Scientists in Australia have observed that cockatoos in Sydney have learned how to open bins by watching others.

An ornithologist Richard Major observed Australia’s sulphur-crested cockatoos opening the lids of bins to scavenge for food a few years ago.

After watching a handful of them, Major and his team decided to study other cockatoos and see if they had also learned this trick.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-snake-venom-super-glue-can-stop-bleeding-in-seconds-400710" hreflang="en">This snake venom 'super glue' can stop bleeding in seconds</a>

The team started analysing video footage of 160 birds that were seen lifting bin lids. Researchers started assessing the video footage with the geographical spread and observed that most birds were learning how to open lids after watching others.

Cockatoos turn their neck and use their beaks to open the lid. After finding a break, they quickly shuffle far enough towards the bin’s edge to let the lid fall backward completely and then feast on the contents of the bin.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-study-suggests-dogs-can-be-used-to-detect-covid-19-400356" hreflang="en">New study suggests dogs can be used to detect COVID-19</a>

This spread of cockatoos learning to open a bin was not random and had “started in southern suburbs and radiated outwards”, which further proves that these birds have successfully managed to copy their peers and learn a new skill.

Birds are believed to be good at social learning. This new discovery has given scientists a dream project to work on, i.e, the spread of cultural trends in birds.

Scientists in Australia have observed that cockatoos in Sydney have learned how to open bins by watching others. An ornithologist Richard Major observed Australia’s sulphur-crested cockatoos opening the lids of bins to scavenge for food a few years ago.

Scientists in Australia have observed that cockatoos in Sydney have learned how to open bins by watching others. An ornithologist Richard Major observed Australia’s sulphur-crested cockatoos opening the lids of bins to scavenge for food a few years ago. After watching a handful of them, Major and his team decided to study other cockatoos and see if they had also learned this trick. Also read | This snake venom 'super glue' can stop bleeding in seconds The team started analysing video footage of 160 birds that were seen lifting bin lids. Researchers started assessing the video footage with the geographical spread and observed that most birds were learning how to open lids after watching others. Cockatoos turn their neck and use their beaks to open the lid. After finding a break, they quickly shuffle far enough towards the bin’s edge to let the lid fall backward completely and then feast on the contents of the bin. Also read | New study suggests dogs can be used to detect COVID-19 This spread of cockatoos learning to open a bin was not random and had “started in southern suburbs and radiated outwards”, which further proves that these birds have successfully managed to copy their peers and learn a new skill. Birds are believed to be good at social learning. This new discovery has given scientists a dream project to work on, i.e, the spread of cultural trends in birds.

Australia: Cockatoos learn how to open bin's lid by watching other birds

A mysterious illness has struck birds in South and Midwestern US, killing many. The victims of this strange illness tend to suffer from weird crusty eyes, swollen up faces and an inability to fly. &nbsp;

Reports started pouring in back in late May. Wildlife managers from Virginia, Washington DC, Maryland and West Virginia first started receiving reports of sick and dying birds, described by the informers as having “eye swelling and crusty discharge”, and also having some neurological signs.

According to a US Geological Survey&nbsp;statement, “No definitive cause of death is identified at this time.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-american-bird-population-fell-by-quarter-over-50-years-study-250699">North America&nbsp;lost&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;3&nbsp;billion birds&nbsp;over 50 years: Study</a>

Kentucky’s department of fish and wildlife resources has asked the public to report any encounter with a sick or dead bird via a new online reporting system. According to them so far, the species affected by this peculiar illness include Blue Jays, Common Grackles and European Starlings. Other S species can also be affected by it. As part of the investigation, more than twenty samples have already been sent out for testing.

On the other hand, Indiana based wildlife officials tested several birds for West Nile virus and Avian influenza, but all samples came back negative.

Ohio’s wildlife Centre has posted on social media website Facebook that the organisation has been admitting songbirds suffering from similar symptoms and that they are working with the relevant authorities to try and determine the cause behind this sickness afflicting local birds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-are-thousands-of-migratory-birds-dropping-dead-across-north-america-327989">Why are thousands of migratory birds dropping dead across North America?</a>

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has recommended against feeding and/or handling birds until a cause is found behind this disease. According to them feeders and baths can serve as a medium of transmitting the disease from one bird to another. They recommend cleaning feeders and baths with a 10 per cent bleach solution.

While it remains unclear if birdbaths are linked to their mortality, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), had previously warned in April about a songbird related salmonella outbreak in several states. Eight people are reported to have been killed in this outbreak.

People have reported that birds seem to be behaving blind in this new disease outbreak and that they are not avoiding humans.

This disease and its related mortality come at a time when these Aves have already been facing an unprecedented challenge in the US. In only the last half-decade or fifty years, the nation has lost more than a quarter of its bird population (2019 study figures).

“This loss of bird abundance signals an urgent need to address threats to avert future avifaunal collapse and associated loss of ecosystem integrity, function, and services.” says the study.

A mysterious illness has struck birds in South and Midwestern US, killing many. The victims of this strange illness tend to suffer from weird crusty eyes, swollen up faces and an inability to fly.

A mysterious illness has struck birds in South and Midwestern US, killing many. The victims of this strange illness tend to suffer from weird crusty eyes, swollen up faces and an inability to fly. Reports started pouring in back in late May. Wildlife managers from Virginia, Washington DC, Maryland and West Virginia first started receiving reports of sick and dying birds, described by the informers as having “eye swelling and crusty discharge”, and also having some neurological signs. According to a US Geological Survey statement, “No definitive cause of death is identified at this time.” Also read | North America lost nearly 3 billion birds over 50 years: Study Kentucky’s department of fish and wildlife resources has asked the public to report any encounter with a sick or dead bird via a new online reporting system. According to them so far, the species affected by this peculiar illness include Blue Jays, Common Grackles and European Starlings. Other S species can also be affected by it. As part of the investigation, more than twenty samples have already been sent out for testing. On the other hand, Indiana based wildlife officials tested several birds for West Nile virus and Avian influenza, but all samples came back negative. Ohio’s wildlife Centre has posted on social media website Facebook that the organisation has been admitting songbirds suffering from similar symptoms and that they are working with the relevant authorities to try and determine the cause behind this sickness afflicting local birds. Also read | Why are thousands of migratory birds dropping dead across North America? The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has recommended against feeding and/or handling birds until a cause is found behind this disease. According to them feeders and baths can serve as a medium of transmitting the disease from one bird to another. They recommend cleaning feeders and baths with a 10 per cent bleach solution. While it remains unclear if birdbaths are linked to their mortality, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), had previously warned in April about a songbird related salmonella outbreak in several states. Eight people are reported to have been killed in this outbreak. People have reported that birds seem to be behaving blind in this new disease outbreak and that they are not avoiding humans. This disease and its related mortality come at a time when these Aves have already been facing an unprecedented challenge in the US. In only the last half-decade or fifty years, the nation has lost more than a quarter of its bird population (2019 study figures). “This loss of bird abundance signals an urgent need to address threats to avert future avifaunal collapse and associated loss of ecosystem integrity, function, and services.” says the study.

