HeronConservation

The IUCN-SCC Heron Specialist Group

Waterbird Population Estimates for Herons

Below are the latest estimates of the numbers of heron in various populations. Depending on the species, estimates may be for the entire species, a subspecies, or a geographic population. These estimates were derived by Wetlands International in partnership with HeronConservation and others. The entire report with information on the processes used may be obtained through the search page of Wetlands International.

Estimates are in all cases only that, and base on the best information available and best professional judgment of those who know the populations best. As information increases, estimates will be updated. HeronConservation will continue to partner with Wetlands International and the Ramsar Convention in periodically updating these estimates. All are invited to participate in making these estimates more accurate. Please communicate your data and suggestions to the HeronConservation Co-chairs or Steering Committee Members.

Heron Population Estimates

Scientific name English name Population Range Size - Year Size Trend - Year Trend Public-ation Note
Zonerodius heliosylus Forest Bittern New Guinea 2006 - 2006 1 - 10,000 1985 - 2005 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
  • Notes
  • Very difficult to detect and invariably overlooked; thus virtually unknown in the wild (Bishop 2003).
Tigriornis leucolopha White-crested Tiger-heron W & C Africa 2006 - 2006 25,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
Tigrisoma lineatum Rufescent Tiger-heron lineatum 2005 - 2005 2,700 - 5,500 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Notes
  • Estimate for whole of Central America.
marmoratum 2005 - 2011 25,000 - 100,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Barrett R. T. 1997. Br?nnich?s Guillemot Uria lomvia. Pp 370 in: Hagemeijer E. J. M and Blair M. J. (Eds) 1997. The EBCC Atlas of European Breeding Birds: Their Distribution and Abundance. T and A D Poyser, London.
Tigrisoma fasciatum Fasciated Tiger-heron fasciatum — 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Antas, P.T.Z. In litt. 1993. Unpublished data concerning South American waterbirds.
salmoni 2005 - 2005 2,520 - 5,050 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Notes
  • Includes Tigrisoma fasciatum, bolivianum.
  • Estimate for whole of Central America.
pallescens 2004 - 2004 2,000 - 2,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Boyla, K. and Estrada, A. (Eds.) 2005. ?reas Importantes para la Conservaci?n de las Aves en los Andes Tropicales: Sitios prioritarios para la conservaci?n de la biodiversidad. Quito, Ecuador: BirdLife International and Conservation International (BirdLife Conservation Series No. 14).
Tigrisoma mexicanum Bare-throated Tiger-heron Colombia to Mexico 2005 - 2005 17,100 - 47,500 2005 - 2005 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
S Mexico — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to fremitus.
Agamia agami Agami Heron C & S America 2005 - 2011 10,000 - 25,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Wetlands International Argentina (compiler). 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census, 1990-2011, including contributions from Colombia (Asociaci?n Calidris in litt.), Paraguay (Guyra Paraguay in litt.), Uruguay (Averaves in litt.) and Venezuela (Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos in litt.).
Cochlearius cochlearius Boat-billed Heron cochlearia 2011 - 2011 25,000 - 100,000 2001 - 2010 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Boyla, K. and Estrada, A. (Eds.) 2005. ?reas Importantes para la Conservaci?n de las Aves en los Andes Tropicales: Sitios prioritarios para la conservaci?n de la biodiversidad. Quito, Ecuador: BirdLife International and Conservation International (BirdLife Conservation Series No. 14).
  • Wetlands International Argentina (compiler). 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census, 1990-2011, including contributions from Colombia (Asociaci?n Calidris in litt.), Paraguay (Guyra Paraguay in litt.), Uruguay (Averaves in litt.) and Venezuela (Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos in litt.).
zeledoni — — — Unknown WPE5
phillipsi 2005 - 2005 14,800 - 46,300 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Notes
  • Estimate for whole of Central America.
ridgwayi — — — Unknown WPE5
panamensis — — — Unknown WPE5
Zebrilus undulatus Zigzag Heron South America 2004 - 2004 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Boyla, K. and Estrada, A. (Eds.) 2005. ?reas Importantes para la Conservaci?n de las Aves en los Andes Tropicales: Sitios prioritarios para la conservaci?n de la biodiversidad. Quito, Ecuador: BirdLife International and Conservation International (BirdLife Conservation Series No. 14).
Botaurus stellaris Eurasian Bittern stellaris W Europe, NW Africa (bre) 2005 - 2012 7,150 - 9,100 2000 - 2012 Increasing CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (Europe (breeding)).
  • 2,375 - 3,013 pairs in BE, DE, DK, ES, FR, NL, PT, SE & UK (BirdLife International 2015). Less than 20 pairs in NW Africa (Dodman, 2014).
  • Increased both in the long- and the short-term.
C & E Europe, Black Sea & E Mediterranean (bre) 2000 - 2014 92,000 - 163,000 2000 - 2012 Increasing CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (Europe (breeding)).
  • 30,754 - 54,355 pairs in AL, AT, BA, BG, BY, CZ, EE, FI, GE, GR, HR, HU, IT, LT, LV, MD, ME, MK, PL, RO, RS, RU (assuming 70%), SI, SK, TR & UA (BirdLife International 2015).
  • The population has increased in the short-term, but the short-term trend is unknown in 7 of 26 breeding range states. The long-term trend is possibly stable, but unknown in 10 of 26 range states.
South-west Asia (win) 2006 - 2006 25,000 - 100,000 2003 - 2012 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
South Asia (non-bre) — — — Unknown WPE5
S & E Asia (non-bre) 2001 - 2001 25,000 - 100,000 1981 - 1991 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Chan, Simba, In litt,. 2002. Unpublished information on Asian waterbirds.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to orientalis.
capensis Southern Africa 1980 - 2010 500 - 2,000 1980 - 2009 Declining CSR7

  • References
  • Animal Demography Unit (2017) Southern African Bird Atlas Project 2. SABAP1 vs SABAP2 reporting rates (QDGC). URL: http://sabap2.adu.org.za/index.php
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • Fragmented population, only low numbers assumed from any site.
  • Dodman (2014) assumed decline based on fragmented population and habitat loss in many areas. ADU (2017) data confirms that that the species was absent in 16 quarter degree grid cells in SABAP2 where it was present during SABAP1, declined in one and occupied only 5 new ones.
Botaurus poiciloptilus Australasian Bittern SW Australia 2009 - 2010 60 - 230 2000 - 2010 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Birds Australia. 2012. Bittern Survey (2009-10). Online http://www.birdsaustralia.com.au/our-projects/bittern-survey.html accessed April 2012.
  • Garnett, S.T., Szabo, J.K. and Dutson, G. 2010. The Action Plan for Australian Birds 2010. CSIRO Publishing, Melbourne.
  • Pickering, R. and Gole, C. 2008. Swan coastal plain Australasian Bittern surveys 2007-2008. Report to Birds Australia, Perth.
  • Notes
  • This species was included as one population in the first edition and has now been divided into 4 smaller populations. (WPE2)
  • Estimate derived by WPE method of number of mature birds x1.5 and based on systematic range-wide surveys in recent years coordinated by BirdLife Australia.
  • Trend is declining (20-30% within 2 generations (11 years)) due to loss of habitat.
SE Australia 2009 - 2010 310 - 960 2000 - 2010 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Birds Australia. 2012. Bittern Survey (2009-10). Online http://www.birdsaustralia.com.au/our-projects/bittern-survey.html accessed April 2012.
  • Garnett, S.T., Szabo, J.K. and Dutson, G. 2010. The Action Plan for Australian Birds 2010. CSIRO Publishing, Melbourne.
  • Notes
  • This species was included as one population in the first edition and has now been divided into 4 smaller populations. (WPE2)
  • Estimate derived by WPE method of number of mature birds x1.5 and based on systematic range-wide surveys in recent years coordinated by BirdLife Australia.
  • Trend is declining (20-30% within 2 generations (11 years)) due to loss of habitat.
New Zealand 2011 - 2011 1,000 - 1,500 2001 - 2010 Declining? WPE5

  • References
  • O'Donnell, C. In litt. 30 March 2012 (advice from Department of Conservation, New Zealand).
  • Notes
  • This species was included as one population in the first edition and has now been divided into 4 smaller populations. (WPE2)
  • Estimate reflects better information arising from systematic investigation.
  • Trend assumed to be unchanged but requires confirmation.
New Caledonia 2011 - 2011 — 2001 - 2010 Extinct? WPE5

  • References
  • Dutson, G. In litt. 21 March 2012b (advice regarding Pacific Islands including New Guinea).
  • Notes
  • This species was included as one population in the first edition and has now been divided into 4 smaller populations. (WPE2)
Botaurus lentiginosus American Bittern North America 2000 - 2000 2,980,000 - 2,980,000 1966 - 2004 Declining? WPE5

