[카테고리:] 관련 뉴스

숀 마틴(Shaun Martin) – 선임 프로그램 매니저
WWF 아시아-태평양 불법야생동물거래 대응 프로그램, WWF-홍콩

비비안 푸(Vivian Fu) – 선임 매니저
아시아 철새이동경로 습지 이니셔티브, WWF-홍콩

철새는 고병원성 조류인플루엔자(HPAI)를 포함해 다양한 병원체의 자연적 보유숙주가 될 수 있다는 사실은 잘 알려져 있습니다. 1959년부터 2022년까지 발표된 1,834편의 연구문헌을 분석한 결과, 총 1,438종의 야생조류에서 760종의 병원체가 확인되었으며, 이 중 387종은 신흥 병원체, 212종은 인수공통전염병 병원체로 분류되었습니다. EAAFP 뉴스 웹사이트를 간단히 검색해도 철새이동경로를 따라 HPAI의 확산이 지속되고 있음을 알 수 있습니다. 하지만 왜일까요? 흥미롭게도, 이러한 병원체 확산의 원인이 반드시 조류 그 자체에 있는 것은 아닐 수 있습니다.

철새의 이동 경로를 따라 발생하는 외부 요인들—자연 습지의 전환, 산림 벌채, 급속한 도시화, 농가와의 근접성, 기후 변화 등—은 철새들이 소수의 남은 적합한 서식지에 몰리도록 만듭니다. 이러한 변화는 야생조류와 가축, 인간 사이의 접촉 가능성을 증가시키며, 인수공통전염병의 발생과 종 간 전파(spillover)의 위험을 높이고, 결과적으로 HPAI 발생 위험 또한 증가시킬 수 있습니다.

이러한 상호 연결성을 보다 거시적인 시각에서 바라보는 것이 바로 원헬스(One Health) 접근의 기반이 됩니다.

세계보건기구(WHO)는 원헬스를 다음과 같이 정의합니다:
“원헬스는 사람, 동물, 생태계의 건강을 지속가능하게 균형 있게 최적화하는 것을 목표로 하는 통합적이고 통일된 접근 방식입니다. 인간과 가축 및 야생동물, 식물, 그리고 더 넓은 환경의 건강은 밀접하게 연결되어 있으며 상호 의존적이라는 인식을 바탕으로, 다양한 부문과 분야, 사회 전반의 공동체들이 함께 협력하여 건강과 생태계 위협에 대응하고, 동시에 깨끗한 물, 에너지, 공기, 안전하고 영양가 있는 식량 확보, 기후 변화 대응, 지속 가능한 발전을 위한 노력을 함께 이끌어 나가는 접근 방식입니다.”

2022년에는 유엔환경계획(UNEP), 세계동물보건기구(WOAH), 세계보건기구(WHO), 유엔식량농업기구(FAO)로 구성된 4개 기관 협력체(Quadripartite)가 정부 부처를 위한 원헬스 공동 행동계획(OH-JPA)을 발표하였습니다. 이 계획은 미래의 보건 위기를 완화하기 위한 전략을 담고 있습니다. 최근에는 생물다양성협약(CBD) 당사국들이 제16차 당사국총회(COP16)에서 생물다양성과 건강에 관한 글로벌 행동계획을 승인하였으며, 이는 인수공통 감염병의 발생 억제, 비감염성 질환 예방, 지속 가능한 생태계 조성을 위한 자발적 행동 방안을 제시하고 있습니다.

세계자연기금(WWF) 또한 원헬스 접근의 중요성을 인식하고 있으며, 감염병 발생의 주요 원인인 환경 요인을 해결하기 위한 노력을 시작했습니다. 2024년, WWF는 ‘건강한 지구를 향하여: 보전을 위한 원헬스 접근 실행’ 보고서를 발간하였고, 여섯 가지 핵심 전략을 중심으로 환경 건강의 중요성을 강조했습니다:

1. 생태계 회복력(landscape immunity)

2. 야생동물 거래 규제

3. 예방적 의학

4. 병원체 조기경보 및 모니터링

5. 지속 가능한 가축 관리

6. 행동 변화 유도

특히 HPAI는 철새에게 중요한 위협 요소로 점점 더 부각되고 있습니다. 서식지 파괴, 먹이 부족, 번식지 감소는 철새의 건강과 질병 저항력을 심각하게 저해하고 있습니다. 따라서 생태계 회복력을 중심으로 한 원헬스 접근은 철새이동경로를 따라 위치한 습지를 모니터링하고 관리하는 데 매우 적절한 접근이며, 도시 및 농촌 환경과 인접한 습지에서 자연 기반 해법(nature-based solutions)을 통해 전염병 확산에 대한 저항력을 구축할 수 있습니다.

폭풍과 가뭄의 빈도 증가, 지하수위 저하, 해수면 상승 등 기후 변화가 가속화되는 지금, 우리는 철새를 단순히 질병 매개체로만 인식해서는 안 됩니다. 철새는 생태계 내에서 포식자, 수분매개자, 종자 전파자, 생태계 엔지니어로서 중요한 역할을 수행하는 존재입니다.

EAAFP와 같은 국제 기구는 철새이동경로 전반에 걸친 습지 관리를 위한 원헬스 접근을 강조하고, 철새와 가금류 공동체뿐 아니라 그들과 함께 일하는 현장 전문가, 인근 지역사회 주민들의 건강을 체계적으로 보장하는 데 있어 핵심적인 역할을 수행할 수 있습니다.

지금이야말로 원헬스 접근을 통해 질병 예방과 생태계 회복력을 동시에 실현해야 할 때입니다.

1) 생물학 & 생태학

• EFFENDI M R, MANSOR M S, 2025. First record of Vanellus vanellus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Aves, Charadriidae), Northern Lapwing, in Malaysia at the southernmost occurrence of the species’ range[J/OL]. CHECK LIST, 21(1): 181-183. DOI:10.15560/21.1.181.
• FU M, WANG J, HOU C, et al., 2025. Waterbird diversity and its influencing factors in various types of coastal wetlands in the Bohai Rim region[J/OL]. GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION, 57: e03421. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2025.e03421.
• ZHU S, DENG G, JIANG H, et al., 2025. Study on the Influence of Different Feeding Habitats on the Behavioral Habits of Siberian Cranes in the Songnen Plain[J/OL]. DIVERSITY-BASEL, 17(1): 36. DOI:10.3390/d17010036.
• HUR S, KIM D W, PARK J G, et al., 2025. Wintering loons in South Korea face an ongoing threat from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: Shifting sources and potential DNA damage[J/OL]. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION, 367: 125659. DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2025.125659.
• ZHANG J, CIONI L, JASPERS V L B, et al., 2025. Shellfish and shorebirds from the East-Asian Australian flyway as bioindicators for unknown per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances using the total oxidizable precursor assay[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS, 487: 137189. DOI:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.137189.
• HE J, WANG C, HAN Y, et al., 2025. Waterbird community response to wetland and climate changes in the Liaohe River Estuary wetlands, China[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, 374: 124165. DOI:10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.124165.
• MA R, MA S, ZHANG Y, et al., 2025. Flexible host-microbe interaction aid adaptation of black-necked crane to seasonal shifts[J/OL]. GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION, 58: e03458. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2025.e03458.
• XING X, QIAN F, MA K, 2025. From sky to ground: decoding migratory bird’s habitat selection along the multi-scale sequence[J/OL]. LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY, 40(2): 33. DOI:10.1007/s10980-025-02050-y.
• LIU W, ZHAO C, ZHANG P, et al., 2025. Effects of microplastics on energy accumulation in a migratory shorebird in the coastal wetlands of the Yellow Sea, China[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS, 488: 137386. DOI:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.137386.
• LI D, KHOO M D Y, LANCTOT R B, et al., 2025. Migration of Wintering Grey Plover From Southeast Asia to North-Central Siberia Challenges Breeding Population Delineations in Russia[J/OL]. ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION, 15(2): e70815. DOI:10.1002/ece3.70815.
• WANG C, XIA S, YU X, et al., 2025. Responses to extreme drought in wintering waterbirds: a multi-species approach[J/OL]. FRONTIERS IN ZOOLOGY, 22(1): 3. DOI:10.1186/s12983-025-00557-3.
• CHENXI W, SHAOXIA X, XIUBO Y, et al., 2025. Satellite tracking data reveal the underestimate population size of the ground survey[J/OL]. BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION, 34(4): 1541-1558. DOI:10.1007/s10531-025-03032-x.
• WU Y, LEI W, WU E, et al., 2025. A multi-perspective understanding of population change in migratory species: A case study with pied avocets (Recurvirostra avosetta) in East Asia[J/OL]. BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION, 304: 111048. DOI:10.1016/j.biocon.2025.111048.
• CAO X, WU Y, BAI F, et al., 2025. Persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic pollutants in migratory waterbirds from Bohai Bay, China: Implications on distinct pollutant sources.[J/OL]. The Science of the total environment, 967: 178782. DOI:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.178782.
• DAS D K, VANSTEELANT W M G, ZHU B, et al., 2025. Three subspecies of Black-tailed Godwit share non-breeding sites in the world’s largest river delta[J/OL]. AVIAN RESEARCH, 16(1): 100226. DOI:10.1016/j.avrs.2025.100226.
• HONDA R, YAMAKITA T, OZAKI T, et al., 2025. Impact of duck predation on the population of Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) in tidal flat[J/OL]. ESTUARINE COASTAL AND SHELF SCIENCE, 318: 109247. DOI:10.1016/j.ecss.2025.109247.
• TAGHIYEV A N, KARIMOVA N A, V. BADALOVA S, 2025. The Changes in the Breeding Behaviour of the Microcarbo Pygmaeus, Nycticorax Nycticorax, Ardeola Ralloides Bubulcus Ibis, Egretta Garzetta Species on the South-Western Coast of the Caspian Sea[J/OL]. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY SCIENCE, 56(4). DOI:10.21608/EJVS.2024.267971.1829.
• HUR S, KIM D W, PARK J G, et al., 2025. Elemental accumulation in loons wintering along the Korean coast: Focus on vanadium and other toxic heavy metals[J/OL]. REGIONAL STUDIES IN MARINE SCIENCE, 85: 104157. DOI:10.1016/j.rsma.2025.104157.
• WANG C, WANG H, SHEN Z, et al., 2025. The influence of tidal action and reclamation activities on the home range selection of shorebirds[J/OL]. OCEAN & COASTAL MANAGEMENT, 266: 107703. DOI:10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2025.107703.
• XU H, DONG B, XU Z, et al., 2025. Study on habitat suitability and ecological network of rare cranes in Poyang Lake National Nature Reserve[J/OL]. ECOLOGICAL INDICATORS, 174: 113480. DOI:10.1016/j.ecolind.2025.113480.
• NAM H K, KIM H J, DAVAASUREN B, et al., 2025. Migration and population characteristics of white-naped cranes wintering on the Korean Peninsula[J/OL]. SCIENTIFIC REPORTS, 15(1): 18785. DOI:10.1038/s41598-025-03478-7.
• ZHANG S, REN X, XIONG Z, et al., 2025. The conservation of migratory shorebirds needs to account for the different habitat selection patterns across species and between day and night[J/OL]. BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION, 309: 111256. DOI:10.1016/j.biocon.2025.111256.

2) 보전 & 관리

• ZHANG Z, WANG C, QIAN Y, et al., 2025. Habitat networks simulation and sustainable optimization policies for sectional functional impairments based on “land – Species” coupling[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION, 486: 144513. DOI:10.1016/j.jclepro.2024.144513.
• JI X, ZHANG D, ZHOU L, 2025. Effects of high water levels on waterbird diversity at Wuchang Lake, a gate-controlled lake in the middle and lower Yangtze River floodplain, China[J/OL]. JOURNAL FOR NATURE CONSERVATION, 84: 126826. DOI:10.1016/j.jnc.2025.126826.
• GUO J, LIANG W, ZHOU Y, et al., 2025. A case study from a critical stopover site in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway provides lessons for optimal high-tide roost management to support shorebird conservation[J/OL]. BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION, 302: 110985. DOI:10.1016/j.biocon.2025.110985.
• SHIMIZU T, SENZAKI M, HORI S, et al., 2025. Short-term flooding in non-rice croplands provides stopover habitats for migrating waterbirds[J/OL]. AGRICULTURE ECOSYSTEMS & ENVIRONMENT, 383: 109504. DOI:10.1016/j.agee.2025.109504.
• RAHMAN F, ISMAIL A, ABDULLAH S A, et al., 2025. Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary, Perak, Malaysia: Status, challenges and future for migratory shorebirds population in the East-Asian Australian Flyway[J/OL]. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN, 213: 117690. DOI:10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.117690.
• TANG W, ZHAI J, 2025. Coupled Hydrodynamic and Habitat Suitability Models for Reach-Scale Restoration of Wintering Waterbird Habitats in Rivers: A Case Study on Scaly-Sided Merganser[J/OL]. AQUATIC CONSERVATION-MARINE AND FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS, 35(3): e70102. DOI:10.1002/aqc.70102.
• WANG Z, ZHOU J, HE Y, et al., 2025. Spatially Diverse Water Levels Enhance Habitat Heterogeneity for Wintering Waterbirds[J/OL]. FRESHWATER BIOLOGY, 70(3): e70016. DOI:10.1111/fwb.70016.
• QIU J, LI Y, LIU X, 2025. Assessment of the Impact of Extreme Hydrological Conditions on Migratory Bird Habitats of the Largest Freshwater Lake Wetlands in China Based on Multi-Source Remote Sensing Fusion Approach[J/OL]. SUSTAINABILITY, 17(5): 1900. DOI:10.3390/su17051900.
• QU J, DONG B, LIU X, et al., 2025. Study on Habitat Quality of Chongming Dongtan Based on InVEST Model in Shanghai, China[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF THE INDIAN SOCIETY OF REMOTE SENSING. DOI:10.1007/s12524-025-02163-6.
• LEI W, MASERO J A, CHAI Z, et al., 2025. Maintaining shallow waters to maximize the potential of saltpans as foraging habitat for migratory shorebirds along an endangered flyway[J/OL]. BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION, 306: 111100. DOI:10.1016/j.biocon.2025.111100.
• YU F, ZHAI J, HUANG Z, et al., 2025. The impact of Poyang Lake water level changes on the landscape pattern of wintering wading bird habitats[J/OL]. GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION, 58: e03453. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2025.e03453.
• CHEN T, HU W, WU D, et al., 2025. Impact of removing laver (Porphyra) farming racks on the distribution, diversity and foraging behavior of waterbirds in coastal wetlands in eastern China[J/OL]. FRONTIERS IN ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION, 13: 1549717. DOI:10.3389/fevo.2025.1549717.
• HANSEN B D, HONAN J, STEWART D, et al., 2025. Estimating setback distances for a threatened, cryptic, data-sparse migratory shorebird[J/OL]. PLoS ONE, 20(4): e0317081. DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0317081.
• ZHANG S, SUN C, LI J, et al., 2025. Ecological network degradation and conservation prioritization analysis of red-crowned crane habitats: a multi-model approach[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, 383: 125458. DOI:10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125458.
• JIA Y, SUN L, GUO J, et al., 2025. Identifying non-breeding habitat conservation gaps of the critically threatened Spoon-billed Sandpiper (Calidris pygmaea) using species distribution model[J/OL]. GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION, 61: e03640. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2025.e03640.

3) 조류 인플루엔자 / 그 외

• PENG P, SHEN J, SHI W, et al., 2025. Novel H16N3 avian influenza viruses isolated from migratory gulls in China in 2023[J/OL]. FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY, 15: 1543338. DOI:10.3389/fmicb.2024.1543338.
• CHEN W, LU S, XIONG H, et al., 2025. Gene flow and its sporadic spillover: H10 and N5 avian influenza viruses from wild birds and the H10N5 human cases in China[J/OL]. VIROLOGICA SINICA, 40(1): 15-23. DOI:10.1016/j.virs.2024.12.002.
• TAKEKAWA J Y, CHOI C Y, PROSSER D J, et al., 2025. Perpetuation of Avian Influenza from Molt to Fall Migration in Wild Swan Geese (Anser cygnoides): An Agent-Based Modeling Approach[J/OL]. VIRUSES-BASEL, 17(2): 196. DOI:10.3390/v17020196.
• PENG Z, GAO C, QIAO H, et al., 2025. Exploring Aeromonas veronii in Migratory Mute Swans (Cygnus olor): A Debut Report and Genetic Characterization[J/OL]. VETERINARY SCIENCES, 12(2): 164. DOI:10.3390/vetsci12020164.
• SAKUMA S, MINE J, UCHIDA Y, et al., 2025. Long-term immune responses induced by low-dose infection with high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses can protect mallards from reinfection with a heterologous strain[J/OL]. ARCHIVES OF VIROLOGY, 170(2): 33. DOI:10.1007/s00705-024-06209-x.
• HU J, XU Y, MA M, et al., 2025. Research Note: Novel reassortant avian influenza A(H9N2) Viruses in Wild Birds in Shanghai, China, 2020-2023[J/OL]. POULTRY SCIENCE, 104(3): 104860. DOI:10.1016/j.psj.2025.104860.
• CHENG Z, CHEN Y, LI M, et al., 2025. An Unusual “Gift” from Humans: Third-Generation Cephalosporin-Resistant Enterobacterales in migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway[J/OL]. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL, 197: 109320. DOI:10.1016/j.envint.2025.109320.
• QIU Y, LV C, CHEN J, et al., 2025. The global distribution and diversity of wild-bird-associated pathogens: An integrated data analysis and modeling study[J/OL]. MED, 6(4): 100553. DOI:10.1016/j.medj.2024.11.006.
• ESAKI M, OKUYA K, TOKOROZAKI K, et al., 2025. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Outbreak in Endangered Cranes, Izumi Plain, Japan, 2022-23[J/OL]. EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES, 31(5): 937-947. DOI:10.3201/eid3105.241410.
• BARMAN S, TURNER J C M, HASAN M K, et al., 2025. Reassortment of newly emergent clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1) highly pathogenic avian influenza A viruses in Bangladesh[J/OL]. EMERGING MICROBES & INFECTIONS, 14(1): 2432351. DOI:10.1080/22221751.2024.2432351.

1) 생물학 & 생태학

First record of Vanellus vanellus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Aves, Charadriidae), Northern Lapwing, in Malaysia at the southernmost occurrence of the species’ range Vanellus vanellus （Linnaeus， 1758） （Aves， Charadriidae）

Mohd Ros Effendi , Mohammad Saiful Mansor

Abstract: Vanellus vanellus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Aves, Charadriidae), Northern Lapwing, is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN due to declines in the availability of its habitat since 1980. The species is a widespread Palearctic breeder and an uncommon migrant to Southeast Asia, where it winters in Thailand and Vietnam. We document the first recorded sighting of V. vanellus in Malaysia, marking the southernmost occurrence of the species to date.

Waterbird diversity and its influencing factors in various types of coastal wetlands in the Bohai Rim region

Mengdi FU , Jun WANG , Chunfei HOU , Junsheng LI , Jiade BAI , Yuanyuan ZHANG

Abstract: The coastal wetlands of the Bohai Rim region in China serve as critical habitats for breeding, migratory stopovers, and wintering birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. This study surveyed waterbird diversity across 17 coastal wetlands in the Bohai Rim region from 2018 to 2023 to identify community composition, analyze spatial and temporal patterns, and examine the key factors influencing waterbird diversity across various wetland types. A total of 133 species belonging to 18 families and 8 orders were recorded, with migratory species comprising 85.71 % of the total. Scolopacidae, Charadriidae, and Laridae exhibited the highest species richness and abundance, respectively. The number of waterbirds and diversity indices displayed a fluctuating but overall upward trend during the study period. Estuarine wetlands had the highest waterbird diversity, tidal wetlands exhibited the greatest bird density, whereas shallow sea and island wetlands showed comparatively lower diversity and evenness. The primary factors influencing waterbird diversity, ranked by significance, were PM2.5 concentration, vegetation coverage, macrobenthic biodiversity, regional population density, and temperature. High PM2.5 concentrations were significantly associated with reduced waterbird diversity, whereas higher vegetation coverage promoted diversity by improving habitat complexity. Macrobenthic biodiversity influenced food web dynamics via predation and competition, leading to a marginally negative impact on waterbird diversity. Regional population density significantly impacted waterbird diversity in island and tidal wetlands, highlighting the necessity of establishing and managing protected areas to sustain waterbird diversity. Additionally, increased precipitation caused by climate change alters wetland water levels, indirectly impacting habitat conditions for waterbirds. Improved wetland management and pollution control are essential for preserving waterbird diversity. This study provides important insights into how air pollution, water pollution, and climate change affect waterbird diversity, emphasizing the importance of integrated management strategies for maintaining coastal wetland ecosystem stability and the health of waterbird communities.

Study on the Influence of Different Feeding Habitats on the Behavioral Habits of Siberian Cranes in the Songnen Plain

Zhu, Shiying; Deng, Guangyi; Jiang, Haibo; Gao, Jie; He, Chunguang; Zhang, Yan; Cao, Yingyue

Abstract: As a habitat for waterbirds, wetlands are key to their survival, reproduction and development. Waterbirds usually prefer breeding, wintering and resting in fixed locations. Siberian cranes (Grus leucogeranus), which are highly dependent on wetlands, have long fed on farmland at migratory stopover sites. To explore the reason for this phenomenon, the time budgets of Siberian crane populations stopping over on farmland or in wetland habitats were studied and compared in this study. The results showed that the farmlands visited by the Siberian cranes are rich in food resources and have experienced low levels of disturbance. The temporal distribution of feeding behavior on farmland (53.50%) was greater than that in wetland habitats (31.96%). The variations in warning, flying and walking behavior on farmland were less than those in wetlands. The feeding efficiency on farmland was significantly greater than that in wetlands. Therefore, Siberian cranes transiting the Songnen Plain leave wetland habitats and stop over on farmland, representing a behavior that occurs more than just occasionally. Instead, they change their foraging habitat choices based on the optimal foraging theory. As a transit feeding area for Siberian cranes, farmland poses a significant risk, and the restoration of wetland habitats and food resources is still needed. This study can provide theoretical support for the conservation of rare and endangered species (the Siberian crane) and the management of stopover sites.

Wintering loons in South Korea face an ongoing threat from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: Shifting sources and potential DNA damage☆(This paper has been recommended for acceptance by Maria Cristina Fossi.)

Sub Hur , Dae-Woo Kim , Jong-Gil Park , Hae Rim Lee , Young-Jun Kim , Bae-Keun Lee , Dong-Ha Nam

Abstract: Diving birds, particularly those sharing coastal habitats with fishing grounds, are at risk from oil pollution. Despite documented cases of bird mortality, the specific role of oil pollution in these death remains unclear. To address this knowledge gap, this study examined polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination, its sources, and its impact on loon health. An analysis of 86 carcasses from three species of loons revealed drowning as the leading cause of death, followed by oil pollution and unknown debilitation. While liver concentrations of 16 PAHs (∑PAHs) showed no significant variation by sex, location, species, or cause of death, it was evident that wintering loons were exposed to PAH pollution along South Korea’s eastern coast. The ratio of low (di- and tri-cyclic) to high (tetra-, penta-, and hexa-cyclic) molecular weight PAHs was approximately 3–5 across all three loon species. From 2010 to 2017, the composition of PAHs shifted, with a decline in low molecular weight PAHs (indicative of petrogenic sources) and a concerning increase in high molecular weight PAHs (associated with pyrogenic sources). This trend coincided with a tenfold increase in the toxic equivalency quotient of benzo[a]pyrene (TEQBaP), despite a decrease in overall ∑PAH concentrations. The detection of benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide (BPDE)-DNA adducts in some loons further suggests potential genotoxic effects from PAH exposure. These findings underscore the persistent PAH contamination affecting wintering loons. Continued research is crucial to understand the evolving threats posed by PAHs and to support the conservation of these migratory birds along the North America-Asia flyway.

Shellfish and shorebirds from the East-Asian Australian flyway as bioindicators for unknown per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances using the total oxidizable precursor assay

Junjie Zhang , Lara Cioni , Veerle L.B. Jaspers , Alexandros G. Asimakopoulos , He-Bo Peng , Tobias A. Ross , Marcel Klaassen , Dorte Herzke

Abstract: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have gained significant global attention due to their extensive industrial use and harmful effects on various organisms. Among these, perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are well-studied, but their diverse precursors remain challenging to monitor. The Total Oxidizable Precursor (TOP) assay offers a powerful approach to converting these precursors into detectable PFAAs. In this study, the TOP assay was applied to samples from the East Asian-Australian Flyway, a critical migratory route for millions of shorebirds. Samples included shellfish from China’s coastal mudflats, key stopover sites for these birds, and blood and liver samples from shorebirds overwintering in Australia. The results showed a substantial increase in perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) across all sample types following the TOP assay, with the most significant increases in shorebird livers (Sum PFCAs increased by 18,156 %). Intriguingly, the assay also revealed unexpected increases in perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSAs), suggesting the presence of unidentified precursors. These findings highlight the need for further research into these unknown precursors, their sources, and their ecological impacts on shorebirds, other wildlife, and potential human exposure. This study also provides crucial insights into the TOP assay’s strengths and limitations in studying PFAS precursor dynamics in biological matrices.

Waterbird community response to wetland and climate changes in the Liaohe River Estuary wetlands, China

Jinjie He , Chang Wang , Ying Han , Wen Zhang , Yucheng Yang , Li Guo , Fengli Li

Abstract: The Liaohe River Estuary (LRE) wetland is a critical stopover on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF), vital to coastal ecological balance and biodiversity. However, the drivers of changes in waterbird diversity remain unclear. This study utilised random forests to produce reliable time-series wetland mapping from 2010 to 2023. Spatial and temporal changes in wetlands and landscape structures were analysed using landscape pattern indices—the Alpha and Beta diversity analyses were based on monitoring records that assessed waterbird diversity and community structure. The response of waterbirds to wetland, landscape, and climate changes was quantified using a Generalized Linear Mixed Effects Model (GLMM). Between 2010 and 2023, 78 species of waterbirds from 8 orders and 14 families were recorded. In 2023, waterbird counts reached 1,014,908, marking an increase of 868,102 compared to 2010. Over 14 years, waterbird diversity consistently increased, with community structure becoming more stable. Positive responses to climatic factors, such as seasonal precipitation and mean temperatures (both year and seasonal), were observed, while extreme weather inhibited recovery, like heavy precipitation and strong winds. Changes in Suaeda salsa (Sua) and forested areas significantly impacted waterbird diversity compared to other land cover types. These findings highlight the strong influence of climate, wetland, and landscape changes on waterbird diversity and community structure. Managers are encouraged to prioritise monitoring temperature, precipitation, Sua, and forested landscapes while enhancing artificial wetland management to support waterbird diversity and ecological balance in the LRE.

Flexible host–microbe interaction aid adaptation of black-necked crane to seasonal shifts

Ruifeng Ma , Shujuan Ma , Yujia Zhang , Lei Hu , Keyi Tang , Hongyi Liu , Ke He , Yudong Li , Suolangduoerji , Ying Zhu

Abstract: To elucidate how hosts adapt to changing environments with the assistance of symbiotic microorganisms, we must first understand host–microbe interactions. However, the covariation patterns of gut microbiota and hosts under complex natural conditions are poorly understood. To address this gap in our knowledge, we used metabarcoding of plant RbcL and animal COI regions, along with bacterial 16S rRNA gene and metagenomic analyses. This enabled the analysis of the interactions between the gut microbiota of the black-necked crane (Grus nigricollis), a large migratory bird, and its plant and animal diets to be analyzed. The impact of these interactions on the adaptive strategies of the black-necked crane during different periods in the Zoige wetland, China, was also assessed. We found that the black-necked crane harbored more gut bacterial communities and more diverse plant-derived foods during the post-breeding period than during the pre-breeding period. The gut microbiota and diet covaried throughout the breeding season and exhibited seasonal patterns. Araneae and Cyperaceae were correlated with pre-breeding bacterial profile, whereas Acrididae and Elaeagnaceae were associated with post-breeding bacterial abundance. Sample microbiota distance (between-sample diversity) increased with increasing animal and plant diet distance, and this relationship was enhanced between the plant diet and gut microbiome, with a greater value observed during the pre-breeding period than during the post-breeding period. According to Simpson’s indexes, the gut microbiota was also positively associated with the plant-based diet across the seasons. The plant diet–microbe co-occurrence network was more complex than the animal diet–microbe network. The gut microbiota functional profile revealed that several amino acids, folate, lipids, and metabolic pathways were more abundant during the pre-breeding period, which enriched the nutrient resources of the black-necked crane prior to breeding. In contrast, carbohydrate metabolism was more abundant during the post-breeding period, which helped the black-necked crane to accumulate energy for its upcoming migration. These results suggest flexible host-microbiome-host relationships in two seasons and that host physiological needs interact with foraging strategies to shape the microbiome, ultimately resulting in host adaptations to seasonal shifts. These results provide insights into the role of the gut microbiota in host adaptations to seasonal changes under natural conditions.

From sky to ground: decoding migratory bird’s habitat selection along the multi-scale sequence

Xueman Xing , Fawen Qian , Keming Ma

Abstract: ContextMigratory birds select habitats by observing landscape patterns at different scales as they descend from higher elevations, weighing habitat availability. Understanding how this selection process operates at multiple scales and how decisions at different scales interact is crucial for identifying the optimal scale for efficient habitat conservation.ObjectivesWe aimed to investigate the regularity of changes in migratory birds’ habitat selection in response to landscape variables over multi-scales, using the Oriental White Stork (Ciconia boyciana) as an example.MethodWe developed Scale Response Models and Habitat Selection Models using a sequence of nine scales (5-200 km) within the East Asian-Australasian Flyway to evaluate the stork’s scale-sensitivity and assess the change of explanatory power of landscape variables across scales at different periods.ResultScale-sensitivity of storks was highest during the wintering period. The explanatory power of the suitable habitat indicator is higher at larger scales, but decreases with decreasing scale; while the opposite is true for the unsuitable habitat indicator. At large scales, wetland indicators dominated in breeding period, while water indicators dominated in other periods; at smaller scales, unsuitable habitat indicators had stronger impacts in wintering period.ConclusionsWe revealed a nested relationship in multi-scale habitat selection among storks: “benefit-tendency” decisions at larger scales provide context and constraints; “risk-avoidance” decisions at smaller scales determine settlement. Due to internal and external factors, migratory birds displayed different scale-sensitivities and landscape preferences across periods. Our findings highlight the scale-dependence of organisms’ behavior and landscape characteristics, providing guidance for multi-scale habitat conservation.

Effects of microplastics on energy accumulation in a migratory shorebird in the coastal wetlands of the Yellow Sea, China

Wei Liu , Cheng Zhao , Pengfei Zhang , Ting Liang , Qifeng Huang , Yan Liu , Xiaoshou Liu

Abstract: Microplastic pollution has emerged as a significant environmental concern at the global level, potentially threatening biodiversity conservation and human wellbeing. As an important biological group with a wide global distribution, migratory shorebirds face considerable stress due to plastic and microplastic pollution. However, few studies have explored the ecotoxic impact of microplastic pollution on migratory shorebirds. To investigate the physiological effects of microplastic pollution on migratory shorebirds, this study obtained the morphological data of 79 dunlins at a key stopover site at the midpoint of the East Asian–Australasian Flyway in 2023 autumn. Meanwhile, fecal and blood samples were collected to examine the microplastic abundance accumulated in the body and metabolic levels. Microplastics were detected in 100 % of dunlins, comprising 12 distinct polymer types. The average abundance of microplastics ingested by dunlins was 134.50 items/g, which was higher than the reported abundance of environmental sediment. The present study confirmed that individuals with longer bills ingested more microplastics, resulting in significantly decreased body mass for the same shorebird. Compared to the low contamination group, metabolomic analysis also revealed that dunlins with elevated microplastic contamination exhibited the down-regulation of 10 metabolic pathways, including pyrimidine metabolism, beta-alanine metabolism, and vitamin C metabolism. The findings of this study underscore the potential threat microplastics pose to the health of migratory shorebirds. It is recommended that synergies be developed between microplastic management and biodiversity conservation at global and regional scales, with migratory birds serving as pivotal indicator species.

Migration of Wintering Grey Plover From Southeast Asia to North-Central Siberia Challenges Breeding Population Delineations in Russia

Li, David; Khoo, Max De Yuan; Lanctot, Richard B; Tomkovich, Pavel S; Ma, Zhijun; Chow, Jun Rui; Soh, Malcolm Chu Keong; Yang, Shufen; How, Choon Beng; Loo, Adrian

Abstract: Shorebird populations are declining across the world due to factors such as habitat loss and climate change. Identification of shorebird migration routes and important stopover sites can facilitate the implementation of strategic and effective conservation measures. Using a satellite transmitter, we successfully tracked the migration of one Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) from its wintering grounds in Singapore north along the East Asian‐Australasian Flyway (EAAF) to its breeding grounds located east of the Taymyr Peninsula in north‐central Siberia. This provides the first evidence that the Singapore plover could be part of the Yamal/Taymyr population that is known to only migrate south via the East Atlantic Flyway and winter in Western Europe. After breeding, the bird took an unexpected westward migration towards northwestern Taymyr Peninsula where it stopped at two locations for 9 and 5 days, respectively, before migrating south through Central Asia. Prior to crossing the Himalayan mountains, however, the plover migrated east again from the Xinjiang Autonomous Region in northwest China to Jiangsu Province along the Yellow Sea, before turning south again to migrate along the EAAF to return to its wintering ground in Singapore. The plover’s westward post‐breeding migration was contrary to prevailing winds, while the eastward migration north of the Himalayas was facilitated by strong easterly winds. The plover’s westward migration post‐breeding may be attributed to acquiring additional food resources prior to its southward migration, and/or because it was searching for future breeding or staging grounds. Both possibilities may be associated with habitat changes occurring on their breeding grounds due to climate change. Further studies on the Grey Plovers wintering in Southeast Asia are needed to understand whether the migration route taken by this individual is representative of the species.

Responses to extreme drought in wintering waterbirds: a multi-species approach

Chenxi Wang , Shaoxia Xia* , Xiubo Yu and Li Wen

Abstract: Background Climate change and anthropogenic activities are accelerating environmental changes, challenging wild animals’ survival. Behavioral plasticity, such as adjusting habitat selection and foraging activity, is a key mechanism for responding to rapid environmental changes in the Anthropocene era. However, this shift may expose animals to new challenges. Moreover, not all behavioral plasticity is adaptive, as evidenced by ecological traps. This study focuses on Poyang Lake, a Ramsar wetland and a critical wintering ground for waterbirds in the East Asian–Australasian Flyway. Historically, the migratory patterns of waterbirds were synchronized with the plant life cycle. However, recent hydrological regime changes have diminished suitable habitats and food resources, thereby posing significant conservation challenges for waterbirds. Methods Utilizing multiyear satellite tracking data, we examined the variations in wintering home range and behaviors of four herbivorous waterbird species between natural and artificial wetlands in Poyang Lake under different hydrological conditions. Results Our results reveal significant differences in home range area and movement speed among species and across hydrological years. All species demonstrated a marked increase in their use of artificial wetlands under unfavorable conditions. Specifically, the Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) shifted its distribution to artificial wetlands during drought years while favoring natural wetlands under normal conditions, indicating a stress-induced adaptation. In contrast, the Bean Goose (A. fabalis) and Swan Goose (A. cygnoid) displayed greater behavioral plasticity. Notably, the Siberian Crane (Leucogeranus leucogeranus) increasingly used artificial wetlands, likely due to human protection, raising concerns about potential ecological traps. Additionally, waterbirds foraging in artificial wetlands generally exhibited higher movement speeds during drought conditions. This behavior suggests maladaptation and a more dispersed distribution. Conclusions Our study underscored the critical role of artificial wetlands in supporting migratory waterbirds during drought, though elevated movement speeds observed in these habitats suggest potential maladaptation. Species-specific responses raise concerns about ecological traps if these habitats fail to meet key ecological needs. To ensure long-term conservation, efforts should focus on preserving natural wetlands and enhancing the quality of artificial habitats. Future research should prioritize long-term monitoring to guide habitat management and address species-specific needs in the face of climate change and habitat degradation.

Satellite tracking data reveal the underestimate population size of the ground survey

Wang Chenxi, Xia Shaoxia, Yu Xiubo & Wen Li

Abstract: The population of East Asian geese along migration routes is declining. Accurate understanding of the spatial distribution of wintering geese and estimates of their population numbers are vital for their conservation. Based on satellite tracking data, the migration timing and spatial distribution of geese in Poyang Lake were studied by using time series and home range analysis. We propose a method for estimating goose populations to address the population underestimation in current ground surveys. We found that the utilization intensity of geese is higher within the Protected area than outside, and during the wintering period, spatial overlap in their distributions is evident. This is especially the case in mid-winter, when the overlap area reaches 257.84 km2. There are missing areas in existing ground surveys, resulting in underestimation of the numbers of Greater White-fronted Goose, Bean Goose and Swan Goose by 13,196, 6157 and 3191, respectively. A reevaluation of the numbers using integrated satellite tracking and ground survey data, indicates the high level of importance of Poyang Lake for the protection of East Asian geese, with the numbers of Greater White-fronted Goose, Bean Goose, and Swan Goose wintering there constituting 56.94%, 14.53%, and 49.93%, respectively, of their estimated populations along the migration flyway. This study provided a scientific foundation for the conservation of East Asian geese populations and offers critical support for the development of targeted conservation strategies in the future.

A multi-perspective understanding of population change in migratory species: A case study with pied avocets (Recurvirostra avosetta) in East Asia

Yang Wu , Weipan Lei , Entao Wu , Han Pan , Yifei Jia , Cai Lu , Yongxiang Han , Junjie Wang , Rong Fan , Zhijun Ma , Zhengwang Zhang , Richard A. Fuller

Abstract: Understanding the population dynamics of migratory species is crucial for their conservation. However, researchers often encounter challenges due to insufficient data, especially when monitoring migratory species throughout their annual cycle. One solution to this issue is to combine multiple types of data. Here we develop and test such an approach, using the Pied Avocet, a migratory waterbird species in East Asia, as a case study. We integrate count data, presence-only records, satellite tracking data, and species distribution models.

Our findings reveal an 85 % increase in the annual population of Pied Avocets in East Asia over the past 13 years, despite inconsistent trends across their four major wintering sites. Tracking data indicated that the species experiences low migratory mortality and a moderate to high overall survival rates, with survival not differing significantly between first-year birds and adults. We estimated a 109 % increase in suitable wintering habitat extent and a 42 % increase in breeding habitat extent for Pied Avocets over the past 20 years. These changes are primarily attributed to the proliferation of artificial wetlands, with climate change also contributing to the expansion of wintering habitats.

We conclude that multi-dimensional sources of evidence can be combined to assess and explain population changes even though data of any particular type are relatively limited. We emphasize the effectiveness and importance of using diverse methods to obtain comprehensive information on the population dynamics of migratory species, while concurrently establishing and improving long-term monitoring networks.

Persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic pollutants in migratory waterbirds from Bohai Bay, China: Implications on distinct pollutant sources

Xingpei Cao , Yang Wu , Furong Bai , Xiaobo Zheng , Weipan Lei , Zhengwang Zhang , Bi-Xian Mai

Abstract: Bohai Bay is an important stopover on the East Asian-Australasian flyway (EAAF) for migratory birds. In the present study, eggs of three migratory waterbird species, Little Terns (Sterna albifrons), Pied Avocets (Recurvirostra avosetta), and Black-winged Stilts (Himantopus himantopus), and local aquatic organisms from Bohai Bay (Nanpu and Dongying wetlands) were collected to determine stable isotope (13C, 15N, D) signature and concentrations of mercury (Hg), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDTs), and short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs). Organisms from Nanpu had significantly higher δD values than Dongying, which was related to local salinity. The pollution profiles showed species-specific difference in the same site, but no spatial difference for the same bird species from two wetlands. Positive correlations were observed between δ15N values and concentrations of Hg and PCBs, but not DDTs and SCCPs, because of the complex pollution sources in migration routes. The pollution exposure in the annual life cycle for Pied Avocets based on migration route information suggests that Hg and PCBs in eggs mainly originate from the breeding site (Bohai Bay), while DDTs are mainly from the wintering sites (the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River). Pollutants could pose considerable negative effect on eggshell thickness. The present study promotes the importance of pollutant exposure and risk assessment in the entire migration cycle for migratory birds.

