Birds and Biodiversity in Germany – 2010 Target

Birds and Biodiversity i n G e r m a n y

Editors

The Dachverband Deutscher Avifaunisten (DDA, Federation of German Avifaunists) co-ordinates national-wide bird survey programmes, such as monitoring of breeding and resting birds. As well get as supporting reseach on applied bird conservation, the DDA represents German nature conservation organisations on Wetlands International and the European Bird Census Council. 2010 Tar Since more than 100 years the Naturschutzbund Deutschland (NABU, Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union) is involved in practical and political bird and nature conservation. The NABU is the German partner of BirdLife International, it is member of the DNR (German League for Nature and Environment), and since 1971 the NABU chooses the Bird of the Year in Germany (2008: common cuckoo).

The Deutsche Rat für Vogelschutz (DRV, German Council for Bird Protection) is a forum, which enables the co-operation and an intensive exchange of experiences between representatives of governmental bird conservation agencies, scientific institutions and NGOs. The aim is to give scientifically well-founded advice to decision takers and to promote scientific knowledge and conservation strategies.

The Deutsche Ornithologen-Gesellschaft (DO-G, German Ornithologists’ Society) is one of the oldest scientific associations in the world. Since its formation in 1850, it has promoted ornithology as a pure science as well as in applied research.

The Bundesamt für Naturschutz [Federal Nature Conservation Agency] has funded the printing of this report with resources from the Bundesministerium für Umwelt, Naturschutz und Reaktorsicherheit [Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety]. Contents Editorial

Dear readers, Editors Contents / Editorial 2 Dachverband Deutscher Avifaunisten, Naturschutzbund Deutschland, th Key facts 3 Germany will host the 9 UN nature conservation Deutscher Rat für Vogelschutz and Deutsche Ornithologen-Gesellschaft conference (“ninth meeting of the Conference of Bird monitoring 4 responsible authors: the Parties to the UN Convention on Biodiversity”) Protection of species 6 Martin Flade, Christoph Grüneberg, Christoph Sudfeldt and Johannes Wahl in Bonn from 19th to 30th May 2008, to which more Critically endangered species 8 Bird monitoring: A. Mitschke, C. Sudfeldt than 5.000 representatives from all over the world Protection of species: C. Grüneberg, C. Sudfeldt, M. Boschert Birds as indicators 10 are expected. The basis of the conference of the Critically endangered birds: C. Grüneberg, C. Sudfeldt, M. Boschert Farmland birds 12 parties is the “Convention on Biological Diversity Birds as indicators: A. Mitschke, C. Sudfeldt Farmland birds: M. Flade, H. Hötker Forest birds 20 (CBD)”, which was agreed at the world summit in Forest birds: M. Flade Rio de Janeiro in 1992 and is celebrated as a mile- Urban birds: A. Mitschke Urban birds 28 stone for nature conservation. Here, it is expressly Wetland birds: C. Grüneberg, M. Boschert, H.-G. Bauer Wetland birds 30 Coastal and sea birds: P. Südbeck, S. Garthe acknowledged that the conservation of biological Alpine birds: H. Schöpf, H.-G. Bauer, Coastal and sea birds 32 diversity is in the interest of all mankind. So far, Migrating waterbirds: J. Wahl Trans-Saharan migrants: J. Salewski, M. Flade Alpine birds 36 189 countries, as well as the European Union have signed the convention. in cooperation with: Migrating waterbirds 40 J. Blew, S. Fischer, K. Günther, B. Hälterlein, T. Heinicke, W. Knief, T. Langgemach, Trans-Saharan migrants 50 U. Mammen, W. Scherzinger, H. Schumacher, J. Schwarz and A. von Lindeiner. In Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2002, the so-called Acknowledgement 54 “2010 target” was adopted within the framework of Imprint 55 the CBD, in order to reduce signiﬁcantly by 2010 the Citation rate of biological diversity loss at a global, regional Flade, M., C. Grüneberg, C, Sudfeldt & J. Wahl (2008): Birds and Biodiversity in Germany – 2010 Target. DDA, NABU, DRV, DO-G, Münster. and national level. At Gothenburg in 2001, the EU „Birds and Biodiversity in Germany - 2010 Target“ had already decided to halt the loss of biodiversity in gives a comprehensive overview about the current Europe by 2010. Imprint status of bird life in Germany – also of the common ISBN: 978-3-9811698-2-9 starling. Photo: T. Krüger th On the occasion of the 9 meeting of the Conference © Dachverband Deutscher Avifaunisten e.V. of the Parties to CBD, the report “Birds and Biodiver- Geschäftsstelle, Zerbster Str. 7, D - 39264 Steckby

sity in Germany – 2010 target” represents a compre- „Birds and Biodiversity in Germany – 2010 Target“ is published by Dachverband Deutscher Avifaunisten e.V. hensive overview of the conservation status of natio- Layout and graphics: Christoph Grüneberg nal bird life – representing all biological diversity. Translation: Solveigh Lass-Evans The report aims to inform decision makers in politics Print: Druckerei Stelljes, Münster and administration as well as the public who are in- Cover picture: Mathias Schäf, European turtle dove terested in the successes achieved in species conser- The report is printed on FSC-certified paper. vation in recent years, and also to reveal the continu- The graphics of the sustainability indicator for species diversity were kindly provided by U. Sukopp and ing or even increasing need for action, in particular R. Dröschmeister (Bundesamt für Naturschutz, Data source: Achtziger, R., H. Stickroth, R. Zieschank, C. Wolter in the unprotected “wider countryside”. & H. Schlumprecht (2007): F+E-Projekt „Nachhaltigkeitsindikator für den Naturschutzbereich“ - Phase 2. Endbericht Teil A: Nachhaltigkeitsindikator für die Artenvielfalt. Unveröff. Forschungsbericht im Auftrag des BfN The analysis is based on several million records, (FKZ 804 86 010): 196 S. gathered by more than 5.000 bird watchers. The evaluation allows concrete conclusions about the Available from application of nature conservation concepts, so we DDA-Schriftenversand, Regina Kronbach, Am Hohen Hain 4 d, D - 09212 Limbach-Oberfrohna could achieve a sustainable contribution to the pro- email: [email protected], Tel.: +49-(0)3722-91819 tection of species diversity. On the other hand, they Nominal charge 10,00 EUR plus package and postage also act as early-warning systems by pointing out „Birds and Biodiversity in Germany – 2010 Target“ can be downloaded for free on the homepage of the DDA current undesirable developments, which need to be (www.dda-web.de). stopped if the aim of preventing continuous losses of species diversity is to be achieved.

All parts of this work are copyright protected. Any use outside the strict terms of copyright law without the agreement of the publishers is prohibited Stefan Fischer, chairman of the DDA and may be prosecuted. This particularly applies to copying, translations, microﬁlm, online storage and processing in electronic systems. 2 59 Key points

Overall situation  Many common bird species are in decline: numbers of 23 of the 64 commonest German birds have fallen over the last 15 years. Even species such as house sparrow, common house martin and northern lapwing continue to deteriorate in status.  Ground-nesting birds of farmland such as Eurasian skylark and Eurasian curlew are particularly threatened: causes are intensification of agriculture, loss of semi-natural wet grasslands and the recent use of fallow land for the cultivation of energy crops. Favourable trends are found only where there are high levels of organic farming and in large protected areas. If biodiversity loss is to be halted on agricultural land, support measures must be targeted more strongly at the conservation of species and habitats. An important current issue is the need for a fallow land programme to compensate for the loss of EU set-aside.  Forest birds have shown a slight recovery: semi-natural forest management has led to better living conditions for typical species such as Eurasian nuthatch and great spotted woodpecker. Nearly half of the 52 commonest woodland species have increased since 1990, but this increase has taken place almost exclusively outside forests, in parks, gardens and green spaces. Sharp rises in the price of timber and increased use of wood for fuel are currently causing severe intensification of forest management. Therefore, declines in forest birds should be expected in the future.  Species breeding on the coasts are particularly seriously threatened: Kentish plover and little tern need targeted protection measures if they are to survive in Germany. Numbers of shellfish-eating visitors to the Wadden Sea, such as red knot and common eider, have shown alarming declines over the last 10 years.  Long-running protection schemes have helped spectacular larger birds: continuing population increases for black stork, white-tailed eagle, peregrine falcon and common crane show that voluntary- and state-sector conservation measures can enable the long-term survival of these species. Sustainability  Birds are policy indicators of the sustainability of land-use in Germany. The Federal Government’s sustainability strategy sets a target of stabilising the status of all species in the species diversity indicator and those selected to represent high value habitats.  The indicator has stagnated over the last ten years and in 2005 only 74% of the target had been met. Significant extra effort will be needed if the sustainability target is to be achieved. Climate change  Climate change also affects bird life: numbers of ducks wintering in Germany have increased, because the winter range of some species has moved in response to milder winter conditions in central Europe.  Long-distance migrants such as tree pipit, wood warbler and European pied flycatcher suffer from dramatic changes in landscape, on migration and on their African wintering grounds. Causes are drought, overgrazing, deforestation and expansion of desert.  Long-distance migrants are particularly strongly affected by population declines, regardless of habitat preference, ecological guild, or genetic kinship. Therefore, rapidly changing conditions on the African continent should be brought more strongly within the focus of nature conservation.

