Australia's Rare Birds Face Extinction Risks Amid Conservation Efforts

As of September 26th, 2025, Australia's rare and endangered birds, such as the red goshawk, are continuing to face the threat of extinction. The red goshawk, once seen across the country's east coast, is now believed to have only around 1,000 individuals left in the far northern tropical savannahs.

However, Australians are finding a way to mix conservation concerns with a bit of healthy competition and joy through the country's biennial bird of the year poll. The poll, run by Guardian Australia in partnership with BirdLife Australia, celebrates the incredible diversity of Australia's avifauna, with around 850 native species, nearly half of which are found nowhere else on the planet.

The poll not only highlights the plight of endangered species like the red goshawk, Baudin's black cockatoo, and the orange-bellied parrot, but also allows people around the world to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of Australia's birds, from the ridiculously colorful rainbow lorikeet to the enigmatic tawny frogmouth. The event has garnered significant public interest, with the last poll receiving over 321,000 votes.

As the world continues to grapple with the biodiversity and climate crises, the bird of the year poll provides a much-needed respite, encouraging people to find joy and gratitude in the natural wonders around them. It is a testament to the power of conservation efforts and the human spirit to find hope and inspiration in the face of adversity.