Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2024
The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) is an annual citizen science program that monitors waterbird populations and wetland health across Asia, including ASEAN countries. It is part of the International Waterbird Census (IWC), coordinated by Wetlands International.
Key Facts About AWC:
- Initiated in 1987 as part of the IWC.
- Conducted every January, coinciding with the migration period of waterbirds.
- Covers over 20 countries, including India, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and other ASEAN nations.
- Helps in tracking migratory bird populations and assessing wetland health under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
Official Website: Wetlands International - AWC
Objectives of AWC 2024
Why is AWC Important?
- Monitors waterbird population trends and identifies declining species.
- Assesses the health of wetlands and their conservation status.
- Provides data to international conservation treaties like the Ramsar Convention, Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), and the East Asian-Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP).
- Encourages public participation and citizen science in biodiversity conservation.
Key Research Areas in AWC 2024:
- Impact of Climate Change on bird migration & wetland ecosystems.
- Effect of habitat loss due to urbanization, pollution, and land-use changes.
- Biodiversity Monitoring – Data collected helps in updating the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Countries & Sites Covered in AWC 2024
Major Participating Countries in Asia:
- India – Wetlands like Bharatpur (Keoladeo National Park), Chilika Lake, Vembanad Lake.
- Bangladesh – Sundarbans & Tanguar Haor Wetlands.
- Malaysia – Bako-Buntal Bay, Kuala Selangor Nature Park.
- Indonesia – Jakarta Bay, Bali Barat National Park.
- Thailand – Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Bung Boraphet Wetlands.
- Philippines – Candaba Swamp, Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Myanmar – Inle Lake & Gulf of Mottama Wetlands.
Wetlands Covered Under Ramsar Sites
- Chilika Lake (India) – Largest wintering ground for migratory birds in Asia.
- Tasek Bera (Malaysia) – Freshwater swamp habitat for waterbirds.
- Sundarbans (Bangladesh & India) – Largest mangrove ecosystem in the world.
Total Wetlands Surveyed: Over 2000 wetlands across Asia.
Key Findings of AWC 2024
Waterbird Population Trends (2024)
- Stable populations: Egrets, herons, and storks show stable numbers.
- Declining species: Northern Pintail, Eurasian Curlew, Spoon-billed Sandpiper.
- Increasing species: Some ducks & geese species benefiting from wetland conservation.
Key Waterbird Species Observed
- Ducks & Geese: Northern Pintail, Common Teal, Garganey, Ruddy Shelduck.
- Waders: Black-tailed Godwit, Eurasian Curlew, Spoon-billed Sandpiper (Critically Endangered).
- Storks & Herons: Painted Stork, Asian Openbill, Purple Heron.
- Flamingos: Lesser Flamingo, Greater Flamingo (in India & Pakistan).
Endangered Species Observed (IUCN Red List Status)
| Species | IUCN Status | Location Observed |
|---|---|---|
| Spoon-billed Sandpiper | Critically Endangered | Bangladesh, Thailand, Myanmar |
| Black-faced Spoonbill | Endangered | China, Korea, Japan |
| Baer’s Pochard | Critically Endangered | India, Bangladesh |
| Eurasian Curlew | Near Threatened | Across ASEAN wetlands |
Rare Sightings in 2024 Census:
- Spoon-billed Sandpiper (Only 700–800 individuals left worldwide).
- Baer’s Pochard (Critically endangered duck, sighted in Bangladesh & Myanmar).
- Black-faced Spoonbill (Endangered species, sighted in Thailand & China).
Major Threats to Waterbirds & Wetlands
- Habitat Destruction
- Urbanization & infrastructure development reduce wetland areas.
- Wetland reclamation for agriculture & aquaculture.
- Deforestation of mangroves, affecting migratory pathways.
- Climate Change Impacts
- Rising temperatures affect migration patterns.
- Irregular rainfall patterns & extreme weather events impact food availability.
- Pollution & Water Contamination
- Industrial pollution and plastic waste in wetland habitats.
- Pesticides & chemicals reduce food sources for birds.
- Illegal Hunting & Poaching
- Bird poaching for exotic pet trade in parts of Southeast Asia.
- Hunting of migratory birds for food in South Asian countries.
- Invasive Species & Human Disturbance
- Invasive fish & plants disrupt wetland ecosystems.
- Tourism & human encroachment disturb nesting grounds.
Conservation Efforts & Policy Measures
Key Conservation Programs in ASEAN & South Asia
- Wetland Protection Under Ramsar Convention – Over 60+ Ramsar sites in ASEAN countries.
- East Asian-Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP) – Protects migratory bird routes.
- National Wetland Conservation Plans – Malaysia, India, Thailand strengthening wetland restoration programs.
- Community Participation in AWC – Engages local citizens, researchers, and students in bird monitoring.
Urgent Policy Recommendations
- Stronger Wetland Protection Laws – Prevent illegal encroachment.
- Sustainable Wetland Management – Eco-tourism & habitat restoration.
- Reduce Pollution in Wetlands – Control plastic waste & industrial discharge.
- Enhance Climate Resilience – Mitigate rising temperatures & water scarcity affecting bird habitats.
The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2024 highlights critical trends in waterbird populations and wetland health across Asia. With rising environmental challenges, urgent conservation measures, stronger policies, and community participation are needed to protect migratory birds and their habitats.
Final Thought:
"Protecting wetlands is protecting
the future of biodiversity."