Three subspecies of Black-tailed Godwit share non-breeding sites in the world’s largest river delta

Delip K. Das , Wouter M.G. Vansteelant , Bingrun Zhu , Shariful Islam , Naim Khandakar , Marco van der Velde , Chris J. Hassell , Jesse R. Conklin , Pierrick Bocher , Jos C.E.W. Hooijmeijer , Yvonne I. Verkuil , Theunis Piersma

Abstract: During the non-breeding season (September–April), Black-tailed Godwits (Limosa limosa) are commonly seen in coastal and inland wetlands of the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna Delta in Bangladesh. We hypothesize that the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna Delta, at the overlap between the Central Asian and East Asian–Australasian flyways, may host three subspecies that breed in disjunct areas of temperate and northern Asia: L. l. limosa, L. l. melanuroides, and L. l. bohaii. We used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplotype network and biometric analysis to determine subspecies in captured individuals, and deployed GPS–GSM transmitters to verify breeding areas of individuals with subspecies assignments. To test for differential habitat preferences, we sampled birds at two ecologically distinct habitats known to host the largest concentrations of non-breeding Black-tailed Godwits in Bangladesh: Nijhum Dweep National Park, a tidal coastal habitat with brackish water on the south-central coast, and Tanguar Haor (‘backmarsh’), a seasonal freshwater floodplain in the north. During the non-breeding seasons of 2021–2022 and 2022–2023, we sampled and measured 93 Black-tailed Godwits, 54 of which were equipped with GPS–GSM transmitters. Our mtDNA haplotype network analysis confirmed the presence of limosa, melanuroides, and bohaii subspecies at the study sites. Thus, indeed, Black-tailed Godwits subspecies, despite having distinct breeding ranges, exhibit (partially) overlapping non-breeding ranges in Asia. The subspecies composition differed significantly between sites, with limosa and bohaii dominating in Tanguar Haor and melanuroides in Nijhum Dweep. Of the 21 individuals that were tracked to their breeding grounds, 18 migrated to the expected breeding range of their respective subspecies. However, one bird with a limosa haplotype migrated to a known breeding area of bohaii, whereas two birds with melanuroides haplotypes migrated to the supposed breeding range of limosa. Therefore, while ecological factors at both ends of the flyways may shape the morphological and behavioural differences between Black-tailed Godwit subspecies, their delineations and possible gene flow require further studies.

Impact of duck predation on the population of Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) in tidal flat

Rikuto Honda , Takehisa Yamakita , Tatsuya Ozaki , Nana Yamashita , Tomohiro Komorita

Abstract: Ducks such as mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), have been the target of predation control, including extermination efforts, on land and in coastal regions, because they fly in colonies and prey on a wide variety of agricultural crops and marine products, including Manila clams (Ruditapes philippinarum). To date, stomach content analysis and behavioral observations have primarily been used to assess duck predation on clams. Although ducks appear to respond to water depth, their response to short-term changes in water depth (i.e., tidal height) has not been assessed in tidal flats. Therefore, a quantitative evaluation of the effects of duck predation on clams is needed to clarify the behavior of ducks on tidal flats and to conserve ducks and clams. In this study, the influence of duck predation on the clam population was investigated using anti-predation experiments on the Midorikawa River tidal flat in Ariake Bay, Kyushu, Japan. Furthermore, the relationships among water depth, duck activity, and duck flock density were investigated using a trail camera and a drone. In the anti-predation experiment during the study period, no significant difference in clam density was found between the experimental and control clam density. This study showed that duck predation may have a small impact on the Manila clam population in the tidal flats of the Midorikawa River.

The Changes in the Breeding Behaviour of the Microcarbo Pygmaeus, Nycticorax Nycticorax, Ardeola Ralloides Bubulcus Ibis, Egretta Garzetta Species on the South-Western Coast of the Caspian Sea

AN Taghiyev, NA Karimova, SV Badalova

Abstract: IN 2008-2023, the changes in breeding behavior of the migratory -nesting bird populations of I Microcarbo pygmaeus, Nycticorax nycticorax, Ardeola ralloides, Bubulcus ibis, Egretta garzetta on biotopes were studied on the South -Western coast of the Caspian Sea. Hundreds of thousands of bird populations from Africa and South -East Asian countries migrate to the Azerbaijani sector of the South -Western part of the Caspian Sea every year. Among the above -mentioned bird species only Bubulcus ibis has a migratory -nesting population in the Gizilaghaj Bay of the Caspian Sea. The rest of the species have migratory -nesting and sedentary populations. The number of migratorynesting populations in the study area is a hundred times more than that of sedentary populations. During this period, intra-species and inter -species competition intensifies in the struggle for nesting, feeding, roosting, resting, shelter and other living conditions between migratory -nesting and sedentary bird populations. The water level reduction and the related destruction of reeds and tamarisks, intraspecies and inter -species competition lead to changes in the breeding behaviour of migratory -breeding bird populations. As a result, the continuous, sustainable reproduction of these species becomes difficult, and the adoption of new nesting places by the species makes conservation problems more urgent.

Elemental accumulation in loons wintering along the Korean coast: Focus on vanadium and other toxic heavy metals

Sub Hur , Dae-Woo Kim , Jong-Gil Park , Hae Rim Lee , Young-Jun Kim , Bae-Keun Lee , Dong-Ha Nam

Abstract: Three of the five global loon species commonly winter along the Korean coast, where they have increasingly been found dead or moribund. This study investigated hepatic elemental concentrations in 86 Arctic Loon (Gavia arctica), Pacific Loon (G. pacifica), and Red-throated Loon (G. stellata) carcasses collected from Korean coastal areas between 2010 and 2017 to assess the potential ecological impacts of elemental exposure. We analyzed 11 elements, focusing on toxic heavy metals and vanadium (V), which is a potential biomarker for hydrocarbon contamination. Hepatic concentrations of 10 elements showed no significant differences among causes of death, species, or geographic locations. Uranium was not detected in any samples. Notably, V accumulation patterns aligned with previous findings on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in these birds, and weak, but significant correlation was observed between ∑16PAHs and V. This suggests that V from marine oil pollution may contribute to its accumulation in loons. The study found elevated levels of mercury and cadmium in all three loon species, but lead levels were not concerning. Temporal trend analysis over eight years showed no clear patterns in any examined element. Given the extensive breeding and migration routes of loons across Northeast Asia, North America, and Russia, this research underscores the importance of continuous ecotoxicological studies to address potential risks of environmental contamination for these migratory birds. Our findings contribute to understanding elemental exposure in wintering loons along the Korean coast and highlight the need for continued monitoring and international collaboration in migratory bird conservation efforts.

The influence of tidal action and reclamation activities on the home range selection of shorebirds

Cheng Wang , Hanwei Wang , ZhiHeng Shen , Guanqing Gong , Yong Zhou , Yu Xia , Wenxu Shen , Bin Wang

Abstract: The Tiaozini area is an important transit point for shorebirds on the East Asian – Australasian Flyway. The area has a long history of reclamation and development due to its unique marine landform and rich mudflat resources. However, the mechanisms of tidal and reclamation influences on shorebirds remain unclear. Therefore, this study used GPS data of four shorebirds in the Tiaozini area from 2018 to 2020, using the Dynamic Brownian Bridge Motion model to identify core home ranges. We applied the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) and the Canny edge detection algorithm on 11 phases of Landsat-8 OLI and 17 phases of Sentinel-2 MSI remote sensing images to detect waterlines, simulating instantaneous waterlines based on multi-temporal data. Moran’s index was used to assess the impact of reclamation on shorebird home range selection. Results showed: (1) Home range selection of shorebirds varied interannually and seasonally, with total home range decreasing from 200.75 km2 to 193.67 km2 (2) Waterline fluctuations remained stable from 2018 to 2020, with intertidal zones decreasing from 55.46 % in 2018 to 38.66 % in 2020, and utilization rates of 18.92 % in spring and 45.80 % in autumn; (3) The bivariate Moran’s index between the intensity of reclamation and the probability of home range selection for each period was negative. The higher probability of shorebirds distribution was found in the eastern constructed wetlands, the central and eastern shallow water and reed marsh habitats. The areas with lower distribution probabilities concentrated in the industrial areas and urban residential areas in the southern part of the study area. This study provided a new perspective for exploring the mechanism of natural and human factors influencing home range selection at key nodes of important waterbird groups in migration routes and a reference for the conservation and restoration of waterbird habitats in World Heritage sites.

Study on habitat suitability and ecological network of rare cranes in Poyang Lake National Nature Reserve

Haifeng Xu , Bin Dong , Zhili Xu , Jinji Ma , Fei Shen

Abstract: The Poyang Lake National Nature Reserve (PLNNR) is the most important reserve for wintering migratory birds in the Poyang Lake basin. The analysis of the spatial distribution of rare crane habitats and their response mechanisms to environmental variables is crucial for the conservation and restoration of both species and habitats. This study focuses on the rare crane species in the PLNNR, including Siberian Cranes (Grus leucogeranus), Hooded Cranes (Grus monacha), White-naped Cranes (Grus vipio) and Common Cranes (Grus grus). Based on occurrence data and environmental variables, the Maximum Entropy (Maxent) model was used to analyze the habitat suitability of the four crane species and to discuss their response mechanisms to key environmental variables. In addition, an ecological network was constructed for the four crane species using circuit theory and the Minimum Cumulative Resistance (MCR) model. The research results indicated that the highly suitable habitats for the four crane species were distributed along the edges of lake wetlands, with an area ranging from 63.97 to 128.21 km2, accounting for 15.31 to 30.69 %. The unsuitable areas were located in Wucheng town and along the waterways, with each area exceeding 25 %. Land use types, including reed beach, mudflat, waters, and cultivated land, were the main factors influencing crane habitat, with a contribution rate ranging from 15.9 to 36.3 %. In addition, the significant environmental variables varied among crane species. For the Siberian Crane, key factors included distance from grassland, aspect of slope, and distance from water. The Hooded Crane was primarily influenced by distance from water. The White-naped Crane was significantly affected by distance from grassland, cultivated land, and waterways. For the Common Crane, distance from water and construction land were the main influencing factors. Ecological networks were constructed for the four crane species and the PLNNR. The ecological network of the PLNNR consisted of 9 ecological sources, 13 ecological corridors, and 27 ecological nodes. Overall, the construction of the ecological network in the PLNNR was superior to that of individual crane species.

Migration and population characteristics of white-naped cranes wintering on the Korean Peninsula

Hyung-Kyu Nam, Hwa-Jung Kim, Batmunkh Davaasuren, Tseveenmyadag Natsagdorj, Nyambayar Batbayar, Jugdernamjil Nergui, Jin-Young Park, OtgonbayarTsend, Wee-Heang Hur, Dong-Won Kim* & Yu-Seong Choi

Abstract: The white-naped crane (Antigone vipio), distributed across East Asia, is classified into two distinct populations: eastern and western. The eastern population breeds in the Amur region of China and Russia and winters in Korea, whereas the western population breeds in northeastern Mongolia and winters at Poyang Lake in China. The aim of this study was to examine the population characteristics of white-naped cranes wintering in Korea and clarify the migratory behavior of the western population, which has been poorly understood. Population trends were assessed using data from the Winter Waterbird Census of Korea. In 2022 and 2023, the migratory routes were tracked using GPS transmitters attached to 12 cranes captured in eastern Mongolia. The analysis revealed a remarkable 2313.7% increase in the number of cranes wintering in Korea between 2000 and 2024 and demonstrated an expansion in their wintering range. The findings also confirmed that some individuals from the western population migrate to Poyang Lake and Korea. Systematic habitat management and improved wintering conditions on the Korean Peninsula could have been crucial factors in this increase. This study highlights the Korean Peninsula as a key wintering site for white-naped cranes in East Asia, providing valuable insights for future conservation strategies.

The conservation of migratory shorebirds needs to account for the different habitat selection patterns across species and between day and night

Shen Zhang , Xiaotong Ren , Ziyin Xiong , Tao He , Kar-Sin Katherine Leung , Wenjie Xue , Li Tian , Lifeng Zhuang , Yi-Chien Lai , Chia-Hsiang Lin , Chi-Yeung Choi

Abstract: Migratory shorebirds are experiencing rapid population decline. Monitoring programs along shorebird flyways provide information on their population dynamics and habitat requirements at different life stages, which is important for conservation plans. Such surveys often occur at several high-tide roosts during daytime high tide, when birds are more concentrated and easier to count. However, it remains unclear whether these surveys can cover the entire shorebird community within a site and represent shorebirds’ preferences during both day and night. Here, we tested two community-level hypotheses: 1) surveys at high-tide roosts can adequately represent the community within a site; and 2) daytime surveys can adequately represent birds’ preferences over the whole day, by combining GPS tracking data of four species – nine common redshanks (Tringa totanus), three grey plovers (Pluvialis squatarola), two greater sand plovers (Charadrius leschenaultii) and two red knots (Calidris canutus) – with community-level shorebird survey data in aquaculture ponds and nearby tidal flats on their overwintering grounds in southern China. Our results showed that in an area with extensive artificial roosting habitats, shorebirds using the same feeding area on the tidal flat may choose different roosts, even when alternative roosts are available nearby. Individuals within the three tracked species exhibited marked differences in roost selection between daytime and night, and the factors influencing roost selection varied both among species and between day and night. Therefore, daytime high-tide surveys alone are insufficient to assess habitat use and preferences at the species level. Management of shorebird roosting habitats should not assume uniform preferences across species.

2) 보전 & 관리

Habitat networks simulation and sustainable optimization policies for sectional functional impairments based on “land – Species” coupling

Zihan Zhang , Cheng Wang , Yonglian Qian , Qiuyue Zhang , Chaoran Song , Qingyu Li , Yutong Wu , Bin Dong

Abstract: The middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River is an important stopover along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. But this region is also a rapidly developing area in terms of economic level. The construction and simulation of the endangered species habitat network will be beneficial for future regional species habitat conservation and human activity management. The conservation and management also contribute to advancing the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the conservation of biodiversity hotspots. Therefore, based on crane habitats and environmental data in 2000∼2020, the study used circuit theory and PLUS model to construct (2000–2020) crane habitat networks and simulate (2030) land use data. Then, the study predicted the habitat networks in 2030. The results indicated that: (1) The sources from 2000 to 2020 were mainly distributed in Caizi Lake, Shengjin Lake, and Longgan Lake. From 2000 to 2020, the area of sources reduced from 103.48 km2 to 52.61 km2 which decreased by 49.16%. The number of corridors decreased by 48.15%. The total length of corridors decreased by 47.69%. The integrity of the habitat networks was weakened. (2) In 2030, the area of shoal increased by 0.77% in nature conservation scenario. In inertial development and urban expansion scenarios, construction land increased by 6.50% and 23.80%, respectively, mainly located in the northern area of Caizi Lake. (3) In nature conservation scenario, the number of sources increased from 7 to 10 relative to inertial development and urban expansion scenarios, and the number of corridors increased by 28.57% relative to 2020. The network closure index (α) in nature conservation scenario was 0.60 which was better than inertial development (0.56) and urban expansion (0.44) scenarios. Therefore, this study proposed sustainable optimization policies for sectional functional impairments of crane habitat networks based on the nature conservation scenario in 2030. It will provide an important reference for crane habitat conservation and wetlands structural restoration in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River.

Effects of high water levels on waterbird diversity at Wuchang Lake, a gate-controlled lake in the middle and lower Yangtze River floodplain, China

Xianglin Ji , Dingyong Zhang , Lizhi Zhou

Abstract: The natural hydrological rhythms of lakes play a crucial role in the aggregation of waterbirds. However, artificial controls of gate-controlled lakes alter water level fluctuations in the natural lakes and affect the diversity of waterbird communities. Wuchang Lake, a gated-controlled lake in the middle and lower Yangtze River floodplain, is an important wintering site for waterbirds on the East Asian–Australasian Flyway. Lake water level control during the wintering period in 2021–2022 was different than that in 2022–2023. We collected waterbird data from two wintering periods, based on functional alpha and beta diversity and waterbird functional groups, we analyzed the impact of water level regulation on wintering waterbird communities. By remote sensing data of foraging habitats we further analyzed the effects of changes in habitat structure to waterbird communities at different water levels. The results showed that during high lake water level, the numbers of deep water swimmers feeding on fish (G3) and swimmers feeding on seeds (G7) increased significantly, the number of large wading birds feeding on fish (G2) decreased significantly. And high lake water level decreased functional richness indices (FRic), functional evenness indices (FEve) and functional divergence indices (FDiv). Among them, in January and February 2023, the functional divergence indices significantly decreased. Functional beta diversity analysis showed that the total dissimilarity among communities decreased significantly in 2022–2023, with the functional nestedness component increasing significantly in October and February and the functional turnover component decreasing significantly in October, December, and February. Generalised linear mixed models (GLMM) showed that high lake level expanded the water area and favored the habitat of swimming birds, while decreased mudflat area, limiting the habitat space for wading birds. In contrast, lake water level decreased to increase the mudflat area and promoted the differences among communities. This study analysis a coupling relationship among water levels, habitats, and waterbirds, the results show that appropriate lake level regulation is an effective method to protect waterbirds. It provides scientific information for the lake wetland management and waterbird conservation.

A case study from a critical stopover site in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway provides lessons for optimal high-tide roost management to support shorebird conservation☆(This article is part of a special issue entitled: ‘Adaptive Management’ published in Biological Conservation.)

Jia Guo , Waner Liang , Yan Zhou , Yifei Jia , Hongyan Yang , Lili Sun , Qing Chen , Ting Fu , Sicheng Ren , Wenkui Jiang , Guangchun Lei , Li Wen

Abstract: Land reclamation has significantly reduced tidal flats globally, leading to a sharp decline in shorebird populations and highlighting the urgent need for habitat restoration. Following reclamation, tidal flats are predominantly submerged during high tides, forcing shorebirds to seek roosts. To evaluate the effectiveness of various restoration and management methods on high-tide roosts, we studied shorebird utilization in Southern Jiangsu, China, a crucial staging site along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. We conducted bird surveys during the autumn migration at six high-tide roosts: aquaculture pond using environmentally-friendly farming (EFF) (Site 1), restored and reserved roost (Site 2), unused reclaimed land (Site 3), unrestored flat (Site 4), restored flat (Site 5), and reclaimed farmland (Site 6). We used Bayesian generalized additive mixed effect models (GAMM) to analyze the effects of tide height and proportion of bare ground on shorebird density at the roost sites, and Permutational Multivariate Analysis of Variance (PERMANOVA) and nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) to compare community composition between roosts. Results showed that Sites 2 and 3 emerged as the most preferred roosting habitats. The model showed that shorebird density peaks when the proportion of bare ground is at 39 % in a roost. Our results showed that different management practices support different shorebird assemblages and highly variable abundance, with the relative proportion of bare ground, water and vegetation as critical factors in the extent to which shorebirds utilize high-tide roots. Continuous management is essential for the long-term success of restoration efforts, contributing to the understanding of sustainable practices in habitat restoration.

Short-term flooding in non-rice croplands provides stopover habitats for migrating waterbirds

Takehiko Shimizu , Masayuki Senzaki , Shunsuke Hori , Kota Sueda , Shintaro Ichihara , Ryugo Ishida , Jou Yoshigai

Abstract: Substantial areas of inland wetlands have been transformed into croplands globally. Although seasonal flooding in rice fields is well known to provide alternative habitats for species dependent on wetlands and aquatic environments, it remains unclear whether temporal flooding in other non-rice croplands, such as wheat fields, can serve a similar function. By focusing on the latest farming policy of short-term flooding on non-rice croplands in Japan, we investigated the diversity of a whole avian community and the major functional groups including waterbirds and globally declining migratory shorebirds in flooded croplands and conventional dry croplands from flooding to after-dried-out periods. We showed that species richness and abundance of waterbirds and shorebirds were significantly higher in the flooded croplands than in conventional dry croplands and dried-out croplands after flooding. The density of shorebirds in flooded non-rice fields was equivalent to that in the flooded rice fields in other regions. In contrast, terrestrial bird abundance and species richness were not significantly different between the land use types in both periods. Moreover, shorebird abundance and species richness decreased with the progressing season, which indicates their stopover habitat utilization might be highest at the peak of the migration. These results emphasize that short-term flooding even in non-rice fields is effective for serving artificial habitats to migrating waterbirds, potentially contributing to expanding waterbird conservation to broader regions and periods in which rice has not been growing.

Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary, Perak, Malaysia: Status, challenges and future for migratory shorebirds population in the East-Asian Australian Flyway

Faid Rahman , Ahmad Ismail , Saiful Arif Abdullah , Aldrie Amir , Nuriah Abd Majid

Abstract: Birds are an excellent bio-indicator of biodiversity changes. Migratory shorebirds in particular cover a large distances traversing different types of habitats, from the tundra region in the most northern part of the world, to tropical and temperate areas in the southern most area. Kuala Gula, a sanctuary for more than 200 bird species is part of an Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) along the East-Asian Australian Flyway. Despite its importance, the area including its coastline is continuously pressured by anthropogenic activity. As such, there is a need to critically review Kuala Gula’s environmental status to highlight its potential, along with understanding the issues and threats particularly to the migratory shorebirds population in the long run. This is important not just to maintain Kuala Gula’s relevance as part of the important IBA in the Southeast Asia, but also to ascertain its qualification to meet its recognition’s goal. Throughout this review, we found that there are several issues that need to be addressed urgently, particularly ones related to pollution activity. Furthermore, the studies done so far are not coordinated well enough and lack continuity. As such, certain important information is still lacking making the protection and conservation of the area a big challenge. It is concluded that, the stability and sustainability of Kuala Gula’s habitats and its coastline is at stake, and there is a hope that this review will help related stakeholders to understand the current issues, and work together effectively to conserve the area.

Coupled Hydrodynamic and Habitat Suitability Models for Reach-Scale Restoration of Wintering Waterbird Habitats in Rivers: A Case Study on Scaly-Sided Merganser

Wenyi Tang, Jun Zhai

Abstract: Rivers are pivotal ecosystems for migratory waterbirds, with the habitat preferences of piscivorous species heavily influenced by hydrodynamic factors such as water depth and flow velocity. These variables directly impact food availability and the foraging behaviours of waterbirds. While the integration of hydrodynamic and habitat suitability models has been effective in assessing river conditions and guiding restoration efforts, research specific to instream-dependent piscivorous waterbirds at the reach scale is scarce. This research concentrates on the scaly-sided merganser (Mergus squamatus), an endangered species on the IUCN Red List, identifying crucial habitat factors—water depth, flow velocity and human disturbance distance—based on their significance in shaping wintering habitat choices for this bird. Through a coupled hydrodynamic habitat suitability model deployed in a segment of the Xitiaoxi River in southeastern China, the study seeks to create a tailored model for the scaly-sided merganser, assess distribution and landscape features of suitable instream habitats and suggest restoration and management tactics. Results show that despite the dry season revealing suitable areas for water depth (31.1%), flow velocity (16.8%) and human disturbance (80.5%) respectively, the combined suitable habitat only occupies 5.1%, predominantly in shallow regions like riffles and sandbanks. The study proposes strategies to enhance habitat suitability for the scaly-sided merganser, presenting a pragmatic approach for reach-scale river restoration, management and proactive conservation efforts beneficial for waterbirds. The findings are relevant not only for southern rivers in China but also for rivers in other countries that support migratory waterbirds and similar piscivorous waterbird habitats.

Spatially Diverse Water Levels Enhance Habitat Heterogeneity for Wintering Waterbirds

Zijian Wang, Jiaying Zhou, Ying He, Yangsirui Zhang, Peizhong Liu, Yifei Jia, Cai Lu, Guangchun Lei

Abstract: 1. Rising global temperatures and the increasing frequency of climate extremes pose significant challenges to waterbird conservation. These effects might be mitigated by managing habitat heterogeneity through diverse water levels in waterbird habitats. East Dongting Lake (EDL), a critical wintering site within the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, has experienced a significant drop in winter water levels due to extreme drought and operation of the Three Gorges Dam. This study aimed to determine optimal water levels for supporting waterbird populations under these changing conditions.

2. We examined winter waterbird populations at EDL from 2004 to 2021. Species were categorised into five foraging guilds based on established criteria. Environmental variables comprised daily water levels from the Chenglingji hydrological station, meteorological data from ERA5-Land, and the 6-month Standardised Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) for drought severity assessment. We used a generalised additive model (GAM) with a negative binomial distribution to analyse the relationships between waterbird abundance and these factors, applying GAIC-based stepwise selection and varying-coefficient functions to account for guild-specific responses.
3. In controlled areas of EDL, higher maximum water levels (MaxWL) during the wet season were positively correlated with waterbird abundance, while controlled areas also maintained high waterbird numbers during extreme drought years, providing crucial habitat refuges. In uncontrolled areas, MaxWL and SPEI positively influenced waterbird abundance, while minimum water levels (MinWL) and biological accumulated temperature (BioT) were negatively associated.
4. In lakes where water levels can be regulated, regulation can be used to maintain habitat heterogeneity and food availability for wintering waterbirds. By adjusting local water management strategies within lake ecosystems, wetland managers can use these findings to support waterbird conservation efforts.

Assessment of the Impact of Extreme Hydrological Conditions on Migratory Bird Habitats of the Largest Freshwater Lake Wetlands in China Based on Multi-Source Remote Sensing Fusion Approach

Qiu, Jingfeng; Li, Yu; Liu, Xinggen

Abstract: Poyang Lake, the largest freshwater lake of China, serves as a crucial wintering site for migratory birds in the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, where habitat quality is essential for maintaining diverse bird populations. Recently, the frequent alternation of extreme wet years, e.g., 2020, and dry years, e.g., 2022, have inflicted considerable perturbation on the local wetland ecology, severely impacting avian habitats. This study employed the spatiotemporal fusion method (ESTARFM) to obtain continuous imagery of Poyang Lake National Nature Reserve during the wintering seasons from 2020 to 2022. Habitat areas were identified based on wetland classification and water depth constraints. The results indicate that both extreme wet and dry conditions have exacerbated the fragmentation of migratory bird habitats. The shallow water habitats showed minor short-term fluctuations in response to water levels but were more significantly affected by long-term hydrological trends. These habitats exhibited considerable interannual variability across different hydrological years, affecting both their proportion within the overall habitat and their distribution within the study area. This study demonstrates the ability of ESTARFM to reveal the dynamic changes in migratory bird habitats and their responses to extreme hydrological conditions, highlighting the critical role of water depth in habitat analysis. The outcomes of this study improve the understanding of the impact of extreme water levels on migratory bird habitats, which may help expand knowledge about the protection of other floodplain wetlands around the world.

Study on Habitat Quality of Chongming Dongtan Based on InVEST Model in Shanghai, China

Jianshen Qu, Bin Dong, Xiao Liu & Zhili Xu

Abstract: Chongming Dongtan in Shanghai is one of the few remaining developing estuarine wetlands globally and serves as a crucial habitat along the Asia–Pacific migratory bird route. However, rapid economic and social development, coupled with direct and indirect human activities, has severely degraded the ecological environment of Chongming Dongtan. This study utilizes remote sensing images from 1996, 2002, 2008, 2014, and 2020 to construct a land use database for Chongming Dongtan. By integrating geographic information and data processing technologies, we analyze the land use changes in this region over time. Furthermore, we employ the InVEST model to investigate the changes in habitat quality over the past two decades. The results reveal that: (1) From 1996 to 2020, significant changes occurred in the land use types of Chongming Dongtan. Over 25 years, the areas of reed marshes, paddy fields, forest land, and construction land showed an overall increasing trend, while the area of Spartina alterniflora marshes decreased. Overall, in both 1996 and 2020, water bodies and Spartina alterniflora marshes were the largest and smallest land use types, respectively. (2) Analysis using the InVEST model indicates that the proportion of areas with poor habitat quality increased from 33.72% in 1996 to 41.62% in 2020, while the proportion of areas with excellent habitat quality decreased from 47.58% to 24.41% over the same period, demonstrating a general decline in habitat quality. (3) The drastic changes in land use and the increasing degree of landscape fragmentation in Chongming Dongtan have collectively led to changes in habitat quality. The study finds that regions experiencing significant ecological changes are closely linked to the expansion of construction land and Spartina alterniflora marshes. The increase in construction land has gradually deteriorated the internal habitat quality, while the external habitat quality has significantly changed with the growth and management of Spartina alterniflora marshes. This study can provide a reference for future decision-making in small-scale wetland ecological management.

Maintaining shallow waters to maximize the potential of saltpans as foraging habitat for migratory shorebirds along an endangered flyway

Weipan Lei , José A. Masero , Ziwen Chai , Bing-Run Zhu , Tong Mu , He-Bo Peng , Zhengwang Zhang , Theunis Piersma

Abstract: The global expansion of human activities has led to a dramatic reduction in natural wetlands. While effectively managed artificial wetlands hold the potential to counteract this decline, there is often a lack of knowledge regarding how to enhance their value for wildlife. To bridge this gap, we studied one of the world’s largest saltworks in the Yellow Sea, China. This region has experienced significant natural wetland losses, resulting in marked declines in waterbird populations across the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF). Our research examined the impact of biotic factors such as prey abundance, and abiotic factors including water depth and management practices of saltpans, on the distribution of foraging shorebirds, as well as other waterbirds. Findings reveal that shorebirds, accounting for 95% of all waterbirds, heavily utilize saltpan evaporation ponds. Although various factors affect the distribution of shorebirds and other waterbirds, water depth and abandoned ponds (with low water depth) emerged as the primary factors. Notably, prey biomass (and abundance) did not exhibit a significant correlation with bird distribution across all shorebirds and other waterbirds, indicating that prey accessibility is more crucial than biomass in determining habitat suitability in these saltpans. Based on these insights, we propose tailored management strategies for the Yellow Sea saltpans that enhance conditions for shorebirds without impeding salt production, including lowering water levels through modifications to pond structures and reducing the volume of water evaporated during each stage of production. These straightforward, bird-friendly strategies provide practical solutions for adapting artificial wetlands to support migratory waterbirds in the EAAF and offer valuable insights for global waterbird conservation.

The impact of Poyang Lake water level changes on the landscape pattern of wintering wading bird habitats

Feihong Yu , Jiancheng Zhai , Zhiqiang Huang , Jimei Chen , Fuqiang Han , Liaobo Wang

Abstract: Poyang Lake is one of the most typical seasonal inflow-outflow lakes in China. The cyclical rhythm of water level changes determines the dynamic variations in the wetland landscape pattern of Poyang Lake, directly impacting the habitat and survival of wintering migratory birds, particularly wading birds, which are most sensitive to these changes. This study employs an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) algorithm to interpret wetland landscapes using the Gao-Fen Satellite Images across 14 different water levels. Methods such as Pearson correlation and linear fitting are used to analyze the effects of water level changes on the habitat of wintering wading birds, aiming to explore scientifically based optimum water level. The ultimate goal is to provide a scientific basis for determining the optimum water level regulation scheme for the proposed Poyang Lake Hydraulic Project. The results indicate that the area and shape of Poyang Lake’s wetlands are highly plastic, with landscape heterogeneity decreasing and homogeneity increasing as water levels rise. The habitat area for wintering wading birds shows an inverted “V” shape variation with rising water levels, reaching a maximum of 1796.02 km² at a water level of 9.86 m, which accounts for about 48.40 % of the study area. The water level changes in Poyang Lake significantly impact the landscape pattern of the wading bird habitats (p < 0.01). When 6.83 ≤WL→WLx m, wading bird habitats become increasingly fragmented, with habitat patch type diversity, evenness, and connectivity gradually improving. When WLx→WL≤ 15.46 m, the degree of fragmentation moderates, but the diversity, evenness, and connectivity of habitat patches gradually decrease. At water levels between 8.15 and 13.56 m, the habitat structure for wintering wading birds is complex, with high diversity, large habitat area, and good landscape connectivity, providing favorable food acquisition resources and adequate space for wintering wading birds. Based on the need for wintering waterbird conservation, the proposed optimal optimum water level regulation threshold for the Poyang Lake Hydraulic Project is suggested to be between 8.15 and 13.56 m.

Impact of removing laver (Porphyra) farming racks on the distribution, diversity and foraging behavior of waterbirds in coastal wetlands in eastern China

Taiyu Chen , Wei Hu , Dawei Wu , Changhu Lu*

Abstract: Introduction The coastal wetlands in eastern China are important feeding and resting sites for migratory waterbirds. Intertidal aquaculture in this region has various effects on waterbird communities, yet research on the impact of coastal restoration on waterbird communities remains limited.Methods To explore the impacts of coastal restoration in the Lianyungang coastal wetland, an important staging area for migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF), we conducted comparative studies on changes in waterbird community structure, behavior composition, and intertidal food resources before and after the removal of laver racks during autumn months from 2020 to 2023.Results The results were as follows: (1) A total of 11544 birds belonging to 37 species were recorded in the study area, including 8 globally threatened or near-threatened species. (2) Following restoration, species richness, abundance, Shannon-Wiener diversity index, and Margalef richness index of waterbirds were significantly higher compared to pre-restoration levels. Notably, the numbers of ducks, plovers, and sandpipers increased significantly, while gull numbers decreased significantly, likely due to habitat structure loss. (3) The proportion of foraging behaviors of 4 common waterbird species increased significantly after restoration, while the percentage of resting behavior significantly decreased. (4) No significant differences in macrobenthos species richness, abundance, biomass or alpha-diversity indices were detected post-restoration, but the macrobenthos in laver racks area (lower tidal zone) were significantly more abundant than those in the non-racks area (middle tidal zone).Discussion The laver farming racks not only occupied intertidal zones with abundant food resources but also limited the ability of some waterbird species to fly and evade predators, while the removal of these racks could restore foraging habitat accessibility by removing physical barriers. Our study revealed the trends in changes in waterbird communities before and after the removal of laver racks, providing practical insight and references for coastal restoration.

Estimating setback distances for a threatened, cryptic, data-sparse migratory shorebird

Hansen, Birgita D

Abstract: Cryptic fauna species using highly modified habitats face many conservation challenges, with disturbance from human use being an ongoing issue across many global settings. Setbacks or buffers are a key planning tool for protecting habitat, and are often specified under law. However, for many species using modified and urban habitats there are no published data on how wide setbacks should be. Latham’s Snipe (Gallinago hardwickii) is a case in point. It is a threatened, cryptic, migratory shorebird that breeds in Japan and spends its non-breeding season almost entirely in Australian wetlands and grasslands. Many sites used by snipe are within urban areas, potentially triggering protections under national law and there is an urgent need for information on setbacks to inform planning and conservation management. The aim of this project was to derive transparent, scientifically-derived buffer recommendations for mitigating disturbance to Latham’s Snipe, by estimating Alert Distances (AD; the first sign of behavioural disruption associated with human proximity) from measures of flush distances (FIDs; the distance at which flight occurs). ADs are almost impossible to observe in this cryptic species which uses dense habitat. We used 1529 FIDs to estimate AD from: (1) a within-species regression of FID against the few available ADs for this species (n =  8), and (2) cross-species associations between AD and FID of Scolopacidae from analysis of an unpublished dataset. FIDs varied between site and observers, so we resampled using bootstrapping to account for this variation and produce estimates of AD. Based on these estimates, we recommend minimum buffer widths between 75 – 110 m, which would prevent 80 – 95% of vigilance responses by Latham’s Snipe, respectively. The methods we employ may be useful in determining appropriate buffer widths for other cryptic fauna species. These buffers should be monitored for effectiveness and adapted as required.

Ecological network degradation and conservation prioritization analysis of red-crowned crane habitats: a multi-model approach

Shu Zhang , Chao Sun , Jialin Li , Yongchao Liu , Xingru Shen , Chenwei Zhao

Abstract: The loss of coastal wetlands and the degradation of their ecological functions have posed a serious threat to the habitats of global migratory waterbirds, particularly the red-crowned cranes (Grus japonensis). Exploring dynamic changes in the habitat of this flagship species is essential for conserving waterbird diversity and improving wetland ecosystem functions. Therefore, using the Yancheng Biosphere Reserve (YBR)—the largest overwintering site for red-crowned cranes along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway—as a case study, we expanded beyond traditional habitat suitability assessments to include ecological networks, establishing a comprehensive evaluation framework. Specifically, we first enhanced the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) by incorporating a fuzzy analytic hierarchy process based on the habitat preferences of red-crowned cranes. Ecological corridors were then extracted using the Minimum Cumulative Resistance (MCR) model and their importance was prioritized through a combination of gravity models and landscape connectivity indices. Additionally, circuit theory was employed to identify critical stepping stones and delineate key regions for protection. Our results demonstrated that the current ecological network exhibits poor stability and connectivity, characterized by the fragmentation and loss of ecological sources, degradation and breakup of ecological corridors, and increasing risks to stepping stones. Specifically, during 1991–2022, the total area of ecological sources significantly decreased from 1161.98 km2 to 221.81 km2, and the ecological sources in the southern YBR entirely loss after 2013. Optional low-importance, weak-connectivity corridors largely disappeared, while a few single high-importance, strong-connectivity corridors gradually emerged in their place, as a result of largely decreasing of key ecological corridors from 43 to 15. The proportion of stepping stones associated with natural wetlands decreased from 55.47 % to 38.37 %, accompanied by a reduction in area of the northern YBR. Based on the above analysis, we proposed three categories of conservation areas, aiming to bolster wetland conservation efforts and enhance waterbird biodiversity.

Identifying non-breeding habitat conservation gaps of the critically threatened Spoon-billed Sandpiper (Calidris pygmaea) using species distribution model

Yifei Jia , Lili Sun , Jia Guo , Sicheng Ren , Hongyan Yang , Geng Huang , Li Wen , Neil Saintilan , Qing Chen , Yuyu Wang , Guangchun Lei

Abstract: The Spoon-billed Sandpiper (Calidris pygmaea) is one of the world’s most critically endangered migratory shorebirds, facing severe threats along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF). In recent years, many observations of this species were reported in new areas of southeast coasts in Asia, suggesting that there is large uncertainty in the current estimation of its nonbreeding habitats (i.e., staging and wintering grounds), presenting a knowledge gap for effective conservation. Using historical sightings collated from multiple sources, this study aimed to better understand the distribution of the shorebird’s suitable habitats by creating a random forest species distribution model utilizing landcover and topographic predictors. The predictions were then overlain with the current protection area network to identify gaps in conservation planning. Our results show that only 59 % of the suitable non-breeding habitats for Spoon-billed Sandpiper EAAF are located in the intertidal zone. Only 15 % of the predicted nonbreeding habitats are located within the current protection network. Moreover, we found that human disturbance pressure was high at both the protected and unprotected habitats. For suitable habitats outside protection areas, Thailand, Republic of Korea, and Bangladesh had highest human disturbance pressure. For suitable habitats within the current protection network, Democratic people’s Republic of Korea, Republic of Korea, and China had highest human disturbance pressure. Our results suggest that the staging sites along the Yellow Sea coasts and wintering grounds in the Thailand and Myanmar are the conservation priority areas, and management actions such as reducing human footprints in both protected and none-protected habitats, controlling the expansion of the invasive Spartina alterniflora, and maintaining tidal flats facing inundation by sea level rise are essential to sustain the population of this critically threatened shorebird.

3) 조류 인플루엔자 / 그 외

Novel H16N3 avian influenza viruses isolated from migratory gulls in China in 2023

Peng Peng , Jinyan Shen , Jinyan Shen , Wenjun Shi , Jing Guo , Mengjing Wang , Wenxi Li , Zhiqin Yue , Xiaohong Sun , Mengdi Guan , Lili Liu , Hongke Xu , Yujiao Xie , Anran Ren , Mingfeng Liu , Wenqiang Liu , Zhibin Zhang , Zhishu Xiao* , Xuyong Li*

Abstract: As a rare subtype of avian influenza virus, H16 viruses are predominant in gulls but rarely found in domestic birds. The low prevalence of H16 viruses has limited our understanding of their epidemiology and evolutionary dynamics. In this study, we isolated three novel H16N3 viruses from migratory gulls in East Asian–Australasian Flyway in eastern China in 2023, which are significantly different from previously identified isolates. To fully understand the epidemiology and genetics characteristics of the global H16 viruses, we compared the host divergence of several rare subtypes and determined that the H13 and H16 subtypes were predominantly pooled into different species of gulls by sharing their internal genes, whereas the waterfowl of Anatidae served as the primary natural reservoirs of the H8, H11, H12, H14, and H15 subtypes. Detailed phylogenetic analysis revealed the evolutionary divergence of globally circulating H16 viruses and their frequent gene reassortment. Furthermore, the gull origin H13 and H16 viruses collectively served as gene donors for the newly emerged highly pathogenic clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses because the H13/H16-like PA, NP, and NS genes have been introduced into circulating H5N1 viruses since May 2022 in Europe. To date, the H5N1 reassortants containing the H13/H16-like gene segments have been detected in wild and domestic birds and resulted in mammal and human infections. These results improve our knowledge of the ecology and genetics of H16 viruses and emphasize the need for surveillance to monitor the emergence of novel avian influenza viruses in migratory birds.

