A recent study undertaken by the British Trust for Ornithology has revealed an alarming decline in wild bird populations in Britain. It's a similar story in North America, where the United States and Canada have collectively lost nearly three billion breeding birds over the last 50 years.
The news comes as the dawn chorus reaches its crescendo. This collective outbreak of melodious birdsong is one of nature's most beautiful and evocative soundscapes. But the fact that dozens of songbird species are among those in perilous decline means that this harmonious symphony may one day be silenced forever.
In this gallery, we explain in more detail exactly how the dawn chorus plays out and why its feathered vocalists are under real and serious threat. Click to continue reading.