New report shows current trends of migratory waterbird populations on the East Atlantic Flyway
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Biodiversity - Flyways
On World Migratory Bird Day, we co-signed a newly published report based on extensive analysis of the flyway count data. The document presents key findings for managers and policymakers along the flyway.
Developed in collaboration with the Common Wadden Sea Secretariat, BirdLife International, and many local and international partners, the “East Atlantic Flyway Assessment 2023: The status of coastal waterbird populations and their sites” provides the latest updates on the status of coastal waterbird populations and their sites.
This report is the result of a collaborative effort across the flyway, drawing on the expertise and contributions of dedicated individuals and partners. The lead author (editor) is Marc van Roomen from Sovon, one of the organisational partners of the African-Eurasian Waterbird Monitoring Partnership.
International collaboration for protecting migratory birds
The report raises concerns about the status of migratory waterbird populations along the East Atlantic Flyway. 42% of monitored populations show long-term increases; 33% are declining. While pressures on wetland habitats are widespread along the flyway, the specific drivers of population declines are often unknown.
The report calls for more international collaboration and political commitment to protect migratory birds and prevent further population declines along the flyway.