The Importance of Wild Birds

Wild birds are important in their own right, for their contribution to human wellbeing, and for their ecological value, as part of the “web of life”. Birds are sentient beings with complex thinking and social behaviors, and the ability to experience positive and negative feelings, including suffering. The ways in which birds contribute to the functioning of the world's ecosystems include: pest control, pollination, cleaning up nature, spreading seeds, keeping coral reefs alive and transforming landscapes. Yet wild bird populations are declining dramatically – with one in eight bird species threatened with extinction. Birds are one of the most important early warnings of the state of the environment, so declining bird populations are indicative of the critical condition of our planet. Multiple interacting causes are behind wild bird population declines. All of these are predominantly environmental, including: agricultural expansion, deforestation, habitat loss and degradation, invasive species, hunting and trapping, climate change, collisions with glass and other structures, chemicals and pollutants, and disease. All of these are ultimately anthropogenic – caused by humans. A more urgent, considered and effective approach is needed to support the protection of wild birds and the landscapes that protect them. Political and societal decision-making must recognize the importance of wild birds – in their own right, as sentient beings; for their ecological value; and for their critical role in human wellbeing. It is an ethical imperative to be aware of potential threats, and to do all in our power to prevent or minimize these.