"Stop the Illegal Killing, Taking and Trade of Migratory Birds" (World Migratory Bird Day, 10 May 2016)

As a vital part of biodiversity, migratory birds play key functions in the interconnected systems that keep nature healthy, including seed dispersal of plants for human and livestock consumption, ecosystem restoration and pest regulation, in addition to the important cultural, aesthetic and economic roles they play in the lives of people worldwide.

Yet despite this, incredible numbers of birds are being lost each year, as a result of illegal killing, taking and trade. While the motives behind these illicit activities are various, they are taking a devastating toll. Millions of birds are being killed each year. These numbers are completely unsustainable, and when placed alongside other pressures, such as habitat loss and climate change, many once common species are facing the very real and distinct threat of extinction.