Swollen faces and crusty eyes: Birds in US struck with mysterious disease

For the past two decades, the 62-year old Leonardo Carrillo has cared for the colony of around 100 brown pelicans that land in his village of Guanimar in December to spend the winter months there before heading back northwards for the summer.

Pelicans befriend Cuban man living by the sea

Social distancing has become the new norm. In fact, the pandemic-driven changes in society&nbsp;are expected to leave a long-lasting imprint on our modes of interactions in the near future. While many were relieved at the scope of limited contact with others, the indefinite distance became a challenge for many in a civilisation heavily dependent on social capital.

Now, a study sheds light on why a rare parrot species may have migrated to the mountains.

Alpine parrots are a rare and highly endangered species found in New Zealand and researchers believe the parrots’ ability to adapt could tremendously help them as the climate crisis deepens. Turns out, the parrots adjusted to a life in the mountains to simply escape the hustle and bustle caused by human societies.

Colloquially known as “the kea”, they are considered the only alpine parrots in the world, even though research suggests the birds were earlier found in different parts of the country.

Climate change’s long-term consequences on the alpine parrots are diverse and dire. The kea could perish in the face of competition to survive! Scientists are therefore pleased that the bird left for other territories, calling it a hallmark of its adaptability, for if the bird was able to move to the mountains to simply escape humans, it could continue to migrate suitably as warming sets in.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/australias-greta-thunberg-steps-up-climate-change-activism-388693" hreflang="en">'Australia's Greta Thunberg' steps up climate change activism</a>

Due to heating induced by climate change, alpine environments will retreat, with many species facing the threat of extinction.

In the study, which was published in the journal called Molecular Ecology, scientists compared bird's DNA to the kākā, a sister parrot species that lives in the forests. They found that there wasn’t much difference between them, suggesting that the birds &nbsp;"adapted to using such an open habitat&nbsp;because it was least disturbed by human activity".

European researchers have&nbsp;warned against the ill-effects of warming on Alpine species, claiming that 22 per cent of glacial species in the Italian Alps would disappear after the melting of glaciers. But even then, scientists worry about the future of the species solely on the grounds that it may have nowhere to go once the glaciers melt.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/climate-change-will-shoot-up-cases-of-brain-eating-amoeba-heres-how-388610" hreflang="en">Climate change will shoot up cases of brain-eating amoeba. Here's how</a>

Social distancing has become the new norm. In fact, the pandemic-driven changes in society are expected to leave a long-lasting imprint on our modes of interactions in the near future.

Social distancing has become the new norm. In fact, the pandemic-driven changes in society are expected to leave a long-lasting imprint on our modes of interactions in the near future. While many were relieved at the scope of limited contact with others, the indefinite distance became a challenge for many in a civilisation heavily dependent on social capital. Now, a study sheds light on why a rare parrot species may have migrated to the mountains. Alpine parrots are a rare and highly endangered species found in New Zealand and researchers believe the parrots’ ability to adapt could tremendously help them as the climate crisis deepens. Turns out, the parrots adjusted to a life in the mountains to simply escape the hustle and bustle caused by human societies. Colloquially known as “the kea”, they are considered the only alpine parrots in the world, even though research suggests the birds were earlier found in different parts of the country. Climate change’s long-term consequences on the alpine parrots are diverse and dire. The kea could perish in the face of competition to survive! Scientists are therefore pleased that the bird left for other territories, calling it a hallmark of its adaptability, for if the bird was able to move to the mountains to simply escape humans, it could continue to migrate suitably as warming sets in. Also read: 'Australia's Greta Thunberg' steps up climate change activism Due to heating induced by climate change, alpine environments will retreat, with many species facing the threat of extinction. In the study, which was published in the journal called Molecular Ecology, scientists compared bird's DNA to the kākā, a sister parrot species that lives in the forests. They found that there wasn’t much difference between them, suggesting that the birds "adapted to using such an open habitat because it was least disturbed by human activity". European researchers have warned against the ill-effects of warming on Alpine species, claiming that 22 per cent of glacial species in the Italian Alps would disappear after the melting of glaciers. But even then, scientists worry about the future of the species solely on the grounds that it may have nowhere to go once the glaciers melt. Also read: Climate change will shoot up cases of brain-eating amoeba. Here's how

World's only alpine parrot species actually left for the mountains to avoid humans

Giant California condors are a rare species and people consider themselves lucky if they get to see this bird. However, what is rarer is a flock of endangered birds deciding to start a war outside your home.

California condors are rare to find as there are less than 500 left in the US and around 160 are&nbsp;left in the state. A flock of around 15 of them, however, have decided to take over a California woman’s deck.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/california-sequoia-still-smoldering-after-2020-fires-383159" hreflang="en">California sequoia still smoldering after 2020 fires</a>

Cinda Mickols’ daughter, Seana Quintero, took to Twitter to start posting pictures and updates of the uninvited guests who have taken over her mother’s deck.

"Over the weekend ~15 California condors descended on my moms house and absolutely trashed her deck. They still haven’t left. It sucks but also this is unheard of, there's only 160 of these birds flying free in the state and a flock of them decided to start a war with my mom," she tweeted.

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Over the weekend ~15 California condors descended on my moms house and absolutely trashed her deck. They still haven’t left. It sucks but also this is unheard of, there’s only 160 of these birds flying free in the state and a flock of them decided to start a war with my mom 😭 <a href="https://t.co/bZyHsN58Bk">pic.twitter.com/bZyHsN58Bk</a>
— Seana Lyn (@SeanaLyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanaLyn/status/1389745331085070343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The condors descended on her mother’s house on May 05 and have since been on the property. Even when these birds do leave the property, they come back in the evening.

"Mom had to run errands and leave the house. Thankfully they didn’t trash it the moment she left but she did return home to 6 circling overhead. Our theory is they go off to do condor things like look for food during the day but they always return for cocktail hour in the evening," Seana tweeted, explaining her theory.

While Seana and her family have no problem with the birds "hanging out" on their property, they just wish the birds would stop destroying the house.

"When I arrived home Monday, I was both amazed and angry at the condors," Cinda Mickols was quoted by the New York Times. "To have that many condors on my house was surreal; they can be destructive and messy. Nature is amazing!"

Labelling it as the ‘Condor mob’, Seana reported that the flock of birds has wrecked the deck, ripped up a spa cover, knocked over plants, damaged screen doors and chewed on every piece of plastic they could find.