Gene flow and its sporadic spillover: H10 and N5 avian influenza viruses from wild birds and the H10N5 human cases in China

Weijie Chen , Shuiping Lu , Haiyan Xiong , Zhiyu Xiang , Yuxi Wang , Jingjing Hu , Yue Pan , Yanjiao Li , Qile Gao , Qi Chen , Siru Hu , Weibing Wang , Chenglong Xiong

Abstract: On January 30, 2024, China announced the first human case of H10N5 influenza infection. Prior to this, human cases of H10N7 and H10N8 had been reported. It is now appropriate to re-examine the evolution and future epidemiological trends of the H10 and N5 subtypes of avian influenza viruses (AIVs). In this study, we analyzed the reassortment characteristics of the first human-derived H10N5 AIV (A/Zhejiang/ZJU01/2023), as well as the evolutionary dynamics of the wild bird-derived H10 and N5 subtypes of AIVs over the past decade. Our findings indicate that the human-derived H10N5 AIV exhibited low pathogenicity. A/bean_goose/Korea/KNU-10/2022(H10N7) and A/mallard/Novosibirsk_region/962k/2018(H12N5) were identified as the potential reassortment parents. The virus has existed since 2022 and several isolations have been reported in Bangladesh. Phylogenetic analysis showed that H10Ny and HxN5 AIVs in China are clustered differently based on the East Asian-Australian (eastern) and Central Asian-Indian (western) migratory flyways. The H10Ny and HxN5 AIV reassortant strains may cause human infections through accidental spillover. It is possible that another center of AIV evolution, mutation, and reassortment may be developing along the migratory flyways in northeastern Asia, distinct from Europe, the Americas, and China’s Yangtze River Delta and Pearl River Delta, which should be closely monitored to ensure the safety of the public.

Perpetuation of Avian Influenza from Molt to Fall Migration in Wild Swan Geese (Anser cygnoides): An Agent-Based Modeling Approach

Takekawa, John Y; Chang-Yong, Choi; Prosser, Diann J; Sullivan, Jeffery D; Batbayar, Nyambayar; Xiao, Xiangming

Abstract: Wild waterfowl are considered to be the reservoir of avian influenza, but their distinct annual life cycle stages and their contribution to disease dynamics are not well understood. Studies of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus have primarily focused on wintering grounds, where human and poultry densities are high year-round, compared with breeding grounds, where migratory waterfowl are more isolated. Few if any studies of avian influenza have focused on the molting stage where wild waterfowl congregate in a few selected wetlands and undergo the simultaneous molt of wing and tail feathers during a vulnerable flightless period. The molting stage may be one of the most important periods for the perpetuation of the disease in waterfowl, since during this stage, immunologically naïve young birds and adults freely intermix prior to the fall migration. Our study incorporated empirical data from virological field samplings and markings of Swan Geese (Anser cygnoides) on their breeding grounds in Mongolia in an integrated agent-based model (ABM) that included susceptible–exposed–infectious–recovered (SEIR) states. Our ABM results provided unique insights and indicated that individual movements between different molting wetlands and the transmission rate were the key predictors of HPAI perpetuation. While wetland extent was not a significant predictor of HPAI perpetuation, it had a large effect on the number of infections and associated death toll. Our results indicate that conserving undisturbed habitats for wild waterfowl during the molting stage of the breeding season could reduce the risk of HPAI transmission.

Exploring Aeromonas veronii in Migratory Mute Swans (Cygnus olor): A Debut Report and Genetic Characterization

Zhifeng Peng , Chunyan Gao , Hongxing Qiao , Han Zhang , Huimin Huang , Yamin Sheng , Xiaojie Zhang , Baojun Li , Baoliang Chao , Jingjing Kang * and Chuanzhou Bian *

Abstract: Aeromonas veronii (A. veronii) is a ubiquitous bacterium in terrestrial and aquatic environments. It has a significant impact on animal and human health, with it becoming an emerging crucial pathogen worldwide. However, there have been no reports of mute swan infections. In the present study, after an observation of pathological changes, one bacterial strain isolated from a dead migratory mute swan was identified as A. veronii HNZZ-1/2022 based on its morphology, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), and sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA and gyrB genes. To explore its pathogenicity, virulence gene detection and a gosling infection experiment were subsequently carried out, respectively. Six virulence genes for cytotonic enterotoxins (alt), lateral elastase (ela), lipase (lip), cytotoxic enterotoxin (act), aerolysin (aerA), and polar flagellin (fla) were present in the template DNA of A. veronii HNZZ-1/2022. Experimentally infected goslings exhibited hemorrhages of various different degrees in multiple organs. The half-maximal lethal dose (LD50) value of A. veronii strain HNZZ1/2022 was estimated to be 3.48 × 108 colony forming units (CFUs) per mL for goslings. An antimicrobial susceptibility test showed that the A. veronii HNZZ-1/2022 strain was resistant to meropenem, ampicillin, and enrofloxacin. To date, this is the first report of A. veronii in migratory mute swans, thus expanding the currently known host spectrum. These results suggest that the migratory mute swan is a new host for A. veronii and demonstrate the need for extensive surveillance and research of A. veronii to minimize its transmission between animals, the environment, and humans.

Long-term immune responses induced by low-dose infection with high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses can protect mallards from reinfection with a heterologous strain

Saki Sakuma , Junki Mine , Yuko Uchida , Asuka Kumagai , Yoshihiro Takadate , Ryota Tsunekuni , Hayate Nishiura , Kohtaro Miyazawa

Abstract: Migratory water birds are considered to be carriers of high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs). In Japan, mallards are often observed during winter, and HPAIV-infected mallards often shed viruses asymptomatically. In this study, we focused on mallards as potential carriers of HPAIVs and investigated whether individual wild mallards are repeatedly infected with HPAIVs and act as HPAIV carriers multiple times within a season. Mallards were experimentally infected with H5N1 and H5N8 HPAIVs that were isolated recently in Japan and phylogenetically belong to different hemagglutinin groups (G2a, G2b, and G2d). All of these strains are more infectious to mallards than to chickens, and the infected mallards shed enough virus to infect others, regardless of whether they exhibited clinical signs. Serum antibodies to the homologous antigen, induced by a single infection with a low virus dose (10 times the 50% mallard infectious dose), were maintained at detectable levels for 84 days. Immunity at 84 days post-inoculation fully protected the mallards from a challenge with the homologous strain, as demonstrated by a lack of viral shedding, and antibody levels did not increase significantly in most of these birds. Protection against heterologous challenge was also observed despite undetectable levels of antibodies to the challenge strain. Our findings suggest that repeated infections with homologous and heterologous HPAIV strains do not occur frequently in individual wild mallards within a season, particularly at low viral doses, and the frequency with which they act as carriers may be limited.

Research Note: Novel reassortant avian influenza A(H9N2) Viruses in Wild Birds in Shanghai, China, 2020-2023

Jie Hu , Yuting Xu , Min Ma , Chenyao Zhao , Yue Yuan , Guimei He

Abstract: The H9N2 subtype of avian influenza virus poses significant challenges to global poultry and human health. During the active surveillance of avian influenza virus in wild birds in Shanghai from 2020 to 2023, a total of nine H9N2 viruses were identified. To better understand the genetic characteristics of these H9N2 viruses in Shanghai, the whole genome sequences were analyzed. Phylogenetical analysis showed that the nine H9N2 viruses have undergone complicated reassortment with waterfowl viruses along the East Asian-Australasian flyways. The nine H9N2 viruses were classified into seven genotypes, and some of them could contribute internal genes to recently circulating HPAI A(H5N8) and A(H5N1) viruses of clade 2.3.4.4b. These results highlight the importance of active surveillance of AIVs in wild birds to comprehend viral ecology and evaluate potential transmission risk in poultry and humans.

An Unusual ‘Gift’ from Humans: Third-Generation Cephalosporin-Resistant Enterobacterales in migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway

Zile Cheng , Yiwen Chen , Min Li , Chao Lv , Nan Zhou , Weiye Chen , JieWen Huang , QingTian Li , Zijing Gao , Xuesong Feng , Li Shi , YuFeng Yao , Xiaokui Guo , Yongzhang Zhu

Abstract: Migratory birds play a pivotal role in the global dissemination of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), with shorebirds relying on coastal wetlands during their long-distance migrations, environments often contaminated and conducive to ARG transmission. However, systematic investigations into antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in shorebirds remain scarce. During spring and autumn of 2023, we collected 893 throat and cloacal swabs from 480 shorebirds, representing 28 species, at Chongming Dongtan, a critical stopover along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Our analysis identified six strains, including four extra-intestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) and two K. pneumoniae, that exhibited resistance to third-generation cephalosporins, with three ExPEC strains exhibiting significant virulence in Galleria mellonella infection assays. We identified two conjugative plasmids: E042113F_p1, carrying the blaCMY-2 gene in E. coli, and M50_p2, carrying the blaKPC-2 gene in a hypervirulent K. pneumoniae with a virulence plasmid harboring the aerobactin system. Bioinformatic and experimental analyses confirmed that these plasmids could transfer without any fitness cost, remaining stable for at least 30 passages. Surprisingly, genomic tracing revealed that among the plasmids similar to E042113F_p1 (blaCMY-2), the earliest was identified in a Chinese swallow in 2015, with subsequent detections in wild birds from Mongolia (2017), Russia (2018), and Australia (2019). Notably, these E04-CMY-like/M50-KPC-like plasmids predominantly originated from human sources, underscoring the pivotal role of human activity in the cross-species transmission of AMR. This human-mediated transmission of resistance elements into wildlife posed a substantial risk for amplifying and disseminating AMR through long-range migratory bird movements, highlighting the urgent need for international collaboration under a One Health framework. Integrated surveillance, environmental management, and stringent antibiotic stewardship are critical to mitigating the risks posed by migratory birds in amplifying and spreading AMR across ecosystems.

The global distribution and diversity of wild-bird-associated pathogens: An integrated data analysis and modeling study

Yunbo Qiu , Chenlong Lv , Jinjin Chen , Yanqun Sun , Tian Tang , Yuanyuan Zhang , Yufeng Yang , Guolin Wang , Qiang Xu , Xiaoai Zhang , Feng Hong , Simon I. Hay , Liqun Fang , Wei Liu

Abstract: Background: Wild birds are significant vectors in global pathogen transmission, but the diversity and spatial distribution of the pathogens detected in them remain unclear. Understanding the transmission dynamics and hotspots of wild-bird-associated pathogens (WBAPs) is crucial for early disease prevention. Methods: We compiled an up-to-date dataset encompassing all WBAPs by conducting an extensive search of publications from 1959 to 2022, mapped their diversity and global distribution, and utilized three machine learning algorithms to predict geospatial hotspots where zoonotic and emerging WBAPs were prevalent. Findings: Based on 1,834 selected studies, a total of 760 pathogens associated with 1,438 wild bird species were identified, including 387 emerging and 212 zoonotic pathogens. Migratory birds exhibited higher pathogen richness (593 species) but a lower proportion of zoonotic pathogens (27.2%) compared to resident birds (303 species and 39.3%, both p < 0.01). When comparing different ecological groups, waterfowl had the highest richness of zoonotic pathogens (128 species), followed by songbirds (76 species). The distribution of WBAPs was significantly influenced by the habitat suitability index of wild birds, mammalian richness, and climatic factors. The potential geographical hotspots of zoonotic and emerging WBAPs were widely distributed in tropical areas of Asia, Africa, and South America, with zoonotic WBAPs having a wider distribution in South America. Conclusions: Our study illustrates that the geographical hotspots of WBAPs are more widespread than reported, especially in low-income areas, and that the identification, surveillance, and prevention of WBAP infections should be prioritized.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Outbreak in Endangered Cranes, Izumi Plain, Japan, 2022–23

Mana Esaki, Kosuke Okuya, Kaori Tokorozaki, Yuko Haraguchi, Taichi Hasegawa and Makoto Ozawa

Abstract: During the 2022–23 winter season, >1,500 endangered cranes, including hooded cranes (Grus monacha) and white-naped cranes (Grus vipio), were found debilitated or dead in the Izumi Plain, Japan. Most of the cranes, particularly those collected in November, were infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 viruses; virus shedding was higher from the trachea than from the cloaca. The isolation rate from the cranes’ roost water was not markedly higher than that of previous seasons, suggesting that the viruses might be more effectively transmitted among cranes via the respiratory route than through feces. Most wild bird–derived H5N1 isolates were phylogenetically distinct from viruses isolated on nearby chicken farms, indicating limited relationship between the wild bird and chicken isolates. Serologic analyses suggested that herd immunity had little effect on outbreak subsidence. This study deepens our understanding of the circumstances surrounding the unexpected HPAI outbreaks among these endangered cranes.

Reassortment of newly emergent clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1) highly pathogenic avian influenza A viruses in Bangladesh

Subrata Barman, Jasmine C. M. Turner, M. Kamrul Hasan, Sharmin Akhtar, Trushar Jeevan, John Franks, David Walker, Nabanita Mukherjee, Patrick Seiler, Lisa Kercher, Pamela McKenzie, Robert G. Webster, Mohammed M. Feeroz & Richard J. Webby

Abstract: Avian influenza active surveillance was conducted in Bangladesh from January 2022 to November 2023 in live-poultry markets (LPMs) and Tanguar Haor wetlands. The predominant viruses circulating in LPMs were low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) A(H9N2) and clade 2.3.2.1a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) viruses. Non-H9N2 LPAIs were found at Tanguar Haor and at a lower prevalence in LPMs. Starting from June 2023, we detected novel genotypes of clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1) viruses from ducks in LPMs. The HA, NA, and M genes of these viruses are related to those of 2020 European clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses such as A/Eurasian Wigeon/Netherlands/1/2020 (Netherlands/1). However, analyses of the other five gene segments’ sequences identified three distinct genotypes (BD-G2, BD-G3, and BD-G4). BD-G2 viruses were closely related to the clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses that have been detected in Japan and nearby regions since November 2022. BD-G3 viruses were reassortants, with gene segments from other Eurasian LPAI viruses. BD-G4 viruses were similar to BD-G2 viruses, but their NS gene was accrued from contemporary Bangladeshi clade 2.3.2.1a A(H5N1) viruses. The ability of any of the clade 2.3.4.4b viruses to displace the long-entrenched 2.3.2.1a A(H5N1) viruses in Bangladesh is unknown.

덩스옌(Deng Shiyan) 님께서 정리하셨습니다

1) 생물학 & 생태학

• CONKLIN J R, VERKUIL Y I, LEFEBVRE M J M, et al., 2024. High dispersal ability versus migratory traditions: Fine-scale population structure and post-glacial colonisation in bar-tailed godwits[J/OL]. Molecular Ecology, 33(15): e17452. DOI:10.1111/mec.17452.
• ROMAN L, MAYNE B, ANDERSON C, et al., 2024. A novel technique for estimating age and demography of long-lived seabirds (genus Pterodroma) using an epigenetic clock for Gould’s petrel (Pterodroma leucoptera)[J/OL]. Molecular Ecology Resources, 24(7): e14003. DOI:10.1111/1755-0998.14003.
• LIU B, GAO H, WANG J, et al., 2024. Migratory Connectivity of Zhejiang, with a Critical Stopover in East Asian-Australasian Flyway, Based on Recovery Data[J/OL]. Animals, 14(16): 2404. DOI:10.3390/ani14162404.
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• KIM J H, PARK S, HEPINSTALL-CYMERMAN J, et al., 2024. Predicting avian diversity based on land use and cover on a national scale[J/OL]. Scientific Data, 11(1): 874. DOI:10.1038/s41597-024-03714-1.
• CHAMBON J, BÖRGER L, WEIMERSKIRCH H, et al., 2024. Migratory movements, distribution, habitat preference, and activity patterns of the endangered Abbott’s booby Papasula abbotti[J/OL]. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 743: 75-96. DOI:10.3354/meps14660.
• XU F, WU W, WEI J, et al., 2024. Migratory herbivorous waterfowl track multiple resource waves during spring migration[J/OL]. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY B-BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES, 291(2030): 20241448. DOI:10.1098/rspb.2024.1448.
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• TAN Y Y, SOH B, NG E Y X, et al., 2025. Genome-wide DNA reveals decades-long genetic stability and intra-familial migratory site fidelity in an Asian population of Common Redshanks[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF ORNITHOLOGY, 166(2): 339-347. DOI:10.1007/s10336-024-02227-3.
• CANSSE T, LENS L, ORBEN R A, et al., 2024. Partial migration pays off in black-faced cormorants: insights from post-breeding GPS tracking[J/OL]. MARINE BIOLOGY, 171(11): 213. DOI:10.1007/s00227-024-04541-z.
• EFFENDI M ros, AZMAN N munira, AZIZAN M nasir, et al., 2024. Assessing Shorebirds Passage and Wintering on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia[J]. WATERBIRDS, 47(3): 1-10.
• MCGINNESS H M, JACKSON M V, LLOYD-JONES L, et al., 2024. Extensive Tracking of Nomadic Waterbird Movements Reveals an Inland Flyway[J/OL]. ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION, 14(12): e70668. DOI:10.1002/ece3.70668.
• LEE J hyun, CHOI W suk, BING G chang, et al., 2024. Annual Patterns of Shorebird Migration and Habitat Use at the Gochang Tidal Flat: Insights from 10 Selected Shorebird Species[J/OL]. WATERBIRDS, 47(3): 311. DOI:10.1675/063.047.0311.
• YU X, SONG G, WANG H, et al., 2024. Migratory flyways and connectivity of Brown Headed Gulls ( Chroicocephalus brunnicephalus) revealed by GPS tracking[J/OL]. GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION, 56: e03340. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e03340.
• LI X, HU B, QI S, et al., 2024. The Influence of Short-Term Water Level Fluctuations on the Habitat Response and Ecological Fragility of Siberian Cranes in Poyang Lake, China[J/OL]. REMOTE SENSING, 16(23): 4431. DOI:10.3390/rs16234431.
• LI D, LIU K, GAO Y, et al., 2024. Stopover habitat use of coastal Pied Avocet revealed by satellite tracking and remote sensing technology[J/OL]. GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION, 56: e03290. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e03290.
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• YANG X, WEN R, ZHANG C, et al., 2024. Exploring the driving factors of bird diversity in mangrove natural protected areas in Guangdong Province, China[J/OL]. FRONTIERS IN ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION, 12: 1421189. DOI:10.3389/fevo.2024.1421189.
• GAO X, LIANG J, ZHU Z, et al., 2025. Unraveling the impact of drought on waterbird community assembly and conservation strategies[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, 373: 123685. DOI:10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.123685.
• WILLIAMS L A, DUPRE S, STAT M, et al., 2025. Do invasive predators pose a predation risk to roosting shorebirds? Fecal DNA and camera trap analysis[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT, 89(2). DOI:10.1002/jwmg.22694.
• LIU W, YUAN S, SHEN G, et al., 2025. Behavioral and functional responses of different bird clades to offshore windfarms in yellow sea, China[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, 373: 123784. DOI:10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.123784.

2) 보전 & 관리

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• ZHU X, CHENG B, LI H, et al., 2024. Deteriorating wintertime habitat conditions for waterfowls in Caizi Lake, China: Drivers and adaptive measures[J/OL]. SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT, 953: 176020. DOI:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176020.
• LIN M M, FULLER R A, GIBSON L, et al., 2024. Conservation-oriented management benefits the Black-faced Spoonbill, an endangered migratory waterbird[J/OL]. GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION, 54: e03077. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e03077.
• LIU Y, SHI J, JIN R, et al., 2024. Evaluating waterbird migratory stopover habitat suitability in the Tumen River Estuary at the junction of China, North Korea and Russia using multi-source remote sensing imagery[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, 370: 122999. DOI:10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.122999.
• WANG L, WEI Y, WANG B, et al., 2024. Co-exposure of microplastics with heavy metals increases environmental pressure in the endangered and rare wildlife reserve: A case study of the zhalong wetland red-crowned crane nature reserve, northeast China[J/OL]. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION, 363: 125287. DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2024.125287.
• LILLEYMAN A, CORRIVEAU A, GARNETT S T, et al., 2024. Variation in space use between sites, years and individuals for an endangered migratory shorebird has implications for coastal planning[J/OL]. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE, 6(12)[2025-06-04].https://www.proquest.com/docview/3143112173?pq-origsite=wos&accountid=42626. DOI:10.1111/csp2.13261.
• VILKOV E V, 2024. Dynamics of the Number of Anatids (Anseriformes, Anatidae, Aves) in Model Regions in Dagestan[J/OL]. BIOLOGY BULLETIN, 51(8): 2473-2494. DOI:10.1134/S1062359024701152.
• GAO H, WANG J, CHEN F, et al., 2024. Priority areas for wintering waterbirds and the need to remove Spartina along Zhejiang coast[J/OL]. GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION, 56: e03279. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e03279.
• XIONG Y, DAI Y, WU H, et al., 2024. Effects of extreme drought on landscape pattern of Dongting Lake wetland, China[J/OL]. ECOLOGICAL INDICATORS, 169: 112974. DOI:10.1016/j.ecolind.2024.112974.
• LI Y, DONG X, HU C, 2024. The impact of ecological water level on wintering migratory birds in Poyang Lake – Focusing on phytophagous geese[J/OL]. ECOLOGICAL INDICATORS, 169: 112946. DOI:10.1016/j.ecolind.2024.112946.
• LEE R H, KWONG I H Y, LI T C H, et al., 2025. Spatial scales matter in designing buffer zones for coastal protected areas along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway[J/OL]. GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION, 57: e03357. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e03357.
• FANG T, JIN J, CHEN C, et al., 2025. Prediction of suitable habitat for tundra swans in the Nanji wetland Nature Reserve of Poyang Lake under different water level conditions[J/OL]. ECOLOGICAL INDICATORS, 170: 113030. DOI:10.1016/j.ecolind.2024.113030.

3) 조류 인플루엔자 / 그 외

• ZHANG S, XU N, LIU G, 2024. Altered Gut Archaeal Communities in Anser erythropus Populations Wintering at Shengjin and Caizi Lakes in China[J/OL]. Pakistan Journal of Zoology, 56(4). DOI:10.17582/journal.pjz/20221208061226.
• LIU X, WANG Z, NIU X, et al., 2024. Methylmercury exposure and risk of wintering migratory birds in the Poyang Lake basin, China[J/OL]. Environmental Research, 261: 119641. DOI:10.1016/j.envres.2024.119641.
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1) 생물학 & 생태학

High dispersal ability versus migratory traditions: Fine-scale population structure and post-glacial colonisation in bar-tailed godwits

Jesse R. Conklin, Yvonne I. Verkuil, Margaux J. M. Lefebvre, Phil F. Battley, Roeland A. Bom, Robert E. Gill Jr, Chris J. Hassell, Job ten Horn, Daniel R. Ruthrauff, T. Lee Tibbitts, Pavel S. Tomkovich, Nils Warnock, Theunis Piersma, Michaël C. Fontaine

Abstract: In migratory animals, high mobility may reduce population structure through increased dispersal and enable adaptive responses to environmental change, whereas rigid migratory routines predict low dispersal, increased structure, and limited flexibility to respond to change. We explore the global population structure and phylogeographic history of the bar-tailed godwit, Limosa lapponica, a migratory shorebird known for making the longest non-stop flights of any landbird. Using nextRAD sequencing of 14,318 single-nucleotide polymorphisms and scenario-testing in an Approximate Bayesian Computation framework, we infer that bar-tailed godwits existed in two main lineages at the last glacial maximum, when much of their present-day breeding range persisted in a vast, unglaciated Siberian-Beringian refugium, followed by admixture of these lineages in the eastern Palearctic. Subsequently, population structure developed at both longitudinal extremes: in the east, a genetic cline exists across latitude in the Alaska breeding range of subspecies L. l. baueri; in the west, one lineage diversified into three extant subspecies L. l. lapponica, taymyrensis, and yamalensis, the former two of which migrate through previously glaciated western Europe. In the global range of this long-distance migrant, we found evidence of both (1) fidelity to rigid behavioural routines promoting fine-scale geographic population structure (in the east) and (2) flexibility to colonise recently available migratory flyways and non-breeding areas (in the west). Our results suggest that cultural traditions in highly mobile vertebrates can override the expected effects of high dispersal ability on population structure, and provide insights for the evolution and flexibility of some of the world’s longest migrations.

A novel technique for estimating age and demography of long-lived seabirds (genus Pterodroma) using an epigenetic clock for Gould’s petrel (Pterodroma leucoptera)

Lauren Roman, Benjamin Mayne, Chloe Anderson, Yuna Kim, Terence O’Dwyer, Nicholas Carlile

Abstract: Understanding the demography of wildlife populations is a key component for ecological research, and where necessary, supporting the conservation and management of long-lived animals. However, many animals lack phenological changes with which to determine individual age; therefore, gathering this fundamental information presents difficulties. More so for species that are rare, highly mobile, migratory and those that reside in inaccessible habitats. Until recently, the primary method to measure demography is through labour intensive mark-recapture approaches, necessitating decades of effort for long-lived species. Gadfly petrels (genus: Pterodroma) are one such taxa that are overrepresented with threatened and declining species, and for which numerous aspects of their ecology present challenges for research, monitoring and recovery efforts. To overcome some of these challenges, we developed the first DNA methylation (DNAm) demography technique to estimate the age of petrels, using the epigenetic clock of Gould’s petrels (Pterodroma leucoptera). We collected reference blood samples from known-aged Gould’s petrels at a long-term monitored population on Cabbage Tree Island, Australia. Epigenetic ages were successfully estimated for 121 individuals ranging in age from zero (fledgling) to 30 years of age, showing a mean error of 2.24 ± 0.17 years between the estimated and real age across the population. This is the first development of an epigenetic clock using multiplex PCR sequencing in a bird. This method enables demography to be measured with relative accuracy in a single sampling trip. This technique can provide information for emerging demographic risks that can mask declines in long-lived seabird populations and be applied to other Pterodroma populations.

Migratory Connectivity of Zhejiang, with a Critical Stopover in East Asian-Australasian Flyway, Based on Recovery Data

Baoquan Liu ,Hongdi Gao ,Jinhui Wang ,Jinhui Wang ,Zhenxian Zhu ,Cheng Qian ,Zhongyong Fan ,Ke He

Abstract: Understanding migratory routes is crucial for the conservation of birds and their habitats. Zhejiang is a crucial stopover and wintering area for birds in the East Asian–Australasian Flyway; however, detailed information on this area, and particularly on connections between coastal areas, is limited. By synthesizing ringed and recapture records from local bird-ringing projects and re-sighting community science data (208 records of 35 species), we established migratory connectivity between the Zhejiang coast and nine countries (i.e., Russia, Mongolia, the United States, Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Australia), as well as eleven sites within China, and established its crucial role in this flyway. Stopover fidelity was verified by some species with high recapture frequency (seven species exceeded 1%) and species with duplicated re-sighted records (seven Black-faced Spoonbill, one Dalmatian Pelican, and two Spoon-billed Sandpiper individuals). We identified six areas—Hangzhou Bay, Aiwan Bay, Xuanmen National Park, Wenzhou Bay, the reclaimed area between the Ou and Feiyun Rivers, and the Wenzhou Jiangnan Reclamation Area—as crucial stopovers and wintering refuges for waterbirds. Notably, in Xuanmen National Park and the coastal regions along Wenzhou, there were many recovery records for flagship species, such as the Black-faced Spoonbill and Spoon-billed Sandpiper. There were several cases of the recovery of the same individual studied across the years. These findings indicate that these unprotected wetlands require particular attention. Broadly, our findings highlight the feasibility of integrating comprehensive ringing projects with citizen science data to formulate effective conservation strategies and underscore the critical importance of the Zhejiang Coast for migratory waterbirds, particularly those with high conservation concerns, emphasizing the need to mitigate the threats faced by these vulnerable populations.

Subadult movements contribute to population level migratory connectivity

Yingjun Wang , Zhengwu Pan , Yali Si , Lijia Wen , Yumin Guo

Abstract: Migratory connectivity describes the degree to which migratory populations are mixed across space and time. Unlike adults, subadult birds often exhibit distinct migratory patterns and continually refine their migratory behaviour and destinations as they mature. Consequently, the influence of subadult movements on overall migratory connectivity might be different from that of adults. However, current studies on migratory connectivity often overlook population age structures, predominantly focusing on adults. In this study, we investigated the role of subadult movements in shaping population level connectivity by using satellite tracking data from 214 black-necked cranes, Grus nigricollis, in western China. We first assessed the variances in spatial separation in different age cohorts using the continuous temporal Mantel correlation coefficient with data from 17 juveniles tracked in the same year for 3 consecutive years. We then calculated the continuous temporal migratory connectivity for the entire population (comprising various age groups) from 15 September to 15 November and compared the result to that of the family group (consisting of juveniles and adults only). Our results revealed a positive correlation between temporal variation in spatial separation and age after the juveniles separated from the adults, suggesting that subadults may have fine-tuned their migration paths. Moreover, the migratory connectivity of the all-age cohort was moderate (below 0.6) in the winter season, and notably lower than that of the family group during the autumn period. Given the considerable impact of subadults on migratory connectivity, we recommend using data collected from birds across all age categories to improve the precision of population level migratory connectivity estimates.

Predicting avian diversity based on land use and cover on a national scale

Jae Hyun Kim, Shinyeong Park, Jeffrey Hepinstall-Cymerman & Dong Kun Lee

Abstract: This study explores the relationship between landscape features and avian diversity in South Korea, examining both taxonomic and functional diversity. The Korean Peninsula serves as a pivotal habitat for resident bird species and a migratory pathway in the East Asia-Pacific flyway. Using a national dataset with block sizes ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 kilometers per side, we found that less urbanized open plains exhibit higher taxonomic diversity, while coastal regions with diverse water bird populations show higher functional diversity. These findings underscore the significance of conserving the existing land types and qualities in specific regions to substantially impact bird distribution and regional biodiversity. Remarkably, closed forests display diversity patterns akin to urban/built-up areas, despite their disparate land use characteristics. The stability of bird diversity indices across different land use types enables us to predict bird diversity indices based on the particular land use and land cover configurations. This study emphasizes the complementary nature of functional biodiversity indices in comprehending bird distribution patterns alongside taxonomic diversity indices.

Migratory movements, distribution, habitat preference, and activity patterns of the endangered Abbott’s booby Papasula abbotti

Johannes Chambon , Luca Börger, Henri Weimerskirch, Janos C. Hennicke

Abstract: The Abbott’s booby Papasula abbotti is one of the most threatened seabirds in the world. The non-breeding behaviour and distribution of Abbott’s boobies are largely unknown but evidence suggests they migrate between breeding attempts. This lack of information impedes the identification and quantification of the threats the birds are exposed to outside of their breeding season. We studied the migratory movements of Abbott’s booby using geolocator-immersion loggers. A total of 22 adult birds were tracked between 2007 and 2014. Analysis of the 27 migratory trips revealed that birds migrated on average 2500 km east of Christmas Island to an area centred around the Banda Sea, Indonesia. The timing of Abbott’s booby migration (from November-December to April) coincides with the Indonesian-Australian monsoon, a period characterised by reversing prevailing winds and decreased regional oceanic primary productivity. The birds’ movements matched the pattern of reversal of the prevailing winds. No birds were recorded on migration between 17 May and 26 October, which suggests that the whole population of adult Abbott’s boobies is on Christmas Island during that period. Migrating Abbott’s boobies spent little time on the water during the day or at night (15%), and individuals preferred waters with a narrow range of sea surface salinity (32.5-34.5 PSU), rugged seafloor topography, and sea surface temperatures above ca. 28°C. Overall, these novel results identify the area within which potential threats, such as interactions with fisheries or effects of climate change on the species’ marine habitats, should be investigated.

Migratory herbivorous waterfowl track multiple resource waves during spring migration

Fei Xu, Wei Wu, Jie Wei, Qinchuan Xin, Ben Wielstra, Frank A. La Sorte, Zhijun Ma, Guangchun Lei, Jialin Lei, Wenzhao Wu, Yongchuan Yang, Peng Gong, Bing Xu and Yali Si

Abstract: East Asian herbivorous waterfowl intensively use farmland in spring, next to their natural habitat. Accordingly, they might have expanded their migration strategy from merely tracking the green wave of newly emerging vegetation to also incorporating the availability of post-harvest agricultural seeds (here dubbed the seed wave). However, if and how waterfowl use multiple food resources to time their seasonal migration is still unknown. We test this migration strategy using 167 spring migration tracks of five East Asian herbivorous waterfowl species and mixed-effect resource selection function models. We found that all study species arrived at their core stopover sites in the Northeast China Plain after agricultural seeds became available, extended their stay after spring vegetation emerged and arrived at their breeding sites around the emergence of vegetation. At the core stopover sites, all study species used snowmelt as a cue to track seed availability, although smaller-bodied species tended to arrive later. At the breeding sites, swans tracked the onset of vegetation emergence and geese tracked the mid- or end phases of snowmelt. Our findings suggest that waterfowl track multiple resource waves to fine-tune their migration, highlighting new opportunities for conservation.

Tracking data demonstrate plasticity in migration behaviour of the East Asian Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta

K Wijethunge, Q Zhao, Y Liu, Y Xie, W Cao, B Zheng, Z Xu, L Cao, AD Fox

Abstract: Avian populations showing a diversity of migration patterns are more likely resilient to environmental changes and less likely to decline in response to factors such as climate change and habitat loss, making knowledge of how migration behaviour varies spatially and temporally within and between individuals crucial for their successful conservation. We tracked 31 migratory episodes in six East Asian Pied Avocets, identifying migration behaviour and annual schedules over 5 consecutive years. The Pied Avocets spent means of 195 days on summering areas, 108 days on wintering areas, 24 days on autumn (9 November–3 December), and 27 days on spring (23 March–19 April), with considerable individual variation. Individuals also exhibited significant variability in migration distance (mean of 977 ± 347 km and 1,261 ± 507 km in autumn and spring, respectively), migration speed, stopover duration and site fidelity. Some birds showed consistent between-year migration patterns and site fidelity, others did not. Four individuals exhibited highly peripatetic summer schedules, implying sampling between inland arid and coastal wetlands for potential nesting sites. Our results supplement recent studies by providing new valuable insights into individual behavioural plasticity on migration with long-term tracking data and new knowledge about previously unknown summering areas in the Northern Yellow Sea, NE China, Inner Mongolia, and NW Hebei, also confirming the importance of known wintering areas in the Southern Yellow Sea, the Yangtze River and the Huai River floodplain. We urge prudence in concluding too much from our limited sample size and further tracking of more individuals.

Genome-wide DNA reveals decades-long genetic stability and intra-familial migratory site fidelity in an Asian population of Common Redshanks

Yen Yi Tan, Bryan Soh, Elize Y. X. Ng, David Zuowei Li & Frank E. Rheindt

Abstract: We investigated the population genetic trajectory and genetic diversity of a wintering population of Common Redshanks (Tringa totanus) in Southeast Asia. Using ~ 23,000 genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) harvested by double-digest restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (ddRADseq) of Common Redshanks collected in Singapore across 28 years, we uncovered evidence for long-term genetic homogeneity that points to sustained migratory connectivity of individuals found in Singapore. Our population genetic analyses also revealed that Singapore’s Common Redshanks have harboured persistently low levels of genetic diversity throughout the temporal sampling regime. We further furnish, for the first time in shorebirds, genomic evidence for migratory site fidelity within closely related familial pairs across multiple seasons. Our findings are consistent with population genetic stability and support past results on the species’ exceptional site fidelity, with ramifications for the population’s conservation status and management strategy. Our work highlights the utility of genome-wide DNA techniques in combination with robust longitudinal sampling regimes for effective genetic monitoring programs targeted at highly mobile avian taxa, with broad applicability and relevance to highly dispersive taxa in general. We recommend that future studies expand the current sampling regime to achieve a comprehensive phylogeographic overview for insights into the genetic and migratory connectivity of the species.

Partial migration pays off in black-faced cormorants: insights from post-breeding GPS tracking

Thomas Cansse , Luc Lens , Rachael A. Orben , Grace J. Sutton , Jonathan A. Botha , John P.Y. Arnould

Abstract: Seasonal variation in food availability or adverse weather patterns can create challenging conditions for year-round survival. Birds experiencing such fluctuations may migrate to locations with better food availability in the non-breeding period. While some species are obligate migrants, others are facultative migrants where various post-breeding strategies exist within populations. Several cormorant and shag species are facultative migrants with a range of post-breeding movement strategies within populations. Currently, most of the information available on cormorant post-breeding strategies originates from banding studies and little is known about their movements, time budget or habitat use during the non-breeding period. In the present study, Australian endemic black-faced cormorants (Phalacrocorax fuscescens), breeding on Notch Island, Victoria, were tracked with GPS data loggers during the non-breeding period. Different post-breeding strategies were observed. Individuals were either resident (N = 36, 69%), remaining within a short distance of the colony (16.7 +/- 2.2 km) or migratory (N = 16, 31%), travelling greater distances (250.7 +/- 24.4 km) to establish a new central place foraging location. Data from individuals which covered the entire non-breeding period indicated that, across strategies, individual birds had one area of residency during the non-breeding period. Migratory individuals were found to have lower daily activity levels, spending less time flying and foraging, than resident individuals during the early non-breeding period, possibly indicating that they had access to greater prey resources. Regardless of the post-breeding strategy, individuals utilised foraging locations that were of similar seabed depths year-round suggesting individual specialisation in prey resources or foraging habitats.

Assessing Shorebirds Passage and Wintering on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia

Mohd Ros Effendi, Nur Munira Azman, Mohd Nasir Azizan, Wan Juliana Wan Ahmad, Mohammad Saiful Mansor

Abstract: Malaysia lies within the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF), among the world’s most species-rich and threatened flyways, which provides stop-over sites for millions of passages and wintering birds. Although some mudflats along the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia are classified as Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBA), no detailed studies have been conducted to compare shorebird composition and diversity between these locations. Hence, the species composition and diversity of shorebirds was assessed in established plots on mudflats of the North-central Selangor Coast (NCSC) and Teluk Air Tawar Kuala Muda Coast (TAT-KMC) between December 2022 and January 2023. A total of 31 species from three families, Charadriidae, Scolopacidae, and Laridae, were documented throughout the study. There was a significant difference in shorebird species composition between the two sites. TAT-KMC recorded more threatened species including the Far Eastern Curlew Numenius madagascariensis and Nordmann’s Greenshank Tringa guttifer. Despite the presence of more threatened species at TAT-KMC, the results showed both stop-over sites are important for migratory shorebirds along EAAF. The data obtained are valuable for assessing the current species richness and abundance, highlighting the importance for these IBAs to be designated as another Flyway Site Network representing west coast Peninsular Malaysia in order to enhance their protection and conservation efforts.

Extensive Tracking of Nomadic Waterbird Movements Reveals an Inland Flyway

McGinness, Heather M; Jackson, Micha V; Lloyd‐Jones, Luke; Robinson, Freya; Langston, Art; O’Neill, Louis G; Rapley, Shoshana; Piper, Melissa; Davies, Micah; Hodgson, Jessica

Abstract: Waterbirds are highly mobile and have the ability to respond to environmental conditions opportunistically at multiple scales. Mobility is particularly crucial for aggregate‐nesting species dependent on breeding habitat in arid and semi‐arid wetlands, which can be ephemeral and unpredictable. We aimed to address knowledge gaps about movement routes for aggregate‐nesting nomadic waterbird species by tracking them in numbers sufficient to make robust assessment of their movement patterns. We hypothesised that analysis of long‐distance movements would identify common routes with consistent environmental features that would be useful as context for conservation management. We used GPS satellite telemetry to track the movements of 73 straw‐necked ibis (Threskiornis spinicollis) and 42 royal spoonbills (Platalea regia) over 7 years (2016‐2023). We used these data to identify long‐distance movements and to demarcate and characterise movement routes. We identified common routes used by both species, including a ‘flyway’ over 2000 km long, spanning Australia’s Murray–Darling Basin from the south‐west to the north‐east. This flyway connects important breeding sites and is characterised by flat, open/unforested areas with low elevations of < 350 m and mid to high rainfall. The flyway corresponds to an area west of Australia’s Great Dividing Range, which appears to act as a low‐permeability barrier to the movement of both species. Identification of an inland flyway for waterbirds in Australia provides important context for multi‐jurisdictional cooperation and strategic management. Where resources are limited, water and wetland management efforts (e.g., environmental watering) should be preferentially located within this route. Similarly, targeting threat mitigation within common movement routes may have disproportionate importance for long‐term population viability. Given the widespread distribution of similar species globally, there are likely to be other flyways worthy of scientific and conservation management attention that could be identified using our approach.

