Bird populations across the United States are shrinking largely due to development, with the steepest declines in Western states, according to a scientific report released on Tuesday.
Described as the most comprehensive review ever of long-term trend data, "The State of the Birds 2014" sounds a dire warning about extinction if the United States doesn't change its course, but also praises conservation as a solution that works.
"Today, we have the science, technology and knowledge to prevent extinctions. Conservation works," said the report, authored by the U.S. Committee of the North American Bird Conservation Initiative — a 23-member partnership of government agencies and organizations dedicated to advancing bird conservation.