Why the European Roller?
This captivating migratory bird, a beloved visitor and a flagship species for the East Atlantic Flyway Initiative, is also a crucial indicator of ecosystem health. Sadly, individual populations have shown severe declines, with their status becoming unfavourable in many countries over several decades. Studies have found that populations have plummeted by over 30% in just three generations. Local and national extinctions have even been recorded across Europe. Habitat loss due to intensive agriculture, lack of nesting sites, pesticide use, and illegal hunting along migration routes are major threats. Consequently, a Species Action Plan was developed to help conserve the species. South Africa was identified within the Action Plan as a priority country within the migration route.
Two Subspecies, One Big Mystery
Southern Africa hosts two subspecies of European Rollers – the Western Palearctic C. g. garrulus and the Western and Central Asian C. g. semenowi, with the latter likely being more common. We’re awaiting blood sample analysis to confirm the subspecies and sex of our tagged birds, but their migration paths might offer some clues!
Migration Routes: Key to Conservation
By tracking these birds, we can map their migration routes and pinpoint crucial stopover sites like the one Hera has been using in Somalia for several days. These stopovers are essential for Rollers to rest and refuel before the next leg of their long journey. Identifying and safeguarding such areas is vital for their survival. This data is particularly valuable because most research focuses on European breeding grounds. Tracking in South Africa provides the missing piece – understanding their migration routes and habitat preferences here will help us identify potential threats along the way.
Together, We Can Secure Their Future
Understanding the threats faced by these tagged Rollers, along with their migration patterns, will be a game-changer for conservation efforts. Armed with this knowledge, we can strategically target our resources, collaborating with partners across Africa and Europe to create a safe haven for these magnificent birds throughout their incredible migratory journey.
Unravelling the mystery, one tagged bird at a time, Birdlife South Africa is taking a vital step towards securing a future for the European Rollers and alike.
