Half of world's birds in decline

Authors of the report said that governments must prioritize more sustainable agriculture practices and the protection of natural habitats in order to slow population decline in bird species.

Stuart Butchart, who is chief scientist at Bird Life, said that there are numerous examples of populations bouncing back with the help of well-coordinated conservation programs. He said that species like the echo parakeet, the California condor, the northern bald ibis and the black stilt would have been wiped out if it were not for protection efforts.

"If we give nature a chance, it can recover," said Butchart. "There is no denying that the situation is dire, but we know how to reverse these declines."