Annual Patterns of Shorebird Migration and Habitat Use at the Gochang Tidal Flat: Insights from 10 Selected Shorebird Species

Ju-Hyun Lee, Won-Suk Choi, Gi-Chang Bing, Jae-Ung Jang, Se-Yeong Kim, Jong-Ju Son, Dae-Han Cho, Eun-Byeol Choi, Jung-Moon Ha, Who-Seung Lee, Ha-Cheol Sung

Abstract: Gochang Tidal Flat plays a crucial role as a stopover site for migratory shorebirds within the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF). This study focuses on 10 shorebird species observed at Gochang to assess their migration patterns using standardized survey methods. From July 2022 to June 2023, we conducted 24 surveys across five designated sites and 25 survey points. The selected species-the Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola), Kentish Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus), Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus), Far Eastern Curlew (Numenius madagascariensis), Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus), Common Greenshank, (Tringa nebularia), Terek Sandpiper (Xenus cinereus), Dunlin (Calidris alpina), Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica), and Black-tailed Gull (Larus crassirostris)-showed distinct seasonal distributions in abundance. During southward migration in fall, Kentish Plovers and Common Greenshanks were most prevalent, while Whimbrels, Dunlins, and Bar-tailed Godwits dominated during northward migration in spring. Species like the Grey Plover, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Terek Sandpiper, and Far Eastern Curlew were consistently abundant in both seasons. Spatially, Grey Plovers and Dunlins were concentrated in the inner tidal areas, whereas Far Eastern Curlews, Whimbrels, and Terek Sandpipers favored central and outer regions. Large populations of Black-tailed Gulls and Eurasian Oystercatchers were observed along oceanfront. This study underscores the ecological significance by elucidating annual shorebird population dynamics.

Migratory flyways and connectivity of Brown Headed Gulls (Chroicocephalus brunnicephalus) revealed by GPS tracking

Xin Yu , Gang Song , Huan Wang , Qichao Wei , Chenxi Jia , Fumin Lei

Abstract: Brown-Headed Gull (Chroicocephalus brunnicephalus) is the most common summer visitor on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) and is a species that is susceptible to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), however, their detailed migratory movements remain unclear. In this study, we applied GPS/GSM transmitters to track the journeys of individuals (n = 32) that bred at the Qinghai Lake in Qinghai province, China. The results showed that the Brown-Headed Gulls (n = 15 bird-years) from the same breeding population employed different flyways during southbound migration: western (n = 4 bird-years), central (n = 4 bird-years), and eastern (n = 7 bird-years), which indicates rather weak migratory connectivity for the breeding population (the mean distance between two individuals during winter was 1040 ± 548 km (range = 81–2002 km), spanning 35 % of the maximum width of the QTP). Before the southbound migration, western migrants arrived at lakes (454 ± 319 km) farther from their breeding ground compared to central and eastern migrants to engage in nearly three months of post-breeding movement. Western migrants employed more detours and migrated longer distances crossing mountains with higher elevations (4535 ± 105 m) during southbound migration. In contrast, central and eastern migrants employed more direct routes and migrated shorter distances crossing relatively lower-altitude mountains during their southbound migration. The western and central migrants undertook a distinct counterclockwise loop migration pattern shifting from the central QTP route in southbound migration to the eastern QTP route in northbound migration. They performed similar behaviors of duration and distance during the southbound and northbound migration. Our study can be considered as a baseline for the migratory patterns of potentially infected waterfowl on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, and it offers valuable insights into the migration movements of gulls in the region.

The Influence of Short-Term Water Level Fluctuations on the Habitat Response and Ecological Fragility of Siberian Cranes in Poyang Lake, China

Li, Xin; Hu, Bisong; Qi, Shuhua; Luo, Jin.  Remote Sensing

Abstract: The landscape of the Poyang Lake wetland is significantly influenced by changes in water levels, impacting the distribution of habitats for migratory birds. While long-term effects of water level variations have been extensively studied, short-term impacts on Siberian crane habitats and their ecological vulnerability remain poorly understood. This study utilized 35 years (1987-2022) of Landsat remote sensing data and daily water level records from Poyang Lake to examine the effects of short-term water level fluctuations on the spatial distribution and ecological vulnerability of Siberian crane habitats. The geographic detector method was employed to quantify the explanatory power and interaction effects of factors, including short-term water level fluctuations, on ecological vulnerability. The findings reveal significant differences in the habitats of wintering Siberian cranes across various water level intervals and short-term fluctuation patterns. Short-term water level fluctuations can result in the largest suitable wintering habitat area for Siberian cranes, reaching 1856.41 km2 in this study. These habitats are highly sensitive to short-term water level changes, with rising and falling trends potentially leading to habitat loss. Oscillating water levels in the short term create broader and more concentrated habitats. Notably, fluctuations at low water levels support the sustainability and stability of crane habitats. Furthermore, short-term water level trends and nature reserves play a critical role in maintaining habitat ecological vulnerability; well-managed and protected nature reserves exhibit significant explanatory power, both in single-factor analysis and in their interaction with other environmental factors. Specifically, these protected areas show explanatory power exceeding the 20% threshold for both water level fluctuations and ranges, highlighting the crucial role of anthropogenic management in mitigating ecological vulnerability. This study emphasizes the necessity of scientifically informed regulation of short-term water level fluctuations to protect Siberian crane habitats and provides a strong scientific basis for decision-making support.

Stopover habitat use of coastal Pied Avocet revealed by satellite tracking and remote sensing technology

Dong Li , Kai Liu , Yingxu Gao , Yang Wu , Xiyong Hou

Abstract: Stopover sites identification for migratory waterbirds is important in China’s coastal wetlands, which have experienced a massive loss of natural wetlands in recent decades. Taking the Pied Avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta), a common waterbird in China’s coastal zone as an example, our research focused on their stopover habitat use based on satellite tracking and remote sensing technology. Along the coast, a total of 6 critical stopover sites, duration of stay more than 14 days, were recognized during their 2022–2023 autumn and spring migrations of the 4 tagged individuals. The results showed that Pied Avocets used habitats close to the coastline and water source, at low elevation, and with sparse vegetation. They also had a certain tolerance for human interference. From the perspective of the land use and land cover type, the proportion (33.01 %) of artificial wetlands including paddy, salt pan, and mariculture has exceeded that (27.97 %) of natural wetlands such as bottomland, tidal flat, estuarine waters, and shallow water in the home ranges of the 6 stopover areas. The study emphasized that the habitat function of artificial wetland should be paid enough attention to while maintaining the natural wetland without further loss. In addition, habitat-oriented management suggestions were put forward for artificial wetlands. This study can provide data and technical support for the conservation and management of waterbirds stopovers, also having reference value for other species.

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) do not accumulate with age or affect population survival in ruddy turnstone (Arenaria interpres).

Tobias A. Ross, Junjie Zhang, Tonje G. Skaalvik , Robyn Atkinson , Roz Jessop , Victorian Wader Study Group , Alexandros G. Asimakopoulos , Veerle L.B. Jaspers , Marcel Klaassen

Abstract: Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may threaten wildlife due to their high environmental persistence, toxicity potential and potential to bioaccumulate. Bioaccumulation may be particularly profound in long-lived animals inhabiting higher trophic niches. To date, there is a paucity of data on PFAS bioaccumulation potential in individual wild birds over their lifetime. In this study, we analysed within-individual PFAS contamination in a declining long-distance migratory shorebird, the ruddy turnstone (Arenaria interpres), and the variation in PFAS contamination with age by repeatedly sampling 19 individuals throughout their lives between 2007 and 2022. We found blood-sampled turnstones on their non-breeding grounds in King Island, Tasmania, exhibited no variation of PFAS contamination with age, with low overall circulating PFAS concentrations (<0.015–25 ng/g, median: 0.78 ng/g). Moreover, irrespective of the increased PFAS usage along the East Asian Australasian Flyway over the past two decades, ruddy turnstone survival remained consistent throughout the 15-year sampling period, with no temporal trend in percentage of juveniles in the population. From a conservation perspective, low concentrations of PFAS found in this study are good news as they suggest PFAS alone do not seem to threaten turnstone survival. However, the unknown effects of exposure to mixtures of pollutants may yet threaten turnstones.

Exploring the driving factors of bird diversity in mangrove natural protected areas in Guangdong Province, China

Xitao Yang , Rushu Wen*, ChunXia , ZhangChunXia , Zhang Ming Qu , Jianing Luo , Jianing Luo , Ruijuan Yu , Yan Zhao , Guodong Hua , Kaiyuan Tan , Lu Yu , Sijia Ye

Abstract: Introduction Under the impacts of high intensity human activities, mangrove natural protected areas are pivotal strategies for biodiversity conservation and play a significant role in preserving bird diversity. Mangrove natural protected areas in Guangdong Province, China, lie along the migratory path of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, serving as breeding, feeding, and resting grounds for birds. Variations in bird responses to environmental factors are significant.Methods To comprehensively understand these variances, redundancy analysis was employed, focusing on bird diversity surveys conducted from March 2022 to February 2023 in natural protected areas of Guangdong to examine how driving factors such as mangrove habitat landscape, community structure, water quality, and soil sedimentation affected the diversity of avian species.Results The findings were as follows: (1) A total of 193 bird species spanning 17 orders and 53 families were documented, including 74 songbirds, 60 wading birds, 27 swimming birds, 17 climbing birds, 10 raptors, and 5 terrestrial birds. (2) Regarding the impact of simple effects on all bird species, aquaculture pond area, mangrove extent, and mudflat area emerged as significant factors driving bird diversity, with explanatory rates of 31.0%, 28.9%, and 20.3%, respectively. Notably, the aquaculture pond area was the main driver of bird diversity, with an explanatory rate of 31.0%. (3) Mangrove extent has emerged as a pivotal factor shaping the songbird diversity, climbing birds, raptors, and terrestrial birds, whereas the aquaculture pond area was pivotal for wading birds, swimming birds, and others.Discussion To enhance mangrove bird diversity protection, management agencies overseeing natural mangrove protected areas should adopt science-based approaches when managing mangrove, mudflats, and aquaculture pond areas in mangrove forest protection and restoration plans. This would prevent extensive mangrove planting, which encroaches on non-mangrove habitats. Additionally, the scientific management of aquaculture ponds should accommodate diverse bird habitats through measures, such as water level adjustments.

Unraveling the impact of drought on waterbird community assembly and conservation strategies

Xiang Gao , Jie Liang , Ziqian Zhu , Weixiang Li , Lan Lu , Xinyi Qiu , Shuai Li , Ning Tang , Xiaodong Li

Abstract: Drought-induced changes in lakes and wetlands, crucial habitats for migratory waterbirds, can greatly affect their foraging and habitat utilization. These changes lead to a decline in waterbird species richness and may cause shifts in community assembly from phylogenetic and functional trait perspectives. However, a gap remains between ecological mechanistic research about these changes and conservation applications. Here, we investigated the drought-induced phylogenetic and functional changes in waterbird community assembly over the past two decades in two lakes of the Yangtze River basin. Additionally, we explored conservation strategies to address the requirements of waterbirds during droughts. Results showed that drought modified the hydrological and phenological characteristics of waterbird habitats, leading to a decrease in waterbird species richness. As drought severity increased, species that were sensitive to drought exhibited higher degrees of similarity compared to the local species pool, leading to more divergent community assembly patterns. The mean values of body mass, tarsus length, bill length, and Evolutionary Distinctiveness (ED) of waterbirds in both lakes increased significantly under high drought stress conditions. Dabbling birds and small waders, which rely on habitats most susceptible to drought-induced changes, were the primary habitat preference groups affected. Additionally, the diversification of phylogenetic and functional community assembly in waterbirds and their associated conservation requirements indicated that effective conservation measures for waterbirds must be diversified and tailored to the specific requirements of different waterbird species, thereby preventing the loss of ecosystem functions and services. Conservation strategies should also be adaptive by incorporating periodic evaluations and adjustments to respond to environmental pressures and thus ensuring sustained effectiveness. In conclusion, as drought severity increased, functional and phylogenetic trait differences between species became more significant. Therefore, conservation measures must be diversified, tailored, and adaptive to effectively respond to the changes in waterbird community assembly.

Do invasive predators pose a predation risk to roosting shorebirds? Fecal DNA and camera trap analysis

Louise A. Williams, Samuel Dupré, Michael Stat, Matt W. Hayward, Christophe Tourenq, Andrea S. Griffin

Abstract: Shorebird populations have experienced dramatic population declines worldwide. Reasons for these declines are varied, but one largely understudied threat at migratory shorebird non-breeding grounds is predation by introduced predators. High-tide roosting shorebirds may be vulnerable to ground predation, as they roost in a spatially clumped and temporally predictable manner in areas easily accessible to ground predators. We measured predation risk by the introduced red fox (Vulpes vulpes) at high-tide roosts within 2 internationally important shorebird estuaries in New South Wales, Australia, during a time when non-breeding shorebird numbers were at their annual peak, using a combination of camera trapping and environmental DNA (eDNA). Foxes were present at all study sites and were seen most frequently at sites encompassing the 2 largest high-tide roosts within the study estuaries, and least frequently nearest the roosts. Metabarcoding identified a broad range of avian taxa in fox scats collected at roosts, including ground-dwelling birds, native waterbirds, and introduced pigeons and doves, but no shorebird species. Bird prevalence in fox scats reached levels that far exceeded those reported in prior studies. Future studies should examine whether red foxes present a non-lethal, rather than lethal, predation threat to high-tide roosting shorebirds when feeding on other co-occurring food sources, potentially inducing energetically costly predator avoidance.

Behavioral and functional responses of different bird clades to offshore windfarms in yellow sea, China

Wei Liu , Sijia Yuan , Gang Shen , Yanzhe Ding , Xiaoshou Liu, Chaochao Hu , Chentao Wei , Xiaoqiang Lu , Yan Liu

Abstract: Offshore windfarms (OWFs) constitute a rapidly expanding source of renewable energy that inevitably affects marine biodiversity, especially those built within critical areas for biodiversity conservation. To understand the potential effect of OWFs on bird communities, we systematically tracked bird communities and their behavior within OWFs near the Migratory Bird Sanctuaries along the Coast of the Yellow Sea in China from 2020 to 2022 using voyage investigations. The results indicated that bird diversity was greater within OWFs than in seawaters away from the OWFs. The composition of the bird community varied at different distance scales and the closer to the windfarm, the higher the number of birds from the Laridae and Anatidae. In addition, the flight heights of Laridae, Accipitridae, and Anatidae overlapped with the rotor-swept zones, and there were significant altitudinal variations in the OWFs and nearby waters. Based on 16 functional traits and the devised risk assessment function, we found that OWFs could have distinct impacts on different birds. Birds of the family Accipitridae, which have a larger body size, are likely to experience more stress from OWFs than other families. And, fish-eating birds, such as Laridae and Anatidae, have higher risk scores due to their closer proximity to the windfarm, medium body size and greater number of individuals. However, Passeriformes with smaller body size and fewer individuals have lower risk values. Our study revealed in detail the different strategies used by birds to cope with OWFs and provides a theoretical basis for rationalizing the conservation of bird diversity at these locations.

2) 보전 & 관리

Spatiotemporal Distribution and Habitat Characteristics of Shorebirds in the Coastal Wetlands of Dalian, Liaoning, China

Luo Hao, Li Qing, Yang Yu, Kang Jing, Wei Lei, Zhang Demin

Abstract: The coast of Dalian in Liaoning Province, China, is one of the most important habitats for migratory shorebirds along the East Asia–Australasian Flyway. However, the coastal areas of Dalian have been modified extensively by various projects, including reclamation and the construction of aquaculture and port facilities, embankment buildings, cross-sea passages, and wind farms, which have led to significant damage to the coastal habitats of shorebirds. Assessing the spatiotemporal distribution and habitat characteristics of shorebirds is of great importance to biodiversity conservation. The present study involved a 15-month-long survey of shorebirds in nine coastal wetlands of Dalian from August 2021 to October 2022. In total, 31 species of shorebirds, belonging to five families, were recorded. Migratory shorebirds were the most frequently observed, accounting for 77% of the recorded shorebirds. Dunlin (Calidris alpina), Kentish plover (Charadrius alexandrinus), Eurasian curlew (Numenius arquata), and Far Eastern curlew (Numenius madagascariensis) were the most abundant species. Both species richness and species abundance peaked in May and again in September. The Zhuanghe Estuary boasted the highest species diversity, while the Huli Estuary wetland exhibited the greatest species abundance. The type of habitat and the spatial extent of natural wetlands were the main variables influencing the spatial distribution of waterbirds. By identifying the population characteristics and habitat status of shorebirds in Dalian, the results provide support for shorebird conservation and habitat management.

Timing mowing for maximal energy gain – Managing foraging habitat of wintering geese under extreme drought conditions

Chenxi Wang , Shaoxia Xia , Xiubo Yu , Li Wen

Abstract: The availability of high-quality food resources is a critical determinant of wildlife fitness. Over the past two decades, phenological mismatch – the temporal misalignment between animals’ peak nutrient demand and optimal resource availability – has emerged as a significant conservation challenge. This issue is particularly worrisome for migratory birds, which must accumulate energy reserves to meet the elevated metabolic demands of migration between breeding and wintering grounds. In Poyang Lake, a crucial wintering ground along the East Asian-Australasian flyway, increasing asynchrony between vegetation growth and the migration of herbivorous waterbirds significantly impedes conservation efforts and presents a major management challenge for this Ramsar wetland. This study evaluates the efficacy of mowing, a grassland management measure, in regulating plant growth processes and restoring food resources for geese. In-situ mowing experiments were conducted with varying timings in Carex wet meadows, the primary foraging habitats of geese. Optimal mowing times were identified, and the maximum goose carrying capacity was assessed by comparing Carex growth and nutritional dynamics with goose dietary requirements. The results reveal that mowing effectively slows down the aging process of Carex, and protein content is identified as a critical limiting factor for geese foraging. Different mowing timings extend the suitable foraging period by 11–25 days. Estimates suggest varying carrying capacities with different mowing timings, supporting goose populations ranging from 133 to 2,046 in Changhuchi Lake during wintering. The optimal mowing window is early October, avoiding dates before late September and after late November. Moreover, multiple-stage mowing is recommended to accommodate different wintering stages. The study highlights mowing as a potential habitat restoration approach for goose conservation, effectively mitigating the challenges imposed by phenological mismatch directly and indirectly caused by anthropogenic activities.

Deteriorating wintertime habitat conditions for waterfowls in Caizi Lake, China: Drivers and adaptive measures

Xiudi Zhu , Bo Cheng , Hongqing Li , Lizhi Zhou , Fengling Yan , Xiaoyuan Wang , Qiang Zhang , Vijay P. Singh , Lijuan Cui , Bo Jiang

Abstract: China has made enormous strides to achieve high-quality development and biodiversity conservation, and the establishment of nature-protected areas is one of the essential initiatives. Caizi Lake involves a natural reserve and two national wetland parks, accommodating winter migratory waterfowl over the middle and lower Yangtze River basin in China. However, the water transfer from the Yangtze River to the Huai River (YR-HR water transfer) has modified the winter hydrological conditions of Caizi Lake, negatively affecting wintertime waterfowl habitats. Hence, conserving wintertime waterfowl habitats necessitates knowledge of the dynamical mechanisms behind the impacts of YR-HR water transfer on wintertime waterfowl habitats and adaptive measures. Here we developed a machine learning model, the normalized difference vegetation index, and on-spot observatory datasets such as the spatial distribution of waterfowl species and underwater topography of Caizi Lake. We found that the rising winter water level of Caizi Lake encroaches on winter waterfowl habitat with extremely high suitability. Meanwhile, rising water levels reduced waterfowl food sources. Thus, rising water levels due to YR-HR water transfer deteriorated waterfowl living conditions over Caizi Lake. Therefore, we proposed adaptive measures to alleviate these negative effects, such as water level regulation, artificial feeding of waterfowls, restoration and reconstruction of contiguous mudflats, grass flats. This study highlights human interferences with waterfowl habitats, necessitating biodiversity conservation at regional scales.

Conservation-oriented management benefits the Black-faced Spoonbill, an endangered migratory waterbird

Mu-Ming Lin , Richard A. Fuller , Luke Gibson , Ying Chen , Chi-Yeung Choi

Abstract: Active conservation management is crucial for maintaining and recovering populations of threatened species. Yet, there are remarkably few studies quantifying the benefits of conservation management and comparing ecological and anthropogenic influences on populations. We investigate these issues using the Black-faced Spoonbill Platalea minor as a case study. This species is an endangered migratory waterbird that garnered significant conservation attention along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Its global population has shown an upward trend recently, yet the speed of recovery has varied spatially. Understanding the species’ occurrence across wintering sites and the factors driving the geographical variation in recovery is vital for examining the benefits of management. In winter 2021–2022, we surveyed the occurrence and abundance of Black-faced Spoonbills and gathered data on environmental conditions across six important wintering sites in Taiwan and the Chinese mainland. Our results indicated a preference for larger wetlands with water depths of 10–20 cm. Birds were more likely to be present in wetlands receiving conservation management interventions. Wetlands with vegetated bunds and fewer artificial materials tended to attract larger flocks. The contribution of wetland size and conservation management aimed at increasing spoonbill abundance varied across regions, with a more significant positive effect of conservation management observed in Taiwan. Our results serve as a valuable reference for regional conservation planning and wetland management in wintering areas, aiding their long-term conservation. In line with this, we recommend increased conservation management efforts informed by our findings, particularly in regions with relatively slow recovery rates.

Evaluating waterbird migratory stopover habitat suitability in the Tumen River Estuary at the junction of China, North Korea and Russia using multi-source remote sensing imagery

Yang Liu , Jinhao Shi , Ri Jin , Weihong Zhu , Yue Guo , Baohua Guo , Xu Wang , Jingzhi Wang , Xiuxue Xia

Abstract: Over the past three decades, numerous waterbird habitats have experienced considerable degradation as a result of the persistent deterioration of wetland ecosystems. Habitat suitability evaluation is a critical tool for restoring and conserving waterbird habitats. However, few studies have specifically examined the effects of temporal land cover changes on the suitability of migratory stopover habitats for waterbirds in transboundary regions. Consequently, this study leverages multi-source remote sensing imagery, applies an object-oriented classification approach for precise land cover extraction, and integrates GIS technology to identify key parameters that directly influence migratory waterbird resting sites. Through the establishment of a habitat suitability evaluation framework, this study aims to reveal the spatial and temporal patterns of habitat suitability in the Tumen River Estuary (TRE) from 1992 to 2021. Results reveal significant recent conversions of forest and grassland areas in the study area of China and North Korea to drylands, while marsh wetlands have been transformed into both drylands and paddy fields. Compared to 1992, the configuration of grasslands, marsh wetlands, and built-up land showed increased complexity in 2021. Notably, North Korea’s landscape exhibited the most pronounced and loosely distributed fragmentation trends. The regions with the highest habitat suitability levels within the study area showed a clear declining trend, particularly in the most suitable zones across China and North Korea. This trend corresponds with an expansion of unsuitable areas, largely attributed to increased anthropogenic impacts as the primary driver of habitat suitability decline. The assessment of Moran’s I indices highlights a strong spatial autocorrelation in the habitat suitability index across the TRE. The framework model developed in this study is well-suited to assist governmental entities in assessing and protecting habitats vital for endangered waterbird conservation.

Co-exposure of microplastics with heavy metals increases environmental pressure in the endangered and rare wildlife reserve: A case study of the zhalong wetland red-crowned crane nature reserve, northeast China

Lei Wang , Yuchen Wei , Bing Wang , Jufang Hu , Chuntao Zhao , Dongmei Yu , Jianping Wang , Ze Liu

Abstract: Microplastics (MPs) exposure to remote areas, including endangered and rare wildlife reserves, has attracted increasing concern. Compared with previous research mostly draws attention to the single exposure of MPs to the environment, greater emphasis should be placed on understanding the complex environmental behaviors of MPs. Therefore, the potential risks of MPs to ecosystems need to be explored in combination with their coexistence with other contaminants, but this is not well-understood. The presented study, taking Zhalong National Nature Reserve (Zhalong wetland), the largest habitat and breeding site for migratory Red-crowned cranes (Grus japonensis) in China, as an example, reveals the possibility of the co-exposure of MPs with various heavy metals. The average abundance of MPs in surface water and sediments in Zhalong Wetland is 738 particles/L and 7332 particles/kg, respectively, which is at a high level of MP pollution worldwide. The obtained results figure out that MPs are also widely found in Red-crowned cranes’ feces and feathers. Notably, this study confirms that MP co-exposes to the wetland with Cr, Cd, and As via common sources, exposure routes, and the vector effect of MP. Importantly, we develop the methods of the environmental pressure for individual contaminants and achieve a comprehensive risk assessment of MPs co-exposure with other contaminants in the wetland ecosystem for the first time. It is found that co-exposure to heavy metal can increase the ecological risks of MPs. This is conducive to making a more standardized and reliable framework to estimate the environmental impacts of MP pollution and to formulate prevention and control policies.

Variation in space use between sites, years and individuals for an endangered migratory shorebird has implications for coastal planning

Lilleyman, Amanda; Corriveau, Amélie; Garnett, Stephen T; Bush, Robert; Coleman, Jon; Fuller, Richard; Jessop, Roz; Leiper, Ian; Maglio, Grace; O’Brien, Gavin

Abstract: Much of the annual cycle of threatened migratory shorebirds is spent in non-breeding areas, but there have been few studies on how that habitat is used at fine-scale. Tracking data from 13 endangered far eastern curlews at three Australian non-breeding locations revealed that home range size and maximum daily displacement varied substantially among study areas and between years. Home range overlap also varied with tidal cycle, generally being lower at low than high tide, though there was considerable variability across time and between sites. Variation in site fidelity may indicate behavioral flexibility but may also suggest that resources critical to survival vary between years. If the latter is the case, protection of what appears to be critical habitat in 1 year may not be adequate in subsequent years, necessitating a precautionary approach to the conservation of habitat extent over the long term. For species like the far eastern curlew, which are exceptionally hard to capture and highly threatened, tracking data should be analyzed from as many perspectives as possible to justify the cost to both researchers and birds. In this study, use of tracking data previously analyzed to reveal migration routes has yielded important insights into their ecology and optimal management.

Dynamics of the Number of Anatids (Anseriformes, Anatidae, Aves) in Model Regions in Dagestan

1. V. Vilkov

Abstract: The decrease in the number of waterfowl and near-water birds on a global scale is largely associated with a reduction in the area of wetlands in the era of climate warming. On the example of transboundary populations of Anseriformes (Anatidae), data on long-term monitoring obtained in the period 1995-2020 in two Key Ornithological Territories of Russia of international importance (in Sulakskaya and Turalinskaya lagoons, Republic of Dagestan) are reflected. The model lagoons are located on one of the largest Western Caspian flyways in Russia, which is arranged as a “bottleneck,” where the flight routes of European and Asian migrants intersect. A model group Anseriformes, which includes 18 mainly background species, was selected based on the regularity of their encounters during migratory flight. Based on data on ring returns obtained from the Research Information Center for Bird Ringing of the Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, a conditional contour of the generalized range of Anseriformes was determined; their faunogenetic basis consists of widespread Arctic and Siberian representatives of the fauna types. According to ringing data and published sources, the geographical location of the anatid populations (regularly migrating through the study region) was determined. It was established that out of 18 species tested, the numbers of 12 species decreased significantly, those of two species increased, and those of four species remained stable. The obtained population trends were synchronized with data from literary sources for the same Anseriformes species, but in their nesting places. The coincidence of the trends indicated above with the population trends of the same species in their nesting places confirms the correctness of the estimation of the number of geographically distant populations of Anseriformes obtained along the their flight routes in the model lagoons. A correlation between the average monthly air temperatures in the autumn-winter period in the Primorskaya Lowland of Dagestan and fluctuations in the number of 12 model species was detected. It was proven that the number of migrating populations of anatids in cold years and the intensity of their flight in the study region increase, while in warm years there was a decrease as a result of delays of migrants on the flight routes and changes in their wintering places. Correlation analysis demonstrated a significant association between the increase in the number of Anseriformes wintering in the Caspian Sea and sea level regression, in which the shallow region of marine waters improved the access of anatids to food resources (benthos). Three key factors determining the dynamics of the number of Anseriformes populations are discussed: hydroclimatic cycles, anthropogenic effect, and foraging. It is recommended to introduce a temporary ban on hunting of eight vulnerable species (greylag goose, common teal, garganey, gadwall, Eurasian wigeon, northern pintail, northern shoveler, and common pochard) in Western Siberia, Kazakhstan, the Ural Federal District, Cis-Urals, Volga Region, and the Southern and North Caucasian Federal Districts until their populations are restored sustainably.

Priority areas for wintering waterbirds and the need to remove Spartina along Zhejiang coast

Hongdi Gao , Jinhui Wang , Feng Chen , Sheng Chen , Zhenxian Zhu , Ke He , Baoquan Liu

Abstract: The East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF) is home to over 50 million migratory waterbirds, of which 32 are globally threatened and 19 are near-threatened. These migratory waterbirds rely on productive coastal wetlands to rest and feed, allowing them to replenish their energy reserves for their next leg of migration. The Zhejiang coast, an important wintering and stopover site for migratory waterbirds in the EAAF, has undergone marked changes in recent decades, including alterations to its habitat owing to reclamation activities. The temporal and spatial dynamics and community diversity of waterbirds in this coastal area as well as the places that require increased attention for protection remain poorly understood. Therefore, in the current study, we aimed to elucidate the diversity and community structure of waterbirds in diverse coastal wetlands within Zhejiang. Based on synchronous survey data collected during the wintering period from 2022 to 2024 in Zhejiang, the taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity of four groups of waterbirds (dabbling birds, diving birds, large waders, and small waders) across 10 main coastal wetlands in Zhejiang were assessed. The results showed an increased abundance of dabbling birds, and small waders experienced a significant decrease in recent years. As integral components of the EAAF, three regions (Hangzhou Bay, Wenzhou region, and Xuanmen-Yueqing Bay) within Zhejiang should be considered high priority because of the three criteria of critical international wetlands, the irreplaceability index, and the critical position within the community structure. An analysis of community structures revealed that environmental factors were crucial in shaping dabbling birds and large wader communities. These findings were supported by constrained principal coordinate analysis, which suggested that the percentage of the cordgrass Spartina alterniflora is a factor influencing these phenomena. The geographic location and percentage of S. alterniflora might have contributed to these differences. These results were consistent with the S. alterniflora removal work by the government. Overall, these findings have important implications for policy-making decisions regarding species conservation efforts along the East-South China coast. Effective measures should be implemented to restore vegetation in tidal wetlands along the coast to provide suitable habitats for different groups of waterbirds. Further development and utilization, including the economic exploitation and management of these crucial coastal wetlands, as well as the management of wetland vegetation, should be approached with greater caution.

Effects of extreme drought on landscape pattern of Dongting Lake wetland, China

Ying Xiong , Yuping Dai , Haipeng Wu , Yuanyuan Liu , Guiqiao Wang , Xiaoxi Cai , Lu Zhou , Ning Zhou

Abstract: With the change of global climate, extreme weather is happening more and more frequently. As a typical extreme weather, extreme drought seriously endangers the safety of wetland ecosystem. In this study, remote sensing technology was used to compare the landscape pattern of Dongting Lake (DL, the second largest freshwater lake in China) wetland in normal year, drought year and wet year, to reveal the influence of extreme drought/wetness on landscape pattern. The results showed that extreme drought caused the expanding of grass to mudflat. On landscape metrics, extreme drought caused significant changes in IJI, CONTAG, ED, SIDI, SHDI, SHEI, landscape diversity and landscape heterogeneity decreased significantly; on class metrics, extreme drought caused significant changes in CA, MPS, AI, the degree of fragmentation is reduced and the landscape connectivity is enhanced. These changes will affect various migratory birds living in the DL wetland. Additionally, we also discovered that, in contrast to extreme drought, extreme wetness has a relatively minor influence on the DL wetland, and their impacts on landscape fragmentation are contrary.

The impact of ecological water level on wintering migratory birds in Poyang Lake – Focusing on phytophagous geese

Yuxin Li , Xi Dong , Chunming Hu

Abstract: Poyang Lake is the largest freshwater lake in China and a globally important wintering habitat for migratory birds. The ecosystem health of Poyang Lake and the surrounding lakeshore wetlands is crucial for the wintering of birds. To better protect the health of bird wintering habitats, this study proposes an ecological water level calculation method that comprehensively considers zoning and phasing by establishing a coupled relationship between water level and ecosystem health. The results show that the ecosystem characteristics of the Poyang Lake lakeshore wetland are closely related to the water level. Based on the water level guarantee rate, the lake area can be divided into five sub-areas: 0%, 0–25%, 25–50%, 50–75%, and 75–100%, each with significant differences in vegetation characteristics. The average water levels in February, June, September, and November significantly impact the ecosystem health of the Poyang Lake lakeshore wetland and can serve as regulatory nodes for ecological water levels. Based on the life habits of geese and ducks, which are the dominant migratory bird species in Poyang Lake, the importance of ecological water level regulation is in the order of September, February, November and June, and the ecological water level in each month is recommended to be controlled as follows: the February average water level within the range of 6–8 m, ensure a minimum June average water level of 15 m, maintain the September average water level between 11–12 m, and stabilize the November average water level at 10 m. This thesis proposes a new way of studying the ecological water level of lakes, which can improve the existing research methods of ecological water level and better protect the ecosystem health of lakes and wetlands and fulfill their key ecological services.

Spatial scales matter in designing buffer zones for coastal protected areas along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway

Roger H. Lee , Ivan H.Y. Kwong , Tom C.H. Li , Paulina P.Y. Wong , Yik-Hei Sung , Yat-Tung Yu

Abstract: Coastal protected areas are increasingly threatened by urbanization, posing significant risks to wetland biodiversity. Consequently, the recognition of buffer zones as essential for reducing anthropogenic impacts on protected areas has grown. However, limited monitoring and research efforts have been directed towards areas beyond protected sites, despite their interconnectedness. In this study, we focused on waterbirds as ecologically important wetland species to provide evidence of the significance of monitoring and managing buffer zones. By integrating remotely sensed parameters and 3-year monthly waterbird surveys in and around the Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site of Hong Kong, a key stopover of the East Asian Australasian Flyway, we mapped waterbird occurrences for all and different waterbird guilds during winter and summer using random forest models. We found that suitable habitats were predominantly found within protected areas, yet ardeids, large wading birds, ducks and grebes also relied on buffer zones. Waterbird occurrences were influenced by the spatial extent of suitable habitats, with variations observed across different guilds and seasons. In the study area, maintaining at least 40 % open water within an 800-meter radius of key habitats better supports diverse waterbird guilds and should inform the design of waterbird-friendly landscape profiles for protected areas and their buffer zones. Our findings reinforce the significant contribution of protected coastal wetlands to waterbird conservation and highlight the growing importance of spatially relevant buffer zones in facilitating a gradual transition between protected and urbanized areas in supporting waterbird diversity amidst coastal developments.

Prediction of suitable habitat for tundra swans in the Nanji wetland Nature Reserve of Poyang Lake under different water level conditions

Tianwei Fang , Jin Jin , Chao Chen , Li Zhang , Yankuo Li , Chaoyang Li

Abstract: It is important to predict the habitat of the migratory bird Cygnus columbianus (tundra swan) at different water levels when generating wetland conservation strategies. Poyang Lake is an important wintering habitat on the migration route of tundra swans. However, the relationship between water level and suitable habitat area is still largely unknown. Therefore, this study employed Maxent to model and predict the five leading environmental factors and their corresponding thresholds affecting the habitat selection of tundra swans. Based on this, the study assessed habitat suitability for tundra swans at different water levels and discussed how water level changes impacted the habitats. Results showed that: (1) Soil humidity, distance to settlements, elevation, wetland landscape type, and NDVI (Normalized difference vegetation index) played dominant roles in the habitat selection of tundra swans. (2) The southwestern lakelets were preferred habitats for tundra swans, whereas the lake branches in the northern region were potentially suitable at various water levels. The eastern area of the study area was more affected by water level changes than the western area. (3) There was a significant correlation between habitat area and water level change.

3) 조류 인플루엔자 / 그 외

Altered Gut Archaeal Communities in Anser erythropus Populations Wintering at Shengjin and Caizi Lakes in China

Shaofei Zhang, Na Xu and Gang Liu

Abstract: Archaea are an important component of the gut microbiomes of animals and play a key role in animal health. However, they have been neglected in previous microbial studies, particularly those involving migratory waterbirds. Here, we investigated the gut archaeal communities of Anser erythropus wintering at Shengjin and Caizi Lakes in China using metagenomic analysis of 20 fecal samples (ten samples per lake). The operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in the gut archaea of geese wintering in the two lakes represented 16 phyla, 16 classes, 24 orders, 27 families, and 45 genera, with Euryarchaeota, Thaumarchaeota, and Bathyarchaeota being the dominant gut archaeal phyla. The results of alpha diversity analysis showed a significant difference in composition between the Shengjin and Caizi Lake samples, and orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) analysis indicated that geese were well-matched with their lakes of origin. Stamp analysis revealed a difference of 27 gut archaeal species between A. erythropus wintering at Shengjin Lake and those at Caizi Lake. Archaeal network analysis results fell into four major modules, with Methanolobus psychrotolerans and Thaumarchaeota archaeon as the hub modules. The abundances of several bacterial and fungal genera were significantly correlated with abundances of archaeal genera in pairwise populations, and a positive correlation was observed between archaeal, bacterial, and fungal diversities in the guts of A. erythropus wintering at both Shengjin and Caizi Lakes (R=0.4, p=2.2×10-16; R=0.86, p=2.2×10-16, respectively). This suggests that fecal bacteria and fungi may cooperate with archaea to perform crucial roles in the gut. However, because of the small sample size in this study, further studies are needed to fully investigate the altered archaea in the guts of these geese.

Methylmercury exposure and risk of wintering migratory birds in the Poyang Lake basin, China

Xu Liu , Zhangwei Wang , Xiang Niu , Bing Wang , Chunjie Wang , Huabin Cao , Xiaoshan Zhang

Abstract: Mercury (Hg), especially methylmercury (MeHg), is a pervasive contaminant that poses significant risks to birds occupying high trophic levels. However, we have little knowledge about the mercury exposure and its risks for birds in Poyang Lake basin, China. Therefore, during 2020–2021, we investigated MeHg concentrations in breast feathers of wintering migratory birds (n = 430 from 43 species belonging to 9 orders) in Poyang Lake Nanji Wetland and Jiangxi Nanfengmian National Nature Reserve, China. MeHg concentrations in breast feathers varied greatly by species, foraging guilds and taxonomic orders, among which the highest concentration was detected in great egret (8849 ± 5975 ng g−1 dw). Comparing with studies worldwide, high MeHg concentrations in feathers of Ardeidae from Pelecaniformes were found in this area. Moreover, herons migrating between northern and southern China had lower MeHg concentration than residents in southern China related to habitat Hg. Considering the applicability and sensitivity of the equations for the transformation of MeHg concentrations in feathers to blood-equivalent total Hg (THg) values, method CJ that the equation based on songbirds was used for the transformation of the songbirds and the equation based on seabirds for the others performed better than other three for risk assessment of bird Hg in this study. 23.1% of birds from Poyang Lake were at risk of Hg exposure based on the method CJ. Carnivorous birds from Pelecaniformes had the highest risk levels, with 37.2% categorized as no risk (≤200 ng g−1 ww), 48.9% as low risk (200–1000 ng g−1 ww), 11.1% as moderate risk (1000–3000 ng g−1 ww), 1.1% as high risk (3000–4000 ng g−1 ww), and 1.7% as severe risk (>4000 ng g−1 ww). These risks suggest long-term monitoring and further advanced studies about freshwater waterbirds Hg exposure is necessary.

