The International Union for Conservation of Nature has issued an urgent warning regarding the disappearance of migratory birds across the Middle East and parts of North Africa. Entire populations are being extinguished by conflict, poaching to fund the arms trade, and refugee needs for food and firewood.

In Syria, the critically endangered northern bald ibis, a cultural symbol of abundance, is down to only three couples. In previous years, these birds had been fitted with transmitters and allowed to migrate. Most did not return. The recordings suggest they were hunted or died of famine. It is confirmed they never reached their destinations.