3 Bird monitoring

In order to be able to make state- very accurately changes in dis- servation are the “rare breeding Population trends of 64 common breeding birds in Germany between 1990-2005. ments about the world of birds, tribution and numbers of bird birds monitoring” and the moni- we need to map and count as species. Evaluation of habitats toring programmes for resting Species Trend 1990-2005 Species Trend 1990-2005 precisely as possible the bree- and their links with information waterbirds (e.g. International Common pheasant  Common chiffchaff  ding and resting birds which on landuse allows analysis of Waterbird Census, Trilateral Northern lapwing  Willow warbler  occur regularly in Germany. causes of population change. Monitoring and Assessment Stock dove  Goldcrest  This is used to develop recom- Programm of the Wadden Sea, We benefit from the presence mendations for nature conser- Seabirds at Sea), as well as moni- Common wood pigeon  Firecrest  of several thousand skilled and vation policy. toring of birds of prey and owls European turtle dove  Spotted flycatcher  experienced, deeply committed and the “Integrated Monitoring Common swift  European pied flycatcher  bird-watchers, who willingly Monitoring of common bree- of Songbird populations”. European green woodpecker  Long-tailed bushtit  give their knowledge to non- ding birds by the Dachverband Black woodpecker  Marsh tit  profit service. Through this Deutscher Avifaunisten (DDA) Further information on bird mostly voluntary collaboration, – the Federation of German monitoring can be found on the Great spotted woodecker  European crested tit  they all contribute to the perma- Avifaunists – has provided homepage of the DDA under Eurasian skylark  Coal tit  www.dda-web.de, in particular nent observation of our avifauna reliable information on the wide- Barn swallow  Blue tit  in the framework of so-called spread common bird species of in the online information system “Vögel in Deutschland” Common house martin  Great tit  monitoring programmes, with Germany since 1990. Further [“Birds in Germany”] which it is possible to describe important modules of bird ob- Tree pipit  Eurasian nuthatch  White wagtail  Eurasian treecreeper  The population of common wood pidgeon Winter wren  Short-toed treecreeper  in Germany is stable. Photo: T. Krüger Dunnock  Eurasian golden oriole  European robin  Red-backed shrike  Common nightingale  Eurasian jay  Common redstart  Eurasian magpie  Black redstart  Carrion / Hooded crow  Common blackbird  Northern raven  Mistle thrush  Common starling  Song thrush  House sparrow  Common grasshopper warbler  Eurasian tree sparrow  Marsh warbler  I  Common chaffinch  Eurasian reed warbler  European serin  Icterine warbler  European greenfinch  I  Lesser whitethroat  European goldfinch  Common whitethroat  Common linnet  Garden warbler  Eurasian bullfinch  Eurasian blackcap  Yellowhammer  Wood warbler  Common reed bunting  Legend:  =strong decline (> 50 %),  = decline (20-50 %),  = moderate decline (< 20 %),  = Population fluctuating and/or without trend,  = moderate increase (< 20 %),  = increase (20-50 %),  = strong increase (> 50 %),  I  = increase in the first, decline in the second part of the period 4 5 Protection of species

In various ways, several thousand volunteers, nature protection Thanks to intensive efforts, Montagu‘s harrier increased rapidly organisations and foundations as well as public authorities in 1998 the population of great since the systematic protection of are involved in species conservation. The activities range from bustard increased at the three nesting sites in fields. Photo: H. Glader installing nest boxes, to the purchase of ecologically valuable remaining breeding sites in areas and their ecologically-friendly cultivation, to payment of Brandenburg and Saxony-Anhalt compensation for profits lost by farmers and forest owners. Has for the first time in decades of the conservation situation improved for species for which partic- decline. In 2005, more than ular protection measures have been in place for several years? 100 birds were recorded. The Experience shows that those species that are in the public eye population of Eurasian eagle- may have been helped through specific supporting measures. owl reached a low point of 70 pairs at the end of 1950s, but by The installation of artificial nests The growing breeding popula- 2005, large areas of Germany and nesting assistance are easy tion of Montagu’s harrier proves had been repopulated and more measures to support breeding that successful protection of nest than 1,000 pairs were registered. populations of endangered sites can also be practised on While the population continues species: osprey and peregrine land used for agricultural crops. to increase in northern and falcon have both benefited. For Since the start of state-aided western Germany, numbers are European golden plover from Directive, Germany is on the species that are particularly species recovery programmes, stable or even locally decreasing clutch protection, and black tern right track to secure for future sensitive to disturbance, such as the population increased na- in South Germany. This species and common tern from the in- generations a comprehensive white-tailed eagle and common tionally to between 430 and is supported through reintroduc- stallation of breeding rafts. species diversity as a national crane, securing breeding sites 460 pairs. In the mid 1990s the tion in Schleswig-Holstein. contribution to the European and introducing nest protection species was still „critically en- For the permanent protection NATURA 2000 site network. By zones have been proved to work. dangered“ on the Red-List. Due to enormous voluntary of many endangered bird April 2008, Germany had desi- engagement, which has been species, species action plans are gnated 734 SPAs (11.1% of the given to species recovery pro- indispensible. However, these land area). In addition, almost grams for decades and is fun- plans can only proceed in the 1.9 million hectares of sea, bays, ded by donations as well as by long term if the preservation intertidal areas and parts of Lake public authorities, species such of natural habitats is given the Constance are also included in as barn owl and little owl also highest priority. With the desig- the network. Further proposals profit from the construction of nation of Special Protection for bird protection areas will be nest boxes and nest holes, as do Areas (SPAs) under the EU Birds made in 2008.

Population trends for selected species between 1996 and 2005, which benefited by special protection activities at the nesting sites. All numbers represent breeding pairs. (except individuals = ind.) Species Trend Population Species Trend Population 1996-2005 2005 1996-2005 2005 Black stork  500-530 Common crane  5200-5400 White stork  4200-4300 Great bustard  101 ind. Osprey  500 European golden plover  8 Golden eagle  46 Black tern  760-790 Montagu‘s harrier  430-460 Common tern  11000 White-tailed eagle  501 Eurasian eagle-owl  1400-1500

Little owl benefits from nest boxes, Peregrine falcon  800-830 Little owl  8200-8400 but needs further optimal habitat Legend:  = strong decline (> 50 %),  = decline (20-50 %),  = stable (-20 % bis +20 %),  increase (20-50 %), conditions. Photo: H. Glader  = strong increase (> 50 %) 6 7 Critically endangered birds

At the beginning of this millennium, 26 species of breeding spread purchase of ecologically The decline of black-tailed birds were critically endangered in Germany – as shown by the valuable meadow areas. After godwit has not been stopped, 2002 Red List. Has the ringing of alarm bells led to increased nearly two decades of intensive but slowed in protected areas. conservation effort? The balance is ambivalent: 4 species re- efforts, the first signs of success Photo: H. Glader covered slightly, for 12 species, the negative population trend can be detected in protection has been stopped and for another 4 species the rate of decline areas. This gives rise to hope that could at least be slowed. However, for 5 species the conserva- the federal and state government tion effort needs to be intensified considerably if they are to be conservation programmes for prevented from becoming extinct... protecting wet meadows and bogs are slowly beginning to ...a fate, which has already severely threatened, and have succeed. befallen the European roller, been lost from most of the moors which bred for the last time in and heaths in north Germany European golden plover have Baden-Württemberg in 1994. Po- where they previously occurred. also benefited from extensive pulations of ruff, dunlin, wood- An exception is the increasing nature protection measures, chat shrike and aquatic warbler population in the Lüneburg which have allowed the small are threatened with immediate Heath. Inland breeding numbers remnant population in Lower extinction in Germany. Kentish of black-tailed godwit, a target Saxony to be maintained with plover breeding on the North species of the wet meadow pro- increasing breeding success. 1990, have stabilised since the heavy losses due to two cold Sea coast show an unremittingly tection programmes of several middle of the 1990s. winters in the middle of the strong downward trend. Away federal states, have continued The breeding populations of 1990s. Ferruginous duck breeds from the Alps, black grouse are to decline, in spite of the wide- black tern, short-eared owl and The population of Eurasian – after an absence of more than Eurasian hoopoe, which showed bittern, a widespread inhabitant 20 years – since 1997 again re- heavy losses between 1975 and of reedbeds, has recovered from gularly in Germany .

Population trends of „critically endangered“ species contained in the Red Data Book (2002), between 1996 and 2005. All numbers represent breeding pairs (exceptional individuals = ind.) Species Trend Population Species Trend Population 1996-2005 2005 1996-2005 2005 Ferruginous duck  2-9 Common sandpiper  260-330 Black grouse  1000-1400 Ruff  19-39 Western capercaillie  580-780 Dunlin  8-13 Eurasian bittern  580-640 Caspian tern  0-2 Least bittern  97-150 Black tern  760-790 Northern harrier  52-62 Short-eared owl  70-170 Great bustard  101 ind. European roller ex 0 Spotted crake  570-810 Eurasian hoopoe  380-450 Little crake  33-49 Woodchat shrike  1-2 European golden plover  8 Great grey shrike  1900-2400 Kentish plover  181-183 aquatic warbler  6 Black-tailed godwit  4700 Collared flycatcher  4100-5600 Common snipe  5700-6600 Rock bunting  360-440 The black grouse is still threatened Legend:  = strong decline (> 50 %),  = decline (20-50 %),  = stable (-20 % bis +20 %),  increase (20-50 %), with extinction. Photo: H. Weindorf  = strong increase (> 50 %) 8 9 Birds as indicators