Variations of gut microbiota in the wintering black-necked crane (Grus nigricollis) at local and regional scales and its management implications

Ningjing Kou , Yalong Li , Linjia Pu , Tongxiang Zou , Chuanyin Dai

Abstract: The composition of gut microbiota (and its dynamic) strongly influences the host organism’s health, and has been reported to be influenced by a variety of intrinsic and extrinsic factors in wild birds. However, most of the studies were carried out on a single geographical scale. A study incorporating comparison on multiple geographic scales should further improve our understanding of the contributing factors for avian gut microbiota. In this study, we compared the composition, diversity and function of gut microbiota among seven sub-divided populations of the black-necked crane (Grus nigricollis) wintering in Caohai wetland, China. Sequences on the V3-V4 region of 16 S rRNA were analyzed and compared to those of birds from the same breeding area, but distant wintering area in Dashanbao wetland. We observed microbiota divergences both within the Caohai wetland and between the two wetlands. Interestingly, the divergences between the two wetlands were much more pronounced than those within the Caohai wetland, strongly suggesting the determining effect of the external factors in this species. Core gut microbial operational taxonomic units were from the phyla Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria, which may be closely related in terms of dietary intake. Most importantly, we detected abundant potentially pathogenic bacteria in the Caohai wetland, which require monitoring efforts to avoid cross-species transmission between the birds and local poultry, livestock and residents. We further speculated that the shrinking of foraging grounds, with the resultant shortage of plant foods, led to an increase in fish-eating frequency in this species. We suggested that encouraging farmers to return to the wetland to grow agricultural plants would likely be a good solution.

Molecular detection, subtyping of Blastocystis sp. in migratory birds from nature reserves in northeastern China

Hai-Jun Wang , Di Chen , Zhen-Hua Ma , Cun-Fa Liu , Wei-Dong Li , Yi Hao , Jing-Shuang Yang , Qing-Bao Lin , Da-Wei Zhang , Yang Li , Yang Yu , Wei Cong , Li-Wen Song

Abstract: Migratory birds play an important role in the cross-regional transmission of zoonotic pathogens. Assessing the presence of zoonotic pathogens carried by migratory birds is critical for disease control. However, information about Blastocystis infection in the migratory birds is very limited. Thus, we conducted this study with the aim to explore the occurrence, prevalence and subtyping of Blastocystis in four breeds of migratory birds in northeastern China. From October 2022 to April 2023, a total of 427 fresh fecal samples were obtained from four breeds of migratory birds in five nature reserves in northeastern China, and screened for Blastocystis by PCR amplification. Twenty-one (4.92 %) of the studied samples were confirmed Blastocystis-positive, and two known zoonotic subtypes ST6 and ST7 were founded, with ST7 being the major subtype. Until now, we firstly reported the infection status and subtyping of Blastocystis in the migratory Greater White-Fronted Goose, White Stork, Oriental White Stork and Bean Goose in China. More importantly, these findings present further data on the genetic diversity and transmission routes of Blastocystis and further arouse public health concerns about this organism.

Existence of Blastocystis infection in bar–headed goose (Anser indicus)

Nian-Yu Xue , Si-Yuan Qin , Ya Qin , Hai-Tao Wang , Qing-Yu Hou , Xing Yang , Jing Jiang , Hong-Bo Ni

Abstract: Blastocystis is a common intestinal protist in humans and animals. Currently, Blastocystis infection in bar-headed geese is unknown. To understand the prevalence and distribution of Blastocystis subtypes in bar–headed geese, fecal samples were collected from 358 bar–headed geese in three regions. The total infection rate of Blastocystis in bar–headed in China was 5.9% (21/358), with 5.0% (6/120) in Aba (Ngawa) Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefect, Sichuan province, 11.8% (14/119) in Maqu county, Gansu province, and 0.8% (1/119) in Caohai, Wei ning county, Guizhou province. The differences in prevalence rates by region were statistically significant. Sequences analyses showed that one known subtype (ST7, n = 16) and one potentially novel ST (n = 5) in bar–headed geese were detected in this study. This is the first report on the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis in bar–headed geese, which will improve our understanding of the epidemiology and public health implications of Blastocystis infection in wild migratory birds.

Digital twin-based virtual modeling of the Poyang Lake wetland landscapes

Hao Chen , Xin Xiao , Chao Chen , Min Chen , Chaoyang Li , Kai Lu , Hui Lin , Chaoyang Fang

Abstract: Virtual wetland landscapes of provide fundamental support for digital twin watershed constructions. However, most digital twin applications in natural environments have focused on static digital scenes and little consideration for wetlands. The Poyang Lake is characterized by seasonal hydrologic changes, with periodic plant community successions, making it necessary to capture dynamic changes in the Poyang Lake ecological landscapes through dynamic three-dimensional (3D) scenes. This study selected typical landscapes to establish digital twin scenarios, presenting the virtual landscapes, distribution characteristics of flora and fauna in the Poyang Lake wetland, and seasonal changes in the lake water levels. The results can be used to restore the virtual Poyang Lake landscapes, including seasonal changes in the water surface, vegetation growth, and migratory bird activities. This construction process can be applied to similar digital twin constructs for flood-prone wetland watersheds, providing insights into digital twin watersheds or nature-oriented digital twin development.

Surveillance of avian influenza viruses in Hebei Province of China from 2021 to 2023: Identification of a novel reassortant H3N3

Yanbai Li , Zhe Yin , Juan Wang , Yujuan Xu , Shanshan Huo , Yang Wu , Dou Dou , Qingan Han , Shibo Jiang , Feng Li , Peng Liu , Fei Yu

Abstract: Avian influenza remains a global public health concern for its well-known point mutation and genomic segment reassortment, through which plenty of serum serotypes are generated to escape existing immune protection in animal and human populations. Some occasional cases of human infection of avian influenza viruses (AIVs) since 2020 posed a potential pandemic risk through human-to-human transmission. Both east-west and north-south migratory birds fly through and linger in the Hebei Province of China as a stopover habitat, providing an opportunity for imported AIVs to infect the local poultry and for viral gene reassortment to generate novel stains. In this study, we collected more than 6000 environmental samples (mostly feces) in Hebei Province from 2021 to 2023. Samples were screened using real-time RT-PCR, and virus isolation was performed using the chick embryo culture method. We identified 10 AIV isolates, including a novel reassortant H3N3 isolate. Sequencing analysis revealed these AIVs are highly homologous to those isolated in the Yellow River Basin. Our findings supported that AIVs keep evolving to generate new isolates, necessitating a continuous risk assessment of local avian influenza in wild waterfowl in Hebei, China.

Continuous surveillance of pathogens detects excretion of avian orthoreovirus and parvovirus by several wild waterfowl: possible wild bird reservoirs

Hongzhi Wang*, Di Lei*, Boyi Xu*, Xuyong Li , Rendong Fang*, Yi Tang

Abstract: Migratory wild birds can carry various pathogens, such as influenza A virus, which can spread to globally and cause disease outbreaks and epidemics. Continuous epidemiological surveillance of migratory wild birds is of great significance for the early warning, prevention, and control of epidemics. To investigate the pathogen infection status of migratory wild birds in eastern China, fecal samples were collected from wetlands to conduct pathogen surveillance. The results showed that duck orthoreovirus (DRV) and goose parvovirus (GPV) nucleic acid were detected positive in the fecal samples collected from wild ducks, egrets, and swan. Phylogenetic analysis of the amplified viral genes reveals that the isolates were closely related to the prevalent strains in the regions involved in East Asian-Australasian (EAA) migratory flyway. Phylogenetic analysis of the amplified viral genes confirmed that they were closely related to circulating strains in the regions involved in the EAA migration pathway. The findings of this study have expanded the host range of the orthoreovirus and parvovirus, and revealed possible virus transmission between wild migratory birds and poultry.

Neu5Gc binding loss of subtype H7 influenza A virus facilitates adaptation to gallinaceous poultry following transmission from waterbirds

Minhui Guan, Thomas J. DeLiberto, Aijing Feng, Jieze Zhang, Tao Li, Shuaishuai Wang, Lei Li, Mary Lea Killian, Beatriz Praena, Emily Giri, Shelagh T. Deliberto, Jun Hang, Alicia Olivier, Mia Kim Torchetti, Yizhi Jane Tao, Colin Parrish, Xiu-Feng Wan

Abstract: Between 2013 and 2018, the novel A/Anhui/1/2013 (AH/13)-lineage H7N9 virus caused at least five waves of outbreaks in humans, totaling 1,567 confirmed human cases in China. Surveillance data indicated a disproportionate distribution of poultry infected with this AH/13-lineage virus, and laboratory experiments demonstrated that this virus can efficiently spread among chickens but not among Pekin ducks. The underlying mechanism of this selective transmission remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated the absence of Neu5Gc expression in chickens across all respiratory and gastrointestinal tissues. However, Neu5Gc expression varied among different duck species and even within the tissues of the same species. The AH/13-lineage viruses exclusively bind to acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac), in contrast to wild waterbird H7 viruses that bind both Neu5Ac and N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc). The level of Neu5Gc expression influences H7 virus replication and facilitates adaptive mutations in these viruses. In summary, our findings highlight the critical role of Neu5Gc in affecting the host range and interspecies transmission dynamics of H7 viruses among avian species.

Metagenomic analysis of the gut microbiota of hooded cranes (Grus monacha) on the Izumi plain in Japan

Takada Kosuke, Nakagawa So, Kryukov Kirill, Ozawa Makoto, Watanabe Tokiko

Abstract:Recent advances in DNA sequencing technology have dramatically improved our understanding of the gut microbiota of various animal species. However, research on the gut microbiota of birds lags behind that of many other vertebrates, and information about the gut microbiota of wild birds such as migratory waterfowl is particularly lacking. Because the ecology of migratory waterfowl (e.g., lifestyle, diet, physiological characteristics) differs from that of other birds, the gut microbiota of migratory waterfowl likely also differs, but much is still unknown. The hooded crane (Grus monacha) is an important representative migratory waterbird species and is listed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources Red List of Threatened Species. In this study, we analyzed the bacterial and viral microbiota in the gut of hooded cranes by using deep sequencing data from fecal samples of hooded cranes that winter on the Izumi plain in Japan, and found that Cetobacterium, Clupeiformes, and Pbunavirus were clearly present in the fecal samples of hooded cranes. These findings advance our understanding of the ecology of hooded cranes.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A Virus in Wild Migratory Birds, Qinghai Lake, China, 2022

Xiaoqing Zhang, Jiaying Wu, Yanhai Wang, Mengchan Hao, Haizhou Liu, Sanling Fan, Juan Li, Jianqing Sun, Yubang He, Yuan Zhang, and Jianjun Chen

Abstract: In July 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus clade 2.3.4.4b occurred among migratory birds at Qinghai Lake in China. The virus circulated in June, and reassortants emerged after its introduction into the area. Surveillance in 2023 showed that the virus did not establish a stable presence in wild waterfowl.

Molecular Characterization of a Clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus from a 2022 Outbreak in Layer Chickens in the Philippines

Baybay Zyne, Montecillo Andrew, Pantua Airish, Mananggit Milagros, RomoJr Generoso Rene, Esmeraldo San Pedro, Pantua Homer, Christina Lora Leyson

Abstract: H5 subtype high-pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) viruses continue to devastate the poultry industry and threaten food security and public health. The first outbreak of H5 HPAI in the Philippines was reported in 2017. Since then, H5 HPAI outbreaks have been reported in 2020, 2022, and 2023. Here, we report the first publicly available complete whole-genome sequence of an H5N1 high-pathogenicity avian influenza virus from a case in Central Luzon. Samples were collected from a flock of layer chickens exhibiting signs of lethargy, droopy wings, and ecchymotic hemorrhages in trachea with excessive mucus exudates. A high mortality rate of 96–100% was observed within the week. Days prior to the high mortality event, migratory birds were observed around the chicken farm. Lungs, spleen, cloacal swabs, and oropharyngeal–tracheal swabs were taken from two chickens from this flock. These samples were positive in quantitative RT-PCR assays for influenza matrix and H5 hemagglutinin (HA) genes. To further characterize the virus, the same samples were subjected to whole-virus-genome amplification and sequencing using the Oxford Nanopore method with mean coverages of 19,190 and 2984, respectively. A phylogenetic analysis of the HA genes revealed that the H5N1 HPAI virus from Central Luzon belongs to the Goose/Guangdong lineage clade 2.3.4.4b viruses. Other segments also have high sequence identity and the same genetic lineages as other clade 2.3.4.4b viruses from Asia. Collectively, these data indicate that wild migratory birds are the likely source of H5N1 viruses from the 2022 outbreaks in the Philippines. Thus, biosecurity practices and surveillance for HPAI viruses in both domestic and wild birds should be increased to prevent and mitigate HPAI outbreaks.

First Report of Complete Genome Analysis of Multiple Drug Resistance Proteus mirabilis KUST-1312 Isolate From Migratory Birds in China: A Public Health Threat

Gao Jiayu, Liu Shufa, Bano Sadia, Xia Xueshan, Baloch Zulqarnain

Abstract: Proteus mirabilis, a gram-negative bacterium, poses a significant public health threat due to its multidrug-resistant (MDR) characteristics. Here, for the first time, we report the isolation and comprehensive genome analysis of an MDR strain, P. mirabilis KUST-1312, obtained from migratory birds in Yunnan Province, China. A total of 65 samples, including migratory bird feces, soil, and water from Dianchi Lake, were collected. Standard microbiological techniques were employed to isolate the P. mirabilis KUST-1312 strain from these samples. Genomic sequencing was conducted using a hybrid assembly strategy, combining Illumina and Oxford nanopore sequencing technologies. Phenotypic testing revealed the MDR nature of P. mirabilis KUST-1312, displaying resistance to various antibiotics except gentamicin and Cefotaxime. Notably, 15 antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), including aph(3′)-Ia, cat, tet(J), bleO, dfrA12, aadA2, AAC(3)-IId, bla-TEM-1B, erm(42),aph(6)-Id, blaPER-1, sul2, aph(3′’)-Ib(2copies), and aph(3′)-VIb, were identified on a single chromosome. These 15 ARGs were dispersed along three MDR regions, and the boundaries of these regions were consistently flanked by copies of insertion sequences and also contained other genetic elements. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the close relation of P. mirabilis KUST-1312 with environmental and clinical isolates reported from other continents rather than with Asian isolates. In conclusion, this study reports the first-ever isolation of an MDR P. mirabilis KUST-1312 strain from migratory birds globally, particularly in China. There is a need to explore further its prevalence in detail in various ecological niches, including migratory birds.

First detection and biological characterization of an avian metaavulavirus 8 isolated from a migratory swan goose in Qinghai Lake, Northwest China

Sijie Wang, Xinxin Liu, Jianjun Chen, Weiwen Yan, Hongjin Li, Weiwei Chi, Rui Luo, Xianwen Lin, Yue Yin, Chuanrong Dong, Huihui Wang, Bowen Zheng, Hongli Li, Yifei Liu, Tobias Stoeger, Abdul Wajid, Aleksandar Dodovski, Chao Gao, Claro N. Mingala, Dmitry B. Andreychuk, Renfu Yin

Abstract: Avian metaavulavirus 8 (AMAV-8), formerly known as avian paramyxovirus 8 (APMV-8), has been detected sporadically in wild birds worldwide since it was first identified in a Canadian goose in 1976. However, the presence of AMAV-8 in birds has never been reported in China. To understand the epidemiological situation of AMAV-8 and its ability to infect chickens, we conducted a surveillance study and in vivo analysis of the AMAV-8 isolate identified in total of 14,909 clinical samples collected from wild and domestic birds from 2014 to 2022 in China. However, in 2017, only one AMAV-8 virus (Y7) was successful isolated from the fresh droppings of a migratory swan goose in Qinghai Lake in Northwest China. Thereafter, we report the complete genome sequence of the Y7 strain with a genome length of 15,342 nucleotides and the Y7 isolate was genetically closely-related to wild bird-origin AMAV-8 viruses previously circulated in the United States, Japan, and Kazakhstan. Furthermore, AMAV-8 infections of one-day-old specific pathogen-free (SPF) chicks did not induce any clinical signs over the entire observation period but was associated with viral shedding for up to 8 days. Interestingly, although all birds infected with the Y7 strain seroconverted within the first week of infection, virus replication was only detected in the trachea but not in other tissues such as the brain, lung, or heart. Here, we report the complete genome, genetic and biological characterization, replication and pathogenicity analysis in vivo and first detection of AMAV-8 in China.

Molecular epidemiology of avian influenza viruses and avian coronaviruses in environmental samples from migratory bird inhabitants in Bangladesh

Khatun MN ,  Tasnim S , Hossain MR ,  Rahman MZ ,  Hossain MT , Chowdhury EH ,  Parvin R

Abstract: Migratory birds are a natural reservoir for major respiratory viruses such as the avian influenza virus (AIV) and the avian coronavirus (AvCoV). Transmission of these viruses from migratory birds to domestic birds increases the prevalence of those diseases that cause severe economic and public health concerns in Bangladesh. The study focused on active surveillance of major respiratory viral pathogens in migratory birds, molecular identification of the viruses, and their phylogenetic origin. To conduct this study, 850 environmental samples (830 fecal samples, 10 soil samples, and 10 water samples) were collected during three consecutive winter seasons from three divisions (Dhaka, Sylhet, and Mymensingh) and pooled according to the year of collection and locations, resulting in a total of 184 tested samples. Using gene-specific primers and probes in TaqMan-and SYBR Green-based RT-qPCR assays, the samples were screened for AIV and AvCoV, respectively. Out of the 184 pooled samples, 37 were found to be positive for these respiratory pathogens. Furthermore, out of the 37 (20.11%) positive respiratory pathogens, 11.96% were AIV (n = 22) and 8.15% were AvCoV (n = 15). For the first time in Bangladesh, AIV H4N2, H4N6, and AvCoVs have been found in fecal samples from migratory birds through surveillance. Phylogenetic analyses of the HA and NA genes of AIV and the polymerase gene (Orf 1) of AvCoV revealed that these strains share a close phylogenetic relationship with the isolates from wild birds in Europe and Asia. The Bangladeshi strains with Eurasian ancestry might pose a significant threat to migratory birds flying through the Asian flyways. They might also be a potential source of virus introduction and spread to poultry raised on land. These findings emphasize the significance of ongoing AIV and AvCoV surveillance in migratory birds in Bangladesh.

Serological analysis in humans in Malaysian Borneo suggests prior exposure to H5 avian influenza near migratory shorebird habitats

Klim Hannah William Timothy, Mellors Jack, Brady Caolann, Rajahram Giri S, Chua Tock H, Brazal Monzó Helena, John Jecelyn Leslie, da Costa Kelly, Jeffree Mohammad Saffree

Abstract: Cases of H5 highly pathogenic avian influenzas (HPAI) are on the rise. Although mammalian spillover events are rare, H5N1 viruses have an estimated mortality rate in humans of 60%. No human cases of H5 infection have been reported in Malaysian Borneo, but HPAI has circulated in poultry and migratory avian species transiting through the region. Recent deforestation in coastal habitats in Malaysian Borneo may increase the proximity between humans and migratory birds. We hypothesise that higher rates of human-animal contact, caused by this habitat destruction, will increase the likelihood of potential zoonotic spillover events. In 2015, an environmentally stratified cross-sectional survey was conducted collecting geolocated questionnaire data in 10,100 individuals. A serological survey of these individuals reveals evidence of H5 neutralisation that persisted following depletion of seasonal H1/H3 HA binding antibodies from the plasma. The presence of these antibodies suggests that some individuals living near migratory sites may have been exposed to H5 HA. There is a spatial and environmental overlap between individuals displaying high H5 HA binding and the distribution of migratory birds. We have developed a novel surveillance approach including both spatial and serological data to detect potential spillover events, highlighting the urgent need to study cross-species pathogen transmission in migratory zones.

Spillover of avian influenza H5N1 from birds to mammals have been increasingly detected, but reports of cases in humans remain limited. Here, the authors find serological evidence of human exposure to influenza H5N1 in Malaysian Borneo, an important stopover site for migratory shorebirds.

Lack of Serological and Molecular Evidence of Duck Tembusu Virus Infection in Ducks from South Korea

Sang-Won, Kim; Park, Jong-Yeol; Ki-Woong, Kim; Cheng-Dong, Yu; Hu, Feng; Jun-Feng, Lv; Yu-Feng, Li; Cha, Se-Yeoun; Hyung-Kwan Jang; Kang, Min

Abstract: The duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV), an emerging flavivirus, has led to severe neurological disorders and substantial economic losses in the duck industry throughout Asia. Considering South Korea’s increasing duck production and its strategic location along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, this study aimed to assess the presence of DTMUV in South Korea to evaluate potential risks to the poultry industry. We performed a comprehensive serological survey of 1796 serum samples from broiler and breeder ducks collected between 2011 and 2023, alongside molecular detection tests on 51 duck flocks exhibiting suspected clinical signs of DTMUV infection. The absence of serological and molecular evidence for DTMUV or other flavivirus infections suggests that these viruses have not yet affected South Korean duck populations. These findings underscore the critical need for ongoing surveillance, given the virus’s potential to disrupt agriculture and pose public health risks. The study also emphasizes the importance of maintaining stringent biosecurity measures and conducting further research to monitor and prevent DTMUV transmission, particularly due to the possible role of migratory birds and other vectors in spreading zoonotic diseases.

Extreme drought shapes the gut microbiota composition and function of common cranes (Grus grus) wintering in Poyang Lake

Wang CY ,  Zhang C ,  Cai H , Zhu YL

Abstract: Introduction Extreme weather events driven by climate change profoundly affect migratory birds by altering their habitats, food sources, and migration routes. While gut microbiota is believed to play a role in helping birds adapt to environmental changes, research on how extreme weather impacts their gut microbiota and how these microbial communities respond to such conditions has been limited.Methods 16S rRNA gene sequencing was utilized to investigate the gut microbiota of common cranes (Grus grus) wintering at Poyang Lake from 2020 to 2023, with a particular focus on their response to extreme drought conditions on both inter-annual and monthly timescales.Results The results revealed that extreme drought conditions substantially impact gut microbiota, with inter-annual water-level fluctuations exerting a more pronounced impact on microbial community structure than that of inter-monthly fluctuations. Notably, a significant decline in bacterial diversity within the gut microbiota of common cranes was observed in the extreme drought year of 2022 compared with other years. Monthly observations indicated a gradual increase in gut microbial diversity, coinciding with relatively minor water-level changes. Key taxa that responded to drought included the Enterobacteriaceae family and Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species. Additionally, functional genes related to carbohydrate metabolism, the phosphotransferase system, and the two-component systems were significantly enriched during the extreme drought year. These functions may represent adaptive mechanisms by which the gut microbiota of common cranes respond to drought stress.Discussion This research provides novel insights into the temporal variability of gut microbiota in wintering waterbirds, underscoring the significant impact of climatic fluctuations on microbial communities. The findings highlight the importance of understanding the ecological and functional responses of gut microbiota to extreme weather events, which is crucial for the conservation and management of migratory bird populations in the face of climate change.

Long-Term Dynamics of Different Avian Influenza Viruses in Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) Population in Moscow City and Moscow Oblast: Dependence on the Migration Activity

1. A. Treshchalina, E. F. Rodina, A. S. Gambaryan, E. Yu. Boravleva, K. V. Avilova, S. P. Kharitonov & K. E. Litvin

Abstract: The purpose of this study was the research of the avian influenza virus diversity at Moscow waterbodies and comparison of the virology changing pattern to the mallard’s migratory features and wintering capacities at Moscow waterbodies, as well as an attempt to explain shifting in the virus composition and diversity. Mallard droppings were collected in the autumn of 2008–2023 from shores of Moscow and Moscow oblast waterbodies. Avian influenza viruses were extracted from the feces using a standard extraction process with the virus breeding on the chicken embryos. After the breeding the extracted viruses were subtyped by PCR with specific primaries to give type A virus sequences. In 2008–2013 European strains of the virus were prevalent in the mallard samples, whereas in 2014–2019 the prevalence shifted to Asian strains. Correlation of these observations with the changes in mallard migration allowed the assumption that European strains were entered into the Moscow oblast mainly from the southern Europe. The Asian strains were entered from the Western Europe. During 2008–2019 in the mallard feces from the Moscow waterbodies we observed a reduction of the virus strains. The frequency and the diversity of the extracted viruses decreased sharply after 2014. There could be several causes for the decline in the strain diversity, in particular, changes in the ratio of ducks hunted during spring and autumn hunting, increased mallard numbers at winter grounds within the breeding range, as well as reduced numbers of black-headed gulls that are also carriers of the avian influenza viruses.

Evolution and biological characteristics of H11 avian influenza viruses isolated from migratory birds and pigeons

Shen Jinyan; Zhang Hong; Sun Xiaohong; Zhang Yaping; Wang Mengjing; Guan Mengdi; Liu Lili; Li Wenxi; Xu Hongke; Xie Yujiao

Abstract: The emergence of novel avian influenza reassortants in wild birds in recent years is a public health concern. However, the viruses that circulate in migratory birds are not fully understood. In this study, we summarized and categorized global H11 avian influenza viruses and reported that waterfowl and shorebirds are the major reservoirs of the identified H11 viruses. The surveillance data of the 35,749 faecal samples collected from wild bird habitats in eastern China over the past seven years revealed a low prevalence of H11 viruses in birds, with a positive rate of 0.067% (24 isolates). The phylogenetic analysis of the twenty viruses indicated that H11 viruses have undergone complex reassortment with viruses circulating in waterfowl and shorebirds. These tested viruses do not acquire mammalian adaptive mutations in their genomes and preferentially bind to avian-type receptors. Experimental infection studies demonstrated that the two tested H11N9 viruses of wild bird origin replicated and transmitted more efficiently in ducks than in chickens, whereas the pigeon H11N2 virus isolated from a live poultry market was more adapted to replicate in chickens than in ducks. In addition, some H11 isolates replicated efficiently in mice and caused body weight loss but were not lethal. Our study revealed the role of waterfowl and shorebirds in the ecology and evolution of H11 viruses and the potential risk of introducing circulating H11 viruses into ducks or chickens, further emphasizing the importance of avian influenza surveillance at the interface of migratory birds and poultry.

덩스옌(Deng Shiyan) 님께서 정리하셨습니다

1) 생물학 & 생태학

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• CHENXI W, SHAOXIA X, XIUBO Y, et al., 2024. It takes two to Tango: Plant height and nutrient level determine the diet selection of wintering geese in Poyang Lake, a Ramsar wetland[J/OL].Global Ecology and Conservation, 49: e02802.DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e02802.
• ROSS T A, ZHANG J, CHIANG C Y, et al., 2024. Running the gauntlet; flyway-wide patterns of pollutant exposure in blood of migratory shorebirds[J/OL]. Environmental Research, 246: 118123. DOI:10.1016/j.envres.2024.118123.
• EMROSE A, SHOME A R, ALAM Md M, et al., 2024. Northwestern transboundary area of Bangladesh: a key to sustaining a quarter of the country’s avian species[J/OL]. Ornithology Research, 32(1): 23-32. DOI:10.1007/s43388-023-00163-z.
• ROMANOV A A, 2024. Ecological and Geographical Structure and Dynamics of Spring Migration of Water and Semiaquatic Birds on the Putorana Plateau[J/OL]. Contemporary Problems of Ecology, 17(1): 1-14. DOI:10.1134/S1995425524010116.
• ZHENG Y, Wu ,Junhong, Sheviakina ,Natalia, et al., 2024. Using remote-sensing data to study the rapid growth of wind farms and their impact on bird habitat in Yellow Sea Wetland, China[J/OL]. Remote Sensing Letters, 15(3): 245-257. DOI:10.1080/2150704X.2024.2318758.
• VAN BEMMELEN R S A, MOE B, SCHEKKERMAN H, et al., 2024. Synchronous timing of return to breeding sites in a long-distance migratory seabird with ocean-scale variation in migration schedules[J/OL]. Movement Ecology, 12(1): 22. DOI:10.1186/s40462-024-00459-9.
• WANG L, GONG Y, 2024. Area- and latitude- shaped shorebird diversity patterns reveal constraints of migratory bottlenecks along the Yellow sea coast of China[J/OL]. Ecological Indicators, 160: 111924. DOI:10.1016/j.ecolind.2024.111924.
• PENG H B, CHAN Y C, HUANG Y, et al., 2024. Intraseasonal movements between staging sites by migrating great knots: Longer distances to alternatives decrease the probability of such moves[J/OL]. Biological Conservation, 292: 110547. DOI:10.1016/j.biocon.2024.110547.
• CUI L, WEI Z, ZHOU L, et al., 2024. Effects of constant high water levels in winter on waterbird diversity in Caizi Lakes: A functional perspective[J/OL]. Global Ecology and Conservation, 52: e02934. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e02934.
• KIM E J, HUR W H, KIM H J, et al., 2024. Population trend and spatio-temporal distribution of Greater White-fronted (Anser albifrons) and Bean Geese (Anser fabalis) in Korea[J/OL]. Avian Research, 15: 100214. DOI:10.1016/j.avrs.2024.100214.
• SABANO Y, SAWA Y, UEMURA S, et al., 2024. Population trends and distribution of the Lesser Snow Goose Anser caerulescens caerulescens in Japan, based on 50 years of monitoring[J]. Wildfowl(0): 69.
• AN S, KUANG F, WU W, et al., 2024. Individual consistency in spatiotemporal characteristics of migratory Whimbrels in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway[J/OL]. AVIAN RESEARCH, 15: 100191. DOI:10.1016/j.avrs.2024.100191.
• DOROFEEV D, IVANOV A, KHUDYAKOVA E, et al., 2024. Biometric variability and sexual size dimorphism in the Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris[J/OL]. EUROPEAN ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL, 91(1): 64-74. DOI:10.1080/24750263.2023.2293120.
• TOMITA N, SATO F, THIEBOT J B, et al., 2024. Incomplete isolation in the nonbreeding areas of two genetically separated but sympatric short-tailed albatross populations[J/OL]. ENDANGERED SPECIES RESEARCH, 53: 213-225. DOI:10.3354/esr01302.
• SULTANA I, KHANDAKAR N, DAS D K, et al., 2024. Polychaete worm density correlates with aggregate shorebird density, prey intake rate and foraging success at an intertidal mudflat in Bangladesh[J/OL]. ARDEA, 112(1). DOI:10.5253/arde.2023.a10.
• QAYUM S, KALHORO M A, HAKEEM A, et al., 2024. Population Monitoring and Major Threats to Demoiselle Crane (grus Virgo) at Lasbela Coast, Balochistan, Pakistan[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL AND PLANT SCIENCES-JAPS, 34(1): 145-156. DOI:10.36899/JAPS.2024.1.0703.
• SON S J, DO M S, CHOI G, et al., 2024. Identifying research trends in avian migration tracking in Korea using text mining[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF ASIA-PACIFIC BIODIVERSITY, 17(2): 303-308. DOI:10.1016/j.japb.2023.12.001.
• LEE M B, LEE J H, BING G C, et al., 2024. Spatiotemporal variations in migratory bird diversity and abundance along the coast of Gochang getbol[J/OL]. PLoS ONE, 19(5): e0300353. DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0300353.

2) 보전 & 관리

• JACKSON M V, MOTT R, DELEAN S, et al., 2024. Shorebird habitat selection and foraging behaviour have important implications for management at an internationally important non-breeding wetland[J/OL]. Ecological Solutions and Evidence, 5(1): e12316. DOI:10.1002/2688-8319.12316.
• XU P, MAO S, ZHANG S, et al., 2024. Habitat utilization of the Eurasian spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia) wintering in the Yancheng National Nature Reserve: relative importance of artificial habitats[J/OL]. Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution, 12[2025-05-21]. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/ecology-and-evolution/articles/10.3389/fevo.2024.1357765/full. DOI:10.3389/fevo.2024.1357765.
• XIE Y, ZOU J, CHEN Y, et al, 2024. Are wading birds the ideal focal species for broader bird conservation? A cost-effective approach to ecological network planning[J/OL]. Ecological Indicators, 160: 111785. DOI:10.1016/j.ecolind.2024.111785.
• WANG C, XIA S, DUAN H, et al., 2024. Study on the impact of reclamation and development of Yancheng coastal wetlands on the spatio-temporal evolution of wintering Anatidae habitat[J/OL]. Ecological Indicators, 160: 111892. DOI:10.1016/j.ecolind.2024.111892.
• ABULFAZ T, NATAVAN K, 2024. The influence of the decrease in the water level in the Caspian Sea on certain species within the Gulls (Laridae) family[J]. JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE AND BIODIVERSITY, 8(2).
• BERRYMAN A J, BUTCHART S H M, JACKSON M V, et al., 2024. Trends and patterns in the extinction risk of Australia’s birds over three decades[J/OL]. EMU-AUSTRAL ORNITHOLOGY, 124(1): 55-67. DOI:10.1080/01584197.2023.2289999.
• SHI J, MENG L, XIA S, et al., 2024. Habitat Suitability and Determinants for Anatidae in Multi-Watershed Composite Wetlands in Anhui, China[J/OL]. ANIMALS, 14(7): 1010. DOI:10.3390/ani14071010.
• XIA S, XUE Z, DONG S, et al., 2024. Identification and scoring of conservation gaps in wetlands of China’s coastal provinces: Implications for extending protected areas[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, 358: 120865. DOI:10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120865.
• LISOVSKI S, HOYE B J, CONKLIN J R, et al., 2024. Predicting resilience of migratory birds to environmental change[J/OL]. PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 121(19): e2311146121. DOI:10.1073/pnas.2311146121.
• GALLO-CAJIAO E, MORRISON T H, FULLER R A, 2024. Agreements for conserving migratory shorebirds in the Asia-Pacific are better fit for addressing habitat loss than hunting[J/OL]. AMBIO, 53(9): 1336-1354. DOI:10.1007/s13280-024-02018-3.
• XU L, SUN Q, STORCH I, et al., 2024. Assessing habitat suitability and conservation priorities for flagship crane species across critical wetlands in northeast China[J/OL]. BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION, 294: 110638. DOI:10.1016/j.biocon.2024.110638.
• GOMBOBAATAR S, USUSKHJARGAL D, YOSEF R, 2024. A Review of the Conservation Status of Shorebirds in Mongolia[J/OL]. ANIMALS, 14(12): 1752. DOI:10.3390/ani14121752.
• CHEN W J, CHANG A Y, LIN C C, et al., 2024. Losing Tidal Flats at the Midpoint of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway over the past 100 Years[J/OL]. WETLANDS, 44(5): 59. DOI:10.1007/s13157-024-01814-7.
• LUAN B, LIU Y, ZHOU W, et al., 2024. Exploring Nature-based Solutions on Refined Waterbird Habitats Restoration in High-density Urban Area: A Case Study of the Futian Mangrove National Important Wetland in Shenzhen, China[J/OL]. Landscape Architecture Frontiers, 12(3): 36. DOI:10.15302/J-LAF-0-020018.
• XIA S, LV H, DUAN H, et al., 2024. Deteriorating habitat suitability and connectivity of waterbirds in the Bohai Sea Rim: Consequences of land use transformation[J/OL]. GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION, 51: e02930. DOI:10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e02930.

3) 조류 인플루엔자/그 외

• ÇELIK Ş K, BAL S Ş, 2024. An Evaluation of Radon Concentrations in Arin Lake, Bitlis[J/OL]. Water, Air, & Soil Pollution, 235(2): 94. DOI:10.1007/s11270-024-06903-1.
• CAO X, ZHENG X, BAI F, et al., 2024. Pollutant Exposure for Chinese Wetland Birds: Ecotoxicological Endpoints and Biovectors[J/OL]. ACS ES&T Water, 4(5): 2076-2087. DOI:10.1021/acsestwater.3c00707.
• WANG Y, ZHAN H, SAIF A, et al, 2024. Analysis of winter survival strategies of sympatric black-necked cranes, and common cranes from the perspective of diet and gut microbiota[J/OL]. Ecological Indicators, 160: 111782. DOI:10.1016/j.ecolind.2024.111782.
• LEE Y J, PARK J Y, SHANG K, et al., 2024. Genetic Characterization of Avian Paramyxovirus Isolated from Wild Waterfowl in Korea between 2015 and 2021[J/OL]. Animals, 14(5): 780. DOI:10.3390/ani14050780.
• LI Z, DUAN T, WANG L, et al., 2024. Comparative analysis of the gut bacteria and fungi in migratory demoiselle cranes (Grus virgo) and common cranes (Grus grus) in the Yellow River Wetland, China[J/OL]. Frontiers in Microbiology, 15[2025-05-21]. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2024.1341512/full. DOI:10.3389/fmicb.2024.1341512.
• LV X, ZHAO Q, FEI M, et al., 2024. First observations in 20 years of Brent Geese Branta bernicla wintering on the Shandong coast, China[J]. WILDFOWL, 74: 84-98.
• BOE C A, FISKEBECK E M L Z, REITEN M R, et al., 2024. Emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses H5N1 and H5N5 in white- tailed eagles, 2021-2023[J/OL]. JOURNAL OF GENERAL VIROLOGY, 105(11): 002035. DOI:10.1099/jgv.0.002035.
• LIU G, XU N, YU C, 2024. Comparative analysis of the microbiome of sympatric wintering Bean Geese, Domestic Ducks, humans, and soil at Shengjin Lake of China reveals potential public risk to human health[J/OL]. AVIAN RESEARCH, 15: 100175. DOI:10.1016/j.avrs.2024.100175.
• LI T, ZHAO C, GUO Y, et al., 2024. Genetic and Biological Characteristics of Duck-Origin H4N6 Avian Influenza Virus Isolated in China in 2022[J/OL]. VIRUSES-BASEL, 16(2): 207. DOI:10.3390/v16020207.
• GLAZUNOVA A, KRASNOVA E, BESPALOVA T, et al., 2024. A highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4 detected in Samara Oblast, Russian Federation[J/OL]. FRONTIERS IN VETERINARY SCIENCE, 11: 1244430. DOI:10.3389/fvets.2024.1244430.
• KIM T H, CHO A Y, LEE S H, et al., 2024. Isolation and whole genome sequencing of North American lineage class I avian orthoavulavirus 1 isolated from wild Eurasian teal in South Korea[J/OL]. AVIAN PATHOLOGY, 53(3): 194-198. DOI:10.1080/03079457.2024.2312116.
• LI Y, AN Q, SUN Z, et al., 2024. Multifaceted analysis of temporal and spatial distribution and risk factors of global poultry HPAI-H5N1, 2005-2023[J/OL]. ANIMAL, 18(3): 101085. DOI:10.1016/j.animal.2024.101085.
• WANG M, GUO J, ZHANG H, et al., 2024. Ecological and Genetic Landscapes of Global H12 Avian Influenza Viruses and Biological Characteristics of an H12N5 Virus Isolated from Wild Ducks in Eastern China[J/OL]. TRANSBOUNDARY AND EMERGING DISEASES, 2024: 9140418. DOI:10.1155/2024/9140418.
• ZONNEVELD J P, ZAIM Y, RIZAL Y, et al., 2024. Avian Foraging on an Intertidal Mudflat Succession in the Eocene Tanjung Formation, Asem Asem Basin, South Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo[J/OL]. PALAIOS, 39(3): 67-96. DOI:2024032914525209400.
• MAO Q, LI Z, LI Y, et al., 2024. H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus in migratory birds exhibiting low pathogenicity in mallards increases its risk of transmission and spread in poultry[J/OL]. VETERINARY MICROBIOLOGY, 292: 110038. DOI:10.1016/j.vetmic.2024.110038.
• FEOKTISTOVA S, SAYGANOVA M, TRUTNEVA K, et al., 2024. Abundant Intra-Subtype Reassortment Revealed in H13N8 Influenza Viruses[J/OL]. VIRUSES-BASEL, 16(4): 568. DOI:10.3390/v16040568.
• KANG Y M, TSEREN OCHIR E O, HEO G B, et al., 2024. Surveillance and Genetic Analysis of Low-Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Viruses Isolated from Feces of Wild Birds in Mongolia, 2021 to 2023[J/OL]. ANIMALS, 14(7): 1105. DOI:10.3390/ani14071105.
• OKUYA K, ESAKI M, TOKOROZAKI K, et al., 2024. Isolation and genetic characterization of multiple genotypes of both H5 and H7 avian influenza viruses from environmental water in the Izumi plain, Kagoshima prefecture, Japan during the 2021/22 winter season[J/OL]. COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES, 109: 102182. DOI:10.1016/j.cimid.2024.102182.
• WEITZMAN C L, TINNING Z, DAY K A, et al., 2024. Migratory Shorebird Gut Microbes are not Associated with Bivalve Prey in Monsoon Tropical Australia[J/OL]. CURRENT MICROBIOLOGY, 81(5): 111. DOI:10.1007/s00284-024-03628-6.
• MIHIRETU B D, USUI T, KIYAMA M, et al., 2024. Novel Genotype of HA Clade 2.3.4.4b H5N8 Subtype High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus Emerged at a Wintering Site of Migratory Birds in Japan, 2021/22 Winter[J/OL]. PATHOGENS, 13(5): 380. DOI:10.3390/pathogens13050380.
• MA Y, CHOI C Y, SHANG L, et al., 2024. Mercury contamination is an invisible threat to declining migratory shorebirds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway[J/OL]. COMMUNICATIONS BIOLOGY, 7(1): 585. DOI:10.1038/s42003-024-06254-x.
• XUE N Y, QIN S Y, QIN Y, et al., 2024. The prevalence and genotypes of Cryptosporidium spp. in bar-headed goose ( Anser indicus ) in China[J/OL]. PARASITOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, 102: 102902. DOI:10.1016/j.parint.2024.102902.
• HEO G B, KANG Y M, AN S H, et al., 2024. Concurrent Infection with Clade 2.3.4.4b Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N6 and H5N1 Viruses, South Korea, 2023[J/OL]. EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES, 30(6): 1223-1227. DOI:10.3201/eid3006.240194.
• STANISLAWEK W L, TANA T, RAWDON T G, et al., 2024. Avian influenza viruses in New Zealand wild birds, with an emphasis on subtypes H5 and H7: Their distinctive epidemiology and genomic properties[J/OL]. PLoS ONE, 19(6): e0303756. DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0303756.

