Annual Waterbird Count Underway Along the East Atlantic Flyway

An flyway-wide survey of migratory waterbirds is taking place this month along the East Atlantic Flyway, one of the world’s most important migration corridors. From the northern wintering sites to the wetlands of Southern Africa, more than 12,000 observers are joining forces to monitor millions of waterbirds across hundreds of wetland sites.

This large-scale initiative marks the fifth total flyway count coordinated by the Wadden Sea Flyway Initiative and its global partners, such as Sovon Vogelonderzoek Nederland, BirdLife International, Wetlands International, and many more. In a significant milestone for 2026, Iceland is participating for the first time, expanding coverage across the Flyway’s northernmost regions.

The Wadden Sea World Heritage Site is one of the key resting, breeding, and staging areas along the Flyway and it depends on accurate, long-term monitoring data to understand the pressures migratory birds face and to guide effective conservation measures. The data gathered during this coordinated count will directly support the site’s management and protection.

The Wadden Sea Flyway Initiative extends its gratitude to all organisations and volunteers involved. The dedication of field teams spanning continents, cultures, and ecosystems makes a measurable impact on safeguarding migratory bird populations and the natural heritage they embody.