Cocaine Trafficking Devastates Critical Bird Habitats in Central America

New study reveals the environmental impact of drug trade, threatening dozens of migratory bird species and Indigenous communities.

Two-thirds of key forest areas for birds are at increased risk due to narco-trafficking activities.
67 migratory bird species that breed in the U.S. and Canada are affected, including endangered warblers.
Drug traffickers clear forests for landing strips, roads, and cattle pastures, exacerbating deforestation.
Indigenous lands in the Five Great Forests are disproportionately impacted by cocaine trafficking.
Researchers call for holistic strategies to protect forests and support local communities against trafficking.