  • References
  • Wiggins, D.A. (2006, September 6). American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus): a technical conservation assessment. [Online]. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region.
  • Notes
  • Estimate from BBS 992,000 pairs (2,976,000 individuals). For populations over 2 million birds, Ramsar criterion 5 (20,000 or more waterbirds) applies.
Botaurus pinnatus Pinnated Bittern pinnatus 2005 - 2011 10,000 - 25,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Franke, I. 2006. Waterbirds in Per?: Final report. Museo de Historia Natural de la Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos. Lima (unpublished report to BirdLife International).
  • Unterkofler, D. and Blanco, D.E. 2012. Unpublished information on Argentine waterbirds.
  • Wetlands International Argentina (compiler). 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census, 1990-2011, including contributions from Colombia (Asociaci?n Calidris in litt.), Paraguay (Guyra Paraguay in litt.), Uruguay (Averaves in litt.) and Venezuela (Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos in litt.).
  • Notes
  • No new data other than estimate of 576-2,900 for Central America (Komar et al. 2006).
caribaeus — — — Unknown WPE5
Ixobrychus involucris Stripe-backed Bittern N South America 1993 - 1993 100,000 - 1,000,000 1982 - 1992 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Canevari, P. (pers. comm.). 1993. Unpublished information from Neotropical Wetlands Program.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (South America).
S South America 2011 - 2011 10,000 - 25,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Huanca Llanos, N.E. 2006. Reporte final, Aves Acu?ticas en Bolivia. Asociaci?n Armonia, Santa Cruz de la Sierra (unpublished report to BirdLife International).
  • Unterkofler, D. and Blanco, D.E. 2012. Unpublished information on Argentine waterbirds.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (South America).
Ixobrychus exilis Least Bittern exilis 2000 - 2000 128,000 - 128,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Waterbird Conservation for the Americas. 2001. Continental Marshbird Conservation Planning Workshop, August 2001, Denver, Colorado.
  • Notes
  • No new data. 4,500 (1,500 Bpairs) in Canada (COSEWIC. 2009).
pullus — — — Unknown WPE5
bogotensis 2011 - 2011 1,000 - 1,000 2001 - 2010 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Asociaci?n Calidris. 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census in Colombia, 1992-2011.
erythromelas 2005 - 2011 10,000 - 25,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Asociaci?n Calidris. 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census in Colombia, 1992-2011.
peruvianus 2011 - 2011 1,000 - 5,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Ottema, O. 2006. Waterbirds in Suriname: Final report. STINASU Foundation for Nature Conservation Suriname, Paramaribo (unpublished report).
  • Unterkofler, D. and Blanco, D.E. 2012. Unpublished information on Argentine waterbirds.
Ixobrychus minutus Common Little Bittern minutus W Europe, NW Africa/Subsaharan Africa 1997 - 2013 19,000 - 25,500 2000 - 2012 Stable CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (Europe/Northern Africa (bre)).
  • 6,227-8253 pairs in BE, DE, ES, ESIC, FR, IT, LU, NL and PT (BirdLife International 2015). 100-200 pairs in NW Africa (Dodman, 2014).
  • Stable in the short-term but declined in the long-term.
C & E Europe, Black Sea & E Mediterranean/Sub-saharan Africa 1995 - 2014 168,000 - 298,000 2000 - 2012 Stable CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • 15. eu
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (Europe/Northern Africa (bre)).
  • 55,156 - 98,469 pairs in AL, AT, BA, BE, BG, BY, CH, CY, CZ, DE, ES, ESIC, FR, GE, GR, HR, HU, IT, LT, LU, LV, MD, ME, MK, NL, PL, PT, RO, RS, RU, SI, SK, TR, UA & XK (BirdLife International 2015). Further 1000 pairs in Egypt (Dodman, 2014).
  • Stable both in the long- and the short-term.
West & South-west Asia/Sub-Saharan Africa 1987 - 1991 25,000 - 100,000 2003 - 2012 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
South Asia 1987 - 1991 10,000 - 25,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
payesii Sub-Saharan Africa 1990 - 2000 25,000 - 100,000 2003 - 2012 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • Fishpool, L.D.C. and Evans, M.I.,(Eds). 2001. Important Bird Areas in Africa and associated islands: Priority sites for conservation. Newbury and Cambridge, UK: Pisces Publications and BirdLife International (BirdLife Conservation Series No. 11).
podiceps — 3,000 - 15,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Hawkins, F. In litt. 2002. Unpublished notes on waterbird population estimates of Madagascar.
Ixobrychus dubius Australian Little Bittern dubius 1994 - 2010 1 - 10,000 1982 - 2011 Declining? WPE5

  • References
  • Birds Australia. 2011. The Bittern Chronicle No. 3, September 2011. Online http://www.birdsaustralia.com.au/images/stories/current-projects/bittern/Bittern-Chronicle-Sep11.pdf accessed April 2012.
  • Christidis, L. and Boles, W.E. 2008. Systematics and taxonomy of Australian birds. CSIRO Publishing, Melbourne.
  • Clarke, A.G., Lane, J.A.K. and Jaensch, R.P. 2011. Surveys of waterbirds in selected wetlands of south-western Australia in spring-summer 2009-10, with further assessment of changes in habitat and waterbird usage over 2-3 decades. Western Australian Department of Environment and Conservation. 101pp.
  • Jaensch, R.P. 1995. Little Bitterns (Ixobrychus minutus) in the Middle Fly wetlands. Muruk 7 (3): 117-118.
  • Jaensch, Roger, August 2005. Detailed data and notes on numbers and distribution of waterbirds in Australia, updated from Jaensch, 2003, and derived from more than 90 Australian sources including Wetlands International, Birds Australia and Jaensch, 2003,
  • Jaensch, R. April 2012. Detailed data and notes on numbers and trends of waterbirds in Australia and other parts of the Oceania region, in a spreadsheet prepared for Wetlands International - Oceania for the 5th edition of WPE.
  • Notes
  • Now considered a distinct species, previously laced under Ixobrychus minutus
  • Data inadequate to derive a numerical estimate due to survey difficulties; numbers recorded support 1 - 10,000.
  • Trend is possibly declining due to loss of inland habitat.
Ixobrychus novaezelandiae New Zealand Little Bittern New Zealand — — 1982 - 1992 Extinct WPE5

  • References
  • Powlesland, R. (pers. comm.). 1993. New Zealand Department of Conservation unpublished data.
  • Notes
  • Treated as subspecies of L.minutus until WPE4.
Ixobrychus sinensis Yellow Bittern Seychelles — 1 - 300 1991 - 2001 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Rocamora, G. and Skerrett, A. 2001. Seychelles. Pp 751-768. In L.D.C. Fishpool and M.I. Evans, eds. Important Bird Areas in Africa and associated islands: Priority sites for conservation. Newbury and Cambridge, UK: Pisces Publications and BirdLife International
  • Skerrett, A., 2002. In litt.
South Asia — — — Unknown WPE5
E & SE Asia 2006 - 2006 100,000 - 1,000,000 1985 - 2005 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
  • Notes
  • 42: Recently colonised New Caledonia.
Ixobrychus eurhythmus Schrenck's Bittern E & SE Asia — 1 - 25,000 1985 - 1995 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Lansdown, R.V. (pers. comm.) 1996. Data prepared for the Draft Ardeidae Action Plan.
Ixobrychus cinnamomeus Cinnamon Bittern South Asia 1987 - 1991 25,000 - 1,000,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
E, SE Asia 2006 - 2006 100,000 - 1,000,000 1985 - 2005 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
Ixobrychus sturmii Dwarf Bittern Sub-Saharan Africa 1990 - 2000 25,000 - 100,000 2002 - 2013 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • Fishpool, L.D.C. and Evans, M.I.,(Eds). 2001. Important Bird Areas in Africa and associated islands: Priority sites for conservation. Newbury and Cambridge, UK: Pisces Publications and BirdLife International (BirdLife Conservation Series No. 11).
Ixobrychus flavicollis Black Bittern flavicollis South Asia 1987 - 1991 25,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to genus Dupetor.
E, SE Asia 2006 - 2006 10,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
australis Australia, New Guinea 1999 - 2002 10,000 - 100,000 1991 - 2000 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Bishop, K.D. 2003. A Review of the Avifauna of the TransFly Eco-region: the status, distribution, habitats and conservation of the region?s birds. Report to WWF South Pacific Program.
  • Green, A.J. 1992a. The status and conservation of the White-winged Wood Duck (Cairina scutulata). IWRB Special Publication No. 17. Slimbridge, UK. 115 pp.
  • Jaensch, R. April 2012. Detailed data and notes on numbers and trends of waterbirds in Australia and other parts of the Oceania region, in a spreadsheet prepared for Wetlands International - Oceania for the 5th edition of WPE.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to gouldi.
  • Estimate based on previous information and extent of habitat across several countries.
Timor — — — Unknown WPE5
Rennell Island 2001 - 2001 1 - 500 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Dutson, Guy, in litt. 2002.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes included in woodfordi, or as separate subspecies, pallidor.
New Britain, New Ireland 2001 - 2001 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Dutson, Guy, in litt. 2002.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to nesophilus.
woodfordi 2001 - 2001 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Dutson, Guy, in litt. 2002.
Gorsachius magnificus White-eared Night-heron SE Asia 2000 - 2000 250 - 1,000 1995 - 2005 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2001. Threatened Bird of Asia: the BirdLife International Red Data Book. Cambridge, UK. BirdLife International.
  • BirdLife International. 2005. Threatened birds of the world 2005. Species factsheets available at?www.birdlife.org
  • Notes
  • M. Crosby in litt. (2005) estimates 250-999 individuals based on analysis of information presented in 66. Habitat detrimentally transformed at principal site, Shennongjia in Hubei province, China, in 1990s.
Gorsachius goisagi Japanese Night-heron E & SE Asia 2005 - 2005 250 - 1,000 1975 - 1995 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • BirdLife International. 2005. Threatened birds of the world 2005. Species factsheets available at?www.birdlife.org
Gorsachius melanolophus Malay Night-heron South Asia — — — Unknown WPE5
SE Asia — — — Unknown WPE5
Philippines — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to kutteri. Probably this subspecies on Ryukyu Is and Taiwan.
Palawan, Philippines — 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Lansdown, R.V. (pers. comm.) 1996. Data prepared for the Draft Ardeidae Action Plan.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to rufolineatus.
Nicobar Is — 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Lansdown, R.V. (pers. comm.) 1996. Data prepared for the Draft Ardeidae Action Plan.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to minor.
Calherodius leuconotus White-backed Night-heron Africa — 25,000 - 100,000 1991 - 2001 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
  • Dodman, T., 2006. Status, estimates and trends of waterbird populations in Africa. Wetlands International, Dakar.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes included in genus Gorsachius.
Nycticorax duboisi Reunion Night-heron Reunion 2005 - 2005 — 1750 - 2005 Extinct WPE5

  • References
  • BirdLife International. 2005. Threatened birds of the world 2005. Species factsheets available at?www.birdlife.org
  • Notes
  • Population added in WPE3.
  • Described and last recorded in 1674 (BirdLife International. 2005).
Nycticorax mauritianus Mauritius Night-heron Mauritius 2005 - 2005 — 1750 - 2005 Extinct WPE5

  • References
  • BirdLife International. 2005. Threatened birds of the world 2005. Species factsheets available at?www.birdlife.org
  • Notes
  • Population added in WPE3.
  • Described and last recorded in 1693 (BirdLife International. 2005).
Nycticorax megacephalus Rodrigues Night-heron Rodrigues 2005 - 2005 — 1800 - 2005 Extinct WPE5