As a signatory to the “Convention on Biodiversity”, Germany sustainable and no trend is recog- High responsibility: almost 60 % of has committed itself to stopping the decline of species diversity. nisable regarding the target values all red kites worldwide are breeding In order to assess whether this aim can be achieved, perfor- for 2015. Therefore additional in Germany. Photo: K. Budweiser mance indicators have been developed which react sensitively efforts are necessary in order to hit to changes in the use of our natural resources. Indicators are the target and to secure the con- important aids to display complex connections in a clear and servation of species diversity. simple way. They also clarify to the public and politicians, where nature conservation action needs to be taken. ‘Wild Bird’ indicators for Europe Sustainability indicator habitat for the bird species con- for species diversity cerned. As many species besides The view over the border of birds are also bonded to a rich Germany shows that the Eu- The sustainability indicator for and diverse landscape with in- ropean “Wild Bird Indicator”, species diversity is one of 21 tact, sustainably used habitats, which summarises the popula- indicators, against which the the indicator also indirectly tion trends of 124 common bird proposed aim of sustainable measures species diversity and species of all habitats, showed development in Germany shall sustainability of landuse, when a moderate decrease in the be assessed. This indicator dis- considered on a large scale. 1980s, but stabilised since the plays the quality of nature and mid-1990s. The “Farmland Bird landscape and is based on the An expert panel has determined Indicator”, which belongs to population trends of 59 selec- target population levels for 2015 the EU-guideline indicators for ted bird species that represent for each bird species; these are the “management of natural re- the most important landscape, achievable if legal requirements sources” shows that the situation habitat and landuse types in Ger- for nature conservation and guide- for farmland birds has clearly many (farmland, forests, settle- lines for sustainable development developed negatively. ments, inland waters, coasts and are put into practice. seas and the Alps). The size of the populations directly reflects The indicator shows that cur- The population trend of the suitability of the landscape as rent landuse in Germany is not great crested grebe is included in the indicator for the habitat of inland waters. Photo: T. Krüger

The red-backed shrike is one of ten indicator species for the habitat „farmlands“. Photo: H. Glader

10 11 Farmland birds

As in other European countries, a particular sharp decline of nesting birds, which were also In western and southern Germany almost bird populations in agricultural landscapes was observed in affected by continuing declines a rarity: a singing Eurasian skylark. Germany between 1960 and 1990. West and East Germany ex- over the last 15 years. Even Photo: M. Schäf perienced a dramatic intensification of agricultural production more threatened are species of through mechanisation, pesticide and fertiliser application, as marshland areas: dunlin and ruff well as measures to improve the land, e.g. through dewatering, have become almost extinct in drainage, installation of flood defences, as well as consolidation Germany; the breeding popula- of farmland and reclamation of waste land. Intensification of tion of black-tailed godwit has use and productivity, and loss of species diversity on agricultural shrunk to less than half its former land were disproportionately greater in West Germany than in level, and the Eurasian curlew East Germany. The causes for these declines are now well under- population is in sharp decline. stood: particular problems are rapid and dense growth of crops, When considering birds bree- lack of food, habitat destruction, lack of crop diversity, drainage ding in arable landscapes, no of wet grassland and high levels of predation by mammals. clear winners can be found: only western yellow wagtail is able Current trends agriculture and an increase of to use intensively cultivated field set-aside areas to 15-20 % of the areas as breeding habitat. Populations of birds breeding on arable land. However, here too arable land developed differently the data mainly show declines Due to current farming condi- following German reunificati- since the late 1990s. tions, many species are no lon- on: declines continued in the ger able to breed, or to rear their west, while a recovery of many The population trends of young successfully. Drainage species (e.g. yellowhammer and northern lapwing, Eurasian measures cause reductions in corn bunting) was observed in skylark, whinchat and meadow food supply and encourage the the east after reorganisation of pipit represent many ground- spread of predatory mammals, for which nests or not-fully fledged young are easy prey. Climate change and over-fertili- sation add to the wider negative trend in breeding conditions: cultivated plants grow earlier, Example Eurasian skylark: The already high densities of this typical farmland faster and more densely than a bird in East Germany increased even more following German Reunification, while in West Germany – after a short population recovery – declines clearly few decades ago. This is a pro- continued. Since 1999, this species has decreased at the same rate in both blem for ground-nesting birds. parts of Germany.

Bird species nesting in hedges and shrubs show less distinct population trends: while common nightingale and common whitethroat now show The farmland bird indicator contains following species: positive trends following popu- Black-tailed godwit Northern lapwing Wood lark lation collapse in the 1970s, the Corn bunting Red-backed shrike Yellowhammer The population of meadow pipit numbers of willow warbler and halved within the last 15 years. Eurasian skylark Red kite common linnet have declined Photo: H. Glader Little owl Whinchat continuously. 12 13 Farmland birds

New threats Decreasing in most parts of Germany because of damage to wet grasslands Rapid changes in ecological and and marshes: the Eurasian curlew political determining factors over Photo: H. Glader the next few years could cause further wide-ranging and immediate population losses for birds of agricultural landscapes.

As a consequence of increased crop prices and concurrent increased demand for land used to produce so-called energy The common whitethroat shows a positive crops (in particular maize for bio- trend in Germany. Photo: T. Seibel gas) at explosive rates, the pressure on farmland has risen considerably in Germany, as well as in other European countries, over a relatively short time. A first consequence of this development at a European level is the suspension of compulsory set- aside. As a result, the proportion of fallow land in the landscape impact on the population levels payment rates are increased and of economic plants. If GM crops will be noticeably less from of many bird species. if the budget remains the same are cultivated increasingly in 2008. This will have a massive – a smaller total area is included the future, it must be feared that A second consequence is the in the programme. In either case, populations of many farmland Northern lapwings are breeding further spread of monocultures the significance of the contract birds would decline further. increasingly in fields, where they (above all, maize), with expected based nature protection scheme are threatend by intensive agriculture methods. Photo: H. Glader negative impacts on biodiversity might be weakened. The consequences of climate in agricultural regions. Already change for farmland birds are noticeable is loss of grassland, New and largely unexplored currently not predictable. As which is less profitable than regarding their impacts, are climate change affects bird arable, even more so today than the first releases of genetically habitats not only directly, but several years ago. Many of the modified crops, with the connec- also indirectly, due to changed most endangered bird species are ted push to intensify agricultural forms of farmland cultivation, grassland specialists. Compensa- land. Regardless of possibly complex correlations are un- tion payments within the frame- unwanted impacts, the wanted folded which allow only a few work of agri-environment pro- impacts of genetically modified concrete prognoses. Birds of grammes are likely to be uncom- crops (GM crops) currently pose grassland are likely to be parti- petitive compared with potential a potential threat to nature pro- cularly affected, as their conser- future earnings, with the result tection targets: GM crops allow vation status is already recorded that either farmers will lose in- intensive landuse on an unpre- as critical. terest in those programmes in cedented scale so far, resulting the near future, or – if average in sterile, homogeneous blocks 14 15 Farmland birds

lations remain stable in the wider Organic farming assists the Example yellowhammer: Numbers of yellowhammer remained constant in biodiversity and the species countryside of East Germany out- West Germany until 1996, but then decreased, while in the east, particularly frequency of agrolandscapes. side reserves following declines during the establishment of agricultural set-aside, this species increased Photo: M. Herrmann enormously and the population doubled! Since the reduction in set-aside to in set-aside since the mid-1990s, around 10% of farmland, the population has levelled off in the east. numbers on large scale protected areas clearly increased, even in recent years. By contrast, corn bunting has almost completely disappeared from farmland in most regions of West Germany.

The management of wet grassland has also shown some pro- gress. Through direct rewetting, reversion of arable fields to meadows and pasture often in close collaboration with farmers – at logical diversity on agricultural fallow land, as indicated by the least some populations could be land. These include the promo- conclusions of several research supported at some localities. tion of organic farming and ex- projects. However, implemen- tensive pastoral agriculture, as tation of these measures is still a Thus, tested action strategies well as maintaining at least 10% problem. exist to halt the decline of bio- of the agricultural landscape as

Taking into account continu- (e.g. laying out strips of fallow Yellowhammer show different population To save farmland trends between eastern and western ing negative population trends, birds is possible land, skylark patches, or hedges) Germany. Photo: M. Schäf and the massive new threats, the are some of the improvements aim of halting biodiversity loss The knowledge of how to help that can be achieved at a local on farmland by 2010 is likely by- farmland birds is largely availa- scale. Effective, wider-ranging and-large to be missed. ble. A number of small measures solutions have also been tried out. Compared with conventio- Factor of set-aside of agricultural land: In eastern Germany between 1991 nal agriculture, organic farming and 1996, the proportion of set-aside was temporarily very high (15-20%), but significantly increases the likeli- then declined to 10% (example shown here is the state of Brandenburg; data: ZALF Müncheberg). This factor proved to be significant for population trends hood of higher bird densities. of many farmland birds. Large scale protected areas, e.g. biosphere reserves, can also make a significant contribution. For example, the population of farmland birds developed better on large reserves in East Germany than in the wider countryside. The population trends for corn bunting, yellowhammer and Eurasian skylark indicate successes: while popu- 16 17 Farmland birds

indicate dramatic population Example corn bunting: The steep rise in eastern Germany during 1991 collapses within the next few The loss of fallows due to the production and1996 is linked to the phase of increasing levels of set-aside. However, years. The policy target of of energy crops threatens seed-eating birds further increases after 1998 only occurred on large scale protected areas and like the grey partridge. Photo: M. Schäf not in the wider countryside. halting the loss of biodiversity by 2010, cannot be reached in this way.

• The mainly positive developments on organic farmland and large reserves show one way to save the biodiversity of our agricultural landscape.

