Read more at The Guardian

• Majority of Species in Decline: A new global assessment found that 61% of all assessed bird species are currently recording population declines, up from 44% just nine years ago.
• Primary Driver is Deforestation: The sharp falls in bird populations are largely attributed to deforestation and habitat loss caused by expanding agriculture and human development.
• Ecological Importance: Birds are vital to ecosystems, playing key roles in pollinating flowers, dispersing seeds, and controlling pests.
• Call for Urgent Action: Scientists are issuing a fresh warning about the depth of the biodiversity crisis and are urging governments to deliver on their existing commitments to protect nature at the upcoming IUCN congress.
• Conservation Success Stories Exist: The assessment noted the recovery of the green sea turtle, which was reclassified from endangered to a species of least concern, demonstrating the effectiveness of coordinated global conservation efforts (e.g., protection of nest sites).
• Arctic Seals at Risk: Conversely, the report highlighted the dire situation of Arctic seals (bearded and harp seals), which are drifting closer to extinction due to global heating and the loss of sea ice, which they need for breeding and resting.