BirdLife International is a global partnership of independent national non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from more than 100 countries that works to safeguard the environment and develop ways of managing natural resources sustainably. BirdLife International strives to make the world a better place for birds and in so doing aims to improve the quality of life for people. Their logic is that the needs of birds and people are basically the same – a healthy environment in which any use of natural resources is sustainable. Who could argue with that?

BirdLife International offers some sophisticated arguments in favor of bird conservation. Their four central reasons are:

1. Birds are part of biodiversity of immense value.
2. Societies value birds for economic, cultural, ethical and spiritual reasons.
3. The birdwatching industry is a growing economic force.
4. Birds are indicators of the state of the environment.

This organization is canny enough to frame their message in terms of the value that birds offer humanity. I respect that kind of pragmatism. If you do too, you might like to join their World Bird Club.