Conclusion and recommended Overview of trends in • Reasons for these declines courses of action agricultural landscape are well researched for many species. Fallow land and Because of current increases in • Most typical bird species of set-aside are key factors; the agricultural prices and the com- agricultural land are decrea- cancellation of compulsory petition for land used for energy sing; declines have accelera- set-aside and the boom in or food production, it is essen- ted since the late1990s. “energy crops” (e.g. maize) tial to provide the second pillar of EU agriculture policy (rural instrument for sustainable (e.g. nature conservation of development) with efficient and development of agricultural fallow land, preservation of well-resourced development pro- regions within the EU from species-rich grasslands, programmes and to define sophisti- 2014, motion orientated on success, cated environmental standards enhancement of farmland,  Improvement of environ- for cross-compliance. In order business development pro- mental standards of cross- to avoid a new wave of intensifi- grammes), compliance by compulsory cation, with increasing declines establishment of ecologically  Further development of the of species on agricultural land, important areas (e.g. farm promotion of energy crops in the following measures are re- woodland, strips of flowers, harmony with environment- quired over the next few years: managed fallow land, exten- friendly farming, by comple-  Clear expansion of rural sive grassland) over at least menting existing promotional development through re- 10% of farmed areas, tigh- instruments on ecological deployment of EU agri- tening the ban on ploughing minimum-criteria (e.g. regar- cultural payments by 20% grassland in sensitive areas, ding biogas plants, the maize into the second pillar in the and maintaining at least proportion needs to be rest- framework of the forthcoming three-year crop-rotation ricted to no more than 50% mid-term assessment of the systems, as well as the maintenance of Common Agricultural Policy three-year crop-rotation). The corn bunting benefits  Focussing financially and in from extensive agricultural in 2008, methods in large scale content on agri-environment protected areas in eastern  Creation of uniform, per- programs for particular eco- Germany. Photo: M. Schäf formance-related financial logical efficient measures 18 19 Forest birds

Forest bird populations have developed inconsistently. The The Eurasian nuthatch and several The population of stock dove forest bird indicator stagnates, but a slightly positive trend is hole-nesting birds are the winners of has increased since the end of noticeable since the millennium. For some species, this could be forest birds. Photo: H. Glader the 1970s. Photo: H. Glader due to increasing abandonment of rotational clear-cutting and the trend to continuous forest use (selective cutting). However, there are signs that improvements in forest management are currently being negated by intensified felling. It is also notable that overall numbers of many common forest bird species increase, but that these increases actually occur outside forests, namely in settlements, gardens and parks.

Actual trends owl and boreal owl, are also among the winners. Better protection of mature forest stands and the increasing ave- Populations of nearly half of rage age of our forests (increased 52 common forest species have stock of wood) have encouraged increased since 1990. However, Particular losers among forest populations of many species these increases did not occur birds are long-distance migrants, breeding in holes, such as stock predominately or exclusively in such as European turtle dove, dove, black woodpecker, great forests, but rather in settlements. European pied flycatcher, spotted woodpecker, Tit species The growth of green space and tree pipit and wood warbler and Eurasian nuthatch. Common the increasing age of trees in – species which annually cover birds of coniferous forest, such cities, villages and gardens en- distances of several thousand as European crested tit, fire- ables more and more forest birds kilometres between their local crest, coal tit, Eurasian pygmy to settle in urban habitats. breeding areas and wintering grounds in Africa. It seems that the reasons for these declines

The tree pipit and other long-distance are found not so much in Ger- migrants are the losers of forest birds. many, but rather along migra- Photo: J. Ruddek tion routes, or on the wintering grounds.

Losers and winners can also be found among large birds living in forests. Combined with the resettlement of the German low mountain range, numbers of black stork have increased since the late 1980s – also a result of intensive species protection The Forest Bird Indicator contains following species: measures. In contrast, the popu- Black woodpecker Grey headed woodpecker Middle spotted woodpecker lation of lesser spotted eagle Germany is located in the middle of Black stork Lesser spotted eagle Willow tit the European natural range of beech decreased continuously in spite forests, whose area increased in the Coal tit Lesser spotted woodpecker Wood warbler of species conservation efforts last 15 years. Photo: S.Ellermann Eurasian nuthatch Marsh tit since the mid-1990s. 20 21 Forest birds

The breeding population of The lesser spotted eagle – a rare red kite – of which nearly 60% and declining breeding bird in of the entire world population northeastern Germany – inhabits a occurs in Germany and for mixture of near-natural woodlands and extensive grasslands. the conservation of which we Photo: H. Glader therefore carry a particular responsibility – has declined by more than 25% since the end of the 1980s; this decrease is significantly caused by a collapse of the population in the core red kite area in Saxony-Anhalt. The population of the secretive European honey buzzard shows a similar trend over the same time period. The declines are connected to the decline of cultivation of fodder crops (leys) and summer cereals, as well as the loss of insect-rich, extensively used cultivated landscapes. This leads to a reduction

After a steep population increase at the end of the 1980s the black stork recolonised wide in food supply (for example parts of Germany. Photo: H.-J. Fünfstück common hamster, wasps), and, in addition, prey species are also difficult to catch due to dense and high vegetation even in early spring. The changes in vegetation cover and phenology are a result of the use of agricultural fertilisers and the nutrient effect of atmospheric inputs.

Our woodland grouses, western capercaillie and hazel grouse, are also decreasing. While the western capercaillie suffers losses of berry-rich, well- structured coniferous and mixed mountain forest habitats, and in the 1990s the last lowland populations were lost from the berry- rich, pine-sessile oak woods of Lusatia, the hazel grouse has 22 23 Forest birds

disappeared from many areas The population trend of great The increase of forest birds has spotted woodpecker is decisive following the abandonment of occurred in settlements, but not affected by crops of mast. traditional coppice management in the forests itself, where several Photo: H. Glader of woodland. Woodland grouse species – as the European robin – decline. Photo: T. Krüger are particularly disadvantaged by the control of deciduous softwoods, as well as the widespread suppression of natural woodland regeneration due to afforestation.

New threats

For several years strong growth in demand for timber and an increase in timber prices have birds, might decline. Frequent disturbance-sensitive species, been noticeable. Not even the heavy use, increased numbers such as birds of prey, black stork large quantities of fallen timber, of wood collectors and higher and common crane. caused by storm Kyrill in January levels of use and work during 2007, could affect the price of the breeding season causes more It seems that so far, climate timber. Pulp production, as well disturbances in old woodlands change has had no direct impact as wood chip and wood pellet and causes the displacement of on forest birds. Some species fired heating systems are becoming more common. This means Population development of a number of typically forest birds, which show dif- that increasingly not only good- ferent trends inside and outside of woods. Trend numbers specify the average population change (in %) per year since 1991. quality timber, i.e. premium Species Trend inside Trend outside Difference trunkwood and veneers, but also of forests of forests wood previously considered as European green woodpecker -1,6 +7,2 ** * low quality (broken branches, Great spotted woodpecker +1,4 * +5,1 ** * dead wood, soft woods and Winter wren +0,4 +3,6 ** ** young trees, brush) can be used profitably. Accordingly, Common blackbird -0,2 +1,3 ** * the felling rate has increased Eurasian blackcap +3,2 ** +7,5 ** ** strongly in recent years. Like- Garden warbler -0,4 +5,6 ** ** wise, there is a current increase Common chiffchaff -0,6 * +2,3 ** ** in the use of domestic firewood. Goldcrest -2,5 ** +8,7 * * European robin -0,6 * +1,3 ** * These developments might be Great tit -0,5 +1,0 ** * a cause for concern, as the so far stable to positive trends for Eurasian jay -1,8 * +7,4 ** ** bird species that depend on old Song thrush -0.6 -3,1 ** * and dead wood, such as wood- Hawfinch -1,2 -6,8 ** * peckers, treecreepers, Eurasian Legend: Black = different trends inside and outside of forests, red = significant nuthatch and other hole-nesting decreasing trends, * = significant, ** = high significant. 24 25 Forest birds

Overview of trends Protection and preservation of in forests old forests and dead wood will be essential to maintain popu- • Among the most common lation increases for grey-headed forest birds, more species woodpecker and other species. Photo: H. Glader have increased since 1990 than decreased, but these increases occurred mainly outside forests, in urban areas and parks.

• Long-distance migrants are Seed-eating birds, such as the particularly affected by popu- European crested tit, benefit from heavy mast crops, which could lation decreases. become more frequent due to climate change. Photo: H. Glader • Hole-nesters and some large bird species profit from the occasional increase in old (great spotted woodpecker, which lead to darker and denser woods and the trend towards Eurasian nuthatch, tits and forest stands. permanent forests-like types finches), which eat seeds in of landuse. winter, even benefit from fre- The increasing interest in quent and strong crops of mast, cultivation of alien tree species, • Populations of some birds of which are encouraged through often fast growing coniferes, prey, notably lesser spotted mild winters and dry-sunny caused by the fear of climate eagle, as well as grouses still springs. Again, here the poten- change, could also have a nega- decrease and need specific vation of the highest possible marked with badges and ex-  At actual or potential bree- tial effect of warmer and drier tive effect on long-term popu- conservation programmes. numbers of ancient trees, as cluded from use). ding areas of lesser spotted summers might also overlap lation trends of many species, well as a sufficient stock of dead eagle, western capercaillie • Potential threats are current  The cultivation of alien tree with changes in forest manage- which are tied to local forest wood. For this, several instru- and hazel grouse, specific and possible future intensifi- species should totally be avo- ment (reduction of clear-cutting, types and their associated inver- ments are suitable: conservation programs need cation of timber use, also the ided in conservation areas increase of permanent forests) tebrate species. to be drafted and put into profitable use of low-quality  Precise formulation of and limited to a specific max- action. timber, the increasing culti- prescriptions for “good tech- imum (for example in public Protection and preservation of vation of alien tree species, nical practise”; forests not more than 10%)  The trend to promote local dead wood could benefit the as well as potential indirect outside conservation areas. deciduous trees and local willow tit. Photo: H. Glader  designation of an adequately impacts of climate change. forest companies, as well as dense network of wide-ran-  Impacts due to activities management to encourage ging protected areas (total (felling, moving trees) in mosaics of age classes and reserves) and old forest potential breeding areas of Conclusion and forest development phases islands; species sensitive to distur- recommended (for example permanent for- bance should be limited courses of action  “Methusalem” projects for est, individual trunk selec- to time periods outside the marking and preservation of tion, thinning, continuous Top priority must be given to breeding season (October to old trees within a wider area, cover forestry on small areas, the protection of old trees, the February, or mid-January at allowing them to become old and to an extent also forest promotion of varied woodland white-tailed eagle breeding naturally (for example, in the meadows) should become structure and of the co-existence sites). Brandenburg state forest 5 stronger. of different forest development living old trees/ha are chosen, phases side-by-side, the preser- 26 27 Urban birds

Overall, birds of urban areas show a negative trend over the The house sparrow is one of the most last decade. Birds breeding at buildings and birds that almost common birds in Germany, but the exclusively occur in built-up areas or depend on farm buildings population is declining. Photo: H. Glader on the outskirts of towns and villages, have clearly decreased. Negative trends are caused by the loss of orchards, rural gardens and small domestic animals. In towns, redevelopment of buildings and building on fallow land has made it more difficult for many birds to find nest sites.

