The surprising recovery of once-rare birds

Once-rare bird species are beginning to return in parts of North America, even as overall bird populations continue to decline. The article recalls that after Earth Day in 1970, many species disappeared locally, including the passenger pigeon, while others retreated to more remote areas. It cites research showing bird numbers fell nearly 30% from 1970 to 2017 across 529 species, and that in 2025 nearly one-third of North American species are declining; 112 have lost more than half their populations in the past 50 years. The return is linked to habitat protection and restoration, elimination of certain pesticides, and reduced shooting of raptors and large birds. Examples include the merlin, whose population has increased at a stated 3.5% per year in Ontario over the past half-century, and begins with growing nesting activity expanding from far north conifer forests toward cities and towns. The author also notes reintroductions by wildlife officials, such as for bald eagles.