Avian mortality is influenced by a complex interplay of natural and anthropogenic factors. Predation, disease, and starvation are natural causes of death, while human-related factors include habitat loss, collisions with structures, pesticide poisoning, and climate change. For instance, window collisions are a significant threat, estimated to kill hundreds of millions of birds annually in North America alone.
Understanding the causes of avian mortality is crucial for conservation efforts. This knowledge enables researchers and conservationists to develop targeted strategies to protect bird populations and mitigate threats. Historically, ornithologists relied primarily on field observations and necropsies to determine causes of death. Today, technological advancements such as GPS tracking, toxicology analyses, and citizen science initiatives provide more comprehensive data and deeper insights into the multifaceted challenges birds face.