Birds that need breeding sites vegetated industrial fallow land on buildings have shown an and gap sites. alarming, nationwide decline. The four most common building Among the winners in towns nesters in Germany – house and villages are birds that occur sparrow, common swift, com- in green spaces, parks and gar- mon house martin and barn dens in residential areas. Birds swallow – show largely parallel that used to be forest species, population declines since the such as European robin, Eura- 1990s. Eurasian collared dove sian blackcap, winter wren, and European serin are also European green woodpecker among the losers. Crested lark is and great spotted woodpecker, now almost entirely absent; up belong to this group. Common The loss of traditional livestock to the 1960s, it was a common blackbird – next to house species of built-up areas – still farming across wide areas of breeding bird on open, sparsely sparrow the most common show slightly growing popula- Germany has resulted in decli- tions. ning numbers of barn swallow. Photo: S. Pfützke

Even though numbers of breeding Eurasian magpies have increased in towns and villages, it is increasingly disappearing from farmland, so that altogether the population trend tends to decline.

Breeding populations of common kestrel and barn owl have been protected for a long time through specific recovery programmes and by installing The Settlement Bird Indicator contains following species: nesting boxes. Peregrine falcons Barn swallow Common swift House sparrow have also profited from such Black redstart Eurasian wryneck Western jackdaw measures, and successfully rear Populations of common swift and other birds of urban areas Common house martin European green woodpecker young in several cities: feral do- are decreasing. Photo: H. Glader Common redstart European serin mestic dove are the main prey. 28 29 Wetland birds

The populations of most wetland bird species show positive for population increases of High nutrient contents of standing trends over the last 10 years. These increases often began common merganser. waters conducted a optimal food basis during the second half of the 1980s, when programmes to for white-tailed eagle. Photo: H. Glader improve the water quality of local rivers and lakes came into Red-crested pochard has force. After high losses due to the development of water bodies also benefited from improved during the 1960s and1970s, the populations of many species water quality: in Lake Cons- have not recovered to their former size. After the water quality tance, the German stronghold has further been improved, particularly for standing water for this species, stoneworts bodies, measures must be taken with the aim of restoring wet- have spread since the late lands to their natural state and allowing a natural dynamic of 1980s. This is the main food water bodies. source of red-crested pochard and so their population has Despite enhanced wastewater nistic fish eaters, such as great increased steadily, currently in treatments, the quality of cormorant, white-tailed eagle the southern federal states and most lakes has not or scarcely and osprey. Increasing popula- in north-east Germany. improved since 1990. High tion trends are also displayed nutrient inputs from arable by birds breeding in reeds at the Over the last 20 years or farmland (over-use of nitrate edge of water bodies, such as so, it has been observed that a fertilisers) and slow rates of Eurasian bittern, bearded reed- high number of introduced and water exchange cause often ling and bluethroat. escaped bird species are increa- very high nutrient contents of singly expanding their range standing water bodies (eutro- The water quality of rivers and in Germany. By now, almost phic). As a result, populations streams has clearly improved. a dozen non-native waterbird of whitefish, insignificant for Due to better visibility in water species are breeding regularly fishery, have increased steadily, bodies, fish are easier to catch, in Germany and species such which could benefit opportu- which might be also the reason as Egyptian goose, ruddy shelduck, Canada goose and man- darin duck are in some cases The red-crested pochard benefits spreading quite quickly. from improved water quality. Photo: O. Nüssen

Recently, colonisation of waterbirds has also occurred without human assistance, for example, breeding populations of whooper swan and barnacle goose increase quickly in Nor- thern Germany. If the increase of the globally endangered ferruginous duck was also “un- influenced” is not known. How- ever, its numbers increase in The population decline of black The Inland Waters Bird Indicator contains following species: Germany slightly, even still on tern – caused by pollution and loss Common kingfisher Little grebe Reed warbler of natural breeding sites – can be a very low level, while in near- halted with artificial nesting rafts. Common sandpiper Marsh harrier Water rail ly all neighbouring countries Photo: C. Grüneberg Great crested grebe Red-crested pochard White-tailed eagle the negative trend continues. 30 31 Coastal and sea birds

The “coasts and seas” indicator has remained stable over the singly lose areas of foraging ha- Decreasing: little tern. last 10 years. Most coastal bird species are still increasing at bitat. For energetic reasons, they Photo: J. Ruddek the North Sea coast, but show decreasing trends at the Baltic need food-rich mud to rear their Sea coast during the 1990s. young, and so their breeding areas will increasingly deteriorate in quality. In addition, popu- On the North Sea, increases of endangered by coastal protec- lations of these coastal breeding some species were the result tion measures; but must also be birds, whose conservation status of increased food resources protected from recreation acti- is generally declining, suffer in- due to nutrient accumulation vities. This is particularly so if creasing pressure from predation, and discards (un-used fishery one takes into account rising sea with many predators introduced waste). Conservation measures levels, which threaten habitats or promoted by man. in the national parks were also a of species that breed close to the positive factor. high tide line. The population dynamics of a typical bird species of the tran- The status of Kentish plover Sea level rise will have a sition areas between the open is worrying, as the breeding negative effect on bird life in sea and the Wadden Sea can be population decreases in spite of the German Wadden Sea in the shown by the example of the intensive conservation measures. middle- and long-term. Increased sandwich tern. Here, multiple New concepts are necessary to energy input already means factors – including human improve the status of shore birds, that smaller quantities of fine persecution, marine pollution including little terns: areas of sediments, particularly mud, are (pesticides), the designation of the German Wadden Sea Natio- deposited in front of the seawall. conservation zones (breeding nal Park with high natural beach Birds that forage on muddy tidal sites), natural succession of bree- and dune dynamic are not only flats, such as avocets, will increa- ding habitats and the natural

Breeding birds of sands and coastlines – such as the common ringed plover – are threatened by tourism as well as rising sea levels. Photo: T. Krüger

The Coast / Sea Bird Indicator contains following species: Arctic tern Common ringed plover Northern harrier Northern gannet, common murre Common eider Common tern Red-breasted merganser and other sea birds breed only on Helgoland, Germany‘s only off- Common murre Eurasian oystercatcher shore island. Photo: J. O. Kriegs Common redshank Little tern 32 33 Coastal and sea birds

dynamics of the coastal sea – in- lesser extent. In contrast, com- Birds that forage on muddy tidal flats – such as avocets – will increasingly lose fluence breeding populations. mon murre numbers increase areas of foraging habitat. Photo: H. Glader Short-term observations often only slightly, while northern present a different picture from gannets show a clear increase. population trends than a hun- Causes include different feeding dred year period. strategies between species, as well as changes in the ecosystem In the Baltic, the situation of of the North Sea, mainly due many coastal bird species has to climate change and fishing deteriorated: eleven ground- activities. breeders are nearly extinct in Mecklenburg-Western Pomera- nia. For many coastal birds the Conclusion and protection and conservation of recommended salt marsh as well as the conti- The population of northern courses of action gannet is still increasing. nuation of extensive pasturage Photo: S. Pfützke  Climate change and sea and hay cropping on coastal wet level rise will have adverse grasslands are all important for impacts on coastal breeding survival. birds: therefore large protected areas are becoming more On Helgoland, breeding po- important, as birds can adapt pulations of seabirds continued more easily to changing con- to increase and northern fulmar, ditions there than elsewhere. northern gannet and razorbill The protection of large areas, have reached new maximum where natural processes are values. Populations of black- allowed to continue unimpe- legged kittiwake (ca. 7,500 ded are of vital importance. breeding pairs) and common This is particularly the case murre (ca. 2,500 breeding pairs) for low-lying beach, dune Multiple factors have now stabilised. For both The carrying capacity for influence the bree- and salt marsh areas, as they common murre at Helgoland ding populations of species, the carrying capacity at seems to have been reached. are greatly important for sandwich tern. Helgoland seems to have been Photo: S. Pfützke Photo: H. Glader coastal breeding birds. reached. Numbers of northern gannets are still increasing, but  In order to safeguard future there are signs that they will natural sedimentation pro- reach a plateau very soon. cesses in the Wadden Sea, measures are needed to in- For North Sea seabirds as a crease retention areas of the whole, it is generally the case Wadden Sea, so that enough that following strong population fine sediment can continue to increases over the last decades, be deposited. different trends are now detec- table: black-legged kittiwake numbers are strongly declining, those of northern fulmar to a 34 35 AlpineDas birds Wichtigste in Kürze