In response to Seana’s tweet, US Fish and Wildlife explained that her mother’s "home is located in historical condor habitat where natural food sources occur...unfortunately they sometimes perceive houses and decks as suitable perch locations."

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If this happens again, hazing to preclude them from causing damage and habituation is encouraged. This includes using methods that will not harm them such as water hoses, yelling, clapping, shouting or using other preventative measures such as scarecrow sprinklers.
— U.S. Fish and Wildlife (@USFWS) <a href="https://twitter.com/USFWS/status/1390009517480452096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"If this happens again, hazing to preclude them from causing damage and habituation is encouraged. This includes using methods that will not harm them such as water hoses, yelling, clapping, shouting or using other preventative measures such as scarecrow sprinklers," the group advised. "We also discourage people from feeding them or trying to touch them. We hope this information helps if you experience this situation again."

Giant California condors are a rare species and people consider themselves lucky if they get to see this bird. However, what is rarer is a flock of endangered birds deciding to start a war outside your home.

Giant California condors are a rare species and people consider themselves lucky if they get to see this bird. However, what is rarer is a flock of endangered birds deciding to start a war outside your home. California condors are rare to find as there are less than 500 left in the US and around 160 are left in the state. A flock of around 15 of them, however, have decided to take over a California woman’s deck. Also read | California sequoia still smoldering after 2020 fires Cinda Mickols’ daughter, Seana Quintero, took to Twitter to start posting pictures and updates of the uninvited guests who have taken over her mother’s deck. "Over the weekend ~15 California condors descended on my moms house and absolutely trashed her deck. They still haven’t left. It sucks but also this is unheard of, there's only 160 of these birds flying free in the state and a flock of them decided to start a war with my mom," she tweeted. Over the weekend ~15 California condors descended on my moms house and absolutely trashed her deck. They still haven’t left. It sucks but also this is unheard of, there’s only 160 of these birds flying free in the state and a flock of them decided to start a war with my mom 😭 pic.twitter.com/bZyHsN58Bk — Seana Lyn (@SeanaLyn) May 5, 2021 × The condors descended on her mother’s house on May 05 and have since been on the property. Even when these birds do leave the property, they come back in the evening. "Mom had to run errands and leave the house. Thankfully they didn’t trash it the moment she left but she did return home to 6 circling overhead. Our theory is they go off to do condor things like look for food during the day but they always return for cocktail hour in the evening," Seana tweeted, explaining her theory. While Seana and her family have no problem with the birds "hanging out" on their property, they just wish the birds would stop destroying the house. "When I arrived home Monday, I was both amazed and angry at the condors," Cinda Mickols was quoted by the New York Times. "To have that many condors on my house was surreal; they can be destructive and messy. Nature is amazing!" Labelling it as the ‘Condor mob’, Seana reported that the flock of birds has wrecked the deck, ripped up a spa cover, knocked over plants, damaged screen doors and chewed on every piece of plastic they could find. In response to Seana’s tweet, US Fish and Wildlife explained that her mother’s "home is located in historical condor habitat where natural food sources occur...unfortunately they sometimes perceive houses and decks as suitable perch locations." If this happens again, hazing to preclude them from causing damage and habituation is encouraged. This includes using methods that will not harm them such as water hoses, yelling, clapping, shouting or using other preventative measures such as scarecrow sprinklers. — U.S. Fish and Wildlife (@USFWS) May 5, 2021 × "If this happens again, hazing to preclude them from causing damage and habituation is encouraged. This includes using methods that will not harm them such as water hoses, yelling, clapping, shouting or using other preventative measures such as scarecrow sprinklers," the group advised. "We also discourage people from feeding them or trying to touch them. We hope this information helps if you experience this situation again."

Bird party! Endangered California condors invade local's home

New York’s JFK Airport is no stranger to the absurd, but a recent event may top the list. Recently, customs officials at the airport found 35 live finches attached to a man’s jacket and ankles as he tried to smuggle them into the country.

The weirdest part? Reportedly, it was all for singing competitions.

AFP cited federal authorities as saying that the man was wearing dozens of small cylindrical containers that had mesh-covered openings. This allowed the birds to breathe inside. The containers were made from hair curlers and were attached to the inside of the man’s jacket. Other finches were wrapped around his ankles.

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This job is going to the birds! <a href="https://twitter.com/CBP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CBP</a> Agriculture Specialists discover 40 finches from a passenger arriving from Guyana <a href="https://twitter.com/DFONewYork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DFONewYork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CBPPortDirJFK?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CBPPortDirJFK</a> <a href="https://t.co/vQhaYGnQxG">https://t.co/vQhaYGnQxG</a> <a href="https://t.co/cu1jKOuR4w">pic.twitter.com/cu1jKOuR4w</a>
— CBP New York City (@CBPNewYorkCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBPNewYorkCity/status/1384551591005589505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The man told authorities that he was offered $3,000 to transport the birds. Before leaving the capital of Guyana, he was given $500. The remaining amount was supposed to reach him after delivery in the United States.

Finches are famous for their melodious songs and are forcibly made to participate in singing contests across New York City. These competitions also promote betting.

A finch that wins could fetch upto $10,000, as revealed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service on Tuesday. Finches from Guyana are considered especially superior and are therefore in high demand.

According to official documents, the mean has been released on a bond worth $25,000.

(With inputs from agencies)

New York’s JFK Airport is no stranger to the absurd, but a recent event may top the list. Recently, customs officials at the airport found 35 live finches attached to a man’s jacket and ankles as he tried to smuggle them into the country.

New York’s JFK Airport is no stranger to the absurd, but a recent event may top the list. Recently, customs officials at the airport found 35 live finches attached to a man’s jacket and ankles as he tried to smuggle them into the country. The weirdest part? Reportedly, it was all for singing competitions. AFP cited federal authorities as saying that the man was wearing dozens of small cylindrical containers that had mesh-covered openings. This allowed the birds to breathe inside. The containers were made from hair curlers and were attached to the inside of the man’s jacket. Other finches were wrapped around his ankles. This job is going to the birds! @CBP Agriculture Specialists discover 40 finches from a passenger arriving from Guyana @DFONewYork @CBPPortDirJFK https://t.co/vQhaYGnQxG pic.twitter.com/cu1jKOuR4w — CBP New York City (@CBPNewYorkCity) April 20, 2021 × The man told authorities that he was offered $3,000 to transport the birds. Before leaving the capital of Guyana, he was given $500. The remaining amount was supposed to reach him after delivery in the United States. Finches are famous for their melodious songs and are forcibly made to participate in singing contests across New York City. These competitions also promote betting. A finch that wins could fetch upto $10,000, as revealed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service on Tuesday. Finches from Guyana are considered especially superior and are therefore in high demand. According to official documents, the mean has been released on a bond worth $25,000. (With inputs from agencies)

New York: Man tries to smuggle 35 live finches to win singing competitions

Humanity is all about being considerate of every being's needs and well-being, including birds and animals. Keeping this value in mind, the city of Philadelphia has called for 'lights out' to protect birds.

