What is it about?
The new scientific study, “Monitoring major biodiversity stronghold in war zones: model predicts Lake Chad remains Africa’s most important wetland for waterbirds”, published in PNAS, estimates that Lake Chad supports nearly 2.5 million waterbirds, making it one of the most important wetlands for birdlife in Africa. Conducted in a region affected by insecurity, the research also suggests that some conflict zones may unexpectedly serve as refuges for biodiversity. Using aerial surveys conducted under rigorous scientific protocols and advanced spatial modelling techniques, researchers from Tour du Valat and the French Biodiversity Agency (Office Français de la Biodiversité – OFB), in partnership with the NGO Wings for Conservation and Chad’s Department of Wildlife and Protected Areas, produced the first comprehensive estimates of Lake Chad’s waterbird populations since 2008.
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Photo by Jaanus Jagomägi on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Lake Chad plays a crucial role for migratory birds traveling annually between Africa, Europe, and Asia. Conserving this wetland is therefore an international responsibility. Beyond its ecological importance, the site also supports local livelihoods. Waterbirds and the resources associated with wetland ecosystems contribute directly to the food security of many communities living around the lake.
Perspectives
In light of these findings, the researchers call for strengthened protection of Lake Chad through the creation of a large-scale protected area and the inscription of the site on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Scientific monitoring like this one is essential for understanding changes in wildlife populations and informing future conservation strategies. At a time when wetlands are disappearing worldwide at an alarming rate, Lake Chad stands out as a natural heritage site of exceptional global importance, whose preservation is vital both for biodiversity and local communities.
Pierre Defos du Rau
Office Français de la Biodiversité
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Monitoring major biodiversity stronghold in war zones: Model predicts Lake Chad remains Africa’s most important wetland for waterbirds, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, June 2026, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2603538123.
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