  • References
  • BirdLife International. 2005. Threatened birds of the world 2005. Species factsheets available at?www.birdlife.org
  • Notes
  • Population added in WPE3.
  • Described and last recorded in 1726 (BirdLife International. 2005).
Nycticorax nycticorax Black-crowned Night-heron nycticorax W Europe, NW Africa (bre) 2002 - 2012 46,000 - 51,000 1998 - 2012 Declining CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (Europe/NW Africa (breeding)).
  • 14,836 - 15,596 pairs in BE, DE, ES, ESIC , FR, IT, NL and PT (BirdLife International 2015). Dodman (2014) estimated that 500-1500 pairs may breed in NW Africa.
  • The European part of the population has declined by 50-53% over the last decade.
C & E Europe/Black Sea & E Mediterranean (bre) 1990 - 2012 134,000 - 209,000 2000 - 2012 Stable CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (Europe/NW Africa (breeding)).
  • 44,700 - 69,610 pairs in AL, AT, AZ, BA, BG, BY, GE, GR, HR, HU, MD, ME, MK, PL, RO, RS, RU, SI, SK, TR, UA& XK (BirdLife International 2015). In addition, less than 1000 birds in Egypt (Dodman, 2014).
  • Stable both in the short- and the long-term.
Western Asia/SW Asia & NE Africa 2002 - 2017 25,000 - 100,000 2000 - 2012 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • Scott, D.A. in press, 2002. Report on the Conservation Status of Migratory Waterbirds in the Agreement Area. Update Report to African Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement Secretariat
  • Sheldon, R. 2017. Estimates of breeding waterbird populations in Central/SW Asia, The Caucasus and the Arabian Peninsula.
Sub-Saharan Africa & Madagascar 1975 - 2014 100,000 - 300,000 2006 - 2015 Stable/ Increasing? CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Widespread, with breeding colonies across sub-Saharan Africa
  • Dodman (2014) considered it to be at least stable. IWC trend analysis shows strong increase both in the long- and short-term, but this is driven by data from SN (Wetlands International 2017)
South Asia — 100,000 - 150,000 1977 - 1991 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Balachandran, S., in litt. 2005.
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  • Notes
  • 33: Population estimate for India 100,000.
E, SE Asia 2006 - 2006 100,000 - 1,000,000 1981 - 1991 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Chan, Simba, In litt,. 2002. Unpublished information on Asian waterbirds.
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
hoactii Caribbean 2006 - 2007 6,000 - 12,300 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Birdlife International. 2008a. Caribbean Waterbird Reports. Downloaded from: http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/waterbirds/downloads.html
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (N.n. nycticorax, North America/N Neotropics).
  • Total of data presented in BirdLife International 2008a.
northern South America (bre) 2005 - 2010 50,000 - 50,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Huanca Llanos, N.E. 2006. Reporte final, Aves Acu?ticas en Bolivia. Asociaci?n Armonia, Santa Cruz de la Sierra (unpublished report to BirdLife International).
  • Unterkofler, D. and Blanco, D.E. 2012. Unpublished information on Argentine waterbirds.
  • Wetlands International Argentina (compiler). 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census, 1990-2011, including contributions from Colombia (Asociaci?n Calidris in litt.), Paraguay (Guyra Paraguay in litt.), Uruguay (Averaves in litt.) and Venezuela (Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos in litt.).
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (N.n. nycticorax, North America/N Neotropics).
North America (bre) 1999 - 2011 75,000 - 150,000 1990 - 2000 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Butler, R.W., Kushlan, J.A. and Davidson, I.J. 2000. Herons in North America, Central America and the West Indies. Pp 151-175 in: Heron Conservation (James.A. Kushlan and Heinz Hafner, Eds.). Academic Press, London.
  • Schlatter, R. (In litt.). 2002. Unpublished information on Southern South American waterbirds.
  • Notes
  • Ascribed to subspecies hoactli (J. F. Gmelin, 1789) . In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (N.n. nycticorax, North America/N Neotropics).
  • 2,500-5,000 breeding pairs estimated for Canada (Weseloh, C. In litt. 2012).
  • Ascribed to subspecies hoactli (J. F. Gmelin, 1789).
Mexico — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (N.n. nycticorax, North America/N Neotropics).
Central America 2005 - 2005 9,600 - 24,900 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (N.n. nycticorax, North America/N Neotropics).
obscurus 2001 - 2001 25,000 - 1,000,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Schlatter, R. (In litt.). 2002. Unpublished information on Southern South American waterbirds.
falklandicus Falkland Islands (Malvinas) — 5,700 - 10,800 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Woods, R. and Woods, A. 1997. Atlas of the Breeding Birds of the Falkland Islands. Anthony Nelson, Oswestry, England.
  • Notes
  • 718 estimate 1,900-3,600 pairs (5,700-10,800 individuals).
Nycticorax caledonicus Rufous Night-heron caledonicus — 2,000 - 4,000 1990 - 2000 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Barr?, N. and Dutson, G. 2000. Oiseaux de Nouvelle-Caledonie. Liste commentee. Suppl. Alauda (68), 3: 49pp.
manillensis — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Includes former N.caledonicus minahassae.
pelewensis 2001 - 2001 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Dutson, Guy, in litt. 2002.
mandibularis 2001 - 2001 10,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Dutson, Guy, in litt. 2002.
  • Notes
  • Bismarck birds sometimes separated as cancrivorus.
hilli 2004 - 2011 25,000 - 1,000,000 1982 - 2011 Fluctuating WPE5

  • References
  • Jaensch, Roger, August 2005. Detailed data and notes on numbers and distribution of waterbirds in Australia, updated from Jaensch, 2003, and derived from more than 90 Australian sources including Wetlands International, Birds Australia and Jaensch, 2003,
  • Jaensch, R. April 2012. Detailed data and notes on numbers and trends of waterbirds in Australia and other parts of the Oceania region, in a spreadsheet prepared for Wetlands International - Oceania for the 5th edition of WPE.
  • Reid, J. and Jaensch, R. 2004. Aerial waterbird survey results. Section 4.7, pp 472-493 in, Costelloe, J.F., Hudson, P.J., Pritchard, J.C., Puckridge, J.T. and Reid, J.R.W. AridFlo Scientific Report: Environmental Flow Requirements of Arid Zone Rivers with Particular Reference to the Lake Eyre Drainage Basin. School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide. Final Report to DLW and BC and DEH. Also available online at http://www.lebmf.gov.au/publications/aridflo.html
  • Reid, J.R.W., Kingsford, R.T. and Jaensch, R.P. 2009. Waterbird Surveys in the Channel Country Floodplain Wetlands, Autumn 2009. Report by Australian National University, Canberra, University of New South Wales, Sydney, and Wetlands International, Oceania, Brisbane, for the Australian Government Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. 81 pp. Also available online at http://www.lebmf.gov.au/publications/pubs/waterbirds-report.pdf
  • Notes
  • Estimate based on numbers in colonies and consideration of survey difficulties and numbers outside Australia.
  • Trend is fluctuating; possible long-term decline due to loss of some breeding habitat in E Australia requires confirmation.
Nyctanassa violacea Yellow-crowned Night-heron violacea North America — 75,000 - 150,000 1966 - 2000 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Butler, R.W., Kushlan, J.A. and Davidson, I.J. 2000. Herons in North America, Central America and the West Indies. Pp 151-175 in: Heron Conservation (James.A. Kushlan and Heinz Hafner, Eds.). Academic Press, London.
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
  • Notes
  • Often placed in genus Nycticorax. In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (N.v. violacea, North Am/Central America).
Mexico to Honduras — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (N.v. violacea, North Am/Central America).
  • No new data other than estimate of 1,400-1,900 for Central America (Komar et al. 2006).
gravirostris — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to bancrofti.
caliginis 2004 - 2004 900 - 900 1982 - 1992 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Angehr, G. R. 2005. Waterbirds in Panama. Final report to BirdLife International.
  • Naranjo, L. (pers. comm.). 1993. Unpublished data summarised for IWRB.
cayennensis — — — Unknown WPE5
bancrofti — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • No new data other than estimate of 2,203-7,603 for Caribbean (Birdlife International 2008a).
pauper — — — Unknown WPE5
Butorides striata Green-backed Heron brevipes — 1 - 25,000 — Unknown CSR6