Bird populations in the Alps have generally stagnated over the Population trends and numbers of several montane breeding birds between 1996 and 2005, which occur only or last 10 years, but this follows earlier declines. Reasons for this predominantly in the Alps. generally unfavourable situation are: increasing human settle- Species Trend Population Species Trend Population ment and tourist development; intensification of agriculture; 1996-2005 2005 1996-2005 2005 widespread eutrophication; and the abandonment of traditional Rock ptarmigan  300-600 Eurasian crag martin  30-50 types of agriculture. Urban sprawl, the development of easily Western capercaillie  580-780 Wallcreeper  100-200 accessible valley sites and the expansion of tourist centres all Golden eagle  46 Alpine accentor  700-1200 combine to open up previously remote areas. Eurasian three-toed woodpecker  730-1000 White-winged snowfinch  200-400 White-backed woodpecker  250-410 Water pipit  2000-6000 Alpine chough  2000-4000 Citril finch  3400-5500 Intensive use and fragmentation for plants are unfavourable for    of alpine habitats affect sensitive an alpine insectivore. Legend: = strong decrease (> 50 %), = decrease (20-50 %), = stable (-20 % bis +20 %),  = increase (20-50 %),  = strong increase (> 50 %) species, especially western capercaillie, hazel grouse and Population declines of alpine can generally be balanced out, The rufous-tailed rock rufous-tailed rock thrush, as bird species occur regularly, but climate change could have thrush breeds again in the well as mammals. The habitat of often due to poor weather condi- very adverse effects in alpine German Alps since the citril finch, an endemic species tions at the start of the breeding regions. A warmer climate not beginning of the century. Photo: B. Fischer in Europe, which in Germany season, for example between only affects melting of glaciers, breeds only in the Alps and the 1997 and 1998 for Eurasian it also causes altitudinal dis- Black Forest, is altered more and three-toed woodpecker and placement in birds which are more by increasing tourist devel- to a lesser extent for western bound to specific altitude opment and by intensification or capercaillie, European robin zones. At present, for example, abandonment of alpine pastoral and Eurasian treecreeper. For we notice the loss of water pipit farming. Increased nutrient con- long-lived species, complete and citril finch from montane tents and earlier growing seasons breeding failure in some years regions.

Golden eagle occurs in Ger- First signs suggest a population decline of the European endemic many only in the Bavarian Alps, citril finch. Photo: H. Glader where they have been monitored since 1998 within a species conservation programme. The population is stable. However, only 25-50% of territory-holding birds actually breed, and these with very low success, with the result that the population depends on immigration. Other species with the potential for immigration from neighbouring European regions are griffon vulture and The Alpine Bird Indicator contains following species: bearded vulture. Observations Alpine accentor European robin Western capercaillie of both species have recently The Bavarian Alps are habitat for Eurasian nuthatch Golden eagle Willow tit a number of bird species, which strongly increased due to protec- breed only there in Germany. Eur. three-toed woodpecker Ring ouzel tion measures and reintroduc- Photo: N. Anthes Eurasian treecreeper Western Bonelli‘s warbler tions in other parts of Europe. 36 37 AlpineDas birds Wichtigste in Kürze

Breeding birds of the alpine In spite of low breeding success, the mountains such as the rock golden eagle population is stabile. ptarmigan are particularly Foto: H. Glader threatened by climate change. Photo: T. Krüger

A number of species, such as rock ptarmigan and white- winged snowfinch, breed only in the Alps and their numbers can only be estimated due to the difficulty of accessing their mountain breeding sites. Since the beginning of the 21st century, rufous-tailed rock thrush has bred regularly again in the western Bavarian Alps (Allgaeu), having previously been recorded must be protected more strict- and dead wood, in order to for the last time in 1983. ly from human impacts than conserve mountain forest before. specialists, such as white- backed woodpecker, Eura-  Traditional landuse of old sian three-toed woodpecker, Conclusion and cultivated landscapes (e.g. and western capercaillie. recommended mountain pastures and Alps) courses of action must be safeguarded. The  Adverse consequences of  In order to conserve alpine separation of forest and mea- climate change can only be biodiversity, birds within the dow has not only to consider solved through international Alps have to be protected forestry criteria but also spe- collaboration, but in the from general tourist activity, cies protection interests. long-term are likely to have the largest impacts on the as well as urban sprawl and  On the other hand, there is species diversity of the Alps. habitat fragmentation. Un- a need to safeguard semi- exploited mountain regions natural forests, rich in old 38 39 Migrating waterbirds

Many millions of waterbirds rest in Germany on their annual seems to be a connection with Bar-tailed godwits occur in large migration and 130 different waterbird species occur regularly. industrial fishing of cockles, numbers especially in spring before Here, they depend on a network of areas where they can identified as major cause of flying non-stop to their arctic breeding replenish their energy reserves for the onward migration, or the decline of red knot in the grounds. Photo: H. Glader moult undisturbed, or spend the cold winter season. For resting, Dutch Wadden Sea and has they use very different habitats, such as the Wadden Sea; sea subsequently been significant- coasts with their shallow sandbanks; lakes in the lowlands of ly reduced. However, it is still north Germany and in the foothills of the Alps; rivers and their unclear, what impacts on local barrages; reservoirs; or sewage ponds. Due to its geographical shellfish species are caused by location, Germany is very important for moulting, migrating the introduced Pacific oyster, and overwintering waterbirds – and therefore has a high respon- which is spreading due to cli- sibility for the conservation of their populations. mate change and is generally not suitable as food for shellfish- Germany – at the to fly for several weeks.More eating birds. crossroads of European than half of the northwest Euro- waterbird migration pean population of avocet also Some bird species react sen- moult in the German Wadden sitively to changing ecological Germany bears a very high respon- Sea. Brant goose, common conditions and the avocet, for sibility for the protection and con- eider, Eurasian oystercatcher, which population declines have servation of at least 15 waterbird red knot, dunlin and bar-tailed been observed over years, is a species, and a high responsibility godwit rest here in very high good example. One possible for another 23 species. numbers. Barnacle goose, grey reason is habitat loss due to plover, sanderling, spotted red- climate change: even slight in- shank and Eurasian curlew also creases in water levels mean that The Wadden Sea occur in high numbers. mudflats are exposed for shorter periods, resulting in a decline Unique habitat of global Long-term negative trends of of mud areas. Avocets forage in importance shellfish-eaters precisely these areas. The Wadden Sea is a unique After generally positive popu- habitat, supporting 10-12 million lation trends for all waterbirds Clear declines in some other waterbirds annually, especially until the end of the 1980s, which species, such as brant goose Dunlin is the most numerous wader during migration. Due to its rich can be considered as a success since the mid 1990s, seem to species in the German Wadden Sea, with peak numbers of >700 000 food supplies, many populations due to the designation of nation- be the result of changes on the birds. Photo: S. Pfützke depend on the Wadden Sea, al parks with large, disturbance- Arctic breeding areas: over seve- leading to a high to very high re- free protected zones and hunting ral years, brant geese returned to sponsibility for 13 waterbird spe- bans, recent trends of some bird the Wadden Sea with only small cies, mainly waders. guilds are worrying: since the numbers of young, even though 1990s, the populations of spe- they had left the Wadden Sea in Nearly the entire northwest cies that predominately feed on good body condition. European population of common shellfish have declined over the shelduck moult their wings in the whole Wadden Sea, including These examples show that Waterbird numbers – as of barnacle Wadden Sea. Estimated 250,000 species such as common eider, favourable foraging conditions goose – overall increased since the 1970s, but recent trends for some birds concentrate only at a few Eurasian oystercatcher and red and disturbance-free core zones populations are worrying. sites during this crucial period knot, for which Germany holds are necessary for many waterbird Photo: H. Glader in their annual life cycle, unable a very high responsibility. There and wader populations. 40 41 Migrating waterbirds

Baltic Sea northeastern Baltic, ensure the Nearly all of the greater scaup Here, the effects of international Trends of resting populations of ducks and mergansers between 1980 and survival of more than 1 million that occur in Germany are con- agreements for the protection of 2005. Species that rest and winter regularly in significant numbers in Germany. International importance for waterbirds during the non-bree- centrated on a few water bodies wetlands (Ramsar convention, Gadwall  diving ducks ding season. In particular, the close to the Baltic Sea coast. Helsinki convention) or more Eurasian wigeon  I  The combination of extensive German Baltic Sea coast is of In particular, sheltered bays generally for migrating water- Eurasian teal  mussel beds, important fish international importance as an of the Baltic Sea water bodies bird species (African-Eurasian Mallard  spawning grounds and relatively overwintering area for diving called Haff (similar to a lagoon) Migratory Waterbird Agreement) short periods of sea ice, com- ducks. and Bodden (shallow coastal become important. Northern shoveler  pared to the northern and waters of the Baltic Sea) are of Red-crested pochard  crucial importance for mute The extent to which increased Common pochard  Overview of the waterbird species for the conservation of which Germany swan, tufted duck and smew in shipping traffic and increased Tufted duck  bears a high or very high responsibility. A main habitat was assigned to each Germany. Many overwintering use by tourism have an impact waterbird species. Where several biogeographical populations occur, that for Greater scaup  I  which Germany has a specific responsibility is shown (in brackets). species at the Baltic Sea show on resting and moulting popu- Common eider  I  complex movements between lations, in particular of coastal Wadden Sea and Baltic Sea daytime roost sites (bays, small areas in Mecklenburg-Western Common goldeneye  Very high responsibility High responsibility lagoons, or lower river courses) Pomerania, can currently not be Smew  Brant goose (bernicla) Barnacle goose and night-time feeding areas (on quantified. Several water bodies, Common merganser  I  Common shelduck Greater scaup the Baltic Sea). previously important for moul- Red-breasted merganser  Common eider Smew ting birds, have held none in Legend:  = strong decrease (> 50 %),  = decrease (20-50 %), Eurasian oystercatcher Grey plover Positive trends and shifts due recent years.  = stable (-20 % bis +20 %),  = increase (20-50 %),  = strong   Avocet Sanderling to milder winters? increase (>50 %), I = increase in the first, decline in the second part of the period Red knot Eurasian curlew Populations of resting waterbird Dunlin Spotted redshank species, of which large concen- Agricultural land on agricultural land away from tat is of critical importance for Bar-tailed godwit trations occur at the Baltic coast, wetlands. Two to three million the conservation of a total of Favourable conditions for Agricultural land show positive or stable long-term birds use the available favour- 10 species, for which Germany trends. A significant cause is the foraging geese, swans and able conditions for foraging and bears a high to very high respon- Bewick’s swan Mute swan tendency for mild winters since cranes overwintering in Germany. In sibility. Tundra bean goose Whooper swan the end of the 1980s. Wide-ran- During the day, geese, swans, conjunction with disturbance- Taiga bean goose Greater white-fronted goose ging freezing events occur less cranes and some waders forage free night-time roosts, this habi- Common crane Greylag goose often and make movements to European Golden plover more westerly areas unnecessary. Sheltered bays and lakes Northern lapwing At the same time, the wintering along the Baltic Sea are used Inland water bodies as day-time roosts by diving distribution of species that are ducks. Photo: M. Sommerfeld Northern shoveler Great crested grebe not sensitive to the cold have Red-crested pochard Grey heron shifted further east, to the coasts Common merganser Gadwall (NW Europe) of Poland and the Baltic states. (alpine population) Northern pintail This might be one of the reasons Eurasian oystercatcher Common pochard (NW Europe) why overwintering numbers of Tufted duck (NW Europe) some diving duck species have Coot declined in the German Baltic. Black-headed gull Such regional shifts of wintering Offshore waters distribution are not problematic for waterbird populations, as Red-necked grebe long as sites along the species‘ Black scoter flyway are protected sufficiently. 42 43 Migrating waterbirds

