Non-selective waterbird hunting in a Natura 2000 site results in killing of protected species: A case study from western Poland

Non-selective hunting of waterbirds poses a significant challenge in biodiversity-rich areas such as Important Bird Areas (IBAs), where protected and game species congregate. Here, we present evidence from three consecutive hunting seasons spanning autumn 2021 to spring 2024 at a Natura 2000 site in western Poland, based on analyses of hunting bag photographs, local hunting records, and standardized bird monitoring data. We recorded 1331 hunted individuals from 14 species, 43% of which are protected under national or EU legislation. Among these was the Vulnerable Common Pochard (Aythya ferina), listed on the IUCN Red List. For nearly all species, harvest rates exceeded the sustainable thresholds defined by BirdLife International. Statistical comparisons between species' environmental abundance and their representation in hunting bags indicated no selectivity in shooting, pointing to indiscriminate hunting practices. Simultaneous waterbird monitoring (2018–2024) revealed steep declines in the local waterbird community and a marked decrease in Common Crane (Grus grus) numbers, with average autumn roost counts dropping from over 2000 individuals prior to hunting to 320 during hunting seasons. Although causality cannot be directly confirmed, these patterns suggest substantial disturbance effects. Our findings demonstrate the impracticality of selective hunting in species-rich wetland refuges and highlight the systematic killing of protected species. We recommend banning waterbird hunting in IBAs and implementing mandatory bird identification training and certification for hunters to reduce unintended impacts on vulnerable species.