  • References
  • Jennings, M.C. 2010. Atlas of Breeding Birds of Arabia. Fauna of Arabia Vol. 25. Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Frankfurt, Germany and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
  • Notes
  • Jennings et al. estimated that the population is 2000 pairs in Arabia.
sundevalli — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes considered separate species Butorides sundevalli.
albolimbata — 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Lansdown, R.V. (pers. comm.) 1996. Data prepared for the Draft Ardeidae Action Plan.
chloriceps — 25,000 - 25,000 1991 - 2001 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Hoffman, T.W., Deepal Warakagoda, U. Sirivardena, 2002. Unpublished information on the birds of Sri Lanka.
spodiogaster — — — Unknown WPE5
amurensis — — — Unknown WPE5
actophila — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Note
  • Includes "connectens". (WPE4)
javanica 2006 - 2006 10,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
  • Note
  • Split into a SE & S Asia population and a Mauritius, Reunion & Rodrigues population after WPE5.
moluccarum Moluccas — — — Unknown WPE5
NW New Guinea — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to papuensis.
solomonensis 2001 - 2001 1 - 25,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Dutson, Guy, in litt. 2002.
atricapilla 2001 - 2001 100,000 - 1,000,000 1991 - 2001 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
idenburgi — — — Unknown WPE5
flyensis — — — Unknown WPE5
stagnatilis N Australia — — — Unknown WPE5
NW Australia — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to rogersi.
NE Western Australia — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to cinereus.
patruelis — 100 - 200 1971 - 1987 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Thibault, J.C. and Guyst, I. 1993. Livre rouge des oiseaux menac?s des regions Francaises d'outre mer. ICBP Monograph No. 5. CIPO, Saint-Claude, France.
macrorhyncha E Australia — — — Unknown WPE5
SC New Guinea, NE Queensland — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to littleri.
carcinophila — — — Unknown WPE5
steini — — — Unknown WPE5
rutenbergi 2001 - 2001 1 - 25,000 1991 - 2001 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
rhizophorae 2001 - 2001 1 - 10,000 1992 - 2002 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
  • Louette, M. 2004. Oiseaux. In: Louette, M., D. Meirte and R. Jocque (eds). La faune terrestre de l?archipel des Comores. Studies in Afrotropical Zoology (MRAC, Tervuren). 293: 89-196.
degens 2001 - 2001 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
crawfordi 2001 - 2001 1 - 5,000 1991 - 2001 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
striata Central & South America — — — Unknown WPE5
South America 2005 - 2011 100,000 - 1,000,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Huanca Llanos, N.E. 2006. Reporte final, Aves Acu?ticas en Bolivia. Asociaci?n Armonia, Santa Cruz de la Sierra (unpublished report to BirdLife International).
  • Ottema, O. 2006. Waterbirds in Suriname: Final report. STINASU Foundation for Nature Conservation Suriname, Paramaribo (unpublished report).
  • Unterkofler, D. and Blanco, D.E. 2012. Unpublished information on Argentine waterbirds.
  • Wetlands International Argentina (compiler). 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census, 1990-2011, including contributions from Colombia (Asociaci?n Calidris in litt.), Paraguay (Guyra Paraguay in litt.), Uruguay (Averaves in litt.) and Venezuela (Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos in litt.).
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to cyanurus.
virescens Central & E North America — — 1966 - 2000 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
  • Notes
  • Butorides striata (del Hoyo and Collar 2014) was previously split as B. striata and B. virescens
Mexico — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Butorides striata (del Hoyo and Collar 2014) was previously split as B. striata and B. virescens. Sometimes ascribed to maculatus. (WPE4)
Central America 2005 - 2005 23,000 - 60,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Notes
  • Butorides striata (del Hoyo and Collar 2014) was previously split as B. striata and B. virescens
Caribbean 2006 - 2007 3,080 - 12,300 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Birdlife International. 2008a. Caribbean Waterbird Reports. Downloaded from: http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/waterbirds/downloads.html
  • Notes
  • Butorides striata (del Hoyo and Collar 2014) was previously split as B. striata and B. virescens
  • Total of data presented in BirdLife International 2008a
bahamensis — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Butorides striata (del Hoyo and Collar 2014) was previously split as B. striata and B. virescens, though this population was considered Butorides striatus in WPE1.
anthonyi — — 1966 - 2000 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
  • Notes
  • Butorides striata (del Hoyo and Collar 2014) was previously split as B. striata and B. virescens. This population was under Butorides striatus in WPE1.
frazari — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Butorides striata (del Hoyo and Collar 2014) was previously split as B. striata and B. virescens. This population was considered Butorides striatus in WPE1.
Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron ralloides SW Europe, NW Africa (bre) 2002 - 2013 9,000 - 11,000 2000 - 2012 Increasing CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • 8,495-10,703 pairs in ES, FR, IT & PT (BirdLife International 2015). C. 100 pairs in N. Africa (Dodman, 2014).
  • Increased both in the short- and the long-term.
C & E Europe, Black Sea & E Mediterranean (bre) 1990 - 2012 29,000 - 52,000 2000 - 2012 Declining CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (S&SW Asia/Black Sea (bre)).
  • 9,219-16,569 pairs in AL, BA, BG, CY, GE, GR, HR, HU, MD, ME, MK, RO, RS, RU, SK, TR & UA (BirdLife International 2015). In addition, over 600 breeding pairs in Egypt (Dodman, 2014).
  • Declining both in the long- and the short-term.
West & South-west Asia/Sub-Saharan Africa 1987 - 2017 25,000 - 100,000 2003 - 2012 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International Website 2002
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  • Sheldon, R. 2017. Estimates of breeding waterbird populations in Central/SW Asia, The Caucasus and the Arabian Peninsula.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (S&SW Asia/Black Sea (bre)).
paludivaga Sub-Saharan Africa & Madagascar 2006 - 2006 300,000 - 600,000 2006 - 2015 Increasing? CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T., 2006. Status, estimates and trends of waterbird populations in Africa. Wetlands International, Dakar.
  • Trolliet, B., in litt., 2006.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to ralloides.
Ardeola grayii Indian Pond-heron grayii SW, S Asia 1987 - 1991 100,000 - 1,000,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Myanmar, Bay of Bengal — — — Unknown WPE5
phillipsi — — — Unknown WPE5
Ardeola bacchus Chinese Pond-heron E, SE & S Asia 2001 - 2001 25,000 - 1,000,000 1981 - 1991 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Chan, Simba, In litt,. 2002. Unpublished information on Asian waterbirds.
Ardeola speciosa Javan Pond-heron speciosa — — — Unknown WPE5
continentalis 1987 - 1991 10,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Ardeola idae Madagascar Pond-heron Madagascar & Aldabra/Central & Eastern Africa 2001 - 2001 2,000 - 6,000 2002 - 2013 Increasing? CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International (2017) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org on 30/09/2017.
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Significant long-term decline. BirdLife International (2017) suspects that the decline continues. However, IWC count data suggest modest increase after 2000 (Wetlands International 2017).
Ardeola rufiventris Rufous-bellied Heron Central, Eastern & Southern Africa 2006 - 2006 10,000 - 100,000 2006 - 2015 Stable/ Increasing? CSR7

  • References
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret ibis Southern Africa 1996 - 2001 100,000 - 1,000,000 2006 - 2015 Declining? CSR7

  • References
  • Animal Demography Unit (2017) Southern African Bird Atlas Project 2. SABAP1 vs SABAP2 reporting rates (QDGC). URL: http://sabap2.adu.org.za/index.php
  • Scott, D.A. in press, 2002. Report on the Conservation Status of Migratory Waterbirds in the Agreement Area. Update Report to African Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement Secretariat.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Often placed in genus Ardea.
  • The short-term trend has a strong negative tendency. The long-term trend is also significant long-term decline (Wetlands International 2017). It has declined in three times more quarter degree grid cells than increased in ZA between the SABAP 1 and 2 (ADU 2017).
Caribbean 2006 - 2007 43,800 - 147,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Birdlife International. 2008a. Caribbean Waterbird Reports. Downloaded from: http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/waterbirds/downloads.html
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (B.i. ibis, Neotropics).Often placed in genus Ardea.
  • Total of data presented in BirdLife International 2008a and of which 25,000-100,000 estimated for Cuba (Acosta-Cruz, M. and Mugica-Vald?s, L. 2006.)
South America 1993 - 1993 1,000,000 - 1,000,000 1982 - 1992 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Canevari, P. (pers. comm.). 1993. Unpublished information from Neotropical Wetlands Program.
  • Naranjo, L. (pers. comm.). 1993. Unpublished data summarised for IWRB.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (B.i. ibis, Neotropics).Often placed in genus Ardea.
Tropical Africa 1990 - 2001 1,000,000 - 10,000,000 2006 - 2015 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Scott, D.A. in press, 2002. Report on the Conservation Status of Migratory Waterbirds in the Agreement Area. Update Report to African Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement Secretariat.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Often placed in genus Ardea.
  • Population probably numbers 'several million' (Dodman, 2014).
  • IWC trend analysis produced uncertain results.
North-west Africa 1984 - 2000 100,000 - 150,000 2006 - 2015 Stable? CSR7

  • References
  • Hafner, H. 2000. Herons in The Mediterranean. Pp 32-54 in: Heron Conservation (James.A. Kushlan and Heinz Hafner, Eds.). Academic Press, London.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (SW Europe/NW Africa).Often placed in genus Ardea.
  • Stable long-term trend.
South-west Europe 2002 - 2012 215,000 - 253,000 2000 - 2012 Declining? CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (SW Europe/NW Africa).Often placed in genus Ardea.
  • 71,770 - 84,193 pairs.
  • Both the breeding (BirdLife International 2015) and the IWC data (Wetlands International 2017) indicate long-term increase that turned into a decline in the short-term.
East Mediterranean & South-west Asia 2005 - 2017 10,000 - 100,000 2006 - 2015 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • Sheldon, R. 2017. Estimates of breeding waterbird populations in Central/SW Asia, The Caucasus and the Arabian Peninsula.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Often placed in genus Ardea.
  • Although the trend analysis suggest steep decline, Hatzofe (pers. com) indicated that the species has exploded in IL.
North America — 1,000,000 - 1,000,000 1966 - 2000 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Kushlan, James, A., Melanie J. Steinkamp, Katharine Parsons, Jack Capp, Martin Acosta Cruz, Malcolm Coulter, Ian Davidson, Loney Dickson, Naomi Edelson, Richard Elliot, R. Michael Erwin, Scott Hatch, Stephen Kress, Robert Milko, Steve Miller, Kyra Mills, Richard Paul, Roberto Phillips, Jorge E. Saliva, Bill Sydeman, John Trapp, Jennifer Wheeler, and Kent Wohl. 2002. North American Waterbird Conservation Plan, Version 1. Waterbird Conservation for the Americas, Washington, DC, USA.
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
  • Notes
  • Often placed in genus Ardea.
  • Apparently does not breed in Canada anymore, certainly not in Ontario (Weseloh, C. In litt. 2012).
Mexico — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (B.i. ibis, Neotropics).Often placed in genus Ardea.
Central America 2005 - 2005 262,000 - 2,120,000 2005 - 2005 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (B.i. ibis, Neotropics).Often placed in genus Ardea.
coromanda South Asia 1987 - 1991 100,000 - 1,000,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  • Notes
  • Often placed in genus Ardea.
E, SE Asia 2001 - 2001 100,000 - 1,000,000 1981 - 1991 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Chan, Simba, In litt,. 2002. Unpublished information on Asian waterbirds.
  • Notes
  • Often placed in genus Ardea.
Oceania 1999 - 2011 25,000 - 1,000,000 1982 - 2011 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Chatto, R. 2000. Waterbird breeding colonies in the Top End of the Northern Territory. Technical Report 69, Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory, Australia.
  • Jaensch, Roger, August 2005. Detailed data and notes on numbers and distribution of waterbirds in Australia, updated from Jaensch, 2003, and derived from more than 90 Australian sources including Wetlands International, Birds Australia and Jaensch, 2003,
  • Jaensch, R. April 2012. Detailed data and notes on numbers and trends of waterbirds in Australia and other parts of the Oceania region, in a spreadsheet prepared for Wetlands International - Oceania for the 5th edition of WPE.
  • Notes
  • Madsen, J., Reed, A. and Andreev, A. 1996. Status and trends of geese (Anser sp., Branta sp.) in the world: a review, updating and evaluation. In: Proceedings of Anatidae 2000. M. Birkan, J. van Vessem, P. Havet, J. Madsen, B. Trolliet, and M. Moser (eds.
  • Often placed in genus Ardea.
  • Estimate in broad range based on size of large colonies in far N Australia and status as common and locally breeding in coastal E Australia.
  • Ongoing, long-term trend of increase throughout population's range.
seychellarum 2001 - 2001 1 - 10,000 1991 - 2001 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
  • Notes
  • Often placed in genus Ardea.
Ardea cinerea Grey Heron cinerea Sub-Saharan Africa 1995 - 2014 100,000 - 300,000 2006 - 2015 Increasing? CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • approx 50,000 in Southern Africa, up to 100,000 in Eastern Africa, up to 100,000 in Western Africa, and up to 50,000 in Central Africa
Northern & Western Europe 2002 - 2013 347,000 - 712,000 2006 - 2015 Declining CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Total number of breeding pairs is 115,754-237,071 pairs, i.e. 347,000-711,000 individuals BirdLife International 2015). Less than 300 birds breed in North Africa (Dodman, 2014).
  • Moderate decline in the short-term based on breeding numbers (BirdLife International 2015) and uncertain with a negative tendency based on mid-winter counts (Wetlands International 2017). Increased in the long-term according to both sources.
Central & Eastern Europe 2000 - 2014 322,000 - 459,000 2000 - 2012 Declining CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E B Sea & W/SW Asia (bre)).
  • 107,317-153,025 pairs in Europe (BirdLife International 2015). Casual breeder in Egypt (Dodman, 2014).
  • BirdLife International (2015) estimates the trend to be negative in the short-term and stable in the long-term. Wetlands International (2017) has also found negative short-term trend and stable long-term one.
West & South-west Asia (bre) 2000 - 2017 25,000 - 100,000 2006 - 2015 Declining? CSR7