1) 생물학 & 생태학

Spatially heterogeneous shifts in vegetation phenology induced by climate change threaten the integrity of the avian migration network

Jie Wei, Fei Xu, Ella F. Cole, Ben C. Sheldon, Willem F. de Boer, Ben Wielstra, Haohuan Fu, Peng Gong, Yali Si

Abstract: Phenological responses to climate change frequently vary among trophic levels, which can result in increasing asynchrony between the peak energy requirements of consumers and the availability of resources. Migratory birds use multiple habitats with seasonal food resources along migration flyways. Spatially heterogeneous climate change could cause the phenology of food availability along the migration flyway to become desynchronized. Such heterogeneous shifts in food phenology could pose a challenge to migratory birds by reducing their opportunity for food availability along the migration path and consequently influencing their survival and reproduction. We develop a novel graph-based approach to quantify this problem and deploy it to evaluate the condition of the heterogeneous shifts in vegetation phenology for 16 migratory herbivorous waterfowl species in Asia. We show that climate change-induced heterogeneous shifts in vegetation phenology could cause a 12% loss of migration network integrity on average across all study species. Species that winter at relatively lower latitudes are subjected to a higher loss of integrity in their migration network. These findings highlight the susceptibility of migratory species to climate change. Our proposed methodological framework could be applied to migratory species in general to yield an accurate assessment of the exposure under climate change and help to identify actions for biodiversity conservation in the face of climate-related risks.

It takes two to Tango: Plant height and nutrient level determine the diet selection of wintering geese in Poyang Lake, a Ramsar wetland

Wang Chenxi, Xia Shaoxia, Yu Xiubo, Wen Li

Abstract: In Poyang Lake, the largest and one of the most important wintering sites in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, Carex (Carex cinerascens Kük) meadows provide the primary food source for the wintering geese. However, due to intensified river regulation and more frequent extreme climatic events such as drought, observational evidence suggests that the synchrony of geese migration and Carex phenology could not be maintained without human interventions, imposing a great risk of food shortage during the wintering period. Consequently, the current conservation priority in this Ramsar site is shifted to wet meadow improvement to ensure optimal food quality. Understanding the food preferences of wintering geese is the key for effective wet meadow management. As the growth stage and nutrient level of food plants are the decisive factors influencing the diet selection of herbivores, in this study, we sampled the preferred food items by tracking the foraging paths of the Greater White-fronted Goose (n = 84) and Bean Goose (n = 34) to quantify the “foraging window” in terms of plant height,protein level, and energy content. Further, we established relationships between the above three variables of Carex based on in-situ measurements. The results show that the geese prefer plants with height ranging from 2.4 to 25.0 cm, with protein content from 13.9 to 25.2 %, and energy content from 1440.0 to 1813.6 KJ/100 g. While plant energy content increases with height, the height-protein level relationship is negative. The opposite growth curves signify a conservation challenge to maintain the delicate balance between the quantity and quality requirements of wintering geese. Carex meadow management, such as mowing, should focus on optimizing the timing of action to maximize energy supply while maintaining the right protein level for the long-term fitness, reproduction and survival of the birds.

Running the gauntlet; flyway-wide patterns of pollutant exposure in blood of migratory shorebirds

Tobias A. Ross, Junjie Zhang, Chung-Yu Chiang, Chi-Yeung Choi, Yi-Chien Lai, Alexandros G. Asimakopoulos, Prescillia Lemesle, Tomasz Maciej Ciesielski, Veerle L.B. Jaspers, Marcel Klaassen

Abstract: Shorebirds (order Charadriiformes) are among the world’s most threatened avian taxa. Within the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF), a major threat to shorebirds’ survival may be the gauntlet of pollution along the flyway. Metals, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) persist in the environment to the detriment of wildlife. In this study, we analysed element and PFAS concentrations in blood from 142 individuals across six species of Arctic-breeding migratory shorebirds with contrasting population trends, to discern species- and site-specific pollution differences, and determine how pollution correlated with population trends of EAAF shorebirds. Potential within-year pollution variations were investigated by blood-sampling birds at two sites, representing different points in the birds’ annual migrations: staging in Taiwan on southward migrations and at non-breeding grounds in Western Australia (WA). Species’ pollutant concentrations were compared to established population trends. Concentrations of potentially toxic elements were low in most individuals regardless of species. PFASs (range: <0.001–141 ng/g), Hg (<0.001–9910 ng/g) and Pb (<0.01–1210 ng/g) were higher in Taiwan than in WA (PFAS Taiwan median: 14.5 ng/g, WA median: 3.45 ng/g; Hg Taiwan: 338 ng/g, WA: 23.4 ng/g; Pb Taiwan: 36.8 ng/g, WA: 2.26 ng/g). Meanwhile As (range <0.001–8840 ng/g) and Se (290–47600 ng/g) were higher in WA than Taiwan (As Taiwan median: 500 ng/g, WA median: 1660 ng/g; Se Taiwan: 5490 ng/g, Se WA: 23700 ng/g). Nevertheless, pollutant concentrations in a subset of individuals may exceed sublethal effect thresholds (As, Se and PFASs). Finally, we found no consistent differences in pollution among species and demonstrated no correlation between pollution and population trends, suggesting pollution is likely not a major driver for population declines of EAAF shorebirds. However, ongoing and locally heavy environmental degradation and exposure to other contaminants not investigated here, such as POPs, warrants continued consideration when managing EAAF shorebird populations.

Northwestern transboundary area of Bangladesh: a key to sustaining a quarter of the country’s avian species

Afsana Emrose, Ashikur Rahman Shome, Md. Mahabub Alam, Md. Fazle Rabbe, Niloy Hawladar & Mohammad Firoj Jaman

Abstract: In the face of global forest ecosystem decline, non-protected transboundary areas like agroforestry can play a crucial role for conserving avian species. A comprehensive study on agroforestry birds in Tetulia, the northernmost area of Bangladesh, was conducted across four sites from November 2021 to October 2022. A total of 174 species (5479 contacts) of avifauna were recorded. The order Passeriformes had the highest avian diversity (70 species, 40.22%), followed by Charadriiformes (20 species, 11.50%), Accipitriformes (17 species, 9.77%), and Pelecaniformes (13 species,7.47%). The species list showed that resident birds were higher (122 species, 70.11%) than migratory birds (52 species, 29.89%). The highest richness (144 species), abundance (N = 1581), and diversity (H = 4.522, Ds = 0.984) were observed in site A1. The heterogenous nature of site A1 contributed to this result although spatial bird diversity was non-significant. The highest species richness, abundance, and diversity indices of birds showed in the winter season because of the presence of migratory species. The frequent bird activity, less anthropogenic pressure, and high detection probability during winter can influence the seasonal bird diversity result. The homestead habitats displayed the highest diversity indices (H = 4.051, Ds = 0.977) and evenness (E = 0.736) due to the diversity of plants. Birds in tea garden and agricultural land shared similar species, while water bodies associated with tea garden had more distinct species with a negative correlation value. The low-contrast edge between tea garden and agricultural land made a positive relation in bird composition. The top ten abundant species contributed 28.71% of total and jungle babbler (Turdoides striata) had the highest relative abundance. The baseline data we have collected holds significant potential for informing future research endeavors. Policymakers can leverage this foundational information to initiate conservation measures aimed at protecting the avifauna within the study site.

Ecological and Geographical Structure and Dynamics of Spring Migration of Water and Semiaquatic Birds on the Putorana Plateau

1. A. Romanov

Abstract: The ecological and geographical differentiation and dynamics of the spring migration of water and semiaquatic birds of the Putorana Plateau are analyzed. In 1988–2007, eight points were surveyed in the northern, southern, western, and eastern parts of the region on an area of 250 000 km2 using the method of route census. The water and semiaquatic avifauna of the Putorana Plateau during the spring migration includes 68 species. The tundra species (53%) from among the Anseriformes and Charadriiformes, accounting for 94%, make a significant contribution to the avifauna formation. Birds fly to the north, east, and west. They make stops at the river deltas that are freed from snow and ice early. The species distributed at stopover sites everywhere (38%), locally (22%), and pointwise (40%) are distinguished. Bird population density at stopovers is from 15 to 227 (on average (n = 8) 94) ind./km of shoreline. The population of birds on lakes is always much smaller than on adjacent river sections. The vast majority of individuals of almost all migratory species are united in monospecific and (rarely) polyspecific flocks. The entire spring migration of water and semiaquatic birds on the Putorana Plateau takes place from May 19 to June 27 and lasts on average (n = 10) 23 days. The main passage runs from May 25 to June 17 and lasts an average of (n = 8) 7 days. Spring migration is most intense in the west of the Putorana Plateau, where at least 20 000–30 000 individuals of aquatic and semiaquatic birds fly through the surveyed points. The passage is much weaker in the center and, especially, in the east of the region. There are 19 species among the dominants of water and semiaquatic habitats, including the common teal, Eurasian wigeon, northern pintail, grey-tailed tattler, and little stint.

Using remote-sensing data to study the rapid growth of wind farms and their impact on bird habitat in Yellow Sea Wetland, China

Zheng Y , Wu JH , Sheviakina N , Zahorodnia S , Olha T , Dmytro K , Trofymchuk O

Abstract: As an important migratory bird habitat along the East Asian-Australasian route, the coastal wetlands along the Yellow Sea have experienced significant human losses and threats due to the impact of wind farms. In this study, the radar data was adopted to examine and analyse the spatial and temporal changes of the human-made characteristic areas that caused the change of the migration route of birds in the Yellow Sea from 2015 to 2022. The results show that the areas of impact zones in the study area on water of the Yellow Sea, during the last 8 years, increased 14 times, from 35.7 km2 to 506.3 km2. The areas of impact zones in the study area on land, during the last 8 years, increased almost two times, from 303.4 km2 to 544.2 km2, which also has a serious impact on the number of migratory birds. Therefore, China should carefully evaluate the impact and potential threat of domestic wind farms under operation and construction on birds and other wildlife, and provide scientific solutions for the site selection of new wind farms.

Synchronous timing of return to breeding sites in a long-distance migratory seabird with ocean-scale variation in migration schedules

Rob S. A. van Bemmelen, Børge Moe, Hans Schekkerman, Sveinn Are Hansen, Katherine R. S. Snell, Elizabeth M. Humphreys, Elina Mäntylä, Gunnar Thor Hallgrimsson, Olivier Gilg, Dorothée Ehrich, John Calladine, Sjúrður Hammer, Sarah Harris, Johannes Lang, Sölvi Rúnar Vignisson, Yann Kolbeinsson, Kimmo Nuotio, Matti Sillanpää, Benoît Sittler, Aleksandr Sokolov, Raymond H. G. Klaassen, Richard A. Phillips & Ingrid Tulp

Abstract: Migratory birds generally have tightly scheduled annual cycles, in which delays can have carry-over effects on the timing of later events, ultimately impacting reproductive output. Whether temporal carry-over effects are more pronounced among migrations over larger distances, with tighter schedules, is a largely unexplored question. We tracked individual Arctic Skuas Stercorarius parasiticus, a long-distance migratory seabird, from eight breeding populations between Greenland and Siberia using light-level geolocators. We tested whether migration schedules among breeding populations differ as a function of their use of seven widely divergent wintering areas across the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean. Breeding at higher latitudes led not only to later reproduction and migration, but also faster spring migration and shorter time between return to the breeding area and clutch initiation. Wintering area was consistent within individuals among years; and more distant areas were associated with more time spent on migration and less time in the wintering areas. Skuas adjusted the period spent in the wintering area, regardless of migration distance, which buffered the variation in timing of autumn migration. Choice of wintering area had only minor effects on timing of return at the breeding area and timing of breeding and these effects were not consistent between breeding populations. The lack of a consistent effect of wintering area on timing of return between breeding areas indicates that individuals synchronize their arrival with others in their population despite extensive individual differences in migration strategies.

Area- and latitude- shaped shorebird diversity patterns reveal constraints of migratory bottlenecks along the Yellow sea coast of China

Lin Wang , Ye Gong

Abstract: Migratory stopping regions are regarded as geographic bottlenecks. However, knowledge about constraints on migratory communities remains limited. This study proposed hypothetical spatial constraints (SCs) and tested the predictions by examining the response of multifaceted shorebird diversity to the tidal flat area and latitude of the stopping sites along the Yellow Sea coast. We estimated species richness (SR), phylogenetic and functional diversity (PD and FD) by building a species-level phylogenetic tree and measuring five functional traits of all species, using data on the shorebird community at 11 internationally important stopping sites of 2020–2021. We used multiple linear regression models and null models to examine the relationships between diversity metrics and stopping site variables (area and latitude). Functional and phylogenetic rarity of non-least concern species was calculated to estimate their risk of disappearance. The three dimensions of biodiversity decreased with decreasing area despite different slopes (i.e., FD was less sensitive to area than SR, whereas PD was lost more rapidly in smaller areas). In addition, only FD increased at sites approaching the terminal stopping area, implying that SR and PD were restricted from growing by latitude. Inferred from the PD and FD patterns, competitive exclusion tends be the dominant mechanism structuring the community, and the FD-inferred process was intensified in smaller sites toward the northerly terminal site. The area- and latitude-shaped diversity patterns indicate SCs on the migratory community, while a more intensive process of competitive exclusion tends to take place in smaller and near-terminal stopping sites. Consequently, the threatened shorebirds with less competitive capacity may be more prone than others in the SCs. This study highlighting the significance of the multifaceted biodiversity in monitoring the impacts of SCs and facilitating the development of conservation strategies in internationally critical migration bottlenecks.

Intraseasonal movements between staging sites by migrating great knots: Longer distances to alternatives decrease the probability of such moves

He-Bo Peng , Ying-Chi Chan , Yingrong Huang , Chi-Yeung Choi , Shou-Dong Zhang , Sicheng Ren , Chris J. Hassell , Zhenchang Zhu , David S. Melville , Zhijun Ma , Guangchun Lei , Theunis Piersma

Abstract: Distance is a key constraint for animals in moving between suitable habitats, but is this also the case in staging long-distance migrating shorebirds that habitually cover thousands of kilometers during migrations? We conducted multi-year field observations, benthic prey sampling and satellite tracking, to compare how endangered great knots Calidris tenuirostris respond to the food shortage at two similarly functioning staging sites (Gaizhou and Beijingzi) in the northern Yellow Sea, China. Food availability declined by >95 % at both sites across the study period, with the intake rates of great knots declining by 87 %. However, whereas the number of great knots declined by 91 % at Gaizhou, only a 29 % decrease was seen at Beiijngzi. Satellite tracking showed that during the time when food was poor in Gaizhou, tagged great knots crossed 20 km to suitable alternative high-quality sites where food was not scarce. From Beijingzi, tagged great knots flew at least 124 km to find a good alternative. We show that longer distances to alternative sites decreased the probability of a bird leaving. Thus, habitat degradation in staging sites induced great knots to move to alternative sites, but only if such alternatives were relatively close. As staging habitats become more isolated, the negative effects of habitat degradation will be more serious due to a distance constraint on exploratory movements. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining networks of nearby high-quality refueling sites for migratory birds to provide buffers in seasons when local food conditions are lean.

Effects of constant high water levels in winter on waterbird diversity in Caizi Lakes: A functional perspective

Lingling Cui , Zhenhua Wei , Lizhi Zhou , Bo Cheng

Abstract: The middle and lower Yangtze River floodplain lakes are important stopover and wintering sites for migratory birds on the East Asian–Australasian Flyway. The periodic water level fluctuation of the lakes plays a critical role in the aggregation of waterbirds. However, the construction of a series of gates and dams has impeded the hydrological connectivity between rivers and lakes and disrupted the natural water level fluctuation patterns of lakes. The water level status of lakes influences habitat utilization by waterbirds. In recent years, Caizi Lakes, the gate-controlled lakes connected to the Yangtze River due to the need for water level regulation requirements, has experienced sustained high water levels in winter, which can reduce habitat quality and in turn influence waterbirds activity. In the present study, wintering waterbirds in Caizi Lakes were surveyed during the 2021–2022 (W1) and 2022–2023 (W2) wintering periods. Moreover, we explored the effects of constant high water levels in winter on waterbird assemblages by comparing species richness, abundance, and functional alpha and beta diversity. Correlation analyses were then performed to elucidate the relationship between habitat factors and water level changes during the wintering period of migratory waterbirds and between changes in various habitat factors and wintering waterbird assemblages under different hydrological conditions. The results showed that functional beta diversity was more sensitive to changes in waterbird assemblages in Caizi Lakes than functional alpha diversity. Moreover, constant high water levels in the mid-wintering period decreased suitable habitats for wintering waterbirds, increased functional turnover among waterbird assemblages, increased total dissimilarity among assemblages significantly, and decreased the level of functional nestedness significantly. Additionally, the areas of the three wetland habitats in Caizi Lakes were significantly correlated with water level changes during W1 and relatively less affected by water level changes under constant high water level conditions during W2. The changes in habitat area were influenced primarily by anthropogenic activities, with an increase in meadow area favorable for species richness and abundance, as well as functionally nested components. Water level regulation should take into consideration the natural hydrological rhythms of the declining water level to ensure that adequate and suitable habitats are provided for wintering waterbirds.

Population trend and spatio-temporal distribution of Greater White-fronted (Anser albifrons) and Bean Geese (Anser fabalis) in Korea

Eun-Jeong Kim , Wee-Heang Hur , Hwa-Jung Kim , Yu-Seong Choi , Dongwon Kim , Who-Seung Lee , Sejeong Han , Hyerin Joo , Chang-Yong Choi

Abstract: Geese have undergone significant changes in their distribution and population size due to human-induced impacts. To improve our understanding of the two main geese populations in East Asia—Greater White-fronted (Anser albifrons; GWFG) and Bean Geese (Anser fabalis sensu lato; BEAG), which includes the Tundra A. f. serrirostris (TDBG) and Taiga Bean Geese A. f. middendorffii (TGBG), this study estimated their long- and short-term trends and the migration strategies based on their distribution during the migratory and wintering seasons, using nationwide census data collected over 24 years in South Korea. The TRIM (TRends and Indices for Monitoring data) analysis supported a robust long-term population increase since 1999, recently stabilizing around 150,000 individuals in GWFG and 100,000 in TDBG, respectively. But TGBG stabilized at around 7000 with no significant change of population over time. The shorter-term trends within a season suggested that wintering populations of GWFG and TDBG in China might stop over in Korea in their autumn migration before their sea-crossing, evidenced by the large congregation near the Yellow Sea coast followed by a gradual decrease. In contrast to autumn, there was no similar peak in spring migration, suggesting the potential for elliptical migration of some populations around the Yellow Sea. Our findings indicate a growing East Asian population and imply one of the migration strategies of the Greater White-fronted and Tundra Bean Geese. By collaborating with recent tracking data, long-term monitoring efforts could offer more detailed insights into population trends and migration strategies, thereby contributing to the effective management and conservation of goose species in East Asia.

Population trends and distribution of the Lesser Snow Goose Anser caerulescens caerulescens in Japan, based on 50 years of monitoring

Yutaka Sabano, Yusuke Sawa, Sachiko Uemura, Masayuki Kurechi

Abstract: Populations of the Lesser Snow Goose Anser caerulescens caerulescens, which historically bred and wintered in East Asia, declined from the 1800s and were almost extinct by the 1890s. In 1993, the “Restoration of Lesser Snow Goose to East Asia Project” was implemented, through cooperation by organisations from Japan, Russia and the United States of America. Since initiation of the project, Snow Geese have been regularly recorded in Japan, and numbers staging or wintering in Japan are still growing. Here, we study the population trends and distribution of Snow Geese wintering in Japan from 1971/72 (before the project commenced) to 2023/24. The mean (± s.d.) number of birds recorded in Japan over the last five winters (2019/20–2023/24) was 1,634 ± 196 geese, suggesting that a regular wintering population has become established in the country. We also collated information on colour-marked individuals. Geese marked in Anadyr (Russia) during the restoration project were found in Japan in subsequent years, suggesting that migratory traditions were also re-established. The extent to which the recent population increase recorded for Snow Geese in Japan was derived from the restoration project however remains unclear, because the exact location of the breeding grounds and migration routes of the Japanese-wintering birds are still unknown. Further studies (e.g. GPS tracking) therefore are required for a full evaluation of the success of this conservation initiative.

Individual consistency in spatiotemporal characteristics of migratory Whimbrels in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway

Siwei An , Fenliang Kuang , Wei Wu , Chris J. Hassell , Jonathan T. Coleman , Zijing Gao , Xuena Sun , Yue Yuan , Grace Maglio , Kar-Sin K. Leung , Xuesong Feng , Zhijun Ma

Abstract: Many migratory birds exhibit interannual consistency in migration schedules, routes and stopover sites. Detecting the interannual consistency in spatiotemporal characteristics helps understand the maintenance of migration and enables the implementation of targeted conservation measures. We tracked the migration of Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) in the East Asian–Australasian Flyway and collected spatiotemporal data from individuals that were tracked for at least two years. Wilcoxon non-parametric tests were used to compare the interannual variations in the dates of departure from and arrival at breeding/nonbreeding sites, and the interannual variation in the longitudes when the same individual across the same latitudes. Whimbrels exhibited a high degree of consistency in the use of breeding, nonbreeding, and stopover sites between years. The variation of arrival dates at nonbreeding sites was significantly larger than that of the departure dates from nonbreeding and breeding sites. Repeatedly used stopover sites by the same individuals in multiple years were concentrated in the Yellow Sea coast during northward migration, but were more widespread during southward migration. The stopover duration at repeatedly used sites was significantly longer than that at sites used only once. When flying across the Yellow Sea, Whimbrels breeding in Sakha (Yakutia) exhibited the highest consistency in migration routes in both autumn and spring. Moreover, the consistency in migration routes of Yakutia breeding birds was generally higher than that of birds breeding in Chukotka. Our results suggest that the northward migration schedule of the Whimbrels is mainly controlled by endogenous factors, while the southward migration schedule is less affected by endogenous factors. The repeated use of stopover sites in the Yellow Sea coast suggests this region is important for the migration of Whimbrel, and thus has high conservation value.

Biometric variability and sexual size dimorphism in the Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris

Dorofeev, Dmitry; Ivanov, A; Khudyakova, E. ; Verkuil, Yvonne; Piersma, Theunis; Meissner, Włodzimierz

Abstract: The Great Knot is a species from the Scolopacidae family of waders migrating within the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, and studies on this species have contributed greatly to understanding of migration ecophysiology and migration strategies in long-distance migrants. In this paper, we provide the first description of biometric variability and sexual size dimorphism in Great Knots. During the study on the Kamchatka Peninsula, 683 adults and 229 juveniles were measured and sexed molecularly. In adults, the mean measurements of females were larger than in males, except for tarsus length. In juveniles, at the early stage of migration from breeding to wintering grounds, apparently growth was not complete. Sexual dimorphism was small, with only wing length being significantly longer in females than in males. All dimensions of juveniles were smaller than those of adults, especially in bill length. The most sexually dimorphic trait in both adults and juveniles was wing length, and the most effective discriminant function with wing length as a single predictor correctly identified the sex of 76% of birds in both age classes. However, molecular sexing is the method of choice for reliable sexing, especially in juveniles.

Incomplete isolation in the nonbreeding areas of two genetically separated but sympatric short-tailed albatross populations

Naoki Tomita*, Fumio Sato, Jean-Baptiste Thiebot , Bungo Nishizawa , Masaki Eda , Hiroe Izumi , Satoshi Konno , Miwa Konno , Yutaka Watanuki

The short-tailed albatross Phoebastria albatrus, a globally Vulnerable species recovering from near-extinction, breeds mainly on 2 island groups in the north-western Pacific: Torishima and Senkaku Islands. Recently, it became clear that this is a species complex, composed of 2 populations (‘Torishima’ and ‘Senkaku’ types) that are distinct from both genetic and morphological perspectives, and which mate assortatively on Torishima. We tested the hypothesis of premating isolation as a possible mechanism for genetic differentiation and shifted breeding date in short-tailed albatrosses. Using light-based geolocation and molecular analysis, we examined whether adults from the 2 populations breeding on Torishima differed in their at-sea distribution during the nonbreeding period (June-September) and in their return dates. From 22 bird tracks collected from 12 birds over 4 yr, we identified 2 distinct nonbreeding areas: around the Aleutian Islands in the Bering Sea and near the Kuril Islands in the Okhotsk Sea. All 6 tracks of Torishima-type birds migrated directly to the Bering Sea in all years. In contrast, most of the Senkaku-type birds migrated along northeast Japan to the Okhotsk Sea (9 tracks), with the others moving to the Bering Sea (7 tracks). There was no clear difference in the dates of return to Torishima between the 2 bird types. Overall, no absolute pre-mating isolation in space or time was observed in short-tailed albatrosses, but we highlighted notable divergences in the nonbreeding distribution of both types. This result suggests that Torishima- and Senkaku-type populations should be treated as separate management units.

Polychaete worm density correlates with aggregate shorebird density, prey intake rate and foraging success at an intertidal mudflat in Bangladesh

Irin Sultana, Naim Khandakar, Delip K. Das, Suhel Quader, Ashwin Viswanathan

Abstract: Migratory shorebirds have suffered considerable declines because their migratory habits make them susceptible to threats in many different parts of the world. Successful conservation initiatives therefore require an understanding of their ecology not just at their breeding sites, but also at wintering and staging sites. Previous studies have shown that relationships between shorebirds and their wintering habitats are complex and context specific, underlining the importance of continued investigation of their ecology in new contexts. In this study, we investigated the relationship between prey density and shorebird abundance at stretches of mudflat spread across two islands in coastal Bangladesh. To explore whether prey density influenced shorebirds’ ability to find and ingest prey, we also examined relationships with intake rates and foraging success. We found that the density and richness of shorebird communities increased with increasing polychaete worm density across small stretches of mudflat within each island. We also found evidence that prey intake rates and foraging success increased with available food, implying that food as a resource may be limiting in this landscape. Shorebirds may be required to spend more energy foraging in suboptimal habitats, explaining (in part) why densities are higher in habitats with more available prey. Our study suggests that prey density is an important correlate of shorebird density in this important South Asian wintering ground. Our results may have management implications, but this requires further study.

POPULATION MONITORING AND MAJOR THREATS TO DEMOISELLE CRANE (GRUS VIRGO) AT LASBELA COAST, BALOCHISTAN, PAKISTAN

1. Qayum , M. A. Kalhoro , A. Hakeem , M. Dashti , Atiq-ur-Rehman and M. Shafi

Abstract: The Demoiselle Crane (Grus virgo) is one of the most threatened bird species in the world as it is indicated as “Least Concern” under the IUCN and Bird Life International category. To evaluate the current status and threats to G. virgo from Lasbela coast, two field stations were selected i. e, Siranda lake and Sonmiani area. Data were based on daily observation monitored during February, March, April, September, October, November, and December during 2020-2021. The line transit method and questionnaire-interview based survey was used to estimate the bird population and threats to birds population. Total of 322,143 numbers of cranes were observed in which 142700 in autumn and 179443 during spring season. Area wise distribution of cranes were detected at 271701 from Sarinda lake while, 50442 cranes were observed from Sonmiani area. It was also noted that during autumn overall 136850 cranes were observed in flying mode while 5850 were observed at resting stage, however in Spring 167330 were in flying and 12113 were at resting. Overall, high population was observed during spring season at 55.7% while population during autumn was observed at 44.29%. It was also noted that during present study the percentage of flying cranes are higher than the resting cranes and higher numbers were observed from Sarinda lake compared to Sonmiani area. This maybe because the Sarinda lake is far from city area so cranes prefer to rest compare to Sonmiani area. The hunting information was collected from local community, government agencies and personal visits at local areas. It was noted that total of 116 numbers of cranes were hunted during the study period from which 74 cranes were hunted using gunshot and 42 cranes were caught alive. Most of the hunting cranes were operated during March. We may assume that these sites (study area) are short term stay for these guest birds. However, due to certain reasons it may also be noted that flying cranes are higher than the resting cranes which shows that these sites also indicate the threats to the cranes. It may also suggest that hunting must be prohibited and Sarinda lake should be declared as Ramsar site for the conservation of migratory birds.

Identifying research trends in avian migration tracking in Korea using text mining

Seok-Jun Son , Min Seock Do , Green Choi , Hyung-Kyu Nam

Abstract: Identifying avian migration routes and habitats is critical for species conservation and management. South Korea is an important region in the East Asian-Australasian flyway, inhabited by various migratory birds. In this study, previous research on avian migration routes in South Korea was systematically analyzed, and research trends and characteristics were determined. Among 64 peer-reviewed papers, the number of papers by year has gradually increased since the 2000s. Land birds were the most extensively studied, followed by wading birds, raptors, waterfowl, multiple waterbird groups, and shorebirds. Among the research methods, wildlife tracking devices were most commonly used (n = 32), followed by direct visual observation (n = 19), bird banding (n = 10), and stable isotope analysis (SIA; n = 3). Sinan-gun, a Korean island, received the greatest attention; several studies have been conducted across various regions throughout South Korea. Text mining showed that the following terms were frequently used and strongly correlated: ‘home’, ‘range’, ‘breeding’, ‘wintering’, ‘island’, ‘area’, and ‘habitat’. Based on our findings, we predict that, as technology advances, the number of studies on migration routes of a greater diversity of species using global positioning system (GPS) tracking and SIA will continue to increase.

Spatiotemporal variations in migratory bird diversity and abundance along the coast of Gochang getbol

Myung-Bok Lee , Ju-Hyun Lee , Gi-Chang Bing , Won-Suk Choi , Jung-Moon Ha , Jae-Ung Jang , Se-Yeong Kim , Jong-Ju Son , Ah-Jin Chang , Ji-Young Lee , DaeHan Cho , Ha-Cheol Sung*

Abstract: Tidal flats provide critical habitat for migratory waterbird species; however, populations of migratory waterbirds have significantly declined due to tidal flat loss and degradation caused by human activities, particularly in Asia. Gochang getbol is one of tidal flats located on the southwest coast of South Korea and a center of clam production. Using bird monitoring data collected at five zones (zone1 tozone5) established across Gochang getbol and near coastal area, we examined distribution patterns of migratory bird diversity and conservation-related species along the coast of Gochang getbol. The intensity of human activity –mudflat culture (mostly bivalve) and aquaculture was relatively high atzone2 and zone3, occupying > 30% of2km circular area surrounding most sample points of these zones. Zone1 and particularly zone4 contained more natural/semi-natural habitats (less disturbed mudflats and wetlands) and zone5 had smallest mudflat than others. Shannon diversity, species richness, and abundance of migratory birds differed between zones (Anova test, P � 0.02) except Shannon diversity in winter. In fall, all values were higher atzone4 than zone3 and zone5. In winter, zone1 showed greatest species richness and higher abundance than zone2, zone3, and zone5. In spring, while most differences were found between zone4 and zone5, abundance atzone4 was somewhat higher than zone2. The results from the fourth corner analysis indicated that abundance of species foraging at mudflat level was positively associated with zone1 (winter) but negatively with zone3 (fall). Sandpipers were positively associated with zone4. Abundance distribution maps of conservation-related species, created by inverse distance-weighted interpolation modeling, also showed high abundance of most conservation related species atzone4 and 1.The findings of our study suggest the importance of natural/ semi-natural habitat, and the possible link between human activity and distribution patterns of migratory birds in Gochang getbol. While we need further investigation on direct response of migratory birds to human activity, areas with low human activity with more natural/seminatural habitat, e.g., zone4 and zone1 may be crucial for the conservation of migratory birds.

2) 보전 & 관리

Shorebird habitat selection and foraging behaviour have important implications for management at an internationally important non-breeding wetland

Micha V. Jackson, Rowan Mott, Steven Delean, Brayden J. Hunt, Justin D. Brookes, Phillip Cassey, Thomas A. A. Prowse

Abstract: It is imperative to manage wetlands appropriately in the non-breeding range of migratory shorebirds because their habitat quality impacts survival and reproductive performance. However, it is challenging to measure and relate these parameters to the habitat quality of individual sites because they are influenced by a composite contribution to fitness across all sites used in the annual cycle. Identifying important habitat quality features for shorebirds, and assessing whether management actions aimed at improving habitat quality are effective, poses a substantial challenge. Nonetheless, within a site, shorebird subsite selection and foraging behaviour could reveal variation in habitat quality proxies and suitability.

We developed a field study to investigate habitat selection and habitat quality proxies for shorebirds in the Coorong, an internationally important non-breeding site in Australia. We examined the abundance of shorebirds among multiple subsites in the wetland and their foraging behaviour in relation to multiple variables (potential habitat area, salinity, prey density, wind, temperature), the first three of which can be influenced by management.

Larger potential habitat area, defined as the combined area of bare mud/sand and shallow water (<20 cm depth), was associated with higher shorebird abundance across subsites with the same shore length, suggesting this is the most important site feature for habitat selection.

Shorebird step rate, which reflects the effort associated with catching prey, was higher at subsites with lower prey density. This suggests that step rate can be used as an indicator of prey availability.

Potential habitat area is strongly positively correlated with shorebird abundance. At sites where water levels can be managed, flows should be regulated so that water levels are not too high (limiting habitat area) or too low (drying out mudflats). However, it is critical that large potential habitat areas that attract shorebirds are productive so that they do not become ecological traps. Management should aim to maintain healthy prey abundance on areas attractive for shorebirds, while also minimising predation and disturbance of shorebirds. Monitoring prey abundance directly can be challenging, but our study shows that shorebird step rate provides a low-cost indicator of relative macroinvertebrate prey abundance.

Habitat utilization of the Eurasian spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia) wintering in the Yancheng National Nature Reserve: relative importance of artificial habitats

Xu, P, Mao, SB , Zhang, SS , Bempah, G , Zhao, YQ

Abstract: Coastal wetlands are among the most modified habitats because of the loss and degradation of tidal flats, resulting in a rapid decline in waterbirds migrating along flyways. Understanding the relative importance of multiple types of wetlands as habitats for waterbirds and the factors influencing their utilization could improve management effectiveness. During the wintering seasons of 2021-2022 and 2022-2023, we documented the distribution of Eurasian spoonbills (Platalea leucorodia), a wetland specialist, in the Yancheng National Nature Reserve (YNNR) and quantified the surrounding environments as influencing factors to assess the relationship between their habitat use patterns and environmental characteristics. Our results showed that spoonbills inhabit common seepweed (Suaeda glauca) marshes, reed (Phragmites australis) ponds, aquaculture ponds, and agricultural channels. Although natural wetlands supported a greater number of spoonbills in the YNNR, spoonbills were able to forage in artificial wetlands. The environmental features where the spoonbills were distributed were found to influence their habitat use, and the most important factor was water depth, followed by species richness and vegetation cover. These results demonstrated that spoonbills rely on both natural and artificial wetlands in the core and buffer zones of the YNNR. Our research thus underlined that conservation interventions of natural and artificial wetlands, such as controlling the water depth and diminishing human activities, might maximize the effects of total conservation outcomes for the Eurasian spoonbills, as well as for various coastal waterbirds with similar ecological requirements.

Are wading birds the ideal focal species for broader bird conservation? A cost-effective approach to ecological network planning

Yuting Xie , Jie Zou , Yanzhuo Chen , Fang Li , Qianzi Jiang

Abstract: Focal species play a crucial role in planning ecological networks (ENs). Despite the finding that ENs designed for a specific focal species can yield benefits for associated communities, current practices of applying individual focal species have faced criticism for oversimplifying intricate ecosystems. Besides, the aggregation of ENs for individual species has been demonstrated as ineffective and costly. To improve cost-effectiveness, species with similar habitat preferences are typically conserved using shared strategies. Thus, drawing from the habitat preference of wading birds for blue and green spaces, we hypothesized that an EN for wading birds may benefit co-existing water and forest birds that prefer blue or green spaces. To validate this hypothesis, we conducted our study in the Yangtze River Delta’s Ecological Green Integration Demonstration Zone. We simulated six scenarios S1-S6 to compare the cost-effectiveness of focal species networks, respectively for water, forest, and wading birds in the S2-S4, with the aggregate networks in the S5-S6. During ENs’ construction, we employed the InVEST Habitat Quality model, MSPA, MCR model, and Linkage Mapper Tools. Furthermore, we selected the most cost-effective EN by calculating six ENs’ connectivity-cost ratio (CCr index) and ranked the conservation priority for its sources and corridors. The results showed that the EN4 ranked highest in the CCr index and displayed a high conservation efficiency for all bird species. 93.41% of primary ES4 and 42.46% of secondary ES4 overlapped with the ecological conservation redline and the permanent basic farmland and could be well protected under current statutory planning. Our findings confirm that wading birds are the ideal focal species in EN planning for broader bird conservation in the context of the Yangtze River Delta. The constructed regional EN could contribute to establishing a linkage with the supra-regional EN and the world’s major bird migration flyway. Moreover, our cost-effective approach to bird conservation could provide new insights for targeting focal species from the perspective of habitat preference in multi-species EN planning.

Study on the impact of reclamation and development of Yancheng coastal wetlands on the spatio-temporal evolution of wintering Anatidae habitat

Cheng Wang , Shaoxia Xia , Houlang Duan , Yutong Wu , Yue Su , Bin Wang , Zhiheng Shen , Gongbo Sun , Bin Dong

Abstract: As a World Natural Heritage Site primarily focused on protecting migratory bird habitats, the Yancheng coastal wetland is also an important land resource reserve area in China. With a long history of reclamation, the impact of reclamation on waterbird habitats has attracted widespread attention. Therefore, this study was based on the distribution data of wintering Anatidae from 1987 to 2020 and coastal land reclamation data. The landscape development intensity (LDI) index and MaxEnt model were used to reveal the spatiotemporal changes in reclamation development intensity and identify the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of Anatidae habitats. A geographical weight regression (GWR) model was used to analyze the local differences for the impact of changes in reclamation development intensity on the spatiotemporal distribution of Anatidae habitats. The results showed that the area of land types with higher reclamation intensity in the study area increased rapidly from 1987 to 2020, and the overall reclamation intensity showed a pattern of low in the northeast and high in the southwest. The high-intensity range in 1987 was 5.01 ∼ 6.00, and the reclamation intensity in the western area of Dafeng to Tiaozini was generally greater than 8.01 in 2020. From 1987 to 2020, the population of Anatidae first decreased and then increased, with a clear southward shift in spatial distribution. The evaluation results of suitable habitats revealed that the most suitable area significantly declined from 1280.76 hm2 in 1997 to 60.19 hm2 in 2020, which indicated that the patch space of high-quality habitats was further compressed. The area with the greatest positive impact for the intensity of reclamation and development on habitat suitability from 1987 to 1997 was concentrated near the Beihuanchong area, while in 2007, the negative impact was mostly distributed in the northern and western Hexin area. The regression coefficient ranged from −0.665 ∼ -0.513. The negative impact of reclamation and development further deteriorated in 2020, with a negative correlation coefficient ranging from −1.642 ∼ -0.699. There were significant differences in the impact of environmental variables on the distribution of Anatidae habitats in different periods. In this study, a habitat protection and restoration pattern for Anatidae is proposed, which may provide an important reference for the protection of wintering Anatidae populations and the structural restoration of habitats in Yancheng coastal wetlands.

