Migratory landbirds, particularly those bound for sub-Saharan Africa, are experiencing a decline across their range. The conservation of these species presents a formidable challenge due to the vast geographic span of their habitats. To effectively safeguard these birds, it is crucial to understand the obstacles they encounter not only within their breeding territories but also along their migratory paths and in their wintering locales. Regrettably, our knowledge is often limited by insufficient research capabilities throughout much of their range. Addressing this gap necessitates the establishment of a robust network of collaborative research efforts along the migratory flyways and the enhancement of research capacity in areas where it is currently lacking. Subsequently, key stakeholders must be engaged to actualize conservation measures.

A significant stride has been made with the initiation of the EUFLYNET COST Action. Funded by the EU, COST (Collaboration for Science & Technology) aims to foster networking and knowledge transfer. Launched in October 2023, EUFLYNET will span four years, orchestrating research coordination and facilitating knowledge exchange among scientists studying a broad spectrum of European migratory bird species. The network already boasts 160 members from 37 nations and is poised for further expansion. The inaugural in-person EUFLYNET assembly took place in Jastarnia, Poland, from February 28th to March 1st, 2024, convening approximately 100 participants who deliberated on collaborative ventures and received training on pertinent subjects such as statistical modeling, radiotracking, and tracking data analysis. For more information, please visit the Action website.

Action chair: Ivan Maggini

Funding: EU COST Action CA22117

Group picture of the participants to the EUFLYNET kick-off meeting in Jastarnia (Poland) from 28.2.2024 to 1.3.2024. Photo: Magdalena Remisiewicz.