Many species of birds are economically important. Domesticated and undomesticated birds (poultry and game) are important sources of eggs, meat, and feathers. Songbirds, parrots, and other species are popular as pets. Guano (bird excrement) is harvested for use as a fertilizer. Birds prominently figure throughout human culture. About 120–130 species have become extinct due to human activity since the 17th century, and hundreds more before then. Human activity threatens about 1,200 bird species with extinction, though efforts are underway to protect them. Recreational birdwatching is an important part of the ecotourism industry. COUNT 5
QSN1 Which birds are popular as pets? ANS1 Songbirds, parrots QSN2 What is guano? ANS2 bird excrement QSN3 What is the name of bird excrement? ANS3 Guano QSN4 What is harvested for use as fertilizer? ANS4 Guano QSN5 How many species of birds have become extinct as a result of human activity? ANS5 120–130