Bird Safe Philly announced a new initiative called 'Lights Out Philly' which is a voluntary program in which people are being asked to switch off or dim the external and internal lights of skyscrapers during the spring and fall season.&nbsp;

This initiative has been started after it was observed that the artificial lights were causing an increase in the deaths of birds. Although this problem is not new, the group is hoping to find a solution to it and save birds.&nbsp;

"We have specimens in the academy’s ornithology collection from a kill that happened when lights were first installed on Philadelphia’s city hall tower in 1896," Jason Weckstein, the associate curator of ornithology at Drexel University’s Academy of Natural Sciences said.

Experts believe that the conditions were nearly perfect for heavy migratory flight but the low ceiling of clouds and rain with the bright lights from skyscrapers turned into a recipe for disaster for the birds.

"Conditions were perfect for a heavy migratory flight and imperfect given that there was a low ceiling of clouds and rain," explained Weckstein. "That in combination with Philly’s bright city lights was a disaster for many fall migrant birds winging their way south."

The scientific logic behind this initiative is that during migration, birds use celestial cues to guide themselves, with stars being the biggest help. When birds are unable to spot the stars, they confuse it with bright, artificial city lights. In such cases, the windows become the biggest concern as they usually&nbsp;times show reflections of trees and sky.

This programme will work in two phases, the first one starting from April 01 till May 31, and the second one from August 15 to November 15. People have been urged to switch off their lights in skyscrapers from midnight till 6 am.

Humanity is all about being considerate of every being's needs and well-being, including birds and animals. Keeping this value in mind, the city of Philadelphia has called for 'lights out' to protect birds.

Humanity is all about being considerate of every being's needs and well-being, including birds and animals. Keeping this value in mind, the city of Philadelphia has called for 'lights out' to protect birds. Bird Safe Philly announced a new initiative called 'Lights Out Philly' which is a voluntary program in which people are being asked to switch off or dim the external and internal lights of skyscrapers during the spring and fall season. This initiative has been started after it was observed that the artificial lights were causing an increase in the deaths of birds. Although this problem is not new, the group is hoping to find a solution to it and save birds. "We have specimens in the academy’s ornithology collection from a kill that happened when lights were first installed on Philadelphia’s city hall tower in 1896," Jason Weckstein, the associate curator of ornithology at Drexel University’s Academy of Natural Sciences said. Experts believe that the conditions were nearly perfect for heavy migratory flight but the low ceiling of clouds and rain with the bright lights from skyscrapers turned into a recipe for disaster for the birds. "Conditions were perfect for a heavy migratory flight and imperfect given that there was a low ceiling of clouds and rain," explained Weckstein. "That in combination with Philly’s bright city lights was a disaster for many fall migrant birds winging their way south." The scientific logic behind this initiative is that during migration, birds use celestial cues to guide themselves, with stars being the biggest help. When birds are unable to spot the stars, they confuse it with bright, artificial city lights. In such cases, the windows become the biggest concern as they usually times show reflections of trees and sky. This programme will work in two phases, the first one starting from April 01 till May 31, and the second one from August 15 to November 15. People have been urged to switch off their lights in skyscrapers from midnight till 6 am.

Philadelphia urges 'lights out' of skyscrapers to protect birds

An election for “Bird of the Year” has turned murky in New Zealand after 1,500 fake votes were cast in favour of the little-spotted Kiwi.

Now, the fake votes have been cancelled, and voting continues for New Zealand's next Bird of the Year.

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The little-spotted Kiwi is the smallest bird in the kiwi family. Its supporters have been accused of voter fraud. New Zealand has a tradition of selecting a bird of the year. Each voter can rank five birds of their choice, and the bird with most votes is selected as bird of the year.

The organisers do not tolerate fraud, with each person allowed to vote once. This year, more than 35,000 votes have been cast. During counting, officials noticed an irregularity: 1,500 votes were cast from the same IP address.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/new-zealands-first-ever-indian-origin-minister-priyanca-radhakrishnan-speaks-malayalam-as-video-goes-viral-341129" hreflang="en">New Zealand's first-ever Indian-origin minister Priyanca Radhakrishnan speaks Malayalam as video goes viral</a>

The little-spotted Kiwi was leading the race for a brief while, but once the fake votes were removed it dropped down the leaderboard.

In New Zealand, bird of the year elections can get heated, with endorsements coming in from all quarters.

Hihi bird

An adult toy store backed its candidature because the Hihi bird takes more than one partner.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/priyanca-radhakrishnan-becomes-new-zealands-first-ever-indian-origin-minister-report-339823" hreflang="en">Priyanca Radhakrishnan becomes New Zealand's first-ever Indian-origin minister: Report</a>

Bird of the year elections have always been scandalous. In 2015, two teenagers tried to rig the vote in favour of the Kokako bird.

Again in 2018, a single person tried to vote more than 300 times. The little-spotted Kiwi is a flagship of New Zealand. It stands for the national values of democracy, fairness and equality.

An election for “Bird of the Year” has turned murky in New Zealand after 1,500 fake votes were cast in favour of the little-spotted Kiwi. Now, the fake votes have been cancelled, and voting continues for New Zealand's next Bird of the Year.

An election for “Bird of the Year” has turned murky in New Zealand after 1,500 fake votes were cast in favour of the little-spotted Kiwi. Now, the fake votes have been cancelled, and voting continues for New Zealand's next Bird of the Year. The little-spotted Kiwi is the smallest bird in the kiwi family. Its supporters have been accused of voter fraud. New Zealand has a tradition of selecting a bird of the year. Each voter can rank five birds of their choice, and the bird with most votes is selected as bird of the year. The organisers do not tolerate fraud, with each person allowed to vote once. This year, more than 35,000 votes have been cast. During counting, officials noticed an irregularity: 1,500 votes were cast from the same IP address. Also read: New Zealand's first-ever Indian-origin minister Priyanca Radhakrishnan speaks Malayalam as video goes viral The little-spotted Kiwi was leading the race for a brief while, but once the fake votes were removed it dropped down the leaderboard. In New Zealand, bird of the year elections can get heated, with endorsements coming in from all quarters. Hihi bird An adult toy store backed its candidature because the Hihi bird takes more than one partner. Also read: Priyanca Radhakrishnan becomes New Zealand's first-ever Indian-origin minister: Report Bird of the year elections have always been scandalous. In 2015, two teenagers tried to rig the vote in favour of the Kokako bird. Again in 2018, a single person tried to vote more than 300 times. The little-spotted Kiwi is a flagship of New Zealand. It stands for the national values of democracy, fairness and equality.

