National Bird’s Day

January 5 was National Bird Day. A day to celebrate the beauty and song of

birds that have long been a source of inspiration to all of us. But did you know that today, nearly 12 per cent of the world's 9,800 bird species may face extinction within the next century, including nearly one-third of the world's 330 parrot species.

Birds are sentinel species whose plight serves as the barometer of ecosystem health and alert system for detecting global environmental ills.

Many of the world's parrots and songbirds are threatened with extinction due to pressures from the illegal pet trade, disease, and habitat loss.

Public awareness and education about the physical and behavioural needs of birds can go far in improving the welfare of the millions of birds kept in captivity.

The survival and wellbeing of the world's birds depends upon public education and support for conservation.