Tracking winged winter wanderers in the wetlands

In the serene wetlands of Argolida in southern Greece, the Hellenic Ornithological Society's annual Midwinter Waterbird Counts are in full swing. Over 150 dedicated volunteers, local environmental organizations, and Protected Area Management Units participate in this large-scale monitoring program.

Spanning more than 230 wetland sites across Greece, this initiative collects vital data to protect waterbird species and highlight the ecological significance of these habitats. From mallards to rare herons, participants identify and tally thousands of birds, providing a comprehensive picture of wintering populations.

The effort not only protects vulnerable ecosystems but also inspires a deeper appreciation of Greece's rich biodiversity. As the volunteers' notebooks fill with numbers and names of species, the wetlands resonate with life - a testament to the enduring...