Coastal Waterbirds in Gabon

About this book

Language: English with bilingual summary in English and French

In January-March 1992, an ornithological expedition was carried out to the coastal wetlands of Gabon, West Africa. Gabon is situated on the East Atlantic and Mediterranean flyways, migration routes of palearctic waders, terns and other bird species.

This WIWO-report presents the results of this study of the different coastal wetlands of Gabon, emphasized on coastal waterbirds. The coastal wetlands are described, and for all the 72 Palearctic or Afrotropical waterbird species present status, numbers, distribution patterns and population estimates are included.

It becomes clear that the coastal wetlands of Gabon are of international importance for both Palearctic and Afrotropical birds, especially for large wading birds, waders and terns. Moreover, it is evident that the coastal zone is a particularly representative example of a large and relatively undisturbed wetland ecosystem. Therefore conservation actions are recommended, particularly the designation of three areas under the Ramsar Convention.

This report should be seen as a baseline study for further work in the coastal wetlands of Gabon in future.

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