Voter fraud in New Zealand's 'Bird of the Year' election causes furore

Extreme climate changes, natural disasters, raging pandemic, and high tensions in global politics: 2020 has seen it all. Now, it looks like the cohabitants of planet Earth are suffering too.

A report by The Guardian recently revealed how thousands of migratory birds just dropped dead across the south-western regions in the United States.

Experts have called it a national tragedy, and one which needs immediate attention, and is being perceived as direct result of the climate crisis.&nbsp;

'Falling out of the sky'

Among species that were found dead across the region, “falling out of the sky” were flycatchers, swallows, and warblers. This is happening across Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Nebraska.&nbsp;

A professor from the New Mexico State University told The Guardian that hundreds of thousands of such birds could already be dead.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/rare-species-of-birds-goes-missing-in-new-zealand-experts-unsure-about-reasons-of-this-frustrating-disappearance-311878" hreflang="en">Rare species of birds goes missing in New Zealand; experts unsure about reasons of this 'frustrating' disappearance</a>

According to witnesses and first responders, many birds simply nose-dived into the ground, which instantly killed them.

It is customary for long-distance migratory birds to fly from cold habitats in Alaska and Canada towards South America. In this process, the fly over US’ south western regions, which are currently burning - quite literally.

The western regions in the US are currently witnessing intense wildfires, leading to mass evacuations, ringing climate change alarm bells.

Due to this fire, the birds may have been forced to take a longer route along the Chihuahuan desert, where resources are low, meaning they weren’t getting any food.

A student fro NMSU wrote on Twitter, “they’re literally just feathers and bones”, implying that the birds simply died off after they couldn’t fly anymore.

Raging wildfires

Many American regions are currently engulfed in wildfires, hazy with smoke emanating from these fires, which are seen as the direct result of climate change. Owing to this, fewer insects now survive in the area, which means less food for these birds.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/79-per-cent-decline-in-indian-species-of-birds-study-281435" hreflang="en">79 per cent decline in Indian species of birds: Study</a>

Scientists believe these weather events are directly responsible for the mass deaths of birds. The changing pattern may have fooled birds into beginning their migration earlier than usual, or the smoke from the fires could have chosen the birds.

The first such deaths were reported on August 20 in New Mexico. Initially thought to be isolated incidents, social media reports revealed a pattern forming in the region, whereby migratory birds were dropping dead.&nbsp;

Before dying, birds are reportedly displaying unusual behaviour - like lethargy, approachability, etc.

Extreme climate changes, natural disasters, raging pandemic, and high tensions in global politics: 2020 has seen it all. Now, it looks like the cohabitants of planet Earth are suffering too.

Extreme climate changes, natural disasters, raging pandemic, and high tensions in global politics: 2020 has seen it all. Now, it looks like the cohabitants of planet Earth are suffering too. A report by The Guardian recently revealed how thousands of migratory birds just dropped dead across the south-western regions in the United States. Experts have called it a national tragedy, and one which needs immediate attention, and is being perceived as direct result of the climate crisis. 'Falling out of the sky' Among species that were found dead across the region, “falling out of the sky” were flycatchers, swallows, and warblers. This is happening across Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Nebraska. A professor from the New Mexico State University told The Guardian that hundreds of thousands of such birds could already be dead. Also read: Rare species of birds goes missing in New Zealand; experts unsure about reasons of this 'frustrating' disappearance According to witnesses and first responders, many birds simply nose-dived into the ground, which instantly killed them. It is customary for long-distance migratory birds to fly from cold habitats in Alaska and Canada towards South America. In this process, the fly over US’ south western regions, which are currently burning - quite literally. The western regions in the US are currently witnessing intense wildfires, leading to mass evacuations, ringing climate change alarm bells. Due to this fire, the birds may have been forced to take a longer route along the Chihuahuan desert, where resources are low, meaning they weren’t getting any food. A student fro NMSU wrote on Twitter, “they’re literally just feathers and bones”, implying that the birds simply died off after they couldn’t fly anymore. Raging wildfires Many American regions are currently engulfed in wildfires, hazy with smoke emanating from these fires, which are seen as the direct result of climate change. Owing to this, fewer insects now survive in the area, which means less food for these birds. Also read: 79 per cent decline in Indian species of birds: Study Scientists believe these weather events are directly responsible for the mass deaths of birds. The changing pattern may have fooled birds into beginning their migration earlier than usual, or the smoke from the fires could have chosen the birds. The first such deaths were reported on August 20 in New Mexico. Initially thought to be isolated incidents, social media reports revealed a pattern forming in the region, whereby migratory birds were dropping dead. Before dying, birds are reportedly displaying unusual behaviour - like lethargy, approachability, etc.

Why are thousands of migratory birds dropping dead across North America?

Finding a place to go home has become a great challenge for the birds in Belarus. Intensive forest management means fewer trees to reach maturity, leaving few options for birds of prey to find a suitable place to nest. A bird-fancier has come to their rescue. Watch report.

Fineprint: Supporting the aviation population, Building 695 artificial nests

At a time when people desperately are longing to step out of their homes amid the unlock phase in many parts of India, villagers in Pothukkudi, of Tamil Nadu’s Siuvaganga district, have restricted going out and have decided to leave their village in the dark, specifically after sunset. The reason is that they’ have decided against switching on the street lights at their village, after birds started nesting at the common electricity switchboard in the village. In order to save the birds and ensure the safety of the new-born chicks, the village came together.&nbsp;

It was a 20-year old student named Karuppuraja who first spotted the birds nest and the eggs in the switchboard. Following which, he informed the village WhatsApp group and requested that the streetlights remain switched off, keeping in mind the safety of the birds.

While the villagers refer to the bird colloquially, as ‘Kuruvi’ (sparrow), it appears to be a species of Magpie-Robin.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chennai-cops-perform-final-rites-after-aged-couple-end-lives-due-to-poverty-sons-neglect-315736">Also read|&nbsp;Chennai: Cops perform final rites after aged couple end lives due to poverty, sons' neglect</a>

It is said that the village that houses about 100 families has 35 streetlights, all of which were connected to the common switchboard (where the birds had nested).&nbsp;

Karthik, a resident of Pothakudi says that everyone in their village instantly agreed to avoid streetlights for the sake of protecting the birds. “We knew that turning the lights on would be a serious hinderance to the birds, so we chose to remain in the dark following 6pm and haven’t switched the lights on for about 35 days” he says.&nbsp;

He adds that the villagers were doing this for the sake of the birds and also the future generations who must grow up marveling at these beautiful creatures.&nbsp;

At a time when people desperately are longing to step out of their homes amid the unlock phase in many parts of India, villagers in Pothukkudi, of Tamil Nadu’s Siuvaganga district, have restricted going out and have decided to leave their village in the dark, specifically after sunset.