  • References
  • Sheldon, R. 2017. Estimates of breeding waterbird populations in Central/SW Asia, The Caucasus and the Arabian Peninsula.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E B Sea & W/SW Asia (bre)).
  • See CSR6 and Sheldon (2017).
  • Statistically uncertain short-term trend with a negative tendency. The long-term trend is stable.
South Asia — 100,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Balachandran, S., in litt. 2005.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes assigned to rectirostris.
monicae — 7,500 - 12,500 1984 - 1997 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Campredon, P. 1987. La reproduction des oiseaux d'eau sur le Parc National du Banc d'Arguin (Mauritanie) en 1984-1985. Alauda 55: 187-210.
  • Hafner, H. 2000. Herons in The Mediterranean. Pp 32-54 in: Heron Conservation (James.A. Kushlan and Heinz Hafner, Eds.). Academic Press, London.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes considered a separate species.
firasa 2001 - 2001 5,000 - 5,000 1991 - 2001 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
  • Hawkins, F. In litt. 2002. Unpublished notes on waterbird population estimates of Madagascar.
jouyi E, SE Asia 1987 - 1991 100,000 - 1,000,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Sumatra — 1,000 - 2,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Lansdown, R.V. (pers. comm.) 1996. Data prepared for the Draft Ardeidae Action Plan.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes assigned to altirostris.
Ardea herodias Great Blue Heron herodias C & NE North America — 124,000 - 125,000 1966 - 2000 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Kushlan, J. A. 2007. Conserving Herons, A Conservation Action Plan for the Herons of the World. Heron Specialist Group and Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat, Arles, France.
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
  • Notes
  • This estimate includes two other populations (W N Americas and W N Americas, N Mexico).
W North America — — 1966 - 2000 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to hyperonca.
  • The population estimate for C & NE N America includes the estimate for this population and also the W N Americas, N Mexico population.
W North America, N Mexico — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to treganzai. (WPE4)
  • The population estimate for C & NE N America includes the estimate for this population and also the W N Americas population.
Baja California, Mexico — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to sanctilucae.
cognata 2004 - 2004 1,000 - 1,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Boyla, K. and Estrada, A. (Eds.) 2005. ?reas Importantes para la Conservaci?n de las Aves en los Andes Tropicales: Sitios prioritarios para la conservaci?n de la biodiversidad. Quito, Ecuador: BirdLife International and Conservation International (BirdLife Conservation Series No. 14).
fannini 1997 - 2007 9,500 - 11,000 1997 - 2007 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • COSEWIC. 2008. COSEWIC assessment and update status report on the Great Blue Heron fannini subspecies Ardea herodias fannini in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. vii + 39 pp.
  • Notes
  • Estimate refers to Nesting adults.
wardi — — 1966 - 2000 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
occidentalis Florida 2006 - 2006 1,500 - 1,500 1980 - 2007 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Kushlan, J. A. 2007. Conserving Herons, A Conservation Action Plan for the Herons of the World. Heron Specialist Group and Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat, Arles, France.
  • Vennesland, R.G. and Butler, R.W. 2011. Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias), The Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Caribbean — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • According to Birdlife International 2008a., occurs mainly as non-breeding migrant. Resident population presumably <100 individuals.
Central America 2005 - 2005 29,800 - 122,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
Ardea cocoi Cocoi Heron South America, Panama 2005 - 2011 100,000 - 1,000,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Huanca Llanos, N.E. 2006. Reporte final, Aves Acu?ticas en Bolivia. Asociaci?n Armonia, Santa Cruz de la Sierra (unpublished report to BirdLife International).
  • Ottema, O. 2006. Waterbirds in Suriname: Final report. STINASU Foundation for Nature Conservation Suriname, Paramaribo (unpublished report).
  • Santander, T., J.R. Hidálgo and B. Haase. 2006. Reporte final Aves Acuáticas en Ecuador. Aves & Conservación, Quito (unpublished report).
  • Unterkofler, D. and Blanco, D.E. 2012. Unpublished information on Argentine waterbirds.
  • Wetlands International Argentina (compiler). 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census, 1990-2011, including contributions from Colombia (Asociaci?n Calidris in litt.), Paraguay (Guyra Paraguay in litt.), Uruguay (Averaves in litt.) and Venezuela (Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos in litt.).
Ardea pacifica White-necked Heron Australia 2004 - 2011 10,000 - 25,000 1982 - 2011 Fluctuating WPE5

  • References
  • Jaensch, Roger, August 2005. Detailed data and notes on numbers and distribution of waterbirds in Australia, updated from Jaensch, 2003, and derived from more than 90 Australian sources including Wetlands International, Birds Australia and Jaensch, 2003,
  • Jaensch, R. April 2012. Detailed data and notes on numbers and trends of waterbirds in Australia and other parts of the Oceania region, in a spreadsheet prepared for Wetlands International - Oceania for the 5th edition of WPE.
  • Notes
  • Estimate based on reassessment of previous information and recent information that suggests population level may reach or exceed 25,000 only briefly.
Ardea melanocephala Black-headed Heron Sub-Saharan Africa 1991 - 2001 100,000 - 500,000 2006 - 2015 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
Ardea humbloti Madagascar Heron Madagascar — 1,000 - 3,000 1990 - 2005 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • BirdLife International. 2005. Threatened birds of the world 2005. Species factsheets available at?www.birdlife.org
  • Hawkins, F. In litt. 2002. Unpublished notes on waterbird population estimates of Madagascar.
Ardea insignis White-bellied Heron S & SE Asia 2005 - 2005 250 - 1,000 1985 - 2005 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • BirdLife International. 2005. Threatened birds of the world 2005. Species factsheets available at?www.birdlife.org
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
Ardea sumatrana Great-billed Heron SE Asia — 10,000 - 100,000 1975 - 1985 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Lansdown, R.V. 1986. The status and ecology of the Sumatran Heron (Ardea sumatrana). Interwader publ. No. 21. Kuala Lumpur.
Australia 1999 - 1999 7,500 - 7,500 1990 - 1999 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Green, A.J. 1992a. The status and conservation of the White-winged Wood Duck (Cairina scutulata). IWRB Special Publication No. 17. Slimbridge, UK. 115 pp.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to mathewsae.
  • Occurs at low density often in habitat remote from observation; thus, data deficient. Habitat is largely unchanged and not at high risk.
Ardea goliath Goliath Heron Sub-Saharan Africa — 10,000 - 100,000 1991 - 2001 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • del Hoyo, J., Elliott A. and Sargatal, J. (eds). 1992. Handbook of the Birds of the World. Volume 1: Ostrich to Ducks. Lynx Editions, Barcelona.
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
SW Asia 1987 - 1991 50 - 50 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
S Asia 1987 - 1991 20 - 20 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Ardea purpurea Purple Heron purpurea Tropical Africa 2001 - 2001 75,000 - 100,000 2005 - 2015 Declining? CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • According to the IWC trend analysis data, the population is possibly in significant long-term decline although only partial information is available (Wetlands International 2017).
West Europe & West Mediterranean/West Africa 2000 - 2012 32,000 - 38,000 2000 - 2012 Declining CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • 10,802-12.400 pairs in CH, NL, DE, IT, FR, ES and PT (BirdLife International 2015). Less than 300 in North Africa (Dodman, 2014).
  • Declining in the short-term. Long-term trend appears to be stable (BirdLife International 2015).
East Europe, Black Sea & Mediterranean/Sub-Saharan Africa 2000 - 2013 61,000 - 99,000 2006 - 2015 Declining? CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • 20,411-32,945 pairs (BirdLife International 2015). This estimate is without the estimate for SW Asian part of the population, which was split from.
  • Declining both in the short- and the long-term. Unknown breeding trends are reported from 7 of the 20 breeding range states (BirdLife International 2015).
SW Asia (bre) 2006 - 2006 10,000 - 25,000 2006 - 2015 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E Europe/SW Asia (breeding)).
  • WI/IUCN Heron SG (2005).
madagascariensis — 5,000 - 10,000 1991 - 2001 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
  • Hawkins, F. In litt. 2002. Unpublished notes on waterbird population estimates of Madagascar.
bournei — 1 - 50 1982 - 1992 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Hazevoet, C.J. 1992. A review of the Santiago Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea bournei) with a report of a new colony. Bird Conservation International (1992) 2: 15-23.
  • Notes
  • May merit full specific status (del Hoyo et al. (1992)).
manilensis South Asia 1987 - 1991 25,000 - 25,000 1977 - 1991 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
E & SE Asia 1987 - 1991 10,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Ardea alba Great White Egret alba W, C & SE Europe/Black Sea & Mediterranean 2000 - 2014 61,000 - 99,000 2006 - 2015 Stable/ Increasing? CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Often assigned to genus Casmerodius, occasionally Egretta.
  • 20,248-32,928 pairs in Europe (BirdLife International 2015). Possibly, some birds in the Volga delta belong to the Western Asia/South-west Asia population.
  • In the short-term, increased based on breeding numbers (BirdLife International 2015), but stabilized based on wintering numbers (Wetlands International 2017). In the long-term, increase based on both source.
Western Asia/South-west Asia 1990 - 2017 25,000 - 100,000 2006 - 2015 Stable/ Fluctuating CSR7

