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UK’s smallest bird of prey among 200 species at risk of extinction, study finds
Merlin could disappear in worst-case scenario, with British isles facing ecological ‘point of no return’
TL;DR
- Over 200 species in the UK, including the merlin, are at risk of extinction.
- The next 20 years are crucial for determining the fate of these species.
- By 2050, the British isles could face an ecological 'point of no return'.
- Scenarios range from strong environmental action to damaging intensification and 4C global heating.
- Worst-case scenarios predict the extinction of 196 plant species, 31 birds, and seven butterflies.
- Sustainable climate and land use policies could prevent the extinction of 69 fewer species.
- Loss of species negatively affects local habitats, ecological functions, and human well-being.