At a time when people desperately are longing to step out of their homes amid the unlock phase in many parts of India, villagers in Pothukkudi, of Tamil Nadu’s Siuvaganga district, have restricted going out and have decided to leave their village in the dark, specifically after sunset. The reason is that they’ have decided against switching on the street lights at their village, after birds started nesting at the common electricity switchboard in the village. In order to save the birds and ensure the safety of the new-born chicks, the village came together. It was a 20-year old student named Karuppuraja who first spotted the birds nest and the eggs in the switchboard. Following which, he informed the village WhatsApp group and requested that the streetlights remain switched off, keeping in mind the safety of the birds. While the villagers refer to the bird colloquially, as ‘Kuruvi’ (sparrow), it appears to be a species of Magpie-Robin. Also read| Chennai: Cops perform final rites after aged couple end lives due to poverty, sons' neglect It is said that the village that houses about 100 families has 35 streetlights, all of which were connected to the common switchboard (where the birds had nested). Karthik, a resident of Pothakudi says that everyone in their village instantly agreed to avoid streetlights for the sake of protecting the birds. “We knew that turning the lights on would be a serious hinderance to the birds, so we chose to remain in the dark following 6pm and haven’t switched the lights on for about 35 days” he says. He adds that the villagers were doing this for the sake of the birds and also the future generations who must grow up marveling at these beautiful creatures.

Anything for avian friends: Village in Tamil Nadu avoids streetlights to protect birds

A rare colony of birds in New Zealand has suddenly gone missing, and the scientists seem to have no clue about this sudden disappearance.

Shore plover, or tūturuatu, are the world's rarest plover. After surviving for almost 100 years in a remote colony on the Chatham Islands, 650km west of New Zealand,The colony could now be found on Mana&nbsp;Island. However, the disappearance has now baffled the experts.&nbsp;

Half of the population of these birds was earlier wiped out by a single rat, and the rest died due to complications. To make sure the birds survive this time, experts waited till the pest problem was resolved.&nbsp;

In the April and May months of 2020, experts transported few birds to the island again. However, the birds have now vanished yet again. As the birds did not have a tracking device -- they were only colour-branded -- the experts have no concrete answer of the reason.&nbsp;

The experts have said it seems that&nbsp;nearly the entire population has either&nbsp;been killed by avian predators such as rūrū, or have flown off to the mainland. That is all that the experts know, as of now.

Out of the 29 transported birds, 26 have vanished, while three were tracked to Plimmerton beach on the mainland, after a search and recovery team had been established to find the missing birds.

The Department of Conservation (DoC) have claimed that they are still looking into this "frustrating disappearances", and are not sure what can be leading to the birds flying off. Calling it "frustrating" the Shore Plover Recovery Group Leader, Dave Houston, said a lot of time, money and resources have been invested in relocating this colony of birds and therefore the disappearance is frustrating for the department.

"The birds haven’t stayed at home like we hoped they would,” Houston told a media house.

“We honestly don’t know what is making them leave; but it could be that a single bird decided to fly to the mainland and everyone else followed them – it could be random behaviour, we’re not sure,” he continued.

A rare colony of birds in New Zealand has suddenly gone missing, and the scientists seem to have no clue about this sudden disappearance. Shore plover, or tūturuatu, are the world's rarest plover.

A rare colony of birds in New Zealand has suddenly gone missing, and the scientists seem to have no clue about this sudden disappearance. Shore plover, or tūturuatu, are the world's rarest plover. After surviving for almost 100 years in a remote colony on the Chatham Islands, 650km west of New Zealand,The colony could now be found on Mana Island. However, the disappearance has now baffled the experts. Half of the population of these birds was earlier wiped out by a single rat, and the rest died due to complications. To make sure the birds survive this time, experts waited till the pest problem was resolved. In the April and May months of 2020, experts transported few birds to the island again. However, the birds have now vanished yet again. As the birds did not have a tracking device -- they were only colour-branded -- the experts have no concrete answer of the reason. The experts have said it seems that nearly the entire population has either been killed by avian predators such as rūrū, or have flown off to the mainland. That is all that the experts know, as of now. Out of the 29 transported birds, 26 have vanished, while three were tracked to Plimmerton beach on the mainland, after a search and recovery team had been established to find the missing birds. The Department of Conservation (DoC) have claimed that they are still looking into this "frustrating disappearances", and are not sure what can be leading to the birds flying off. Calling it "frustrating" the Shore Plover Recovery Group Leader, Dave Houston, said a lot of time, money and resources have been invested in relocating this colony of birds and therefore the disappearance is frustrating for the department. "The birds haven’t stayed at home like we hoped they would,” Houston told a media house. “We honestly don’t know what is making them leave; but it could be that a single bird decided to fly to the mainland and everyone else followed them – it could be random behaviour, we’re not sure,” he continued.

Rare species of birds goes missing in New Zealand; experts unsure about reasons of this 'frustrating' disappearance

Migratory birds have flocked to the wetlands of Pakistan's southern province of Sindh in greater numbers this year, and officials and observers link the increase to coronavirus lockdown measures that have kept hunters and bird catchers away.

Pakistan, which has recorded over 185,000 cases and 3,696 deaths related to the virus, lifted a month-long country-wide lockdown last month.

A survey conducted this year observed 741,042 migratory birds in Sindh province - a big jump from the 248,105 birds counted in 2019, said Sindh Wildlife Department's provincial conservator, Javed Ahmed Mahar.

Each year, approximately 40 percent of Sindh's wetlands are surveyed to gain insight into the migratory patterns and numbers of birds.

Migratory birds, among them pelicans, mallards, cranes and waders, stop in Pakistan on their way to and from Siberia.

<h6><img alt="A flock of migratory birds is seen along Clifton Beach, as the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues, in Karachi, Pakistan May 16, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="de95985f-8e75-4857-b3e0-edeaf20d1a41" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_33.jpg" /> 
A flock of migratory birds is seen along Clifton Beach, as the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues, in Karachi, Pakistan May 16, 2020 | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

Veteran Pakistani wildlife photographer Ahmer Ali Rizvi said coronavirus measures had helped the birds to settle in.

"The birds have stayed longer this year, maybe due to meagre disturbances by humans due to the lockdown everywhere," he said.

Mahar said that Sindh authorities had not recorded any wildlife-related crimes such as trapping, hunting or illegal trading in the province since the lockdown was imposed.

Hunting has been a problem in the area, threatening several rare species, including the houbara bustard.

"The illegal trade in the domestic markets is no more," he said.

There are more than 33 wildlife sanctuaries and one national park in Sindh, which is home to more than 300 bird species.

Migratory birds have flocked to the wetlands of Pakistan's southern province of Sindh in greater numbers this year, and officials and observers link the increase to coronavirus lockdown measures that have kept hunters and bird catchers away.

