Experts discuss climate change impacts on flyway sites at 4th East Atlantic Flyway Seminar

This April, the 4th East Atlantic Flyway (EAF) Seminar on Hallig Langeneß brought together scientists, site managers, policy experts, and bird enthusiasts to discuss how the Wadden Sea and other key tidal flat ecosystems along the flyway may be preserved in the face of accelerating climate change. Discussions highlighted not only the ecological importance of these sites, but also the increasing pressures for migratory birds resulting from sea-level rise, coastal squeeze to shifting food availability. Across the flyway, these changes are already altering the delicate balance that migratory species rely on, leading to shifting migration patterns.

The opening of the Brent Geese Days (Ringelganstage) on Hallig Hooge set the tone by celebrating a species that is emblematic of this region and this season. At this time of year, the Halligen serve as a vital stopover for tens of thousands of Brent Geese, gathering strength before continuing their long journey along the East Atlantic Flyway. Experiencing these birds on the Halligen while discussing flyway-scale conservation made the topic more tangible. Brent Geese are living proof of why international cooperation, habitat protection, and local stewardship matter. What happens in seemingly small and fragile landscapes like the Halligen has repercussions far beyond the Wadden Sea.

Events like this bridge global perspectives and local realities, showing how conservation truly comes alive when knowledge and people come together.