Birds of every shape, size and color are under threat. From the mighty California condor to the tiny purple-backed sunbeam, birds around the world are running out of time. And space — habitat loss is the single largest threat facing birds today. Ironically, bird enthusiasts themselves are also helping to contribute to the decline of many species, which are captured for the caged bird trade.

Of the nearly 10,000 described bird species, over 1,200 are listed as threatened or endangered by the IUCN. Some are facing seemingly hopeless battles while others are recovering from decades of decline. The future hangs in the balance for many of our feathered friends.

[About the IUCN and USFWS.]

BLACK-CAPPED VIREO USFWS Status: Endangered Major Threats: Habitat loss due to agricultural expansion; nest parasites

BROWN KIWI IUCN Status: Endangered Major Threat: Non-native predators such as pigs, cats and dogs

CALIFORNIA CONDOR IUCN Status: Critically Endangered USFWS Status: Endangered Major Threats: Hunting, habitat loss and environmental poisons

CROWNED EAGLE IUCN Status: Endangered Major Threats: Habitat loss, persecution and toxins present in prey animals

IVORY-BILLED WOODPECKER IUCN Status: Critically Endangered USFWS Status: Endangered Major Threat: Logging pressures

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