Professor Manuela Gonzalez-Suarez emphasized that conservation efforts must extend beyond merely stopping threats; targeted measures, including breeding programs and habitat restoration, are essential for the survival of many species.

The study, which analyzed data from nearly 10,000 bird species, found that larger birds are particularly vulnerable to hunting and climate change, while those with broad wings suffer significantly from habitat loss.

Notable conservation successes, such as the recovery of the California condor through targeted efforts, demonstrate that it is possible to revive species on the brink of extinction.

Kerry Stewart, the lead author from the University of Reading, noted that the projected extinction rate is three times higher than the number of bird species lost over the past 500 years.

This alarming trend is part of a broader decline in biodiversity, primarily driven by human activities, which is leading to a loss of ecosystem functions and services.

Among the specific drivers of extinction, habitat loss was identified as the most significant contributor to potential species and functional diversity loss.

In the UK, habitat restoration initiatives have successfully led to a resurgence of the bittern population, which had been extinct as a breeding bird since the 1870s.

However, the research also highlights the concerning decline of common garden birds in the UK, such as starlings, which have experienced an 85% decrease since 1979.

Recent research published in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution highlights an urgent bird extinction crisis, revealing that even with full protection from human threats, around 250 bird species may still face extinction.

Vulnerable species like the Atlantic puffin, European turtle dove, and great bustard are among those at risk of extinction, and their loss could disrupt global ecosystems.

Ultimately, targeted conservation measures are deemed necessary for the survival of 250-350 species over the next century, highlighting the critical need for effective recovery programs.

While complete abatement of threats could prevent half of the predicted biodiversity loss, challenges remain in fully mitigating extinction risks.