The Impact of Vanishing Insects on Migratory Birds and Ecosystems
The ongoing decline of insect populations is raising concerns about its effect on migratory birds, particularly those that rely on insects for nourishment during their long journeys. A recent United Nations report highlights the serious threat to migratory birds due to the shrinking abundance, biomass, and diversity of insects. While birds like migratory shorebirds, which feed on worms and crustaceans, are less impacted in places like Singapore, migratory land birds, which depend on insects, may face significant challenges.
Insects are declining globally due to land-use changes, climate change, and pollution. Around 10% of insect species are threatened with extinction, and this has severe consequences for migratory land birds, such as bee-eaters, shrikes, and warblers, which stop at sites like Singapore Botanic Gardens and Pasir Ris Park. These birds compete for insects with resident species, and any drop in insect numbers could disrupt their ability to continue their migration.
While some migratory birds, such as the brown shrike and Oriental reed warbler, have been observed in reduced numbers, the full impact of the insect decline is not yet fully understood. Factors such as habitat loss and hunting are also contributing to the birds’ decline. Nevertheless, experts emphasize the importance of sustaining insect populations to ensure the survival of migratory birds, which expend significant energy during their migrations and need adequate food supplies to continue their journey.
