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500 bird species threatened by extinction, survey finds
The bare-necked umbrellabird could become extinct in the next century.
Climate change and habitat loss challenge birds’ survival.

A new study from the University of Reading has suggested that more than 500 bird species could become extinct within the next 100 years.

Researchers say that climate change and habitat loss will cause these extinctions, reaching numbers three times higher than all bird extinctions recorded since the year 1500.

Among the birds which are considered ‘vulnerable’ to extinction are the bare-necked umbrellabird, the helmeted hornbill and the yellow-bellied sunbird-asity. Researchers believe that the loss of these birds would significantly reduce the variety of bird shapes and sizes worldwide.

It is believed that, even with protection from habitat loss, hunting and climate change, approximately 250 bird species could still die out.

The researchers gathered information from the IUCN Red List to examine the status of nearly 10,000 bird species. Using the data, they assessed the extinction risk based on the threats each species faced.

Large-bodied birds were discovered to be particularly vulnerable to hunting and climate change, whereas birds with broad wings suffered more from habitat loss.

The study suggests that preventing habitat destruction could be the most effective way of saving bird species. However, reducing hunting and stopping accidental deaths could save the birds with more unusual features, which are important to ecosystem health.

Manuela Gonzalez-Suarez, senior author of the study at the University of Reading, said: “Stopping threats is not enough, as many as 250-350 species will require complementary conservation measures, such as breeding programmes and habitat restoration, if they are to survive the next century.

“Prioritising conservation programmes for just 100 of the most unusual threatened birds could save 68% of the variety in bird shapes and sizes. This approach could help to keep ecosystems healthy.”

The full study can be found here.

Image © Shutterstock

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Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course relaunched

News Story 1
 The VMD has announced dates for its next Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course.

The event will relaunch on Thursday, 23 October 2025 from 9am to 5pm and will be delivered through an interactive online session.

It is open for anyone involved in a veterinary dispensary role, whether they are new to the topic or looking for a refresh. Attendees will receive vital insights into the safe and compliant handling of veterinary medicines.

The course can be booked online for £495. 

Click here for more...
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New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.