The Southern ground hornbill is a species found in southern Africa. Its population has declined sharply due to climate-related changes in temperature and humidity. Credit: Carrie Hickman

Extreme weather poses a big threat to birds. Yet there is a lack of both knowledge and methods for measuring its negative effects. In a new study published in Trends in Ecology & Evolution , researchers from Lund University in Sweden have identified knowledge gaps and propose practical tools for analyzing the risks to birds.

Extreme weather has become increasingly common worldwide, often in the form of combinations of heat and drought. These weather events are also becoming increasingly severe in intensity.…