Image © Richard Flack

Welcome to the Regional Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa, Lesotho and Eswatini 2025

The Red Data Book of Birds 2025 online presents the most comprehensive and up-to-date regional assessments of bird species across Southern Africa.

Developed through rigorous scientific research and in collaboration with local and international experts, the Red Data Book provides critical insights into the conservation status of birds in the region.

The Red Data Book of Birds 2025 follows the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List framework, adapted to reflect the unique environmental challenges and species diversity of Southern Africa. The assessments follow the globally recognised IUCN Red List categories and criteria, offering an evidence-based guide to the risks of extinction faced by avian species in the region.

Image © Neil Ebedes
Photo of South Georgia Diving Petrel © Joan Navarro
Image © Joan Navarro

Discover Detailed Species Accounts with Conservation Information

Conservation Status

The conservation status of all bird species assessed, including population trends, distribution, and ecological data.

Identify Key Threats

 Identification of the primary drivers of species decline, including habitat loss, climate change, and human activities.

Recommendations

Guidance on priority actions needed to protect vulnerable species and their habitats, aligned with regional and global conservation goals.

Explore Bird Species by Ecological Group

Image © Alan Lee

Donate to BirdLife South Africa

Image © Brian Roberts

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Lee ATK, Rose S, Banda S, Bezeng SB, Maphalala MI, Maphisa DH, Smit-Robinson H (eds), The 2025 Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa, Lesotho and Eswatini. Johannesburg, South Africa: BirdLife South Africa.