COSMOS MAGAZINE
Helmeted Hornbill. Credit: iStock/Getty.
A major new study warns that up to 500 bird species could go extinct within the next 100 years, mainly due to habitat loss and climate change — a rate three times higher than the past 500 years.
Yellow-bellied sunbird-asity (Neodrepanis hypoxantha) endemic to Madagascar. Credit: Dubi Shapiro /Wikimedia Commons.
Most at risk are uniquely shaped and behaviourally distinct birds, like the bare-necked umbrellabird found in the forests of Costa Rica and Panam, helmeted hornbill from Southeast Asia and yellow-bellied sunbird-asity endemic to Madagascar.
Bare-necked umbrellabird (Cephalopterus glabricollis), found in Costa Rica and Panam. Credit: Mauricio Calderon /Wikimedia Commons
These birds aren’t just beautiful — they play key roles in ecosystems, and their loss could cause ripple effects across the environment.
Helmeted hornbill (Rhinoplax vigil) from Southeast Asia. Credit: Getty.
We face a bird extinction crisis unprecedented in modern times. We need immediate action to reduce human threats across habitats and targeted rescue programs for the most unique and endangered species.
Study lead author, Kerry Stewart, University of Reading, UK
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Helmeted Hornbill male and female. Credit: iStock / Getty Images Plus.
Researchers say that just protecting habitats isn’t enough; around 250–350 species will need active recovery efforts like breeding programs and habitat restoration to survive.
Southern Royal Albatross (Diomedea epomophora). Credit: JJ Harrison / Wikimedia Commons.
Prioritising conservation programs the 100 most unusual threatened birds could preserve 68% of bird diversity, helping to keep ecosystems balanced and resilient.