The influence of the decrease in the water level in the Caspian Sea on certain species within the Gulls (Laridae) family

Abulfaz Taghiyev , Natavan Karimova

Abstract: In 2013-2023, the influence of the water level decrease in the Caspian Sea on the reproductive behaviour of the migratory-nesting species of Chroicocephalus ridibundus, Chlidonias niger, Chlidonias leucopterus, Chlidonias hybrida, Gelochelidon nilotica, Thalasseus sandvicensis, Sterna hirundo, Hydroprogne caspia which are in the Gizilaghaj Bay, was studied. Thousands of the migratory-nesting bird populations came to Azerbaijan from Africa and South-Eastern Asian countries and breed in the Gizilaghaj Bay of the Caspian Sea. As a result of the water level decrease in the Caspian Sea, the difference in the water level in the Northern and Southern parts of Little Gizilaghaj Bay caused a change in the reproductive behaviour of the species mentioned above of the Laridae family, which have been formed over many years.

Trends and patterns in the extinction risk of Australia’s birds over three decades

Alex J. Berryman, Stuart H. M. Butchart, Micha V. Jackson, Sarah M. Legge, George Olah, Janelle Thomas, John C. Z. Woinarski & Stephen T. Garnett

Abstract: Australia recently committed through the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) to halt human-induced extinction of known threatened species and to reduce extinction risk of threatened species significantly by 2030. We review recent trends in extinction risk of Australian birds to provide context for current and future conservation efforts. We calculate the Red List Index (RLI) for all Australian birds as well as subsets based on geography, habitat and taxonomy. Over the period 2010 to 2020, the number of taxa reassigned to lower categories of extinction risk (n = 20; 1.5% of all taxa included) was greatly outweighed by the number moved to higher categories owing to deteriorating status (n = 93; 7%). This resulted in the steepest decadal decline in the RLI since data were first compiled in 1990. It was chiefly driven by rapid population declines in migratory shorebirds, loss of suitable habitat for species affected by wildfire in 2019–2020 and, to a lesser extent, declines in the abundance of upland rainforest birds. To a small extent, these losses were counterbalanced by improvements in status of some bird species resulting from local eradication of invasive mammals, primarily from Macquarie Island. For Australia to meet the commitments recently adopted through the GBF, conservation interventions (and hence funding) will need to be scaled up substantially. The RLI is well placed for monitoring progress towards the GBF targets and for communicating trends in the extinction risk to national avifaunas.

Habitat Suitability and Determinants for Anatidae in Multi-Watershed Composite Wetlands in Anhui, China

Jiye Shi , Lei Meng , Shanshan Xia , Song Liu and Lizhi Zhou

Abstract: Habitat suitability analysis is essential in habitat and species conservation. Anatidae are known for their migratory behaviour, high population density, and wide distribution range. Understanding their habitat utilzation and influencing factors is crucial in targeted conservation and management. In this study, we collected Anatidae diversity data, including the number of species, through field surveys from October 2021 to March 2022 and thirty habitat variables through an online database in Anhui Province, China. By using MaxEnt, we simulated the habitat suitability of twenty-one Anatidae species, revealing potential distribution sites in Anhui Province. Generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) were employed to identify factors affecting the distribution of geese and ducks. The results showed that high-suitability habitats were predominantly located in the large lakes of the Yangtze River floodplain. The GLMM analysis showed significant correlations between Anatidae richness and altitude, distribution of farmland, and human footprint. In addition, ducks were more sensitive to the human interference factor than geese. In summary, the lakes in the Yangtze River floodplain emerged as the most important Anatidae habitats in Anhui Province due to their abundant wetland resources, flat terrain, and high distribution of farmlands. These findings provide a scientific basis for the development of relevant conservation strategies and measures, aiding in wildlife epidemic monitoring, prevention, and control.

Identification and scoring of conservation gaps in wetlands of China’s coastal provinces: Implications for extending protected areas

Shaoxia Xia , Zhenshan Xue , Siqi Dong , Haitao Wu , Xiubo Yu , Zhiming Hao

Abstract: Wetlands in China’s coastal provinces are strategically positioned along migratory flyways for waterbirds, serving as essential habitats and stopover sites due to the expansive land area and abundant wetland resources they offer. This study aimed to introduce a simplified index system to enable rapid assessment and prioritization of unprotected areas for wetlands in China’s coastal provinces. A spatial analysis was conducted, combining wetland distribution and existing protected areas data and spatial extent of wetlands extracted by remote sensing data. Results indicate substantial gaps in coverage, covering an area of 108.33 × 104 ha, with 76% being natural wetlands. Over half of these gaps are identified as high-value wetlands with significant ecological functions. The uneven distribution of unprotected wetlands reflects a tension between economic development and wetland conservation. Our findings support the expansion of the existing coastal wetland protected areas’ coverage, as well as protecting critical habitats in conservation gaps, and establishing of a network-based waterbird protection system. This research contributes to informed decision-making and policy in wetlands’ conservation planning.

Predicting resilience of migratory birds to environmental change

Lisovski Simeon, Hoye Bethany J., Conklin Jesse R., Battley Phil F. Fuller Richard A., Gosbell Ken B., Klaassen Marcel, Benjamin Lee Chengfa, Murray Nicholas J., Bauer, Silke

Abstract: The pace and scale of environmental change represent major challenges to many organisms. Animals that move long distances, such as migratory birds, are especially vulnerable to change since they need chains of intact habitat along their migratory routes. Estimating the resilience of such species to environmental changes assists in targeting conservation efforts. We developed a migration modeling framework to predict past (1960s), present (2010s), and future (2060s) optimal migration strategies across five shorebird species (Scolopacidae) within the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, which has seen major habitat deterioration and loss over the last century, and compared these predictions to empirical tracks from the present. Our model captured the migration strategies of the five species and identified the changes in migrations needed to respond to habitat deterioration and climate change. Notably, the larger species, with single or few major stopover sites, need to establish new migration routes and strategies, while smaller species can buffer habitat loss by redistributing their stopover areas to novel or less-used sites. Comparing model predictions with empirical tracks also indicates that larger species with the stronger need for adaptations continue to migrate closer to the optimal routes of the past, before habitat deterioration accelerated. Our study not only quantifies the vulnerability of species in the face of global change but also explicitly reveals the extent of adaptations required to sustain their migrations. This modeling framework provides a tool for conservation planning that can accommodate the future needs of migratory species.

Agreements for conserving migratory shorebirds in the Asia-Pacific are better fit for addressing habitat loss than hunting

Eduardo Gallo-Cajiao, Tiffany H. Morrison & Richard A. Fuller

Abstract: A full-life cycle approach is a tenet of migratory species conservation, yet the degree to which this is achieved remains largely unassessed. This knowledge gap can be addressed using the concept of social-ecological fit, understood as the match between governance and ecological dimensions. Here, we assess the social-ecological fit for conserving migratory shorebirds in the Asia–Pacific, focusing on habitat loss and hunting. We identify the governance architectures for addressing these two threats and then assess the coordinating capacity of each architecture, measure institutional coverage for each species across their range, and determine the degree of institutional connectivity along their migratory network. We find that social-ecological fit is higher for the governance of habitat designation than for hunting management, with implications for governance practice. Analyses of social-ecological fit thus provide critical insights on the potential effectiveness of governance and therefore are a useful first step for migratory species conservation.

Assessing habitat suitability and conservation priorities for flagship crane species across critical wetlands in northeast China

Lingxia Xu , Qiaoqi Sun , Ilse Storch , Zhicheng Yao , Jianzhang Ma , Kun Cheng , Cheng Zong

Abstract: Protected areas are considered to be essential shelters for wildlife species and their habitats. At present, approximately 17 % of the world’s land areas are under protection, but large conservation gaps still exist. Moreover, to fulfil the global commitment of protecting 30 % of land areas by 2030, identifying potential habitats and conservation priorities for threatened species are urgently required. Therefore, this study aims to assess the habitat suitability of five species of cranes, which are internationally recognized flagship species across critical wetlands in northeast China, and to identify gaps in the current PAs network using a combination of field- based investigation and a species distribution modelling approach. Line transects were repeatedly conducted at monthly intervals to cover the entire migratory and breeding seasons, with a total length of 4622 km. Information on crane occurrences and habitat conditions were recorded during the fieldwork. Results showed that distance from lakes predominantly determined the distribution of the cranes. Winter precipitation affected stopover determination of migratory cranes, and temperature affected the distribution of breeding cranes. The analysis showed that the current PA network could not cover the entire suitable habitat for all crane species, with >50 % of suitable migratory crane habitat and approximately 20 % of suitable breeding crane habitat remaining outside of the PAs. Correspondingly, two conservation priority areas were identified that require effective conservation measures. This study provides critical information on the habitat requirements of five crane species and identifies conservation priorities so that flagship species and critical wetlands can be effectively protected.

A Review of the Conservation Status of Shorebirds in Mongolia

Sundev Gombobaatar *, Dorj Ususkhjargal and Reuven Yosef *

Abstract: We present the first comprehensive review of 62 migratory shorebird species in Mongolia, covering their ecological status, IUCN assessments at regional or national levels, population trends, threats, and conservation measures. Mongolia hosts a total of 62 shorebird species from twenty-two genera and seven families, with six species classified as globally threatened: the Critically Endangered Sociable Lapwing, the Endangered Siberian Sandplover, the Far Eastern Curlew, the Great Knot, and the Vulnerable Sharp-Tailed Sandpiper. Both national and global IUCN Red List assessments highlight Mongolia’s significance as a breeding and passage migrating site for globally threatened and NearThreatened shorebirds. Species richness is higher in northern regions compared to the south, with the highest diversity found in areas with complex aquatic ecosystems. Global population trends indicate a decline in 61% of species, with 18% remaining stable, 16% of unknown status, and 5% increasing. At the national level, most species are stable (61%), 34% status is unknown, and 5% are decreasing. Anthropogenic-induced threats, including habitat loss and degradation, pollution, disturbance, and harvesting, pose significant risks to 69% of species, while natural disasters affect 11%. Additionally, 8% of species are impacted by accidental mortality and intrinsic factors, and 5% by changes in native species. Despite these threats, no specific conservation action plans exist for shorebirds in Mongolia. However, general conservation measures are in place, such as environmental and fauna protection laws, regulations on foreign trade in endangered species, and the establishment of protected areas under governmental resolutions. Mongolia also participates in international conventions like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Ramsar, and Migratory Species (CMS), and has developed national red lists, red books, and publications such as “A Summary Conservation Action Plan for Mongolian Birds”, “Important Bird Areas” to support conservation efforts.

Losing Tidal Flats at the Midpoint of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway over the past 100 Years

Wan-Jyun Chen , An-Yu Chang , Chia-Chi Lin , Ruey-Shing Lin , Da-Li Lin , Pei-Fen Lee

Abstract: The ecosystem services and functions of tidal flats have been overlooked for many decades, and tidal flat loss has been identified as a serious threat to many taxa in recent years, especially for migratory waterbirds. Despite the understanding of tidal flats change on the global scale, there are still a lot of unknowns on the small scale, including tidal flats in Taiwan, which are important stopover sites for migratory waterbirds along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway. Therefore, we collated historic topographic maps, Landsat Archive images between the 1920s and the 2020s to determine the trajectories of tidal flat change along the coastline of Taiwan. Our results show that tidal flat coverage expanded between the 1920s and the 1950s, but lost approximately 266 km2 (58%) between the 1950s and the 2010s. The status of the tidal flats along the western coastline of Taiwan has been identified as “Endangered” based on the criteria of the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems. According to the aims of the Global Biodiversity Framework, we suggest rethinking the land use plans along the coastline to mitigate the tidal flat loss, especially the controversial issues concerning the expansion of green energy infrastructure. To realize the Nature Positive goals by 2030, recovering and restoring the tidal flat ecosystem could be one of the key strategies.

Exploring Nature-based Solutions on Refined Waterbird Habitats Restoration in High-density Urban Area: A Case Study of the Futian Mangrove National Important Wetland in Shenzhen, China.

Bo LUAN, Yue LIU, Di CHE, Wenjun ZHOU, Liuliu HU, Yuan LIN

Abstract: As a highly urbanized bay area bustling with socio-economic activities, Shenzhen Bay is a pivotal stopover and wintering habitat for migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. The Futian Mangrove National Important Wetland, located in the northeast of Shenzhen bay, is a part of the Guangdong Neilingding–Futian National Nature Reserve. As the smallest national nature reserve in China, the wintering habitat of migratory birds has been significantly impacted by the compacted surrounding built-up environment. It has become an urgent need for refined high-quality ecological restoration for the habitats. This project leveraged Nature-based Solutions to develop a refined model for the ecological restoration of coastal wetland waterbird habitats in compact urban areas. By analyzing waterbird behaviors and habitat requirements, this model outlined six strategies: water surface expansion, water level control, hydrodynamic conditions improvement, shoal transformation, adaptive vegetation management, and disturbance control. To effectively guide the restoration implementation, high-, medium-, and low-adaptive approaches were proposed accordingly. After restoration in 2022, notable increases in target species, such as Platalea minor, were observed. The variety of waterbirds of the reserve in 2022 increased by 33% compared with 2021, while increased by 50.9% compared with 2016, significantly enhancing ecosystem services of the coastal area. As urban renewal in China is shifting towards spatial redevelopment, this model offers valuable insights for ecological restoration aiming at coastal wetland waterbird conservation across the country, and substantially supports establishing the “International Mangrove Center” in Shenzhen.

Deteriorating habitat suitability and connectivity of waterbirds in the Bohai Sea Rim: Consequences of land use transformation

Shaoxia Xia , Huanxin Lv , Houlang Duan , Xiubo Yu

Abstract: Wetlands in the Bohai Sea Rim play an indispensable role in maintaining the stability of waterbird populations on the East Asian-Australian flyway. However, motivated by economic development and urban expansion, coastal wetlands in this region have been extensively reclaimed, leading to a decline in the area and degradation of natural wetlands over the past two decades. We analyzed the temporal and spatial changes of suitable habitats of different groups of waterbirds and quantified habitat connectivity changes and the importance of different patches by using the Probability of Connectivity. The results show that the suitable habitat area of all the different groups of waterbirds decreased sharply from 2000 to 2020. In addition, the utilization ratio by waterbirds of artificial habitats increased. Land use is the primary environmental variable determining the distribution of suitable habitats. Meanwhile, the connectivity of habitats of different groups of waterbirds has also been declining. However, the patches of Tianjin and Hebei in Bohai Bay still have high importance for waterbirds, particularly shorebirds. Expanding existing protection areas to cover the above-mentioned patches is recommended. We also advocate stricter protection measures and necessary ecological restoration activities on both the natural and artificial wetlands.

Shorebird habitat selection and foraging behaviour have important implications for management at an internationally important non-breeding wetland

Micha V. Jackson, Rowan Mott, Steven Delean, Brayden J. Hunt, Justin D. Brookes, Phillip Cassey, Thomas A. A. Prowse

Abstract: It is imperative to manage wetlands appropriately in the non-breeding range of migratory shorebirds because their habitat quality impacts survival and reproductive performance. However, it is challenging to measure and relate these parameters to the habitat quality of individual sites because they are influenced by a composite contribution to fitness across all sites used in the annual cycle. Identifying important habitat quality features for shorebirds, and assessing whether management actions aimed at improving habitat quality are effective, poses a substantial challenge. Nonetheless, within a site, shorebird subsite selection and foraging behaviour could reveal variation in habitat quality proxies and suitability.

We developed a field study to investigate habitat selection and habitat quality proxies for shorebirds in the Coorong, an internationally important non-breeding site in Australia. We examined the abundance of shorebirds among multiple subsites in the wetland and their foraging behaviour in relation to multiple variables (potential habitat area, salinity, prey density, wind, temperature), the first three of which can be influenced by management.

Larger potential habitat area, defined as the combined area of bare mud/sand and shallow water (<20 cm depth), was associated with higher shorebird abundance across subsites with the same shore length, suggesting this is the most important site feature for habitat selection.

Shorebird step rate, which reflects the effort associated with catching prey, was higher at subsites with lower prey density. This suggests that step rate can be used as an indicator of prey availability.

Potential habitat area is strongly positively correlated with shorebird abundance. At sites where water levels can be managed, flows should be regulated so that water levels are not too high (limiting habitat area) or too low (drying out mudflats). However, it is critical that large potential habitat areas that attract shorebirds are productive so that they do not become ecological traps. Management should aim to maintain healthy prey abundance on areas attractive for shorebirds, while also minimising predation and disturbance of shorebirds. Monitoring prey abundance directly can be challenging, but our study shows that shorebird step rate provides a low-cost indicator of relative macroinvertebrate prey abundance.

Habitat utilization of the Eurasian spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia) wintering in the Yancheng National Nature Reserve: relative importance of artificial habitats

Xu, P, Mao, SB , Zhang, SS , Bempah, G , Zhao, YQ

Abstract: Coastal wetlands are among the most modified habitats because of the loss and degradation of tidal flats, resulting in a rapid decline in waterbirds migrating along flyways. Understanding the relative importance of multiple types of wetlands as habitats for waterbirds and the factors influencing their utilization could improve management effectiveness. During the wintering seasons of 2021-2022 and 2022-2023, we documented the distribution of Eurasian spoonbills (Platalea leucorodia), a wetland specialist, in the Yancheng National Nature Reserve (YNNR) and quantified the surrounding environments as influencing factors to assess the relationship between their habitat use patterns and environmental characteristics. Our results showed that spoonbills inhabit common seepweed (Suaeda glauca) marshes, reed (Phragmites australis) ponds, aquaculture ponds, and agricultural channels. Although natural wetlands supported a greater number of spoonbills in the YNNR, spoonbills were able to forage in artificial wetlands. The environmental features where the spoonbills were distributed were found to influence their habitat use, and the most important factor was water depth, followed by species richness and vegetation cover. These results demonstrated that spoonbills rely on both natural and artificial wetlands in the core and buffer zones of the YNNR. Our research thus underlined that conservation interventions of natural and artificial wetlands, such as controlling the water depth and diminishing human activities, might maximize the effects of total conservation outcomes for the Eurasian spoonbills, as well as for various coastal waterbirds with similar ecological requirements.

Are wading birds the ideal focal species for broader bird conservation? A cost-effective approach to ecological network planning

Yuting Xie , Jie Zou , Yanzhuo Chen , Fang Li , Qianzi Jiang

Abstract: Focal species play a crucial role in planning ecological networks (ENs). Despite the finding that ENs designed for a specific focal species can yield benefits for associated communities, current practices of applying individual focal species have faced criticism for oversimplifying intricate ecosystems. Besides, the aggregation of ENs for individual species has been demonstrated as ineffective and costly. To improve cost-effectiveness, species with similar habitat preferences are typically conserved using shared strategies. Thus, drawing from the habitat preference of wading birds for blue and green spaces, we hypothesized that an EN for wading birds may benefit co-existing water and forest birds that prefer blue or green spaces. To validate this hypothesis, we conducted our study in the Yangtze River Delta’s Ecological Green Integration Demonstration Zone. We simulated six scenarios S1-S6 to compare the cost-effectiveness of focal species networks, respectively for water, forest, and wading birds in the S2-S4, with the aggregate networks in the S5-S6. During ENs’ construction, we employed the InVEST Habitat Quality model, MSPA, MCR model, and Linkage Mapper Tools. Furthermore, we selected the most cost-effective EN by calculating six ENs’ connectivity-cost ratio (CCr index) and ranked the conservation priority for its sources and corridors. The results showed that the EN4 ranked highest in the CCr index and displayed a high conservation efficiency for all bird species. 93.41% of primary ES4 and 42.46% of secondary ES4 overlapped with the ecological conservation redline and the permanent basic farmland and could be well protected under current statutory planning. Our findings confirm that wading birds are the ideal focal species in EN planning for broader bird conservation in the context of the Yangtze River Delta. The constructed regional EN could contribute to establishing a linkage with the supra-regional EN and the world’s major bird migration flyway. Moreover, our cost-effective approach to bird conservation could provide new insights for targeting focal species from the perspective of habitat preference in multi-species EN planning.

Study on the impact of reclamation and development of Yancheng coastal wetlands on the spatio-temporal evolution of wintering Anatidae habitat

Cheng Wang , Shaoxia Xia , Houlang Duan , Yutong Wu , Yue Su , Bin Wang , Zhiheng Shen , Gongbo Sun , Bin Dong

Abstract: As a World Natural Heritage Site primarily focused on protecting migratory bird habitats, the Yancheng coastal wetland is also an important land resource reserve area in China. With a long history of reclamation, the impact of reclamation on waterbird habitats has attracted widespread attention. Therefore, this study was based on the distribution data of wintering Anatidae from 1987 to 2020 and coastal land reclamation data. The landscape development intensity (LDI) index and MaxEnt model were used to reveal the spatiotemporal changes in reclamation development intensity and identify the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of Anatidae habitats. A geographical weight regression (GWR) model was used to analyze the local differences for the impact of changes in reclamation development intensity on the spatiotemporal distribution of Anatidae habitats. The results showed that the area of land types with higher reclamation intensity in the study area increased rapidly from 1987 to 2020, and the overall reclamation intensity showed a pattern of low in the northeast and high in the southwest. The high-intensity range in 1987 was 5.01 ∼ 6.00, and the reclamation intensity in the western area of Dafeng to Tiaozini was generally greater than 8.01 in 2020. From 1987 to 2020, the population of Anatidae first decreased and then increased, with a clear southward shift in spatial distribution. The evaluation results of suitable habitats revealed that the most suitable area significantly declined from 1280.76 hm2 in 1997 to 60.19 hm2 in 2020, which indicated that the patch space of high-quality habitats was further compressed. The area with the greatest positive impact for the intensity of reclamation and development on habitat suitability from 1987 to 1997 was concentrated near the Beihuanchong area, while in 2007, the negative impact was mostly distributed in the northern and western Hexin area. The regression coefficient ranged from −0.665 ∼ -0.513. The negative impact of reclamation and development further deteriorated in 2020, with a negative correlation coefficient ranging from −1.642 ∼ -0.699. There were significant differences in the impact of environmental variables on the distribution of Anatidae habitats in different periods. In this study, a habitat protection and restoration pattern for Anatidae is proposed, which may provide an important reference for the protection of wintering Anatidae populations and the structural restoration of habitats in Yancheng coastal wetlands.

The influence of the decrease in the water level in the Caspian Sea on certain species within the Gulls (Laridae) family

Abulfaz Taghiyev , Natavan Karimova

Abstract: In 2013-2023, the influence of the water level decrease in the Caspian Sea on the reproductive behaviour of the migratory-nesting species of Chroicocephalus ridibundus, Chlidonias niger, Chlidonias leucopterus, Chlidonias hybrida, Gelochelidon nilotica, Thalasseus sandvicensis, Sterna hirundo, Hydroprogne caspia which are in the Gizilaghaj Bay, was studied. Thousands of the migratory-nesting bird populations came to Azerbaijan from Africa and South-Eastern Asian countries and breed in the Gizilaghaj Bay of the Caspian Sea. As a result of the water level decrease in the Caspian Sea, the difference in the water level in the Northern and Southern parts of Little Gizilaghaj Bay caused a change in the reproductive behaviour of the species mentioned above of the Laridae family, which have been formed over many years.

Trends and patterns in the extinction risk of Australia’s birds over three decades

Alex J. Berryman, Stuart H. M. Butchart, Micha V. Jackson, Sarah M. Legge, George Olah, Janelle Thomas, John C. Z. Woinarski & Stephen T. Garnett

Abstract: Australia recently committed through the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) to halt human-induced extinction of known threatened species and to reduce extinction risk of threatened species significantly by 2030. We review recent trends in extinction risk of Australian birds to provide context for current and future conservation efforts. We calculate the Red List Index (RLI) for all Australian birds as well as subsets based on geography, habitat and taxonomy. Over the period 2010 to 2020, the number of taxa reassigned to lower categories of extinction risk (n = 20; 1.5% of all taxa included) was greatly outweighed by the number moved to higher categories owing to deteriorating status (n = 93; 7%). This resulted in the steepest decadal decline in the RLI since data were first compiled in 1990. It was chiefly driven by rapid population declines in migratory shorebirds, loss of suitable habitat for species affected by wildfire in 2019–2020 and, to a lesser extent, declines in the abundance of upland rainforest birds. To a small extent, these losses were counterbalanced by improvements in status of some bird species resulting from local eradication of invasive mammals, primarily from Macquarie Island. For Australia to meet the commitments recently adopted through the GBF, conservation interventions (and hence funding) will need to be scaled up substantially. The RLI is well placed for monitoring progress towards the GBF targets and for communicating trends in the extinction risk to national avifaunas.

Habitat Suitability and Determinants for Anatidae in Multi-Watershed Composite Wetlands in Anhui, China

Jiye Shi , Lei Meng , Shanshan Xia , Song Liu and Lizhi Zhou

Abstract: Habitat suitability analysis is essential in habitat and species conservation. Anatidae are known for their migratory behaviour, high population density, and wide distribution range. Understanding their habitat utilzation and influencing factors is crucial in targeted conservation and management. In this study, we collected Anatidae diversity data, including the number of species, through field surveys from October 2021 to March 2022 and thirty habitat variables through an online database in Anhui Province, China. By using MaxEnt, we simulated the habitat suitability of twenty-one Anatidae species, revealing potential distribution sites in Anhui Province. Generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) were employed to identify factors affecting the distribution of geese and ducks. The results showed that high-suitability habitats were predominantly located in the large lakes of the Yangtze River floodplain. The GLMM analysis showed significant correlations between Anatidae richness and altitude, distribution of farmland, and human footprint. In addition, ducks were more sensitive to the human interference factor than geese. In summary, the lakes in the Yangtze River floodplain emerged as the most important Anatidae habitats in Anhui Province due to their abundant wetland resources, flat terrain, and high distribution of farmlands. These findings provide a scientific basis for the development of relevant conservation strategies and measures, aiding in wildlife epidemic monitoring, prevention, and control.

Identification and scoring of conservation gaps in wetlands of China’s coastal provinces: Implications for extending protected areas

Shaoxia Xia , Zhenshan Xue , Siqi Dong , Haitao Wu , Xiubo Yu , Zhiming Hao

Abstract: Wetlands in China’s coastal provinces are strategically positioned along migratory flyways for waterbirds, serving as essential habitats and stopover sites due to the expansive land area and abundant wetland resources they offer. This study aimed to introduce a simplified index system to enable rapid assessment and prioritization of unprotected areas for wetlands in China’s coastal provinces. A spatial analysis was conducted, combining wetland distribution and existing protected areas data and spatial extent of wetlands extracted by remote sensing data. Results indicate substantial gaps in coverage, covering an area of 108.33 × 104 ha, with 76% being natural wetlands. Over half of these gaps are identified as high-value wetlands with significant ecological functions. The uneven distribution of unprotected wetlands reflects a tension between economic development and wetland conservation. Our findings support the expansion of the existing coastal wetland protected areas’ coverage, as well as protecting critical habitats in conservation gaps, and establishing of a network-based waterbird protection system. This research contributes to informed decision-making and policy in wetlands’ conservation planning.

Predicting resilience of migratory birds to environmental change

Lisovski Simeon, Hoye Bethany J., Conklin Jesse R., Battley Phil F. Fuller Richard A., Gosbell Ken B., Klaassen Marcel, Benjamin Lee Chengfa, Murray Nicholas J., Bauer, Silke

Abstract: The pace and scale of environmental change represent major challenges to many organisms. Animals that move long distances, such as migratory birds, are especially vulnerable to change since they need chains of intact habitat along their migratory routes. Estimating the resilience of such species to environmental changes assists in targeting conservation efforts. We developed a migration modeling framework to predict past (1960s), present (2010s), and future (2060s) optimal migration strategies across five shorebird species (Scolopacidae) within the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, which has seen major habitat deterioration and loss over the last century, and compared these predictions to empirical tracks from the present. Our model captured the migration strategies of the five species and identified the changes in migrations needed to respond to habitat deterioration and climate change. Notably, the larger species, with single or few major stopover sites, need to establish new migration routes and strategies, while smaller species can buffer habitat loss by redistributing their stopover areas to novel or less-used sites. Comparing model predictions with empirical tracks also indicates that larger species with the stronger need for adaptations continue to migrate closer to the optimal routes of the past, before habitat deterioration accelerated. Our study not only quantifies the vulnerability of species in the face of global change but also explicitly reveals the extent of adaptations required to sustain their migrations. This modeling framework provides a tool for conservation planning that can accommodate the future needs of migratory species.

Agreements for conserving migratory shorebirds in the Asia-Pacific are better fit for addressing habitat loss than hunting

Eduardo Gallo-Cajiao, Tiffany H. Morrison & Richard A. Fuller

Abstract: A full-life cycle approach is a tenet of migratory species conservation, yet the degree to which this is achieved remains largely unassessed. This knowledge gap can be addressed using the concept of social-ecological fit, understood as the match between governance and ecological dimensions. Here, we assess the social-ecological fit for conserving migratory shorebirds in the Asia–Pacific, focusing on habitat loss and hunting. We identify the governance architectures for addressing these two threats and then assess the coordinating capacity of each architecture, measure institutional coverage for each species across their range, and determine the degree of institutional connectivity along their migratory network. We find that social-ecological fit is higher for the governance of habitat designation than for hunting management, with implications for governance practice. Analyses of social-ecological fit thus provide critical insights on the potential effectiveness of governance and therefore are a useful first step for migratory species conservation.

Assessing habitat suitability and conservation priorities for flagship crane species across critical wetlands in northeast China

Lingxia Xu , Qiaoqi Sun , Ilse Storch , Zhicheng Yao , Jianzhang Ma , Kun Cheng , Cheng Zong

Abstract: Protected areas are considered to be essential shelters for wildlife species and their habitats. At present, approximately 17 % of the world’s land areas are under protection, but large conservation gaps still exist. Moreover, to fulfil the global commitment of protecting 30 % of land areas by 2030, identifying potential habitats and conservation priorities for threatened species are urgently required. Therefore, this study aims to assess the habitat suitability of five species of cranes, which are internationally recognized flagship species across critical wetlands in northeast China, and to identify gaps in the current PAs network using a combination of field- based investigation and a species distribution modelling approach. Line transects were repeatedly conducted at monthly intervals to cover the entire migratory and breeding seasons, with a total length of 4622 km. Information on crane occurrences and habitat conditions were recorded during the fieldwork. Results showed that distance from lakes predominantly determined the distribution of the cranes. Winter precipitation affected stopover determination of migratory cranes, and temperature affected the distribution of breeding cranes. The analysis showed that the current PA network could not cover the entire suitable habitat for all crane species, with >50 % of suitable migratory crane habitat and approximately 20 % of suitable breeding crane habitat remaining outside of the PAs. Correspondingly, two conservation priority areas were identified that require effective conservation measures. This study provides critical information on the habitat requirements of five crane species and identifies conservation priorities so that flagship species and critical wetlands can be effectively protected.

A Review of the Conservation Status of Shorebirds in Mongolia

Sundev Gombobaatar *, Dorj Ususkhjargal and Reuven Yosef *

Abstract: We present the first comprehensive review of 62 migratory shorebird species in Mongolia, covering their ecological status, IUCN assessments at regional or national levels, population trends, threats, and conservation measures. Mongolia hosts a total of 62 shorebird species from twenty-two genera and seven families, with six species classified as globally threatened: the Critically Endangered Sociable Lapwing, the Endangered Siberian Sandplover, the Far Eastern Curlew, the Great Knot, and the Vulnerable Sharp-Tailed Sandpiper. Both national and global IUCN Red List assessments highlight Mongolia’s significance as a breeding and passage migrating site for globally threatened and NearThreatened shorebirds. Species richness is higher in northern regions compared to the south, with the highest diversity found in areas with complex aquatic ecosystems. Global population trends indicate a decline in 61% of species, with 18% remaining stable, 16% of unknown status, and 5% increasing. At the national level, most species are stable (61%), 34% status is unknown, and 5% are decreasing. Anthropogenic-induced threats, including habitat loss and degradation, pollution, disturbance, and harvesting, pose significant risks to 69% of species, while natural disasters affect 11%. Additionally, 8% of species are impacted by accidental mortality and intrinsic factors, and 5% by changes in native species. Despite these threats, no specific conservation action plans exist for shorebirds in Mongolia. However, general conservation measures are in place, such as environmental and fauna protection laws, regulations on foreign trade in endangered species, and the establishment of protected areas under governmental resolutions. Mongolia also participates in international conventions like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Ramsar, and Migratory Species (CMS), and has developed national red lists, red books, and publications such as “A Summary Conservation Action Plan for Mongolian Birds”, “Important Bird Areas” to support conservation efforts.

Losing Tidal Flats at the Midpoint of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway over the past 100 Years

Wan-Jyun Chen , An-Yu Chang , Chia-Chi Lin , Ruey-Shing Lin , Da-Li Lin , Pei-Fen Lee

Abstract: The ecosystem services and functions of tidal flats have been overlooked for many decades, and tidal flat loss has been identified as a serious threat to many taxa in recent years, especially for migratory waterbirds. Despite the understanding of tidal flats change on the global scale, there are still a lot of unknowns on the small scale, including tidal flats in Taiwan, which are important stopover sites for migratory waterbirds along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway. Therefore, we collated historic topographic maps, Landsat Archive images between the 1920s and the 2020s to determine the trajectories of tidal flat change along the coastline of Taiwan. Our results show that tidal flat coverage expanded between the 1920s and the 1950s, but lost approximately 266 km2 (58%) between the 1950s and the 2010s. The status of the tidal flats along the western coastline of Taiwan has been identified as “Endangered” based on the criteria of the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems. According to the aims of the Global Biodiversity Framework, we suggest rethinking the land use plans along the coastline to mitigate the tidal flat loss, especially the controversial issues concerning the expansion of green energy infrastructure. To realize the Nature Positive goals by 2030, recovering and restoring the tidal flat ecosystem could be one of the key strategies.

Exploring Nature-based Solutions on Refined Waterbird Habitats Restoration in High-density Urban Area: A Case Study of the Futian Mangrove National Important Wetland in Shenzhen, China.

Bo LUAN, Yue LIU, Di CHE, Wenjun ZHOU, Liuliu HU, Yuan LIN

Abstract: As a highly urbanized bay area bustling with socio-economic activities, Shenzhen Bay is a pivotal stopover and wintering habitat for migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. The Futian Mangrove National Important Wetland, located in the northeast of Shenzhen bay, is a part of the Guangdong Neilingding–Futian National Nature Reserve. As the smallest national nature reserve in China, the wintering habitat of migratory birds has been significantly impacted by the compacted surrounding built-up environment. It has become an urgent need for refined high-quality ecological restoration for the habitats. This project leveraged Nature-based Solutions to develop a refined model for the ecological restoration of coastal wetland waterbird habitats in compact urban areas. By analyzing waterbird behaviors and habitat requirements, this model outlined six strategies: water surface expansion, water level control, hydrodynamic conditions improvement, shoal transformation, adaptive vegetation management, and disturbance control. To effectively guide the restoration implementation, high-, medium-, and low-adaptive approaches were proposed accordingly. After restoration in 2022, notable increases in target species, such as Platalea minor, were observed. The variety of waterbirds of the reserve in 2022 increased by 33% compared with 2021, while increased by 50.9% compared with 2016, significantly enhancing ecosystem services of the coastal area. As urban renewal in China is shifting towards spatial redevelopment, this model offers valuable insights for ecological restoration aiming at coastal wetland waterbird conservation across the country, and substantially supports establishing the “International Mangrove Center” in Shenzhen.

Deteriorating habitat suitability and connectivity of waterbirds in the Bohai Sea Rim: Consequences of land use transformation

Shaoxia Xia , Huanxin Lv , Houlang Duan , Xiubo Yu

Abstract: Wetlands in the Bohai Sea Rim play an indispensable role in maintaining the stability of waterbird populations on the East Asian-Australian flyway. However, motivated by economic development and urban expansion, coastal wetlands in this region have been extensively reclaimed, leading to a decline in the area and degradation of natural wetlands over the past two decades. We analyzed the temporal and spatial changes of suitable habitats of different groups of waterbirds and quantified habitat connectivity changes and the importance of different patches by using the Probability of Connectivity. The results show that the suitable habitat area of all the different groups of waterbirds decreased sharply from 2000 to 2020. In addition, the utilization ratio by waterbirds of artificial habitats increased. Land use is the primary environmental variable determining the distribution of suitable habitats. Meanwhile, the connectivity of habitats of different groups of waterbirds has also been declining. However, the patches of Tianjin and Hebei in Bohai Bay still have high importance for waterbirds, particularly shorebirds. Expanding existing protection areas to cover the above-mentioned patches is recommended. We also advocate stricter protection measures and necessary ecological restoration activities on both the natural and artificial wetlands.

3) 조류 인플루엔자 /그 외

An Evaluation of Radon Concentrations in Arin Lake, Bitlis

Şule Karatepe Çelik, Sultan Şahin Bal

Abstract: Arin Lake, situated in the Bitlis province, is a soda lake that holds significant ecological importance as a habitat for migratory bird species such as flamingos and white-headed ducks. In order to investigate the potential radiation exposure to the environment and living organisms in the area, radon concentration levels and dose calculations were determined for water samples collected from 27 different points in Arin Lake. The radon levels were determined using the AlphaGUARD PQ2000 PRO radon monitoring system, which has the range of 2–2.106 Bqm−3. The results of the radon concentration measurements are between 0.06 and 0.39 Bq/L, with a mean of value of 0.17 Bq/L. The annual effective doses for ingestion (Deff-ing) and inhalation (Deff-inh) were calculated at values ranging from 0.14 to 0.99 µSv/year. The radon levels were found to be lower than international standard values. Furthermore, the outcomes of this research were subjected to comparison with other studies in the literature.

Pollutant Exposure for Chinese Wetland Birds: Ecotoxicological Endpoints and Biovectors

Xingpei Cao, Xiaobo Zheng*, Furong Bai, Yang Wu, Weipan Lei, Zhengwang Zhang, Bi-Xian Mai

Abstract: Levels of heavy metals and organic contaminants in main waters from China were reviewed from literature data to assess the ecological risks of pollutants for wetland birds and the biotransport of pollutants mediated by migratory wetland birds. Cr, Cu, and Pb and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) dominated in sediments, with higher concentrations in rivers and estuaries than in lakes and seas. Plants are the main dietary sources of less hydrophobic organic pollutants, while sediment is the primary source of more hydrophobic PAHs in birds. The hazard index (HI) for birds was mainly contributed by mercury (Hg) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and ranked as piscivore > omnivore > herbivore. Pollutant exposure risks to birds depend on the biomagnification potential of pollutants, food items of birds, and pollution levels in habitats. Migratory birds are important biovectors of persistent and bioaccumulative pollutants that may serve as a vital geochemical cycling process in addition to atmospheric deposition. This study provided a comprehensive overview of water environment pollution in China and the potential risks for high trophic level wetland birds in aquatic ecosystems. The results also identified the pollution hotspots of wetland birds and habitats, which provide new insights into bird conservation and biodiversity protection.

