turtle dove, once familiar to every child, are in decline.
Formerly common species under threat
Classification into Red List categories is based on strict scientific criteria.
«The data are unequivocal. We are experiencing a steady and ongoing deterioration in the state of the world’s birds. Around one in eight bird species is now threatened with extinction. This includes species that were once widespread and common, a familiar sight across large parts of the planet just a few decades ago,» says Tris Allinson, Senior Global Science Officer at BirdLife International.
Agriculture as the greatest threat factor
Numerous factors contribute to the endangerment of the 1’469 bird species on the global Red List, and many species are threatened by a combination of factors. The greatest number of Red List species are affected by the expansion and industrialisation of agriculture, at 74%. This is followed by forestry (50%), invasive alien species (39%), and hobby hunting and poaching (35%). In 33% of cases, climate change was classified as a relevant threat factor, placing it “only” fifth. However, the scientists involved expect its significance to increase in the future.
Switzerland: Three times as many threatened species
In Switzerland, the proportion of bird species on the Red List is approximately three times higher than the global average: 39% compared to 13%.
«These figures suggest that the state of birdlife in Switzerland is even worse than in many other countries,» says Dr. Raffael Ayé, Head of Species Promotion at BirdLife Switzerland.
«That is why consistent implementation of the Action Plan on Biodiversity is so important,» says François Turrian, Directeur romand at BirdLife Switzerland. He adds: «All sectoral policies must contribute even more to the protection of biodiversity — and for us too, agriculture is the most urgent area.» More on Wildlife and Environment and Nature Conservation.
