A comprehensive 15-year study has detailed the growing threat of extreme weather to white storks in Bulgaria. The research, published in Biodiversity Data Journal, analyzes admissions and treatment outcomes at the Wildlife Rescue and Breeding Center (WRBC) of Green Balkans NGO.
The study covers the period between 2010 and 2025, examining how extreme weather events impact stork survival. It is part of the topical collection "Restoration of species of conservation importance," highlighting the broader ecological stakes.
Researchers analyzed data on injured storks brought to the WRBC over the 15-year span. The findings reveal a clear link between extreme weather events and increased injuries among the white stork population.
This research underscores the vulnerability of migratory bird species to climate-driven weather extremes. Conservation efforts may need to adapt to address the rising threat of such events.
A counterargument might note that the single-center data may not capture the full scope of threats facing white storks across their entire range.