The journal Science published an analysis which shows one third of the birds in the United States have disappeared since 1970.

The study based on a survey of more than 500 species, reveals steep losses even among such traditionally abundant birds as robins and sparrows. Kevin Gaston, a conservation biologist at the University of Exeter, said  new findings signal something larger at work: “This is the loss of nature.” Common bird species are vital to ecosystems, controlling pests, pollinating flowers, spreading seeds and regenerating forests. When these birds disappear, their former habitats often are not the same.   What can we do as individuals 1) stop using pesticides 2) keep cats inside, so they don’t kill birds 3) since vast numbers of birds die each year after flying into windows,  make glass more visible to them with decals.

The Weekly Green Tip is written by Michelle Sgarlat.