The wader tracking project on Ayopechan Island, part of the Chaun Delta in Western Chukotka, is focused on investigating the migration and demography of Arctic waders. In 2025, large-scale capture efforts were resumed at the field station during both the breeding and post-breeding periods. As part of the project, captured waders are ringed, and GPS-GSM trackers are deployed on individuals of suitable body mass. Fieldwork is conducted during the summer months.
In the first year of the project, we successfully deployed four GPS-GSM trackers on juvenile male Ruffs Calidris pugnax. One of the trackers has already transmitted data outlining a portion of the migration route. In addition, we ringed juveniles and adults of several other species, including Dunlins, Pectoral Sandpipers, Red-necked Phalaropes, the Common Snipe, and Common Ringed Plovers.
West Chukotka
Chaun Biological Field Station, Ayopechan Island, Chaun-delta
shorebirds
The aim of the project is to strengthen conservation measures for wetlands within the municipality of Bishkek and in the ‘Northern Chu River Valley Reservoir’ IBA — a valuable peri-urban ecosystem that is under increasing pressure from urban development and human activity. Despite the importance of this site for the breeding and roosting of waterbirds, it is not effectively managed and does not receive the recognition it deserves. The project will trial community-based and nature-oriented solutions, including biodiversity mapping, the establishment of seasonal quiet zones, bioacoustic monitoring and awareness-raising activities. The main focus is on developing an action plan to implement other effective area-based measures for biodiversity conservation (OECMs) in line with the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), which will contribute to the long-term recognition and management of this site. Expected outcomes include improved environmental awareness, a reduction in human impact across an area of approximately 100 hectares occupied by priority habitats, and the strengthening of multi-stakeholder governance involving all relevant parties. By engaging local communities, volunteers and public authorities, the project will foster a sense of ownership of the area and position biodiversity as a valuable component of the local landscape, thereby contributing to sustainable urban development.
Baseline powerline surveys in the IBA "water reservation of the northern Chu valley", to gather evidence on powerline induced mortality for enhance political advocacy and action.