Migratory birds have flocked to the wetlands of Pakistan's southern province of Sindh in greater numbers this year, and officials and observers link the increase to coronavirus lockdown measures that have kept hunters and bird catchers away. Pakistan, which has recorded over 185,000 cases and 3,696 deaths related to the virus, lifted a month-long country-wide lockdown last month. A survey conducted this year observed 741,042 migratory birds in Sindh province - a big jump from the 248,105 birds counted in 2019, said Sindh Wildlife Department's provincial conservator, Javed Ahmed Mahar. Each year, approximately 40 percent of Sindh's wetlands are surveyed to gain insight into the migratory patterns and numbers of birds. Migratory birds, among them pelicans, mallards, cranes and waders, stop in Pakistan on their way to and from Siberia. A flock of migratory birds is seen along Clifton Beach, as the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues, in Karachi, Pakistan May 16, 2020 | Reuters Veteran Pakistani wildlife photographer Ahmer Ali Rizvi said coronavirus measures had helped the birds to settle in. "The birds have stayed longer this year, maybe due to meagre disturbances by humans due to the lockdown everywhere," he said. Mahar said that Sindh authorities had not recorded any wildlife-related crimes such as trapping, hunting or illegal trading in the province since the lockdown was imposed. Hunting has been a problem in the area, threatening several rare species, including the houbara bustard. "The illegal trade in the domestic markets is no more," he said. There are more than 33 wildlife sanctuaries and one national park in Sindh, which is home to more than 300 bird species.

Migratory birds flock to Pakistan as lockdown keeps poachers at bay

The two ducks resting on the plinth of a statue in front of Paris's Musee D'Orsay had struck out boldly from their usual habitat: to get there from the River Seine involves waddling across a four-lane highway.

What lockdown? Birds go out in Paris with humans in confinement

Bird watchers across the world have brought to notice a natural catastrophe.

Thousands of birds like swallows and swifts that were migrating to Europe from Africa as part of their yearly cycles have been killed by high winds that have taken over Greece.

Hundreds of birds were found in Athens’ streets, with many residents reporting finding corpses in their balconies. Further up, dead birds were found in the Aegean islands and in a lake located close to the port of Nauplia in the Peloponnese.

“It’s a major disaster,” Maria Ganoti of the wildlife protection group Anima told AFP on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="winnows.com/india-news/79-per-cent-decline-in-indian-species-of-birds-study-281435" hreflang="en">79 per cent decline in Indian species of birds: Study</a>

“Over the last three days because of high winds in the north and over the Aegean Sea, thousands of small birds have been found dead or gravely injured,” she added.

“The night of April 5-6 was disastrous for migrating birds due to strong winds, low temperatures and rain in some regions”, The Greek ornithologist association said.

“Southerly winds pushed flocks of birds from north Africa into air currents from the north of the Aegean sea and particularly the islands”, the association added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="winnows.com/world/north-american-bird-population-fell-by-quarter-over-50-years-study-250699" hreflang="en">North America&nbsp;lost&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;3&nbsp;billion birds&nbsp;over 50 years: Study</a>

“To escape, exhausted birds, mainly swallows and swifts, which catch flying insects for food, headed for the Greek mainland”, it further said.

In their statement, the association has put forward requests to people for exercising caution when moving about in the streets, where tired birds seek temporary refuge after flying for thousands of kilometres.

Thousands of birds migrate towards northern territories during spring, and towards souther areas in autumn.

Bird watchers across the world have brought to notice a natural catastrophe. Thousands of birds like swallows and swifts that were migrating to Europe from Africa as part of their yearly cycles have been killed by high winds that have taken over Greece.

Bird watchers across the world have brought to notice a natural catastrophe. Thousands of birds like swallows and swifts that were migrating to Europe from Africa as part of their yearly cycles have been killed by high winds that have taken over Greece. Hundreds of birds were found in Athens’ streets, with many residents reporting finding corpses in their balconies. Further up, dead birds were found in the Aegean islands and in a lake located close to the port of Nauplia in the Peloponnese. “It’s a major disaster,” Maria Ganoti of the wildlife protection group Anima told AFP on Thursday. Also read: 79 per cent decline in Indian species of birds: Study “Over the last three days because of high winds in the north and over the Aegean Sea, thousands of small birds have been found dead or gravely injured,” she added. “The night of April 5-6 was disastrous for migrating birds due to strong winds, low temperatures and rain in some regions”, The Greek ornithologist association said. “Southerly winds pushed flocks of birds from north Africa into air currents from the north of the Aegean sea and particularly the islands”, the association added. Also read: North America lost nearly 3 billion birds over 50 years: Study “To escape, exhausted birds, mainly swallows and swifts, which catch flying insects for food, headed for the Greek mainland”, it further said. In their statement, the association has put forward requests to people for exercising caution when moving about in the streets, where tired birds seek temporary refuge after flying for thousands of kilometres. Thousands of birds migrate towards northern territories during spring, and towards souther areas in autumn.

Thousands of migratory birds killed by strong winds over Europe

A talking parrot in Israel has a playful message for a world gripped by the coronavirus crisis: "Don't go out!" In crystal-clear Hebrew, Luca the parrot squawks "there is corona" and "don't go out", repeatedly echoing official health warnings.

Squawking parrot warns the world: 'Coronavirus! Don't go out!'

A newborn hippo spent a day to be remembered at a Belgian zoo on Wednesday (March 25) with his mother taking it for its first dip in the big pool.

Rolling in the deep! Baby hippo gets first dive in the big pool

A flutter of wings faster than the eye can see, a quick sip of nectar, and he vanishes from view. Once a common site in Mexico City but in 2020 a rarity in the sprawling metropolis.

Urban gardens in Mexico fight hummingbirds' extinction

Biologists in Paraguay on Monday (February 17) welcomed the first scarlet macaw chick hatched in the wild in the city of Luque. The city firefighters pulleyed the 65-day-old chick from its nest and Brazilian biologists microchipped and weighed the parrot surrounded by curious bystanders taking pictures of the baby macaw's debut.

Baby scarlet macaw born in the wild in Paraguay makes public debut

There has been a decline in the population of 79 per cent of Indian species of birds, a report submitted in the United Nations meeting on wildlife conservation said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

According to the report, State of India's birds 2020, the number of house sparrows has declined in metropolitan cities while it has remained "roughly stable" across the country. However, in rural India, the population has gone up.

The report was released in Gujarat's Gandhinagar on Monday&nbsp;on sidelines of the 13th Conference of Parties to the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP 13).

The bird groups that showed the greatest decline includes,&nbsp;raptors, migratory shorebirds and habitat specialists, among others.

The report also stressed that&nbsp;101 species classified as of High Conservation Concern, require immediate attention.