population resting in Germany, land, and since the end of the High numbers of northern lapwings Trends of resting populations of geese and swans between 1980 and 2005. are resting in agricultural land. with more than half of the world 1990s large roosts can also be Species that rest and winter regularly in significant numbers in Germany Photo: H. Glader population of taiga bean goose found in the western federal Mute swan  in northeast Germany. As for states. Germany bears a very brant goose, the reasons for the high international responsibility Whooper swan  observed negative trends might for the conservation of common Bewick‘s swan  I  originate in breeding areas or cranes in the western part of Brant goose  I  on migration routes. Despite their range. Due to extensive unchanged favourable condi- protection measures along the Bernacle goose  tions in overwintering areas, the entire migration route, breeding Tundra bean goose (A. f. rossicus)  I  birds return from their breeding and resting numbers have in- Taiga bean goose (A. f. fabalis)  grounds with fewer young than creased continuously since the Greater white-fronted goose in previous years. The causes of 1980s. This shows that success  I  the population decline in taiga can happen quickly if sustain- Greylag goose  bean goose are not yet well able approaches and concepts in Legend:  = strong decrease (> 50 %),  = decrease (20-50 %), understood. nature and species conservation  = stable (-20 % bis +20 %),  = increase (20-50 %),  = strong Resting populations of swans related to declines in southeast are applied. increase (>50 %),  I  = increase in the first, decline in the second part of the period and geese have increased in Europe, suggesting in part that a Model protection concept for northwest Europe since the wide-ranging shift of overwinte- common cranes 1970s. They have benefited par- ring areas has occurred. In north- Nearly the whole northwestern Inland water bodies ticularly from favourable condi- west Europe hunting pressure is European population of common tions in overwintering areas, with much lower than in most south- crane rests in autumn in the Large accumulations of resting low hunting pressure in many east European countries. northeast of Germany, before birds in northern Germany and regions, mainly mild winters and onward migration to their winter in the foothills of the Alps energy-rich food (e.g. oilseed Bewick’s swan and taiga bean quarters. The Darss-Rügen region Grebes, ducks and mergansers rape, winter cereals). Population goose, however, have shown is known internationally for its are the main overwintering water- increases in northwest Europe, (clear) negative trends over the large gatherings of common birds on inland water bodies. particularly of greater white- same period. Both species have cranes. Since the 1980s, areas Germany is of high to very high fronted goose, are possibly very high proportions of their used for resting have spread in- importance as a moulting, res-

Intelligent and long-term sustainable Whooper swans benefit from solutions need to be found regarding the milder winters and better food conflict surrounding geese, swans and supply. Photo: H. Glader cranes that forage on agricultural land. Photo. S. R. Sudmann

44 45 Migrating waterbirds ting or overwintering area for areas immediately surrounding overwintering areas from west many lakes, especially in the The shallow offshore waters of a total of 11 waterbird species their breeding grounds in south or southwest Europe to central foothills of the Alps. Its resting the Baltic Sea are an important that occur in considerable Germany and neighbouring Europe. Here they are exposed populations have increased wintering area for greater scaup. numbers in these habitats. The Switzerland and, according to to lower hunting pressure and, continuously since the 1980s, Photo. N. Sonntag populations of many of these recent genetic analyses, have in addition, the migration routes and particularly rapidly on species are very large and are been classified as a separate to their breeding areas in north Lake Constance and in neigh- spread over a wide geographical conservation unit. Thus, appro- or northeastern Europe become bouring Switzerland since the area. Therefore, to a large ex- priate protection measures are shorter. The area of open water 1990s. During the same period, tent we are jointly responsible necessary for this population. in Germany is also continuously numbers of wintering red-crested for the long-term conservation increasing (for example due to pochard declined strongly in of species which, compared to Positive trends – with some excavation, flooding of coal- Spain. It seems that wide-ranging others, have small biogeogra- exceptions mining areas, permanent floo- displacements have occurred, phical populations. One third of Population trends for resting and ding of polders), which means which could be connected to the entire Alpine population of overwintering ducks and grebes that more resting areas are avai- above-average dry years on the common merganser, which com- that occur mainly inland are lable. At the same time, the mild Iberian peninsula. Improved prises only approximately 4000 predominately positive. Due to winters since the end of 1980s water quality at lakes in the foot- individuals, breeds in Germany. milder winters, several species make it possible that cold-tole- hills of the Alps has enabled the pared with terrestrial habitats it The North Sea breeding popu- They mostly overwinter in have gradually shifted their rant species, which decades ago spread of stonewort, providing is more difficult to identify long- lation of black-legged kittiwake still overwintered in central Eu- red-crested pochard with food. term trends and causal relation- is reduced by nearly half. De- rope, have been able to expand At the same time, a large pro- ships. clines in northern fulmar have their overwintering areas to the portion of the population shifted also been recorded in north Scot- north and east. This is one of the to areas north of the Alps for North Sea land. These population changes reasons for the decline of win- moulting. Forty percent of the Offshore areas of the North are also reflected in resting, wintering mallard in Germany and southwest European population Sea are most important during tering and non-breeding popu- other west European countries. now moult their wings in south the summer when terns and lations at sea – also in areas, for and over the last few years also gulls from the large breeding which Germany is responsible. Among others, red-crested in northeast Germany. colonies along the coast of the The reasons for these population pochard has benefited from Wadden Sea forage intensively declines, which do not affect all the improved water quality of in coastal waters, as well as seabird species to the same ex- Offshore areas around the island of Helgoland. tent, are severe changes in food Three ecologically similar species During winter, black scoter and supply especially during recent with different population trends: Several hundred thousand birds common eider are present in years in the northern part of the mallard, Eurasian teal and gadwall. Photo: J. O. Kriegs are present in offshore waters particularly large numbers, for North Sea: climate change and of the North and Baltic Sea at which Germany bears a high to intensive industrial fishing have all seasons – during the course very high responsibility. During caused a dramatic decrease in of the year the number of indivi- spring migration, concentrations the numbers of sandeels, which duals totals several million. of red-throated diver and to are an important food source for Population sizes and the impor- a lesser extent black-throated seabirds. By contrast, snake pipe- tance of these concentrations diver occur close to the coast, fish have increased explosively have only been systematically two species which are very sen- in recent years, having benefited analysed in recent years. Due sitive to disturbance. from rising sea temperatures. both to the nomadic lifestyle However, they are particularly especially of true seabirds and to In the North Sea, the decades- unsuitable for seabird chicks, difficult survey conditions, many long increase in numbers of most so that young in the nest starve, questions remain open and com- seabird species has now stopped. despite the provision of plenty of 46 47 Migrating waterbirds

