Workshop: Bar-headed goose

On July 20th, the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism and the Wildlife Science Conservation Center of Mongolia, is hosting a significant hybrid workshop on the Bar-headed Goose, a pivotal waterbird of the Central Asia Flyway (CAF). This event is part of HSF's Global Project for Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change (GMACC), aimed at bolstering regional networks among experts and enhancing collaborative conservation efforts.

The workshop kicked-off with opening remarks from Dr. Bernhard Seliger, Representative of HSF Korea, and Mr. B. Nurgulan, Chairperson of the Food and Agriculture Department of Bayan-Ulgii Province. These remarks will set the stage for a day filled with expert discussions and collaborative sessions.

The Bar-headed Goose, renowned for its remarkable migratory journey across the CAF, passes through multiple countries, underscoring the need for cooperative conservation strategies. China and India serve as primary breeding grounds for this iconic species, which makes the involvement of experts from these and other Central Asian countries crucial for sharing knowledge and enhancing conservation practices.

Workshop Highlights were:

• Population Size Discussion: An in-depth look at the current population metrics of the Bar-headed Goose to understand trends and make informed decisions.
• Key Sites and Threats: Identification of crucial habitats and the threats they face, facilitating targeted conservation actions.
• Field Research Techniques: Hands-on training in GPS tagging, color banding, and other field research methods to track and monitor the geese effectively.
• Movement Modeling Demo: A demonstration of movement modeling techniques to predict migratory patterns and assess habitat needs.
• Networking and Discussion: Opportunities for participants to connect, exchange ideas, and discuss collaborative strategies for the conservation of the Bar-headed Goose and other waterfowl species.

The workshop aimed to foster cooperation among government agencies, researchers, and conservationists across the range countries within the CAF. By identifying actionable steps and enhancing regional collaboration, the workshop seeks to support the conservation of the Bar-headed Goose and contribute to the broader efforts in safeguarding migratory birds.

We thank all participants for taking part in this important workshop, whether in person or virtually, as we work together to protect one of Central Asia’s most iconic waterbirds.