In one of the longest-running studies of tropical wildlife populations, Stanford researchers have found that smaller farms with varying crop types, interspersed with patches of forest, sustain many forest-dependent bird populations in Costa Rica. The steepest declines in bird populations were found in forests, while intensive agriculture was also detrimental to these species. However, on diversified farms, a significant subset of bird species, including some of conservation concern, actually increased over time. This research suggests that diversified farming could be key for biodiversity and food security. The study will inform Costa Rican policymakers in developing incentives for farmers to adopt best management practices.
https://news.stanford.edu/2023/09/04/farming-food-biodiversity/