  • References
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • See CSR7 and Sheldon (2017).
  • Stable both in the short- and the long-term (Wetlands International 2017). The trend graph shows increase up to the late 1990s, followed by a rapid decline in the early 2000s and stabilisation in the last decade.
melanorhynchos Sub-Saharan Africa & Madagascar 2001 - 2001 100,000 - 500,000 2006 - 2015 Stable CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
    Notes
  • Notes
  • Stable both in the short- and the long-term.
egretta North America — 270,000 - 270,000 1966 - 2000 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Kushlan, James, A., Melanie J. Steinkamp, Katharine Parsons, Jack Capp, Martin Acosta Cruz, Malcolm Coulter, Ian Davidson, Loney Dickson, Naomi Edelson, Richard Elliot, R. Michael Erwin, Scott Hatch, Stephen Kress, Robert Milko, Steve Miller, Kyra Mills, Richard Paul, Roberto Phillips, Jorge E. Saliva, Bill Sydeman, John Trapp, Jennifer Wheeler, and Kent Wohl. 2002. North American Waterbird Conservation Plan, Version 1. Waterbird Conservation for the Americas, Washington, DC, USA.
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
Mexico — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Population added in WPE3.
Central America 2005 - 2005 52,500 - 180,000 2005 - 2005 Stable? WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Notes
  • Population added in WPE3.
Caribbean 2006 - 2007 11,100 - 30,500 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Birdlife International. 2008a. Caribbean Waterbird Reports. Downloaded from: http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/waterbirds/downloads.html
  • Notes
  • Population added in WPE3.
  • Total of data presented in BirdLife International 2008a.
South America 2005 - 2011 1,000,000 - 1,000,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Huanca Llanos, N.E. 2006. Reporte final, Aves Acu?ticas en Bolivia. Asociaci?n Armonia, Santa Cruz de la Sierra (unpublished report to BirdLife International).
  • Ottema, O. 2006. Waterbirds in Suriname: Final report. STINASU Foundation for Nature Conservation Suriname, Paramaribo (unpublished report).
  • Santander, T., J.R. Hidálgo and B. Haase. 2006. Reporte final Aves Acuáticas en Ecuador. Aves & Conservación, Quito (unpublished report).
  • Unterkofler, D. and Blanco, D.E. 2012. Unpublished information on Argentine waterbirds.
  • Wetlands International Argentina (compiler). 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census, 1990-2011, including contributions from Colombia (Asociaci?n Calidris in litt.), Paraguay (Guyra Paraguay in litt.), Uruguay (Averaves in litt.) and Venezuela (Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos in litt.).
  • Notes
  • Population added in WPE3.
modestus South Asia (non-bre) 2001 - 2005 25,000 - 100,000 1977 - 1991 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Asian Waterbird Census unpublished data. 2002.
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  • ul Islam, Zafar, in litt. 2005.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes considered as Ardea (Casmerodius, Egretta) modestus.
  • 20: 11,000 counted in South Asia in 2003.
E Asia (non-bre) 2001 - 2001 10,000 - 100,000 1987 - 1991 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Asian Waterbird Census unpublished data. 2002.
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes considered as Ardea (Casmerodius, Egretta) modestus. Two forms are recognised by ornithologists in the region (one closely resembling alba) and research is needed on their taxonomy and distribution (Butler et al. (1992), Moores, N. in litt. (2005)).
  • 20: 16,800 counted in 2004.
Indonesia — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Sometimes considered as Ardea (Casmerodius, Egretta) modestus.
Australia 1995 - 2011 25,000 - 100,000 1982 - 2011 Fluctuating WPE5

  • References
  • Jaensch, Roger, August 2005. Detailed data and notes on numbers and distribution of waterbirds in Australia, updated from Jaensch, 2003, and derived from more than 90 Australian sources including Wetlands International, Birds Australia and Jaensch, 2003,
  • Jaensch, R. April 2012. Detailed data and notes on numbers and trends of waterbirds in Australia and other parts of the Oceania region, in a spreadsheet prepared for Wetlands International - Oceania for the 5th edition of WPE.
  • Halse, S.A., Pearson, G.B., Jaensch, R.P., Kulmoi, P., Gregory, P., Kay, W.R. and Storey, A.W. 1996. Waterbird surveys of the Middle Fly River floodplain, Papua New Guinea. Wildlife Research 23 (5): 557-569. (CSIRO Publishing, Australia).
  • Notes
  • Sometimes considered as Ardea (Casmerodius, Egretta) modestus.
  • Estimate based on review of previous information and recent information that suggests total numbers remain between 25,000 and 100,000. Numbers in New Guinea can reach the same level but likely to be mostly migrants from Australia.
New Zealand — 100 - 100 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Powlesland, R. (pers. comm.). 1993. New Zealand Department of Conservation unpublished data.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes considered as Ardea (Casmerodius, Egretta) modestus. Sometimes ascribed to maorianus.
Ardea brachyrhyncha Yellow-billed Egret Sub-Saharan Africa 2001 - 2001 25,000 - 100,000 2006 - 2015 Increasing? CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Ardea intermedia, A. brachyrhyncha and A. plumifera (del Hoyo and Collar 2014) were previously placed in the genus Mesophoyx and lumped as M. intermedia (see BirdLife International (2016) Species factsheet: Ardea brachyrhyncha.)
Ardea intermedia Intermediate Egret intermedia South Asia — 25,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Asian Waterbird Census unpublished data. 2002.
  • Notes
  • Often included in the genus Mesophoyx or Egretta.
  • 20: 22,000 counted in South Asia in 2004.
E, SE Asia — 25,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Asian Waterbird Census unpublished data. 2002.
  • Notes
  • 20: >10,000 counted in 2002-2004.
Ardea plumifera Plumed Egret plumifera 1995 - 2011 100,000 - 1,000,000 1982 - 2011 Declining? WPE5

  • References
  • BirdLife International. 2012h. Important Bird Areas factsheet: Gwydir Wetlands. Downloaded from?http://www.birdlife.org?on 30/04/2012
  • Halse, S.A., Pearson, G.B., Jaensch, R.P., Kulmoi, P., Gregory, P., Kay, W.R. and Storey, A.W. 1996. Waterbird surveys of the Middle Fly River floodplain, Papua New Guinea. Wildlife Research 23 (5): 557-569. (CSIRO Publishing, Australia).
  • Jaensch, Roger, August 2005. Detailed data and notes on numbers and distribution of waterbirds in Australia, updated from Jaensch, 2003, and derived from more than 90 Australian sources including Wetlands International, Birds Australia and Jaensch, 2003,
  • Jaensch, R. April 2012. Detailed data and notes on numbers and trends of waterbirds in Australia and other parts of the Oceania region, in a spreadsheet prepared for Wetlands International - Oceania for the 5th edition of WPE.
  • Kingsford, R.T. and Johnson, W. 1998. Impact of water diversions on colonially-nesting waterbirds in the Macquarie Marshes of arid Australia. Colonial Waterbirds 21: 159-170.
  • Kingsford, R.T., Porter, J.L. and Halse, S.A. 2012. National waterbird assessment. Waterlines report, National Water Commission, Canberra. Available online at http://nwc.gov.au/publications/waterlines/74
  • Notes
  • Ardea intermedia, A. brachyrhyncha and A. plumifera (del Hoyo and Collar 2014) were previously placed in the genus Mesophoyx and lumped as M. intermedia (see BirdLife International (2016) Species factsheet: Ardea plumifera.)
  • Numbers clearly between 100,000 and 1,000,000 either in Australia or S New Guinea; probable migration precludes summation. Additional birds in Indonesia (no information) or failure to confirm migration would raise possibility of estimate in excess of 1,000,000.
  • In Australia, northern colonies secure but overall likely declining trend due to loss of southernmost colonies due to river regulation for irrigation.
Syrigma sibilatrix Whistling Heron sibilatrix 2005 - 2011 25,000 - 100,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Huanca Llanos, N.E. 2006. Reporte final, Aves Acu?ticas en Bolivia. Asociaci?n Armonia, Santa Cruz de la Sierra (unpublished report to BirdLife International).
  • Unterkofler, D. and Blanco, D.E. 2012. Unpublished information on Argentine waterbirds.
  • Wetlands International Argentina (compiler). 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census, 1990-2011, including contributions from Colombia (Asociaci?n Calidris in litt.), Paraguay (Guyra Paraguay in litt.), Uruguay (Averaves in litt.) and Venezuela (Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos in litt.).
forstersmithi 2011 - 2011 10,000 - 10,000 2006 - 2010 Fluctuating WPE5

