Saving the Aquatic Warbler, Belarus and Poland
The A. G. Leventis Foundation is supporting ongoing work in the fen marshes of Belarus and Poland to save the Aquatic Warbler (Acrocephalus paludicola). Because of its complete dependence on this fast-disappearing habitat, the Warbler is a flagship species for the long-term conservation of these marshes. It is the rarest and the only songbird classed as ‘Globally Threatened’ on the European mainland, with almost three-quarters of the world population breeding in these two countries. The programme focuses on restoring the traditional use of the marshes, using special machinery, and investigating where the Warblers go in winter, when they fly via the Atlantic seaboard to West Africa. Cutting-edge technology has already uncovered some secrets that have baffled scientists for years. When ornithologists can understand the full life-cycle of these enigmatic birds, then the scientific community will be better able to offer insights for their conservation on their breeding grounds, on migration and when wintering. The aim of the initiative is to protect the Aquatic Warbler against possible extinction and create the potential of a safe future for this threatened species.
Grants given:
2012, 2013
