Washington D.C.–Thursday, the North American Bird Conservation Initiative (NABCI) published the 2025 State of Birds Report during the 90th annual North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. Key findings in the new report shows that more than one-third of U.S. bird species are of high or moderate conservation concern, including 112 Tipping Point species that have lost more than 50% of their populations in the last 50 years.
The report also reveals that bird populations in almost every habitat are declining. Most notably, duck populations, which have been a bright spot in past State of the Birds reports, have trended downward in recent years. Despite the concerning trends, the report emphasizes that conservation efforts can succeed when adequately supported.
“The State of the Birds Report highlights the critical role that state wildlife agencies can play in not only protecting our current bird populations but in enhancing these populations,” said Judy Camuso, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and President of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies. “The Report also details current population trends, conservation successes, and the important role healthy bird populations play in strengthening communities, spurring local economies, and connecting people to the outdoors. It is imperative that we continue to invest in bird conservation strategies and policies.”
Birds are big economic drivers and provide countless outdoor recreation opportunities for game bird hunting and for bird watching. Nearly 100 million Americans are engaged in birding activities, contributing $279 billion in total economic output and supporting 1.4 million jobs.
The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies is a key NABCI partner in the United States. The AFWA Bird Conservation Committee (BBC) works closely with NABCI and represents the states within the NABCI partnership. NABCI often brings critical bird conservation issues to the BCC to solicit more in-depth state feedback or engagement.
