Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2024

  • Post category:Environment

The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) is a citizen-science initiative under the International Waterbird Census (IWC), coordinated by Wetlands International since 1987. Conducted annually in January, coinciding with peak migration, it spans over 20 countries including India, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It plays a key role in monitoring waterbird populations, wetland health, and threats, while feeding into global conventions like Ramsar, CMS, and EAAFP.

Objectives

  • Monitor population trends and identify species in decline.
  • Assess ecological condition of wetlands and update IUCN Red List data.
  • Support international conservation treaties.
  • Encourage citizen participation in biodiversity monitoring.

Sites & Participation

  • India: Chilika Lake, Bharatpur (Keoladeo NP), Vembanad Lake.
  • Bangladesh: Sundarbans, Tanguar Haor.
  • Malaysia: Bako-Buntal Bay, Kuala Selangor Nature Park.
  • Thailand: Khao Sam Roi Yot NP, Bung Boraphet.
  • Indonesia: Jakarta Bay, Bali Barat NP.
  • Philippines: Olango Island, Candaba Swamp.
  • Myanmar: Inle Lake, Gulf of Mottama.
  • Over 2000 wetlands covered; several recognized Ramsar sites like Chilika Lake, Tasek Bera, Sundarbans.

Key Findings – 2024 Census

  • Stable species: Egrets, herons, storks.
  • Declining species: Northern Pintail, Eurasian Curlew, Spoon-billed Sandpiper.
  • Increasing species: Ducks and geese in conservation-supported wetlands.

Notable Species

  • Ducks & Geese: Northern Pintail, Ruddy Shelduck, Garganey.
  • Waders: Black-tailed Godwit, Eurasian Curlew, Spoon-billed Sandpiper (CR).
  • Storks & Herons: Painted Stork, Asian Openbill, Purple Heron.
  • Flamingos: Lesser & Greater Flamingos (India, Pakistan).

Endangered Sightings

  • Spoon-billed Sandpiper (CR): ~700–800 left worldwide; seen in Bangladesh, Thailand, Myanmar.
  • Baer’s Pochard (CR): India, Bangladesh, Myanmar.
  • Black-faced Spoonbill (EN): Thailand, China.
  • Eurasian Curlew (NT): Across ASEAN wetlands.

Major Threats

  • Habitat destruction: Wetland reclamation, urbanization, aquaculture.
  • Climate change: Irregular rainfall, extreme events, disrupted migration.
  • Pollution: Industrial waste, pesticides, plastics.
  • Illegal hunting & poaching: Especially in South/Southeast Asia.
  • Invasive species & human disturbance: Affect wetland ecology and nesting.

Conservation & Policy Measures

  • Strengthening Ramsar Convention protections; >60 Ramsar sites in ASEAN.
  • EAAFP Flyway Partnership safeguarding migratory routes.
  • National wetland plans (India, Malaysia, Thailand) promoting restoration.
  • Community engagement: Local citizen groups, students, and NGOs key to monitoring.

Policy Recommendations

  • Enforce wetland protection laws to prevent encroachment.
  • Promote sustainable wetland management and eco-tourism.
  • Mitigate pollution and plastic waste in wetlands.
  • Build climate resilience in wetland ecosystems.

Conclusion

The AWC 2024 reveals mixed trends: while some waterbird species remain stable, critically endangered birds like the Spoon-billed Sandpiper continue to decline. With habitat loss, climate change, and pollution as key threats, urgent conservation strategies combining scientific monitoring, policy action, and community participation are essential. Protecting wetlands ensures survival of migratory species and strengthens biodiversity for future generations.