  • References
  • Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos. 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census in Venezuela, 2006-2011.
Pilherodius pileatus Capped Heron C & S America 2005 - 2011 10,000 - 25,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos. 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census in Venezuela, 2006-2011.
Egretta picata (Pied Heron) Pied Heron Australia - Sulawesi 1995 - 2002 25,000 - 100,000 2000 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Bishop, K.D. 2003. A Review of the Avifauna of the TransFly Eco-region: the status, distribution, habitats and conservation of the region?s birds. Report to WWF South Pacific Program.
  • Chatto, R. 2000. Waterbird breeding colonies in the Top End of the Northern Territory. Technical Report 69, Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory, Australia.
  • Halse, S.A., Pearson, G.B., Jaensch, R.P., Kulmoi, P., Gregory, P., Kay, W.R. and Storey, A.W. 1996. Waterbird surveys of the Middle Fly River floodplain, Papua New Guinea. Wildlife Research 23 (5): 557-569. (CSIRO Publishing, Australia).
  • Jaensch, Roger, August 2005. Detailed data and notes on numbers and distribution of waterbirds in Australia, updated from Jaensch, 2003, and derived from more than 90 Australian sources including Wetlands International, Birds Australia and Jaensch, 2003,
  • Jaensch, R. April 2012. Detailed data and notes on numbers and trends of waterbirds in Australia and other parts of the Oceania region, in a spreadsheet prepared for Wetlands International - Oceania for the 5th edition of WPE.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes placed in genus Ardea.
  • Estimate based on high counts in S New Guinea, and numbers breeding in far N Australia, which although not necessarily additive nevertheless suggest overall numbers in the range 25,000-100,000.
  • Trend assumed stable based on habitat in Australia and New Guinea being mostly near-natural.
Egretta novaehollandiae White-faced Heron novaehollandiae 2004 - 2008 10,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Jaensch, Roger, August 2005. Detailed data and notes on numbers and distribution of waterbirds in Australia, updated from Jaensch, 2003, and derived from more than 90 Australian sources including Wetlands International, Birds Australia and Jaensch, 2003,
  • Joseph, L. In litt. 4 April 2012 (CSIRO, Canberra).
  • Madsen, J., Reed, A. and Andreev, A. 1996. Status and trends of geese (Anser sp., Branta sp.) in the world: a review, updating and evaluation. In: Proceedings of Anatidae 2000. M. Birkan, J. van Vessem, P. Havet, J. Madsen, B. Trolliet, and M. Moser (eds.
  • Reid, J.R.W., Kingsford, R.T. and Jaensch, R.P. 2009. Waterbird Surveys in the Channel Country Floodplain Wetlands, Autumn 2009. Report by Australian National University, Canberra, University of New South Wales, Sydney, and Wetlands International, Oceania, Brisbane, for the Australian Government Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. 81 pp. Also available online at http://www.lebmf.gov.au/publications/pubs/waterbirds-report.pdf
  • Notes
  • Considered to be monotypic by Marchant & Higgins (1990) & Boles & Walter, in litt. (2005).
  • Estimate based on summed maximum counts indicating at least 10,000 birds and common status (at low density) across dryland habitats; much habitat is not surveyed.
parryi — — — Unknown WPE5

  • Notes
  • Population added in WPE3.
Egretta rufescens Reddish Egret rufescens S USA 1991 - 2006 5,000 - 7,000 1991 - 2006 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Green, M.C. 2006. Status report and survey recommendations on the Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Atlanta, GA. 37 pp.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (S.h. rufescens, North America/Caribbean).
  • Green 2006. 1,215-1,330 breeding pairs in southern USA; 800-1,000 breeding pairs in Mexico (inc. dickeyi); 200 breeding pairs in Bahamas.
Mexico — 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Scott, D.A. and Carbonnell, M. (compilers). 1986. A Directory of Neotropical Wetlands. IUCN, Cambridge, UK and IWRB, Slimbridge, UK.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to colorata.
Central America 2006 - 2006 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (S.h. rufescens, North America/Caribbean).
  • Green, C. In litt. 2012. 282 breeding pairs in southern Mexico (Chiapas, Oaxaca in 2007-2008) and 95 breeding pairs in Tamaulipas (in 2008).
Caribbean 2006 - 2010 213 - 213 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Kushlan, J. A. 2007. Conserving Herons, A Conservation Action Plan for the Herons of the World. Heron Specialist Group and Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat, Arles, France.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (S.h. rufescens, North America/Caribbean).
  • Data from Bahamas: 50 bp in Great Inagua, 19 bp in Grand Bahama, 2 bp in Bimini Island.
N South America — 1 - 10,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Morales, G. 2000. Herons in South America. Pp 177-199 in: Heron Conservation (James.A. Kushlan and Heinz Hafner, Eds.). Academic Press, London.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (S.h. rufescens, North America/Caribbean).
dickeyi 2007 - 2008 2,250 - 2,260 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Green, C. In litt. 2012.
  • Notes
  • 753 Breeding Pairs.
Egretta ardesiaca Black Heron Sub-Saharan Africa 1999 - 1999 25,000 - 100,000 2006 - 2015 Unknown CSR7

  • References
  • del Hoyo, J., Elliott A. and Sargatal, J. (eds). 1992. Handbook of the Birds of the World. Volume 1: Ostrich to Ducks. Lynx Editions, Barcelona.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
Egretta vinaceigula Slaty Egret Central Southern Africa 2005 - 2005 3,000 - 5,000 1993 - 2013 Declining? CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International (2014) Species factsheet: Egretta vinaceigula. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org on 07/10/2014. Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2014) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org on 07/10/2014.
  • BirdLife International (2017) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org on 30/09/2017.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • No update to estimate in AEWA SSAP (Tyler 2013)
  • The population is suspected to be in decline owing to the effects of habitat conversion and degradation, and human disturbance. The likely rate of decline, however, has not been estimated (BirdLife International, 2017). Recent IWC trend analysis provides some week support to this assumption (Wetlands International 2017). Significant long-term decline maintained.
Egretta tricolor Tricolored Heron tricolor — — — Unknown WPE5
ruficollis USA (bre) — 293,000 - 293,000 1966 - 2000 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Kushlan, James, A., Melanie J. Steinkamp, Katharine Parsons, Jack Capp, Martin Acosta Cruz, Malcolm Coulter, Ian Davidson, Loney Dickson, Naomi Edelson, Richard Elliot, R. Michael Erwin, Scott Hatch, Stephen Kress, Robert Milko, Steve Miller, Kyra Mills, Richard Paul, Roberto Phillips, Jorge E. Saliva, Bill Sydeman, John Trapp, Jennifer Wheeler, and Kent Wohl. 2002. North American Waterbird Conservation Plan, Version 1. Waterbird Conservation for the Americas, Washington, DC, USA.
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E.t. ruficollis, North Am/NW Neotropics).
Mexico 2006 - 2006 1 - 1,500 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Kushlan, J. A. 2007. Conserving Herons, A Conservation Action Plan for the Herons of the World. Heron Specialist Group and Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat, Arles, France.
  • Notes
  • Sometimes ascribed to rufimentum.
  • No new data
Central America 2005 - 2005 3,350 - 6,800 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E.t. ruficollis, North Am/NW Neotropics).
Caribbean 2006 - 2007 12,000 - 27,400 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Birdlife International. 2008a. Caribbean Waterbird Reports. Downloaded from: http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/waterbirds/downloads.html
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E.t. ruficollis, North Am/NW Neotropics).
  • Total of data presented in BirdLife International 2008a and of which 10,000-25,000 estimated for Cuba (Acosta-Cruz, and Mugica-Vald?s 2006).
Egretta caerulea Little Blue Heron North America — 225,000 - 300,000 1966 - 2000 Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Butler, R.W., Kushlan, J.A. and Davidson, I.J. 2000. Herons in North America, Central America and the West Indies. Pp 151-175 in: Heron Conservation (James.A. Kushlan and Heinz Hafner, Eds.). Academic Press, London.
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (North America/Neotropics).
Mexico — 75,000 - 150,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Butler, R.W., Kushlan, J.A. and Davidson, I.J. 2000. Herons in North America, Central America and the West Indies. Pp 151-175 in: Heron Conservation (James.A. Kushlan and Heinz Hafner, Eds.). Academic Press, London.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (North America/Neotropics).
Central America 2005 - 2005 701 - 1,500 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (North America/Neotropics).
Caribbean 2006 - 2007 12,300 - 35,900 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Birdlife International. 2008a. Caribbean Waterbird Reports. Downloaded from: http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/waterbirds/downloads.html
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (North America/Neotropics).
  • Total of data presented in BirdLife International 2008a.
South America 2005 - 2011 100,000 - 100,000 2001 - 2010 Stable? WPE5

  • References
  • Ottema, O. 2006. Waterbirds in Suriname: Final report. STINASU Foundation for Nature Conservation Suriname, Paramaribo (unpublished report).
  • Santander, T., J.R. Hidálgo and B. Haase. 2006. Reporte final Aves Acuáticas en Ecuador. Aves & Conservación, Quito (unpublished report).
  • Unterkofler, D. and Blanco, D.E. 2012. Unpublished information on Argentine waterbirds.
  • Wetlands International Argentina (compiler). 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census, 1990-2011, including contributions from Colombia (Asociaci?n Calidris in litt.), Paraguay (Guyra Paraguay in litt.), Uruguay (Averaves in litt.) and Venezuela (Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos in litt.).
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (North America/Neotropics).
Egretta thula Snowy Egret thula — 215,000 - 215,000 1982 - 1992 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Canevari, P. (pers. comm.). 1993. Unpublished information from Neotropical Wetlands Program.
  • Kushlan, James, A., Melanie J. Steinkamp, Katharine Parsons, Jack Capp, Martin Acosta Cruz, Malcolm Coulter, Ian Davidson, Loney Dickson, Naomi Edelson, Richard Elliot, R. Michael Erwin, Scott Hatch, Stephen Kress, Robert Milko, Steve Miller, Kyra Mills, Richard Paul, Roberto Phillips, Jorge E. Saliva, Bill Sydeman, John Trapp, Jennifer Wheeler, and Kent Wohl. 2002. North American Waterbird Conservation Plan, Version 1. Waterbird Conservation for the Americas, Washington, DC, USA.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E.t. thula, Neotropics).
thula Mexico — 75,000 - 150,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Butler, R.W., Kushlan, J.A. and Davidson, I.J. 2000. Herons in North America, Central America and the West Indies. Pp 151-175 in: Heron Conservation (James.A. Kushlan and Heinz Hafner, Eds.). Academic Press, London.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E.t. thula, Neotropics).
Central America 2005 - 2005 11,300 - 26,900 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Komar, O., Angehr, G., Eisermann, K., Herrera, N. and Zolotoff, J.M.. 2006. Waterbird Population Estimates for Central America. IV North American Ornithological Conference. unpublished report.
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E.t. thula, Neotropics).
Caribbean 2006 - 2007 12,500 - 36,100 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Birdlife International. 2008a. Caribbean Waterbird Reports. Downloaded from: http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/waterbirds/downloads.html
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E.t. thula, Neotropics).
  • Total of data presented in BirdLife International 2008a.
South America 2005 - 2011 300,000 - 1,000,000 2001 - 2010 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Huanca Llanos, N.E. 2006. Reporte final, Aves Acu?ticas en Bolivia. Asociaci?n Armonia, Santa Cruz de la Sierra (unpublished report to BirdLife International).
  • Ottema, O. 2006. Waterbirds in Suriname: Final report. STINASU Foundation for Nature Conservation Suriname, Paramaribo (unpublished report).
  • Wetlands International Argentina (compiler). 2012. Unpublished information from the Neotropical Waterbird Census, 1990-2011, including contributions from Colombia (Asociaci?n Calidris in litt.), Paraguay (Guyra Paraguay in litt.), Uruguay (Averaves in litt.) and Venezuela (Uni?n Venezolana de Ornit?logos in litt.).
  • Notes
  • In WPE2 this population belonged to one single population (E.t. thula, Neotropics).
brewsteri 2006 - 2006 100,000 - 1,000,000 1966 - 2000 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Sauer, J. R., J. E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and Analysis 1966 - 2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD.
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
Egretta garzetta Little Egret garzetta Sub-Saharan Africa 2001 - 2001 200,000 - 500,000 2006 - 2015 Increasing? CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Trend analyses based on IWC July data suggest a significant increase, however data are rather limited to a few key countries.
Western Europe, NW Africa 2002 - 2013 106,000 - 116,000 2000 - 2012 Declining CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • Population was omitted from WPE2.
  • 34,668-34,472 pairs in BE, ES, ESIC, FR, IE, IT, NL, PT & UK (BirdLife International 2015). 1500-3500 resident birds can be also added for NW Africa (Dodman, 2014).
  • Declines in the short-term but increased in the long one.
Central & E Europe, Black Sea, E Mediterranean 2000 - 2014 60,000 - 89,000 2000 - 2012 Stable CSR7