birds are killed that way each  At all important sites, refuge  Interdisciplinary research  Intelligent and long-term Due to significant numbers during winter in offshore waters, Germany year. The effects on population areas undisturbed by human must be intensified in the sustainable solutions need bears a very high responsibility for trends of these losses, as well activity should be created Wadden Sea, where long- to be found regarding the common eider. Photo. N. Sonntag as those of increasing shipping and maintained. In the Wad- term negative population conflict surrounding geese, traffic and sand and gravel ex- den Sea, these are in partic- trends have been observed swans and cranes that forage traction activities at important ular high-tide roosts, and in for shellfish-eaters, and at on agricultural land. The offshore areas used for foraging the Baltic Sea food-rich shal- sea, where clear changes in same applies to the conflict cannot currently be quantified. low offshore waters. In these the ecosystem have occurred between commercial fisheries areas, nature conservation during recent years, in order and foraging great cormo- should permanently take prio- to identify adverse changes rants. In both cases, solutions Conclusion and rity over commercial interests as soon as possible and so be to solve these conflicts exist, recommended or tourist use. able to take remedial action. which take into account both In particular, studies on the responsibility for conser- courses of action  Sites that are important for food supply and quality are vation as well as the interest wing-moulting waterbirds Considered overall, resting urgently required. of the affected parties. need to be granted a particu- populations of waterbirds have larly high level of protection  The gillnet fishery in the  Long-term strategies need prey by their parents. Long-term Baltic Sea increased in Germany as well as – regardless whether these Baltic must be stopped as a to be developed in reaction consequences of these serious The species composition of the in other European countries. The water bodies are located insignificant cause of losses to climate change and as- changes to the ecosystem in the Baltic differs from that of the reasons for this among others land, at the coast or offshore. that endangers foraging sociated sea level rise, to North Sea are unpredictable. North Sea. Of the waterbird are: (1) increased conservation During the moulting season, waterbirds. Disturbance by guarantee the availability of species, for which Germany effort since the 1970s, which which occurs for most birds shipping traffic must be mini- mud-rich tidal flats. Remo- Numbers of European herring bears a high or very high respon- made disturbance-free areas during summer, birds have mised in protected sites and ving embankments to enlarge gull and great black-backed gull sibility, only common eider and available; (2) the introduction of a particular need of food- should be banned from areas intertidal areas are promising have also decreased in recent black scoter overwinter in large closed seasons, and shorter hun- rich areas that are free of with peak concentrations of measures, and at the same years, especially in winter. One numbers in both the North Sea ting seasons for many species; disturbance. During this waterbirds. time useful for flood control. important reason – actually and the Baltic. Other diving (3) the improvement of overwin- time, many waterbird species beneficial from an ecosystem ducks, such as long-tailed duck tering conditions due to milder  There should be a ban on are unable to fly for several point of view – could be a and velvet scoter, are restricted winters since the end of the hunting on EU Special Pro- weeks. clear reduction in the amount to more distant offshore waters 1980s; and (4) the wide-ranging tection Areas all year around. of unused commercial fisheries of the Baltic and reach their availability of energy-rich food by-catch (“discard”). Declines maximum resting populations sources and the emergence of Many waterbird species – such as in European herring gull are in winter. Accordingly and in new ones. barnacle goose – rely on a network of protected sites, comprising high- also noticeable in the Wadden contrast to the North Sea, the quality foraging sites and sheltered Sea. The closure of inland rub- Baltic Sea is of greater impor- However, recent trends for roosts. Photo. H. Glader bish tips – sensible from a wider tance at this time of the year. some populations are worrying, environmental view – is likely These species are concentra- and protection measures are ne- to amplify this trend. The gulls ted mainly in shallow offshore cessary. In order to stop negative found easily available and plenti- waters off the coast of Schleswig- developments with regard to ful food at such sites in winter. Holstein, north of the Darss the 2010 target, the following Since then, inland numbers and in the Pomeranian Bight. measures are required – in have decreased by more than Because birds accumulate espe- particular for species for which half. These examples show how cially over food-rich shoals, the Germany bears a high (to very immediate human action or im- gillnet fishery in the Baltic Sea high) responsibility: pacts can markedly affect eco- endangers diving birds foraging systems. there and thousands of water- 48 49 Trans-Saharan migrants

In Germany, disproportionate reductions in populations of trans- Some migrant species are Saharan migrants can be observed. This trend is evident for already under high hunting pres- species of various habitats, e.g. in woodland birds or birds of sure in Europe. It is estimated agricultural landscapes. According to a study by BirdLife Inter- that up to 50 000 ortolan national, a particularly high number of trans-Saharan migrant buntings are killed every year species are affected by population declines all over Europe. in France – a species which These connections suggest that the cause of population decline to some extent shows large de- in migrating birds is not only to be found in breeding areas. clines in population numbers. This problem has been known since the end of the 1960s, when In north Africa, common quail some songbird populations that winter south of the Sahara de- and corn crake are hunted ex- clined considerably. This was attributed to the extreme drought tensively, but their negative population trends are due to The Eurasian Golden Oriole is one in the Sahel at the time and led to further research into the re- of a number of long distance mig- lationship between variations in populations and the conditions changed agricultural practices rants with decreasing populations. during migration or in the wintering areas. in the European breeding areas. Photo: M. Schäf Garganey and northern shoveler are hunted extensively, not Problems on migration Netherlands and in France can only during their migration in routes and in be correlated with the outflow southern Europe but also by Euro- wintering areas of the rivers Niger and Senegal peans in West Africa, and terns in West Africa. The current inter- are caught for food there. How- Most studies on this subject re- pretation is that high outflows ever, direct hunting in wintering late to the size of breeding bird show high amounts of rainfall areas probably has only a minor populations, or the individual and thus a more favourable food influence on population trends. probability of survival in relation supply, which means a better The uncontrolled use of insecti- to rainfall in wintering areas. rate of survival for birds in the cides could be more important, Behind this is an assumption that wintering area. The probability high and low amounts of rainfall of survival in the wintering area Number of significantly increasing Within Germany the decline of respectively result in relatively of for example white stork, sand or decreasing bird species accor- willow warbler is stronger in the poor or good food supply. This martin, common nightingale, ding to different migration strate- west than the east – a possible gies. The 97 commonest breeding indication of climatic factors as one has an affect not only on the pro- common redstart and sedge bird species in Germany were explanation. Photo: S. Achtermann bability of survival of migrating warbler depends on local rain- analysed. Forty six of these showed no significant population changes. birds, but also influences sub- fall. If the preceding wintering In contrast to short-distance sequent breeding success. Birds period had a high amount of migrants and non-migrating birds, arriving in the breeding area rainfall the probability for barn disproportionately more long distance migrants show population in a good condition are more swallows to raise a second brood declines and disproportionately successful breeders than those increases. fewer have increasing populations. that winter under less favourable conditions. Unlike many other factors, climatic influences such as Examples of the ways in rainfall or temperatures (cold which bird populations are in- snaps can lead to mass morta- fluenced by conditions in winte- lity) are not influenced directly Next to threats in the wintering region the Ortolan Bunting is endangered by ring areas include studies which by anthropogenic activity (but hunting in the Mediterranean region. show that populations of purple indirectly through the climate Photo: M. Schäf heron and little egret in the change influenced by man). 50 51 Trans-Saharan migrants

to willow warbler which has de- Species wintering in the Sahel Population trends of long distance The population of whinchat – such as the wryneck – show migrants between 1990 and 2000 creased in many parts of Europe. in Germany is still declining. stronger declines than other by wintering habitats. Population Studies from the Netherlands and Photo: M. Schäf species. Photo: M. Schäf trends for 108 European migrating birds that winter in Africa (excluding the south of Great Britain show sea birds and waders) were studied. that mortality rates during the On average, species that winter in non-breeding season rather than dry African habitats show significantly negative population trends, reduced breeding success is the in contrast to other long-distance cause of declines in numbers. migrants. This can be considered as a clue that problems for long-dis- However, in the north of Great tance migrants occur mainly in the Britain hardly any negative trend African Sahel and Sudan areas (according to Sanderson et al. [2006]: in willow warbler numbers is de- Long-term population declines in tectable. This raises the question Afro-Palearctic migrant birds. Bio- whether northern populations logical Conservation 131: 93-105). winter in different parts of Africa and whether they have a better probability of survival there than their conspecifics breeding further south.

Also little is known of the eco- logy of long distance migrants in their African wintering areas. especially if applied on a large by 14% between 1976 and 1995 Open questions indicate Even simple questions cannot Conclusion and can often not be suggested, scale. Observed large decreases and in study areas in northern need for research be answered for many species: recommended since little is known about in bird densities following the Nigeria, the tree population de- What habitats are used by mi- courses of action where individual populations application of insecticides is creased by 80% in only 8 years Even though there are some hints grant birds? Where do migrating or species spend more than  Long distance migrants are largely attributed to displace- (1993/94-2001/02). These drastic as to how populations of migra- birds build up the necessary fat half of the year, which habi- disproportionately affected by ment due to the subsequent lack negative changes are attributed ting birds can be influenced by reserves for spring migration? tats in the wintering area are decreasing population trends of food. However, according solely to anthropogenic acti- the conditions in the wintering How do changes of habitat affect used, how populations and all over Europe, regardless of to some reports mass mortality vities, such as consumption of area or on migration, there is migrant birds? How flexibly can species react to changes of systematic kinship, member- of white storks has occurred in wood for fuel, overgrazing and often no detailed knowledge that migrant birds react to changes? habitat and climate and how ship of an ecological guild, or connection with measures to conversion of natural habitats can be transferred into conserva- Do birds of open habitats benefit the conditions in the winte- habitat preference. combat red-billed queleas. to agricultural land. Studies in tion measures. For some species from the destruction of the rain- ring and breeding areas influ- Nigeria have also shown that the exact wintering areas are forest? What habitats do migrant  Demographic factors relevant ence each other. As with breeding areas, the fewer migrating birds winter in still unknown. Examples of this birds use during the course of to population trends (proba-  The elimination of this huge biggest threat to migrant birds in study areas with a decreasing are wood warbler and ortolan a wintering season and where? bility of survival in the winte- knowledge deficit would be a wintering areas is probably the tree population. Because of the bunting, which show strongly The common factor to all of the ring area, breeding success) first step towards the under- large-scale destruction of habi- large-scale habitat loss, many negative population trends. The points mentioned above is that can be influenced by the con- standing of population vari- tats. This particularly applies to birds could be forced to divert main wintering area, the Senegal populations of migrant birds ditions during migration or in ation and urgently required the Sahel, south of the Sahara. into less suitable habitats. The delta, for the globally threatened seem to depend on conditions the wintering area. protection of long distance In Senegal, the area of some rive- likely result would be a lower aquatic warbler had not been during migration or in the win-  Specific conservation mea- migrants. rine acacia forests decreased by chance of survival, but also re- discovered until February 2007. tering area, but that the detailed sures that take into account 90% between 1954 and 1986. duced breeding success later, if Moreover, it is often not known knowledge of the main connec-  Essentially is the assistance of the wintering areas of Euro- In north east Nigeria, the area of the birds arrive in the breeding where different populations of a tions is rudimentary. African States to implement a pean long distance migrants wooded savannah was reduced areas in worse condition. species overwinter. This applies sustainable land use. 52 53 Acknowledgements

Such extensive duties and responsibilities can only be met thanks to the energetic and voluntary help of large numbers of bird watchers. More than 5000 keen amateur ornithologists have helped to carry out bird counts, with great pleasure and scientific ambition. We particularly wish to express our gratitude to them. Many thanks also to all photographers, which all provided their excellent pictures free of charge.

54 Contents Editorial

Editors