The Guardian reports all bird species have declined in number, after suffering habitat loss, pesticide use, climate breakdown and bird flu.

Wild bird numbers in the UK are continuing to fall despite government promises to halt nature decline by 2030.

Data released by the government on Tuesday shows that over the past five years, all bird species have faced population decline after suffering from habitat loss, pesticide use, climate breakdown and bird flu. Overall, bird species have declined in number UK-wide by 2% and in England by 7% in the five years since 2018.

Redwings and Fieldfares are both species of thrush and in this feature, the RSPB takes a look at these and other thrushes that are found in the UK. Read to find out more about this fascinating family of birds and for ID tips.

An RSPB press release focuses on the Birdcrime report, which reviews the past 15 years, reveals 1,344 birds of prey were illegally killed between 2009-2023, with crimes continuing to emerge. These criminal acts target threatened species including White-tailed Eagles, Hen Harriers and Red Kites. There were 89 confirmed incidents in Northern Ireland in the past 15 years, yet not a single prosecution.

The RSPB is calling for stronger pesticide legislation and greater resourcing for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to stop bird of prey persecution. Birds of prey – also known as raptors – are protected by law under the Wildlife (Northern Ireland) Order 1985.

Ducks are still commonly killed with lead shot in England despite a ban and voluntary moves by shooting groups, new research shows.

Lead is highly toxic to both humans and wildlife, and using it to kill ducks has been illegal in England since 1999. In 2020, leading shooting organisationsannounced a plan to end the use of lead shot for hunting all live quarry. The British government is due to review legislation on lead ammunition in the coming months.