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2015. European Red List of Birds. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. http://datazone.birdlife.org/info/euroredlist
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • 19,598-29,059 pairs in AL, AT, BA, BG, CY, CZ, GE, GR, HR, HU, MD, ME, MK, PL, RO, RS, RU, SK, TR, UA & XK (BirdLife International 2015) allocating 40% of the Russian population to this one. According to Dodman (2014), further 1000-2000 resident birds can be added for Egypt.
  • Stable in the short-term and stable/fluctuating in the long one.
Western Asia/SW Asia, NE & Eastern Africa 1987 - 2017 25,000 - 100,000 1988 - 2015 Stable/ Fluctuating CSR7

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  • Sheldon, R. 2017. Estimates of breeding waterbird populations in Central/SW Asia, The Caucasus and the Arabian Peninsula.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Stable/fluctuating in the long-term. This overall trend confounds large long-term fluctuation.
West Indies 2006 - 2006 30 - 60 1991 - 2001 Increasing WPE5

  • References
  • Peterjohn, Bruce, in litt., April 2002.
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
  • Notes
  • Population added in WPE3.
  • Colonised in early 1990s, (529). 10-20 pairs (30-60 individuals). See 336.
South Asia — 100,000 - 200,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Asian Waterbird Census unpublished data. 2002.
  • Notes
  • 20: 48,000 counted in 2002.
E, SE Asia 2001 - 2001 100,000 - 1,000,000 1981 - 1991 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Chan, Simba, In litt,. 2002. Unpublished information on Asian waterbirds.
nigripes 1987 - 1991 25,000 - 1,000,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Perennou, C.P., Mundkur, T. and Scott, D.A. 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census 1987-1991: distribution and status of Asian waterfowl. IWRB Spec. Publ. No. 24; AWB Spec. Publ. No. 86. Slimbridge, UK and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
immaculata 2002 - 2004 25,000 - 100,000 — Unknown WPE5

  • References
  • Bishop, K.D. 2003. A Review of the Avifauna of the TransFly Eco-region: the status, distribution, habitats and conservation of the region?s birds. Report to WWF South Pacific Program.
  • Jaensch, Roger, August 2005. Detailed data and notes on numbers and distribution of waterbirds in Australia, updated from Jaensch, 2003, and derived from more than 90 Australian sources including Wetlands International, Birds Australia and Jaensch, 2003,
  • Notes
  • Included in nigripes by Marchant & Higgins (1990).
  • Estimate based on review of previous information and some recent information, which suggest that total numbers in Australia and S New Guinea are between 25,000 and 100,000, assuming most of the S New Guinea birds are immaculata. If immaculata and nigripes are combined as one population, estimate may be better expressed as a range of 25,000-1,000,000 in view of WPE4 data for nigripes.
Egretta gularis Western Reef-egret gularis West Africa 1991 - 2014 10,000 - 50,000 1997 - 2014 Stable/ Increasing? CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • van Roomen M., Nagy S., Foppen R., Dodman T., Citegetse G. & Ndiaye A. 2015. Status of coastal waterbird populations in the East Atlantic Flyway. With special attention to flyway populations making use of the Wadden Sea. Programme Rich Wadden Sea, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands, Sovon, Nijmegen, The Netherlands, Wetlands International, Wageningen, The Netherlands, BirdLife International, Cambridge, United Kingdom &, Common Wadden Sea Secretariat, Wilhelmshaven, Germany. URL: http://www.waddensea-secretariat.org/sites/default/files/downloads/status_coastal_birds_eaf_2014_1.pdf
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • This form and schistacea sometimes treated as separate species, Western Reef Heron.Sometimes assigned to Egretta garzetta.
  • Review of more recent data, including 2013 and 2014 counts
  • Van Roomen et al (2015) found increasing trend based on the IWC data. Wetlands International (2017) found that the long-term trend is stable/fluctuating, the short-term is uncertain. Wetlands International's assessment agrees well with Dodman (2014).
schistacea North-east Africa & Red Sea 1937 - 2011 10,000 - 15,000 2014 - 2014 Declining/ Stable CSR7

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Nagy, S., Alanazi, F., Almomen, A. Alsuhaibani, A, AlRashidi, M., Dereliev, S., Keijl, G. Ruiters, P. & Shobrak, M. 2014. Winter waterbird survey in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in January 2014. Wetlands International, Ede, The Netherlands.
  • Sheldon, R. 2017. Estimates of breeding waterbird populations in Central/SW Asia, The Caucasus and the Arabian Peninsula.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Sometimes assigned to Egretta garzetta schistacea.
  • See CSR6 and Sheldon (2017).
  • Dodman (2014) assumed that the population is stable in the absence of human impacts along the Red Sea coast. Reviewing of available IWC data and the formal trend analysis suggest that a steep decline might have taken place between 1990 and 2015 (Wetlands International 2017). This is probably driven by destruction of coastal wetlands and mangroves particularly along the northern coast of the Red Sea (Nagy et al. 2014).
South-west Asia & South Asia 1990 - 2012 10,000 - 25,000 2006 - 2015 Stable? CSR7

  • References
  • Sheldon, R. 2017. Estimates of breeding waterbird populations in Central/SW Asia, The Caucasus and the Arabian Peninsula.
  • Wetlands International (2017) Flyway trend analyses based on data from the African-Eurasian Waterbird Census from the period of 1967-2015. Ede, The Netherlands: Wetlands International. URL: http://iwc.wetlands.org/index.php/aewatrends
  • Notes
  • Sometimes assigned to Egretta garzetta schistacea. Sometimes assigned to asha.
  • See CSR6 and Sheldon (2017).
  • The short-term trend is uncertain but apparently stable.The long-term one is strong increase.
dimorpha Madagascar — 6,000 - 20,000 — Declining WPE5

  • References
  • Hawkins, F. In litt. 2002. Unpublished notes on waterbird population estimates of Madagascar.
Aldabra & Amirante Is — 3,000 - 9,000 1991 - 2001 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Dodman, T. 2002. Waterbird Population Estimates in Africa. Unpublished report to Wetlands International.
  • Rocamora, G. and Skerrett, A. 2001. Seychelles. Pp 751-768. In L.D.C. Fishpool and M.I. Evans, eds. Important Bird Areas in Africa and associated islands: Priority sites for conservation. Newbury and Cambridge, UK: Pisces Publications and BirdLife International
Coastal Eastern Africa 1996 - 1996 15,000 - 20,000 1991 - 2001 Stable? CSR7

  • References
  • Baker, N. (compiler). 1996. Tanzania Waterfowl Count, January 1995: The first coordinated count of the major wetlands of Tanzania. Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania. Dar es Salaam
  • Dodman, T. 2014. Status, Estimates and Trends of Waterbird Populations in Africa: AEWA-listed African populations. Wetlands International. (CSR6 African populations) URL: https://www.wetlands.org/publications/1304/
  • Notes
  • An earlier figure of 10,000 was erroneously used based on the same reference.
  • No monitoring data is available. Trend assessment is based on circumstantial evidence.
Egretta sacra Pacific Reef-egret sacra 2006 - 2006 100,000 - 1,000,000 1985 - 2005 Stable? WPE5

  • References
  • Unpublished information supplied by Wetlands International Specialist Groups, 2006.
  • Notes
  • Regarded as 'rapidly declining and very rare' in China (125).
  • Regarded as 'rapidly declining and very rare' in China (125).
albolineata — 1,000 - 2,000 1990 - 2000 Stable WPE5

  • References
  • Barr?, N. and Dutson, G. 2000. Oiseaux de Nouvelle-Caledonie. Liste commentee. Suppl. Alauda (68), 3: 49pp.
  • Notes
  • Population added in WPE3.
Egretta eulophotes Chinese Egret E, SE Asia 2000 - 2010 3,000 - 4,100 — Stable WPE5

  • References
  • BirdLife International 2001. Threatened Bird of Asia: the BirdLife International Red Data Book. Cambridge, UK. BirdLife International
  • Zhiying, D. 2009. The Chinese Egret, Feathers of snow in the summer sky. Chinese National Geography Vol. 1, Issue 2. Bulletin of Academy of Science Pyeongyang.
  • Notes
  • Hwang (2011) estimates 1,000-1,600 breeding individuals in South Korea from 2000 to 2010, 1,000-1,200 (Collar 2001) or 1,200-1,500 (BASP 2004) in DPRK, and 1,000 birds in China (Zhiying 2009).