Analysis of winter survival strategies of sympatric black-necked cranes, and common cranes from the perspective of diet and gut microbiota

Yeying Wang , Haofeng Zhan , Arfa Saif , Xu Zhang , Haijun Su

Abstract: Wintering migratory birds have to travel thousands of kilometers between their breeding and wintering grounds because of their distinct habits. They experience complex and changing survival pressures throughout the winter. This study is the first to investigate the overwintering strategies of sympatric foraging black-necked cranes and common cranes from the perspectives of food and gut microbiota. Non-invasive sampling technique was used to collect stool samples. Sanger sequencing was used to determine the origin of the crane species identified from the samples. The analysis of plant-based food, the gut microbiota, and their interactions in the faeces was performed using high-throughput sequencing technology. It was found that in environments with limited aquatic vegetation, both the black-necked crane and the common crane increased their consumption of potatoes, accounting for more than 50% of their diets. Black-necked cranes also competed with common cranes for food, and they quickly adapted to changes in diet by horizontally transmitting their gut microbiota. To meet body needs, the common cranes—which could not compete with the black-necked cranes—constantly searched for new food sources. They increase the metabolism of amino acids, lipids and these metabolites to adapt to the competitive pressures and dietary changes. This study advances our knowledge of how diet and gut microbiota interact in plateau wetland birds, examining the competitive tactics of interwintering black-necked and common cranes’, and provides recommendations for the re-vegetation in the Caohai wetlands and artificial feeding of the two crane species.

Genetic Characterization of Avian Paramyxovirus Isolated from Wild Waterfowl in Korea between 2015 and 2021

Lee YJ , Park JY, Shang K, Zhang JF, Choi YR, Kim SW, Cha SY , Kang M , Wei B, Jang HK

Abstract: Avian paramyxoviruses (APMVs) are often carried by wild waterfowl, and the wild waterfowl may play an important role in the maintenance and spread of these viruses. In this study, we investigated APMVs in the population of migratory wild waterfowl from 2015 to 2021 in Korea and analyzed their genetic characteristics. Fourteen viruses were isolated and subsequently identified as APMV-1 (n = 13) and APMV-13 (n = 1). Phylogenetic analysis of the full fusion gene of 13 APMV-1 isolates showed that 10 APMV-1 isolates belonged to the class II sub-genotype I.2, which was epidemiologically linked to viruses from the Eurasian continent, and 3 viruses belonged to class I, which linked to viruses from the USA. The APMV-13 isolates from wild geese in this study were highly homology to the virus isolated from China. Sequence analysis of 14 isolates showed that all isolates had a typical lentogenic motif at the cleavage site. In summary, we identified the wild species likely to be infected with APMV and our data suggest possible intercontinental transmission of APMV by wild waterfowl. Our current study also provides the first evidence for the presence of class I of APMV-1 and APMV-13 in wild waterfowl surveyed in Korea.

Comparative analysis of the gut bacteria and fungi in migratory demoiselle cranes (Grus virgo) and common cranes (Grus grus) in the Yellow River Wetland, China

Ziteng Li , Tianfeng Duan , Lin Wang , Jiawei Wu , Yajie Meng , Dulan Bao , Li Gao* , Li Liu*

Abstract: Introduction Gut microbiota are closely related to the nutrition, immunity, and metabolism of the host and play important roles in maintaining the normal physiological activities of animals. Cranes are important protected avian species in China, and they are sensitive to changes in the ecological environment and are thus good environmental indicators. There have been no reports examining gut fungi or the correlation between bacteria and fungi in wild Demoiselle cranes (Grus virgo) and Common cranes (Grus grus). Related research can provide a foundation for the protection of rare wild animals. Methods 16S rRNA and ITS high-throughput sequencing techniques were used to analyze the gut bacterial and fungal diversity of Common and Demoiselle cranes migrating to the Yellow River wetland in Inner Mongolia. Results The results revealed that for gut bacteria alpha diversity, Chao1 index in Demoiselle cranes was remarkably higher than that in Common cranes (411.07 +/- 79.54 vs. 294.92 +/- 22.38), while other index had no remarkably differences. There was no remarkable difference in fungal diversity. There were marked differences in the gut microbial composition between the two crane species. At the phylum level, the highest abundance of bacteria in the Common crane and Demoiselle crane samples was Firmicutes, accounting for 87.84% and 74.29%, respectively. The highest abundance of fungi in the guts of the Common and Demoiselle cranes was Ascomycota, accounting for 69.42% and 57.63%, respectively. At the genus level, the most abundant bacterial genus in the Common crane sample was Turicibacter (38.60%), and the most abundant bacterial genus in the Demoiselle crane sample was Catelicoccus (39.18%). The most abundant fungi in the Common crane sample was Penicillium (6.97%), and the most abundant fungi in the Demoiselle crane sample was Saccharomyces (8.59%). Correlation analysis indicated that there was a significant correlation between gut bacteria and fungi. Discussion This study provided a research basis for the protection of cranes. Indeed, a better understanding of the gut microbiota is very important for the conservation and management of wild birds, as it not only helps us to understand their life history and related mechanisms, but also can hinder the spread of pathogenic microorganisms.

First observations in 20 years of Brent Geese Branta bernicla wintering on the Shandong coast, China

Lv Xiaotong , Zhao Qingshan , Fei Mengdan , Sawa Yusuke , Ikeuchi Toshio , Yu Guoxu , Zhang Jin , Meng Fanjuan , Zhang Jing , Zhang Yong

Abstract: The East Asian Brent Goose Branta bernicla nigricans population is currently estimated at 5,000–8,700 individuals (just c. 1% of all Brent Geese B. bernicla globally) and is designated by the Conservation of Arctic Flora and Fauna (CAFF) as a priority species for conservation on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF). Wintering numbers are concentrated in Japan (where c. 2,500 individuals occur, with an increasing trend), but numbers currently in China (estimated at 5,000 two decades ago) are unknown, emphasising the need for an updated assessment of their abundance and distribution there. A Brent Goose caught in Japan was tracked for five months as it wintered on Sanggou Bay in Shandong Province, confirming this area as a wintering site occupied by the population. Coastal and offshore surveys of Sanggou Bay in January 2023 and 2024 found up to 319 Brent Geese in offshore waters (124 in 2023; 319 in 2024), foraging in aquaculture areas > 2 km from the coastline. As these numbers exceed 1% of the East Asian Brent Goose population (i.e. > 65 individuals), Sanggou Bay qualifies as a site of international importance for the species. The Brent Geese were seen feeding on algal growth within Sweet Kelp Saccharina japonica and oyster (Ostreidae) aquaculture infrastructure and were rarely disturbed by kelp and oyster farmers (who are active mainly in summer), so were subject to almost zero human disturbance. A literature review of Brent Goose distribution and abundance during 1912–2024 suggested that the population historically wintered in the coastal waters of Shandong and Jiangsu Provinces, with up to 10,000 individuals recorded (before 2002), but reports were of < 10 birds present during 2002–2012. Despite our observations, and those documented since 2012, we suspect that fewer Brent Geese winter in China now than two decades ago. We recommend that the Sanggou Bay offshore area be protected and a national survey undertaken, both of the geese and their food resources (e.g. subtidal eelgrass Zostera sp. areas in the Yellow and Bohai Seas) to confirm their distribution, with long-term monitoring put in place for sites where they occur. Restoration of natural seagrass habitats around Changdao Island, Shandong Province (where the Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea meet), which supported the largest numbers historically, is also needed to attract Brent Geese to winter there again.

Emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses H5N1 and H5N5 in white- tailed eagles, 2021-2023

Cathrine Arnason Bøe , Eve Marie Louise Zeyl Fiskebeck1 , Malin Rokseth Reiten , Johan Åkerstedt , Maryam Saghafian , Ragnhild Tønnessen1 , Britt Gjerset , Kjersti Sturød , Torfinn Moldal1 , Grim Rømo , Morten Helberg , Duncan Halley , Lars-Erik Lundblad Rondestveit , Knut Madslien , Silje Granstad

Abstract: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) poses a substantial threat to several raptors. Between 2021 and 2023, HPAI viruses (HPAIVs) of the Goose/Guangdong lineage H5 clade 2.3.4.4b became widespread in wild birds in Norway, and H5N1 and H5N5 viruses were detected in 31 white-tailed eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla, WTEs). Post-mortem examinations of four WTEs revealed no macroscopic pathological findings. Microscopic examinations showed the presence of myocardial and splenic necroses and a few lesions in the brain. In situ hybridization revealed the presence of the virus in several organs, suggesting a multisystemic infection. The detection of HPAIV H5N5 in a WTE in February 2022 marked the first recorded occurrence of this subtype in Norway. Since then, the virus has persisted, sporadically being detected in WTEs and other wild bird species. Phylogenetic analyses reveal that at least two distinct incursions of HPAIV H5N1 Eurasian (EA) genotype C affected WTEs, likely introduced by migratory birds from Eurasia and seabirds entering from Western and Central Europe. Some WTE isolates from 2021 to 2022 clustered with those from Canada and Ireland, aligning with the transatlantic spread of H5N1. Others were related to the 2021 mass mortality of great skuas in the UK or outbreaks in seabird populations, including gannets, gulls and terns, during 2022 in the North Sea region. This suggests that the WTEs were likely preying on the affected birds. Our study highlights that WTEs can act as sentinels for some HPAIV strains, but the absence of several known circulating genotypes in WTEs suggests varying pathogenic effects on this species.

Comparative analysis of the microbiome of sympatric wintering Bean Geese, Domestic Ducks, humans, and soil at Shengjin Lake of China reveals potential public risk to human health

Gang Liu, Na Xu, Chongyang Yu

Abstract: The gut microbiota of migratory waterbirds is affected by various complex factors, including cross-species transmission, which increases the risk of pathogen spreading among sympatric animals and poses a potential public health risk to humans. In this study, we investigated the microbial communities of wintering Bean Geese (Anser fabalis), Domestic Ducks (A. platyrhynchos domesticus), humans, and soil using high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene region in Shengjin Lake, China. In total, 6,046,677 clean reads were obtained, representing 41,119 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) across the four groups. The dominant microbial phyla were the Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Actinobacteriota. The Sorensen similarity index and alpha and beta diversity results showed that the gut microbial communities of Bean Geese and Domestic Ducks were more similar to those of the other pairs. Network analysis revealed that Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Pseudomonas fragi, and Bradyrhizobium elkanii were hubs of the three major modules. Fourteen common microbiomes were identified in Bean Geese, Domestic Ducks, humans, and soil in Shengjin Lake. A total of 96 potential pathogens were identified among the four groups, with 20 specific potentially pathogenic microbiomes found in the gut of Bean Geese. Some of these pathogens are responsible for significant financial losses in the poultry industry and pose risks to human health. Klebsiella pneumoniae, Morganella morganii, Escherichia coli, and Ralstonia insidiosa are potential core pathogens found in the four groups at Shengjin Lake that can cause diseases in humans and animals and facilitate cross-species transmission through various media. Therefore, humans are at risk of contracting these pathogens from migratory birds because of their frequent contact with domestic poultry. However, further studies are required to explore the potential pathogenic species and transmission pathways among sympatric wintering Bean Geese, Domestic Ducks, humans, and soil.

Genetic and Biological Characteristics of Duck-Origin H4N6 Avian Influenza Virus Isolated in China in 2022

Tian Li , Chuankuo Zhao , Yuxin Guo , Jinze Dong , Fanshu Du , Yong Zhou , Sicheng Shu , Yang Liu , Yachang Cheng , Zhiyong Cao , Qi Cao , Shuiping Shi , Yinhua Huang , Juan Pu and Litao Liu*

Abstract: The interaction between migratory birds and domestic waterfowl facilitates viral coinfections, leading to viral reassortment and the emergence of novel viruses. In 2022, samples were collected from duck farms around Poyang Lake in Jiangxi Province, China, which is located within the East Asia–Australasia flyway. Three strains of H4N6 avian influenza virus (AIV) were isolated. Genetic and phylogenetic analyses showed that the isolated H4N6 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) belonged to new genotypes, G23 and G24. All isolated strains demonstrated dual receptor binding properties. Additionally, the isolated strains were able to replicate efficiently not only in avian cells but also in mammalian cells. Furthermore, the H4N6 AIV isolates could infect chickens, with viral replication detected in the lungs and extrapulmonary organs, and could transmit within chicken flocks through contact, with viral shedding detected only in oropharyngeal swabs from chickens in the contact group. Notably, the H4N6 AIV could infect mice without prior adaptation and replicate in the lungs with high viral titers, suggesting that it is a potential threat to humans. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insight into the characteristics of H4N6 strains currently circulating in China.

A highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4 detected in Samara Oblast, Russian Federation

Anastasia Glazunova*, Elena Krasnova, Tatiana Bespalova, Timofey Sevskikh, Daria Lunina, Ilya Titov, Irina Sindryakova and Andrey Blokhin

Abstract: Avian influenza (AI) is a global problem impacting birds and mammals, causing economic losses in commercial poultry farms and backyard settings. In 2022, over 8,500 AI cases were reported worldwide, with the H5 subtype being responsible for many outbreaks in wild and domestic birds. In the territory of the Russian Federation, outbreaks of AI have been massively reported since 2020, both among domestic bird species and wild bird species. Wild migratory birds often serve as natural reservoirs for AI viruses, and interactions between bird species can lead to the emergence of new, highly pathogenic variants through genetic recombination between strains. In order to combat the widespread outbreaks of the disease and potential risks of further spread in 2021, monitoring studies were conducted in the Samara Oblast, the southeastern region of European Russian Federation. These studies aimed to diagnose and characterize circulating AI virus variants among wild migratory birds during waterfowl hunting in areas of mass nesting. Among the 98 shot birds, a highly pathogenic A/H5N1 AI virus was detected in a Eurasian Teal from the Bolshechernigovsky district. It was classified into clade 2.3.4.4 based on the cleavage site structure of HA. Phylogenetic analysis showed a high relatedness of the identified strain in the Samara Oblast with field isolates from Russia, Nigeria, Bangladesh, and Benin. The article emphasizes the importance of monitoring AI virus spread in both wild and poultry, highlighting the need for timely information exchange to assess risks. Further comprehensive studies are necessary to understand virus dissemination pathways.

Isolation and whole genome sequencing of North American lineage class I avian orthoavulavirus 1 isolated from wild Eurasian teal in South Korea

Kim Tae-Hyeon , Cho Andrew Y. , Lee Sun-Hak , Jeong Jei-Hyun , Song Chang-Seon , Bahl Justin , Lee Dong-Hun

Abstract: We report the first North American origin class I avian orthoavulavirus 1 (AOAV-1) isolated from a faecal dropping of wild Eurasian teal (Anas crecca) in South Korea. Whole genome sequencing and comparative phylogenetic analysis revealed that the AOAV-1/Eurasian teal/South Korea/KU1405-3/2017 virus belongs to the sub-genotype 1.2 of class I AOAV-1. Phylogenetic analysis suggested multiple introductions of the North American sub-genotype 1.2 viruses into Asia and its establishment in the wild bird population in East Asia since May 2011. These results provide information on the epidemiology of AOAV-1, particularly the role of migratory wild birds in exchanging viruses between the Eurasian and North American continents. Enhanced genomic surveillance is required to improve our understanding on the evolution and transmission dynamics of AOAV-1 in wild birds.

Multifaceted analysis of temporal and spatial distribution and risk factors of global poultry HPAI-H5N1, 2005-2023

Yuepeng Li, Qi An, Zhuo Sun, Xiang Gao, Hongbin Wang

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to analyze the characteristics of occurrence and spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 (HPAI-H5N1) globally, understand its spatiotemporal characteristics, investigate the risk factors influencing outbreaks, and identify high-risk areas for disease occurrence. We collected the data on global poultry HPAI-H5N1 outbreaks from January 2005 to April 2023, and conducted a thorough analysis of the spatial and temporal characteristics of the disease through time series decomposition and directional distribution analysis. Additionally, an ecological niche model was established to explore the major factors influencing the occurrence of HPAI-H5N1 and to pinpoint high-risk areas. Our findings revealed that HPAI-H5N1 outbreaks were cyclical, and seasonal, exhibiting a rising trend, with a predominant northwest-southeast transmission direction. The ecological niche model highlighted that species factors and economic trade factors are critical in influencing the outbreak of HPAI-H5N1. Variables such as chicken and duck density, population density, isothermality, and road density, contributed to importantly risk of outbreaks. High-risk areas for HPAI-H5N1 occurrence were primarily identified in Europe, West Africa, Southeast Asia, and Southeast China. This study provided valuable insights into the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics and risk factors of global poultry HPAI-H5N1 outbreaks. The identification of high-risk areas provides essential information that can be used to develop more effective prevention and control policies.

Ecological and Genetic Landscapes of Global H12 Avian Influenza Viruses and Biological Characteristics of an H12N5 Virus Isolated from Wild Ducks in Eastern China

Wang Mengjing, Guo Jing, Zhang Hong, Sun Xiaohong, Shen Jinyan, Guan Mengdi, Liu Lili Liu Wenqiang Yu Zhijun Ren Anran

Abstract: Wild migratory birds are considered the central reservoirs of avian influenza viruses. H12 viruses are one of the 16 hemagglutinin (HA) subtypes of avian influenza viruses and are rarely reported because they are infrequently detected in birds. Consequently, the ecological and genetic profiles of H12 viruses and their adaptation in domestic birds and mammals remain unclear. Here, we found that H12N5 viruses were predominant in the nine identified H12NX subtypes, with the HA (H12) and neuraminidase (NA) (N5) genes showing combination bias in the categorized analysis of subtype combinations (H12 and N1–N9; H1–H12, H14, H15, and N5). These identified H12N5 viruses were primarily detected in birds of Anatidae and Scolopacidae in North America, excluding their possible characterization as chicken or mammalian viruses. The H12N5 viruses were divided into the North American lineage and Eurasian lineage according to their genetic differences, including the HA and NA surface genes and internal genes, although reassortment was observed between the two lineages. We isolated an Eurasian-lineage H12N5 virus from wild ducks in Eastern China, which was one of the 12 identified H12 viruses in China. Infectivity studies indicated that the H12N5 virus is poorly adapted to domestic ducks and chickens, although viral shedding could be detected in both inoculated and contact birds. Additionally, the naturally isolated H12N5 virus did not achieve good replication in mice. These results indicate that the rare subtype of H12 viruses was mainly pooled in wild migratory birds and has an established phylogeography, with low risks of spillover into domestic birds and mammals.

AVIAN FORAGING ON AN INTERTIDAL MUDFLAT SUCCESSION IN THE EOCENE TANJUNG FORMATION, ASEM ASEM BASIN, SOUTH KALIMANTAN, INDONESIAN BORNEO

J.-P. ZONNEVELD; Y. ZAIM; Y. RIZAL; A. ASWAN; R.L. CIOCHON; T. SMITH; J. HEAD; P. WILF; J.I. BLOCH

Abstract: Moderately diverse trace fossil assemblages occur in the Eocene Tambak Member of the Tanjung Formation, in the Asem Asem Basin on the southern coast of South Kalimantan. These assemblages are fundamental for establishing depositional models and paleoecological reconstructions for southern Kalimantan during the Eocene and contribute substantially to the otherwise poorly documented fossil record of birds in Island Southeast Asia. Extensive forest cover has precluded previous ichnological analyses in the study area. The traces discussed herein were discovered in newly exposed outcrops in the basal part of the Wahana Baratama coal mine, on the Kalimantan coast of the Java Sea. The Tambak assemblage includes both vertebrate and invertebrate trace fossils. Invertebrate traces observed in this Thalassinoides, Taenidium, and Trichichnus. Vertebrate-derived trace fossils include nine avian footprint ichnogenera (Aquatilavipes, Archaeornithipus, Ardeipeda, Aviadactyla, cf. Avipeda, cf. Fuscinapeda, cf. Ludicharadripodiscus, and two unnamed forms). A variety of shallow, circular to cylindrical pits and horizontal, singular to paired horizontal grooves preserved in concave epirelief are interpreted as avian feeding and foraging traces. These traces likely represent the activities of small to medium-sized shorebirds and waterbirds like those of living sandpipers, plovers, cranes, egrets, and herons. The pits and grooves are interpreted as foraging traces and occur interspersed with both avian trackways and invertebrate traces. The trace fossils occur preferentially in heterolithic successions with lenticular to flaser bedding, herringbone ripple stratification, and common reactivation surfaces, indicating that the study interval was deposited in a tidally influenced setting. Avian trackways, desiccation cracks, and common rooting indicate that the succession was prone to both subaqueous inundation and periodic subaerial exposure. We infer that the Tambak mixed vertebrate-invertebrate trace fossil association occurred on channel-margin intertidal flats in a tide-influenced estuarine setting. The occurrence of a moderately diverse avian footprint and foraging trace assemblage in the Tambak Member of the Tanjung Formation illustrates that shorebirds and waterbirds have been using wetlands in what is now Kalimantan for their food resources since at least the late Eocene.

H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus in migratory birds exhibiting low pathogenicity in mallards increases its risk of transmission and spread in poultry

Qiuyan Mao, Zhixin Li, Yuecheng Li, Yaxin Zhang, Shuo Liu, Xin Yin, Cheng Peng, Rui Ma, Jinping Li, Guangyu Hou, Wenming Jiang, Hualei Liu

Abstract: In 2020, an H5N1 avian influenza virus of clade 2.3.4.4b was detected in Europe for the first time and was spread throughout the world by wild migratory birds, resulting in the culling of an unprecedented number of wild birds and poultry due to the epidemic. In February 2023, we isolated and identified a strain of H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus from a swab sample from a grey crane in Ningxia, China. Phylogenetic analysis of the Hemagglutinin (HA) gene showed that the virus belonged to clade 2.3.4.4b, and several gene segments were closely related to H5N1 viruses infecting humans in China. Analysis of key amino acid sites revealed that the virus contained multiple amino acid substitutions that facilitate enhanced viral replication and mammalian pathogenicity. The results of animal challenge experiments showed that the virus is highly pathogenic to chickens, moderately pathogenic to BALB/c mice, and highly infectious but not lethal to mallards. Moreover, the virus exhibited minor antigenic drift compared with the H5-Re14 vaccine strain. To this end, we need to pay more attention to the monitoring of wild birds to prevent further spread of viruses to poultry and mammals, including humans.

Abundant Intra-Subtype Reassortment Revealed in H13N8 Influenza Viruses

Sofia Feoktistova* , Marya Sayganova , Kseniya Trutneva , Olga Glazova , Artem S. Blagodatski , Liudmila Shevkova , Anna Navoikova , Yuriy Anisimov , Eugene Albert , Olga Mityaeva , Pavel Volchkov and Andrey Deviatkin

Abstract: Influenza A viruses (IAVs) pose a serious threat to global health. On the one hand, these viruses cause seasonal flu outbreaks in humans. On the other hand, they are a zoonotic infection that has the potential to cause a pandemic. The most important natural reservoir of IAVs are waterfowl. In this study, we investigated the occurrence of IAV in birds in the Republic of Buryatia (region in Russia). In 2020, a total of 3018 fecal samples were collected from wild migratory birds near Lake Baikal. Of these samples, 11 were found to be positive for the H13N8 subtype and whole-genome sequencing was performed on them. All samples contained the same virus with the designation A/Unknown/Buryatia/Arangatui-1/2020. To our knowledge, virus A/Unknown/Buryatia/Arangatui-1/2020 is the first representative of the H13N8 subtype collected on the territory of Russia, the sequence of which is available in the GenBank database. An analysis of reassortments based on the genome sequences of other known viruses has shown that A/Unknown/Buryatia/Arangatui-1/2020 arose as a result of reassortment. In addition, a reassortment most likely occurred several decades ago between the ancestors of the viruses recently collected in China, the Netherlands, the United States and Chile. The presence of such reassortment emphasizes the ongoing evolution of the H13N8 viruses distributed in Europe, North and East Asia, North and South America and Australia. This study underscores the importance of the continued surveillance and research of less-studied influenza subtypes.

Surveillance and Genetic Analysis of Low-Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Viruses Isolated from Feces of Wild Birds in Mongolia, 2021 to 2023

Yong-Myung Kang , Erdene-Ochir Tseren Ochir , Gyeong-Beom Heo , Se-Hee An , Hwanseok Jeong , Urankhaich Dondog , Temuulen Myagmarsuren , Youn-Jeong Lee and Kwang-Nyeong Lee

Abstract: The introduction of novel highly pathogenic (HPAI) viruses into Korea has been attributed to recombination events occurring at breeding sites in the Northern Hemisphere. This has increased interest in monitoring and genetically analyzing avian influenza viruses (AIVs) in northern regions, such as Mongolia, which share migratory bird flyways with Korea. AIVs in Mongolia were monitored by analyzing 10,149 fecal samples freshly collected from wild birds from April to October in 2021 to 2023. The prevalence of AIVs in wild birds was 1.01%, with a total of 77 AIVs isolated during these 3 years. These 77 AIVs included hemagglutinin (HA) subtypes H1, H2, H3, H4, H6, H10 and H13 and neuraminidase (NA) subtypes N1, N2, N3, N6, N7 and N8. The most frequently detected subtype combinations were H3N8 (39.0%) and H4N6 (19.5%), although HPAI viruses were not detected. Genetic analysis indicated that theses AIVs isolated from Mongolian samples were closely related to AIVs in wild birds in Korea, including those of Eurasian lineage. These findings indicate the necessity of continuous AIV surveillance and monitoring, as HPAI viruses introduced into Korea may derive from strains in Mongolia.

Isolation and genetic characterization of multiple genotypes of both H5 and H7 avian influenza viruses from environmental water in the Izumi plain, Kagoshima prefecture, Japan during the 2021/22 winter season

Kosuke Okuya , Mana Esaki , Kaori Tokorozaki , Taichi Hasegawa , Makoto Ozawa

Abstract: In the 2021/22 winter, one H5N1 and nine H5N8 high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) of clade 2.3.3.4b were isolated from the water in crane roosts on the Izumi plain, Japan. Additionally, we isolated low pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (LPAIVs) of five subtypes: H1N1, H4N2, H4N6, H7N7, and H10N4. H5N8 HPAIVs belonging to the G2a group were isolated throughout winter, whereas H5N1 HPAIV belonging to the G2b group were isolated only in early winter. These findings suggest co-circulation of both G2a and G2b HPAIVs in early winter. Although two H7N7 LPAIVs were isolated from cranes’ roost water collected on the same day, the gene constellations of the two isolates were clearly different, indicating the contemporary invasion of at least two different genotypes of H7N7 LPAIVs in the Izumi plain. This study underscores the importance of monitoring both HPAIVs and LPAIVs to understand avian influenza virus ecology in migratory waterfowl populations.

Migratory Shorebird Gut Microbes are not Associated with Bivalve Prey in Monsoon Tropical Australia

Chava L. Weitzman , Zarah Tinning , Kimberley A. Day , Stephen T. Garnett , Keith Christian , Karen Gibb

Abstract: Migratory animals can carry symbionts over long distances. While well-studied for parasite and pathogen transmission, less is known about use of this route by other symbiotic taxa, particularly those non-pathogenic. Here we ask the question of whether gut bacteria can be spread between continents by long-distance bird migration, although gut microbiomes in birds may not be as stable or persistent as those of non-volant animals. We used amplicon sequencing of both bacterial 16S rRNA gene and Vibrio-centric hsp60 gene to determine whether the faecal bacteria of migratory great knots (Calidris tenuirostris) also occur in their main food source in Northern Australia or in nearby sand, comparing samples before and after the birds’ long-distance migration. Our data suggest that there is little connectivity among the bacterial microbiomes, except in the bivalve prey. Our results are consistent with previous studies finding that bird faecal microbiomes were not host-specific and contrast with those showing an influence of diet on bird faecal bacteria. We also found little connectivity among Vibrio spp. However, although faecal sample sizes were small, the dominance of different individual Vibrio spp. suggests that they may have been well-established in knot guts and thus capable of moving with them on migration. We suggest that the physiological impacts of a long-distance migration may have caused shifts in the phyla comprising great knot faecal communities.

Novel Genotype of HA Clade 2.3.4.4b H5N8 Subtype High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus Emerged at a Wintering Site of Migratory Birds in Japan, 2021/22 Winter

Berihun Dires Mihiretu , Tatsufumi Usui * , Masahiro Kiyama , Kosuke Soda and Tsuyoshi Yamaguchi

Abstract: Surveillance of avian influenza virus (AIV) was conducted in the 2021–2022 winter season at a wintering site of migratory Anatidae in Japan. An H5N8 subtype high pathogenicity AIV (HPAIV) with a unique gene constellation and four low pathogenicity AIVs (LPAIVs) were isolated from environmental samples. The genetic origin of the HPAIV (NK1201) was determined with whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analyses. Six of NK1201’s eight genes were closely related to HA clade 2.3.4.4b H5N8 subtype HPAIVs, belonging to the G2a group, which was responsible for outbreaks in poultry farms in November 2021 in Japan. However, the remaining two genes, PB1 and NP, most closely matched those of the LPAIVs H7N7 and H1N8, which were isolated at the same place in the same 2021–2022 winter. No virus of the NK1201 genotype had been detected prior to the 2021–2022 winter, indicating that it emerged via genetic reassortment among HPAIV and LPAIVs, which were prevalent at the same wintering site. In addition, experimental infection in chickens indicated that NK1201 had slightly different infectivity compared to the reported infectivity of the representative G2a group H5N8 HPAIV, suggesting that the PB1 and NP genes derived from LPAIVs might have affected the pathogenicity of the virus in chickens. Our results directly demonstrate the emergence of a novel genotype of H5N8 HPAIV through gene reassortment at a wintering site. Analyses of AIVs at wintering sites can help to identify the emergence of novel HPAIVs, which pose risks to poultry, livestock, and humans.

Mercury contamination is an invisible threat to declining migratory shorebirds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway

Yanju Ma , Chi-YeungChoi , Lihai Shang , Marcel Klaassen , ZhijunMa , Qing Chang , Veerle L. B. Jaspers , QingquanBai , TaoHe , Katherine K-S. Leung , Chris J. Hassell , Roz Jessop , LukeGibson

Abstract: Exposure to pollutants is a potentially crucial but overlooked driver of population declines in shorebirds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. We combined knowledge of moult strategy and life history with a standardised sampling protocol to assess mercury (Hg) contamination in 984 individuals across 33 migratory shorebird species on an intercontinental scale. Over one-third of the samples exceeded toxicity benchmarks. Feather Hg was best explained by moulting region, while habitat preference (coastal obligate vs. non-coastal obligate), the proportion of invertebrates in the diet and foraging stratum (foraging mostly on the surface vs. at depth) also contributed, but were less pronounced. Feather Hg was substantially higher in South China (Mai Po and Leizhou), Australia and the Yellow Sea than in temperate and Arctic breeding ranges. Non-coastal obligate species (Tringa genus) frequently encountered in freshwater habitats were at the highest risk. It is important to continue and expand biomonitoring research to assess how other pollutants might impact shorebirds.

The prevalence and genotypes of Cryptosporidium spp. in bar-headed goose ( Anser indicus ) in China

Nian-Yu Xue , Si-Yuan Qin , Ya Qin , Hai-Tao Wang , Qing-Yu Hou , Xing Yang , Jing Jiang , Hong-Bo Ni

Abstract: Cryptosporidium spp. is an important foodborne and waterborne pathogen in humans and animals, causing diarrhoea in humans and respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases in birds. However, reports of Cryptosporidium infection in bar–headed goose are limited. To determine the infection rate and species/genotypes of Cryptosporidium in bar–headed goose in China, a total of 358 fecal samples were collected from 3 regions. Nested PCR was used to amplify Cryptosporidium SSU rRNA regions from the fecal extracted–DNA samples. The total infection rate of Cryptosporidium in bar–headed in China was 3.9 % (14/358), with 4.2 % (5/120) in Aba (Ngawa) Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefect, Sichuan province, 7.6 % (9/119) in Maqu county, Gansu province, and 0.0 % (0/119) in Caohai, Wei ning county, Guizhou province. The differences in prevalence rate by region were statistically significant. All positive samples were identified as Cryptosporidium goose genotype I (n = 14). This is the first systematic investigation of the epidemiological status and dominant species/genotypes of Cryptosporidium in bar–headed goose in China, thereby enhancing our understanding of the epidemiology of Cryptosporidium infection in wild migratory birds.

Concurrent Infection with Clade 2.3.4.4b Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N6 and H5N1 Viruses, South Korea, 2023

G.-B. Heo, Y.-M. Kang, S.-H. An, Y. Kim, R.M. Cha, Y. Jang, E.-K. Lee, Y.-J. Lee, K.-N. Lee

Abstract: Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N6 and H5N1 viruses of clade 2.3.4.4b were simultaneously introduced into South Korea at the end of 2023. An outbreak at a broiler duck farm consisted of concurrent infection by both viruses. Sharing genetic information and international surveillance of such viruses in wild birds and poultry is critical.

Avian influenza viruses in New Zealand wild birds, with an emphasis on subtypes H5 and H7: Their distinctive epidemiology and genomic properties

Wlodek L.Stanislawek*, Toni Tana , Thomas G. Rawdon , Susan C. Cork , Kylie ChenID , Hammed Fatoyinbo , Naomi Cogger , Richard J.Webby , Robert G. Webster , Maree Joyce , Mary Ann Tuboltsev , Della Orr , Sylvia Ohneiser , Jonathan Watts , Adrian C. Riegen , Matthew McDougall , David Klee , Joseph S. O’Keefe

Abstract: The rapid spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1) viruses in Southeast Asia in 2004 prompted the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries to expand its avian influenza surveillance in wild birds. A total of 18,693 birds were sampled between 2004 and 2020, including migratory shorebirds (in 2004-2009), other coastal species (in 2009-2010), and resident waterfowl (in 2004-2020). No avian influenza viruses (AIVs) were isolated from cloacal or oropharyngeal samples from migratory shorebirds or resident coastal species. Two samples from red knots (Calidris canutus) tested positive by influenza A RT-qPCR, but virus could not be isolated and no further characterization could be undertaken. In contrast, 6179 samples from 15,740 mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) tested positive by influenza A RT-qPCR. Of these, 344 were positive for H5 and 51 for H7. All H5 and H7 viruses detected were of low pathogenicity confirmed by a lack of multiple basic amino acids at the hemagglutinin (HA) cleavage site. Twenty H5 viruses (six different neuraminidase [NA] subtypes) and 10 H7 viruses (two different NA subtypes) were propagated and characterized genetically. From H5- or H7-negative samples that tested positive by influenza A RT-qPCR, 326 AIVs were isolated, representing 41 HA/NA combinations. The most frequently isolated subtypes were H4N6, H3N8, H3N2, and H10N3. Multivariable logistic regression analysis of the relations between the location and year of sampling, and presence of AIV in individual waterfowl showed that the AIV risk at a given location varied from year to year. The H5 and H7 isolates both formed monophyletic HA groups. The H5 viruses were most closely related to North American lineages, whereas the H7 viruses formed a sister cluster relationship with wild bird viruses of the Eurasian and Australian lineages. Bayesian analysis indicates that the H5 and H7 viruses have circulated in resident mallards in New Zealand for some time. Correspondingly, we found limited evidence of influenza viruses in the major migratory bird populations visiting New Zealand. Findings suggest a low probability of introduction of HPAI viruses via long-distance bird migration and a unique epidemiology of AIV in New Zealand.

 덩스옌(Deng Shiyan) 님께서 정리하셨습니다

푸코로코로 미란다 트러스트(PMNT)는 중국, 한국, 북한에서의 국제 활동과 호주와의 협력 지원을 통해 철새이동경로 파트너로 활동하고 있다. 주목할 점은 PMNT가 단순한 국제 비정부 기구에 그치지 않고, 템즈만(Firth of Thames)에서 도요물떼새류의 주요 밀물 쉼터(high tide roost system)를 이루는 핵심 구역인 로버트 핀들레이 야생동물 보호구역(RFWR)을 직접 관리하고 있다는 것이다.

템즈만은 람사르 습지이자, 동아시아-대양주 철새이동경로 파트너십(EAAFP) 철새이동경로 네트워크 서식지로 지정된 지역이다. 따라서 PMNT는 도요물떼새류의 국제적 보호 활동을 수행하는 국제 비정부 기구이면서 동시에 해당 서식지의 직접적인 관리 주체라는 역할을 담당하고 있다.

로버트 핀들레이 야생동물 보호구역은 템즈만 서안에 위치한 역동적인 해안 생태계다. 템즈만에는 강한 남향 해류가 흐르며, 이는 해안선을 따라 이동한다. 이 지역의 갯벌대는 연체동물 군락을 비롯한 다양한 해양 생물이 서식하는 풍부한 생태 환경을 형성하고 있으며, 조류와 어류의 주요 먹이터 역할을 한다. 조개류는 성장하고 죽은 후 껍질을 남기며, 이는 해안으로 유입된다. 이후 연안 표사 이동에 따라 껍질들은 남쪽 방향으로 이동하고, 밀물과 폭풍우로 인해 이동하는 조개껍질 마루는 갯벌 조류의 휴식처로 적합하다.

마루의 육지 측에는 퇴적물이 쌓이며 점차 고정된 지형으로 변화한다. 이처럼 반복적으로 형성된 마루들이 약 4,000년에 걸쳐 누적되면서 푸코로코로 미란다의 셰니어 평야(chenier plain)를 형성하게 되었다.  해당 지형은 조개껍질 퇴적과 지형 변동이 장기간에 걸쳐 축적된 결과물이며, 독특한 해안 지형으로 평가된다.

동아시아–대양주 철새이동경로 파트너십(EAAFP)을 대표하여, 아프리카-유라시아 이동성물새협정(AEWA)의 30주년을 진심으로 축하드립니다. AEWA가 올해 6월, 이 뜻깊은 이정표를 맞이하게 되어 매우 기쁘게 생각합니다.

EAAFP는 2026년 창립 20주년을 앞두고 있으며, 이 기회를 통해 지난 세월 AEWA와 쌓아온 긴밀하고 협력적인 관계를 되돌아보게 됩니다. 양 기관은 철새 서식지 보전이라는 공동의 목표 아래, 지속적인 상호 협력과 연대를 이어왔습니다.

이번 기념일은 철새이동경로 보전과 이를 뒷받침하는 국제 협력체계의 중요성이 전 세계적으로 더욱 주목받는 시점에 찾아왔습니다. 중앙아시아 및 아메리카 철새이동경로에서도 새로운 이니셔티브가 속속 등장하고 있으며, 많은 철새 종들이 여러 경로를 넘나들며 이동하고 있습니다. 이러한 흐름 속에서, 기존 및 신생 철새이동경로 이니셔티브 간의 협력과 정보 공유, 소통의 중요성은 그 어느 때보다 명확히 드러나고 있습니다.

EAAFP는 2011년 대한민국에서 최초의 세계 철새이동경로 네트워크(Global Inter-Flyway Network) 회의를 개최한 것을 자랑스럽게 생각하며, 13년 뒤에는 CMS(이동성야생동물보호협약) 제14차 당사국 총회 기간 중 두 번째 회의를 열었습니다. AEWA는 두 행사 모두에서 핵심적인 역할을 수행하며, 철새이동경로 간 대화와 공동 학습의 중요성을 분명히 보여주었습니다.

또한 양 기관은 세계 철새의 날(World Migratory Bird Day, WMBD)을 공동으로 알리며 긴밀히 협력해왔습니다. 현재 WMBD는 활발한 전 세계 캠페인으로 자리 잡아, 철새와 그들이 겪는 다양한 도전에 대한 인식을 높이는 데 크게 기여하고 있습니다.

AEWA와 EAAFP는 사다새(Dalmatian Pelican), 흰이마기러기(Lesser White-fronted Goose) 등 공통 종의 서로 다른 개체군을 보호하며 협력해왔습니다. 이러한 협업은 철새이동경로를 넘는 보다 효과적이고 조율된 보전 활동을 가능하게 했습니다.

AEWA가 철새 보전을 향한 네 번째 10년을 시작하는 이 시점에서, 그 역할은 앞으로 더욱 중요해질 것이라 확신합니다. 지속적인 소통과 과거의 경험으로부터 배우는 자세, 그리고 새롭게 닥쳐올 도전에 대한 능동적인 대응은 앞으로 더욱 불확실해질 환경 속에서 핵심적인 요소가 될 것입니다. 분명한 것은, AEWA 덕분에 아프리카–유라시아 철새이동경로를 따라 이동하는 물새들은 예전보다 더 잘 이해되고, 더 잘 보호받으며, 더 많이 알려지고 있다는 사실입니다.

AEWA의 30주년이라는 뜻깊은 이정표를 다시 한 번 진심으로 축하드리며, 앞으로도 철새와 그들이 의존하는 생태계 및 지역사회를 위해 AEWA와의 굳건한 파트너십을 이어가길 기대합니다.