We know that the far-reaching collateral consequences of drug prohibition have harmed millions of people … but what about animals?

It turns out that even birds are feeling the devastation of forcing drug markets underground and into the hands of criminal enterprises.

A recent study in Nature Sustainability revealed the unintended consequences of international drug prohibition policies on biodiversity, specifically in Central American countries such as Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala.

Efforts to intercept drugs have pushed narcotic traffickers into some of the most pristine, biodiverse forests on our planet. These areas, crucial for the survival and breeding of forest birds, are being degraded at an alarming rate due to deforestation driven by trafficking activities.

How does this happen? I’m glad you asked! The deforestation is driven by actions like creating roads and airstrips for transporting drug shipments, as well as money laundering through cattle pastures, which expand into and destroy forested areas.

I had no idea that over half of the global populations of certain migratory bird species reside in these affected areas. It’s hard to wrap my mind around the fact that the habitats they depend on are being degraded by…drug prohibition. The destruction of failed policies reaches even beyond human communities.

The researchers call for more comprehensive strategies that not only address drug trafficking but also strengthen community governance and land rights, to help protect these vulnerable areas. Last year, I wrote a short blog about why warring with drug cartels won’t solve the issues we’re facing — and now, we’re seeing that nature is paying a price too.

It’s crazy to think about just how deep the effects of prohibition go. Whether you’re interested in addiction, recovery, crime reduction, incarceration, family stability, overdose — or even birds — we need you at the table.