Tag #Murray-Darling Basin

What is the immediate impact of the 50% decline in eastern Australia's waterbird population, and what are the key factors contributing to this decrease?

Eastern Australia's waterbird population has plummeted by 50% this year, with only 287,231 birds observed compared to 579,641 in 2023. This significant decline, recorded in the annual eastern Australian waterbird aerial survey, is the 22nd highest in 42 years and is far below the long-term average. This drop is linked to drier conditions and reduced wetland areas.