One-in-10 bird species in danger of extinction

MORE than one-in-10 of all bird species are likely to be extinct by the end of the century, scientists said yesterday.

Another 15% could be on the brink of disappearing before the year 2100, according to a new study by American researchers.

The loss of so many birds is expected to have a negative impact on forest ecosystems and agriculture worldwide. It may also encourage the spread of human diseases, it is claimed.