About the state of bird populations in Ukraine, the impact of war and climate change on their lives, as well as the amazing abilities of birds in an interview with RBC-Ukraine, told ornithologist, research fellow at the I.I. Schmalhausen Institute of Zoology of the NAS of Ukraine, Candidate of Biological Sciences Natalia Atamas.
According to the researcher, a harsh winter with severe frosts and snow can significantly affect local populations of small birds. This primarily concerns species that have high energy needs and must constantly find food. In particular, in certain areas, the number of tits and sparrows during the cold period can decrease by up to 80%. At the same time, such local mortality does not necessarily mean a general decline in the species' population.
Conditions this winter have become more difficult for predatory birds – owls, buzzards, and little owls. Due to the snow cover, it is harder for them to find prey, so exhausted individuals more often end up in rehabilitation centers. In contrast, waterfowl usually survive the cold more easily because they can move to water bodies that have not frozen over.
The conversation also touched on broader trends. According to European data, the population of common bird species has decreased by about 15% over recent decades, and in some groups – up to 45%. This mostly concerns species of open landscapes, particularly agro-landscapes. The causes of these changes are intensive agriculture, the use of chemicals, changes in natural habitats, and climate change.
An important factor for Ukraine has also been the full-scale war. The destruction of natural areas, fires, environmental pollution, and the occupation of large areas in the south of the country affect the habitats of many bird species. In particular, the Syvash region plays a significant role for migratory birds – it is one of the key nodes of their seasonal movements. Due to occupation and military activities in these territories, scientists currently do not have the opportunity to conduct full-scale research.
At the same time, according to the ornithologist, sometimes in the combat zone or temporarily abandoned territories, unexpected effects may occur: due to the absence of human activity, some bird colonies locally increase.
The interview also touched on interesting features of bird behavior and biology. In particular, crows are capable of remembering human faces and passing information about danger to other individuals. Birds use the sun, starry sky, landscape landmarks, smells, and even the Earth's magnetic field to navigate during migration. Parrots can reproduce human speech thanks to the complex structure of their vocal apparatus – the syrinx – and their developed abilities for sound imitation.
More details about how the world of birds is changing, why some species disappear while others expand their range, as well as many interesting facts from the lives of birds – in the full interview on the RBC-Ukraine website.
Photo provided by Natalia Atamas