Wings of war: how open-source intelligence reveals the impact of warfare in Ukraine amid global avian biodiversity decline

In this era of massive biodiversity loss, birds hold the dubious distinction of being at the forefront. Currently, 21% of avian species are vulnerable to extinction, and 6.5% are functionally extinct. Climate change, habitat destruction, pollution, and direct killing are well-known factors contributing to declines in bird populations. In contrast, threats such as human warfare remain under-investigated, likely due to the common assumption that birds, owing to their ability to fly, can easily escape war-affected areas. Additionally, the fate of birds during most wars has been poorly documented, hindered by challenges in systematic data collection and limited human interest in avian victims of military conflict. Here, we use Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) to investigate the situation of avifauna in war-affected areas of Ukraine. We present evidence that birds, including some of the most vulnerable species in the region – such as eagles, owls, avocets, flamingos, and pelicans – despite mobility, remain in areas affected by intense military activities and become their victims. Fidelity to breeding grounds and migration routes may exert a stronger influence than the adverse environmental conditions caused by war. Our study highlights warfare as a significant, yet under-recognized, contributor to avifaunal decline. While active conservation is limited during wartime, documenting bird losses and collecting field data can support future restoration and protection efforts.