Trends of Migratory and Wintering Waterbirds in the Wadden Sea 1987/1988 - 2022/2023

A comprehensive long-term analysis of migratory and wintering waterbirds in the Wadden Sea World Heritage Site reveals significant trends over 35 years (1987/1988–2022/2023). This internationally coordinated study, conducted by the Expert Group Migratory Birds under the Trilateral Monitoring and Assessment Programme (TMAP), highlights the site's critical role as a staging, moulting, and wintering area for waterbirds on the East Atlantic Flyway. Using regular ground counts, aerial surveys, and boat-based observations—involving hundreds of observers across multiple institutions—the research provides insights into population dynamics, habitat use, and conservation status of key species. The findings underscore the Wadden Sea's ecological importance while offering a foundation for targeted conservation efforts to sustain its biodiversity.

Kleefstra, R., Behm, K., Bregnballe, T., Enners, L., Frikke, J., Günther, K., Hälterlein, B., Hansen, M. B., Hornman, M., Meyer, J., Packmor, F., & Scheiffarth, G. (2025). Trends of Migratory and Wintering Waterbirds in the Wadden Sea 1987/1988 - 2022/2023. Common Wadden Sea Secretariat, Expert Group Migratory Birds. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.17199021