A groundbreaking study has revealed that North American bird populations are declining most severely in areas where they should be thriving. Researchers analyzed 36 million bird observations submitted by birdwatchers to the Cornell Lab’s eBird program, alongside environmental data from high-resolution satellite imagery.
How Scientists Mapped Bird Declines
Using zoomable maps, scientists tracked population trends for 495 bird species across North America from 2007 to 2021. The study found that 83% of species are losing a larger percentage of their population in areas where they were once most abundant.
Unexpected Patterns in Bird Declines
The findings challenge previous assumptions about habitat stability. Locations that once provided ideal conditions for birds are now experiencing rapid population losses, suggesting that environmental changes are disrupting ecosystems at an alarming rate.
Implications for Conservation Efforts
This research provides high-resolution data that conservationists can use to target specific regions for intervention. By identifying precise locations where bird populations are struggling, scientists hope to develop more effective conservation strategies.
Conclusion
The study highlights the urgent need for conservation action, as bird populations continue to decline even in their most suitable habitats. With zoomable precision, researchers can now pinpoint where intervention is needed most, offering a new approach to protecting North America’s bird species.
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