New distribution sites and local population trends of the white-eared night heron (Gorsachiusmagnificus) in China.

Abstract

The White-eared Night Heron (Gorsachiusmagnificus) is an endangered species facing increasing threats from human activities and ecological changes throughout its fragmented habitat. In this study, we integrate decade-long news data (2015-2024) and systematic field monitoring (2013-2024) to assess the species' distribution, local population trends and conservation challenges in China. Our analysis of 36 verified new reports revealed 14 new distribution sites across 11 provinces. Moreover, there were 17 reports of injuries to the White-eared Night Heron, including five wing injuries, four leg injuries, three eye injuries and five unspecified injuries. Our results suggest that discarded fishing lines, fishhooks and plastic contamination are the main causes of injuries to the species. For the local population, we recorded 12 breeding pairs of this species in Junwu Forest Park, Guangxi, China. However, our data showed a persistent decline in the number of adult individuals, nests and nestlings. The fragmented distribution pattern, combined with the threats it faces, means that, even if more and more of its distribution sites are detected, if adequate protective measures are not taken, its population may still face the danger of local extinction and further reduction. Our study highlights the role of social media data in assessing the population size and distribution of endangered species. From the perspective of species conservation, long-term monitoring programmes should be established in multiple sites across the species' range to provide a comprehensive understanding of population size trends and the effectiveness of conservation efforts.