Meanwhile, the report also gave some good news as it showed that the&nbsp;number of India's national bird, a peacock has&nbsp;shown a dramatic rise.

As for the Indian peafowl, the abundance trend is that of a general increase, both in long-term and currently, the report said.

The report was made after assessing over&nbsp;10 million observations contributed by over 15,500 birdwatchers.

The assessment is based on three indices, two of change in abundance, long-term trend (over 25+ years) and current annual trend (over the past five years), and the third is a measure of distribution range size.

Using these three indices together with the IUCN Red List (of threatened species), each species was classified into categories of conservation concern for India: 442 in low concern category, 319 in moderate concern category and 101 in high concern category.

(With inputs from agencies)

There has been a decline in the population of 79 per cent of Indian species of birds, a report submitted in the United Nations meeting on wildlife conservation said on Tuesday.

There has been a decline in the population of 79 per cent of Indian species of birds, a report submitted in the United Nations meeting on wildlife conservation said on Tuesday. According to the report, State of India's birds 2020, the number of house sparrows has declined in metropolitan cities while it has remained "roughly stable" across the country. However, in rural India, the population has gone up. The report was released in Gujarat's Gandhinagar on Monday on sidelines of the 13th Conference of Parties to the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP 13). The bird groups that showed the greatest decline includes, raptors, migratory shorebirds and habitat specialists, among others. The report also stressed that 101 species classified as of High Conservation Concern, require immediate attention. Meanwhile, the report also gave some good news as it showed that the number of India's national bird, a peacock has shown a dramatic rise. As for the Indian peafowl, the abundance trend is that of a general increase, both in long-term and currently, the report said. The report was made after assessing over 10 million observations contributed by over 15,500 birdwatchers. The assessment is based on three indices, two of change in abundance, long-term trend (over 25+ years) and current annual trend (over the past five years), and the third is a measure of distribution range size. Using these three indices together with the IUCN Red List (of threatened species), each species was classified into categories of conservation concern for India: 442 in low concern category, 319 in moderate concern category and 101 in high concern category. (With inputs from agencies)

79 per cent decline in Indian species of birds: Study

10,000 birds found dead within a span of 9 months. The cause of death remains unknown

10,000 birds found dead in Sambhar Lake

Ecological Disaster In North America: 9 Billion Birds Lost In Less Than 5 Years

Gravitas: Climate Change places Birds in Danger, too

The number of birds in the United States and Canada has fallen by an astonishing 29 per cent, or almost three billion, since 1970, scientists reported Thursday, saying their findings signalled a widespread ecological crisis.

Grassland birds are the most affected, because of the disappearance of meadows and prairies and the extension of farmland, as well as the growing use of pesticides that kill insects that affects the entire food chain.

But forest birds and species that occur in a wider variety of habitats -- known as habitat generalists -- are also part of the downward trend.

"We see the same thing happening the world over, the intensification of agriculture and land-use changes are placing pressure on these bird populations," Ken Rosenberg, an ornithologist at Cornell University and principal co-author of the paper in Science told AFP.

"Now, we see fields of corn and other crops right up to the horizon, everything is sanitized and mechanized, there's no room left for birds, fauna and nature."

More than 90 per cent of the losses are from 12 species including sparrows, warblers, blackbirds, and finches.

The figures mirror declines observed elsewhere, notably France, where the National Observatory of Biodiversity estimates a 30 per cent decline in grasslands birds between 1989 and 2017.

The US study combined two data sources.

The first was annual surveys carried out each spring, during the breeding season, conducted by thousands of volunteers, according to an identical methodology, since 1970.

The volunteers stopped every half-mile along a 40 kilometres journey through the countryside, counting all the birds they saw in three minutes. Researchers then compiled and analyzed the results.

The second source came from observations from 143 radar stations which can detect the flocks of birds during migrations that took place at night.&nbsp;

More than half of the North American bird species are migratory, flying either to the southern US or to Central and South America,

The radar information was less precise but also showed a decline of 13.6 per cent between 2007 and 2017, with a margin of error of nine points.

Ducks and geese are the big exception: after a period of decline, their numbers have grown since 1970.&nbsp;

That is thanks to increased awareness among hunters who have supported protection measures, Rosenberg said.

Ornithologists also mention other factors, such as cats left outside, and even birds dying after smashing into the windows of houses.&nbsp;

The number killed in this way is far from insignificant: researchers in 2014 estimated it at between 365 million and a billion per year.

The number of birds in the United States and Canada has fallen by an astonishing 29 per cent, or almost three billion, since 1970, scientists reported Thursday, saying their findings signalled a widespread ecological crisis.

The number of birds in the United States and Canada has fallen by an astonishing 29 per cent, or almost three billion, since 1970, scientists reported Thursday, saying their findings signalled a widespread ecological crisis. Grassland birds are the most affected, because of the disappearance of meadows and prairies and the extension of farmland, as well as the growing use of pesticides that kill insects that affects the entire food chain. But forest birds and species that occur in a wider variety of habitats -- known as habitat generalists -- are also part of the downward trend. "We see the same thing happening the world over, the intensification of agriculture and land-use changes are placing pressure on these bird populations," Ken Rosenberg, an ornithologist at Cornell University and principal co-author of the paper in Science told AFP. "Now, we see fields of corn and other crops right up to the horizon, everything is sanitized and mechanized, there's no room left for birds, fauna and nature." More than 90 per cent of the losses are from 12 species including sparrows, warblers, blackbirds, and finches. The figures mirror declines observed elsewhere, notably France, where the National Observatory of Biodiversity estimates a 30 per cent decline in grasslands birds between 1989 and 2017. The US study combined two data sources. The first was annual surveys carried out each spring, during the breeding season, conducted by thousands of volunteers, according to an identical methodology, since 1970. The volunteers stopped every half-mile along a 40 kilometres journey through the countryside, counting all the birds they saw in three minutes. Researchers then compiled and analyzed the results. The second source came from observations from 143 radar stations which can detect the flocks of birds during migrations that took place at night. More than half of the North American bird species are migratory, flying either to the southern US or to Central and South America, The radar information was less precise but also showed a decline of 13.6 per cent between 2007 and 2017, with a margin of error of nine points. Ducks and geese are the big exception: after a period of decline, their numbers have grown since 1970. That is thanks to increased awareness among hunters who have supported protection measures, Rosenberg said. Ornithologists also mention other factors, such as cats left outside, and even birds dying after smashing into the windows of houses. The number killed in this way is far from insignificant: researchers in 2014 estimated it at between 365 million and a billion per year.

North America lost nearly 3 billion birds over 50 years: Study

An animal rescue group is asking for help caring for nearly 100 baby snowy egrets and black-crowned night herons left homeless last week after a tree fell in downtown Oakland.

Nearly 100 baby birds rescued from fallen CA tree

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