More and Better Habitats for Waterbirds 24th January 2025

In 2024, the Waterfowlers Network once again contributes to enhancing breeding conditions for waterbirds in Finland—a vital effort to strengthen waterbird populations across Northwestern Europe.

Text: Claus Lind Christensen

Photo: Finnish Wildlife Agency

The establishment of a new habitat for waterbirds, is made possible through financial support for the restoration of a breeding area in Southwest Finland. The initiative creates ideal conditions for waterbirds during the critical breeding season while also delivering secondary benefits such as nutrient retention, flood control, improved biodiversity, and increased recreational opportunities.

The project covers 8.5 hectares and is part of a broader network of restoration sites under the SOTKA project, managed by the Finnish Wildlife Agency. The project receives funding from both the Finnish Wildlife Agency and the Finnish Wildlife Conservation Foundation.

Thanks to hunters within the Waterfowlers Network, €7,325 has been donated to support this nature restoration effort. These funds were generously provided by the National Association of Regional Game Councils and Jægernes Naturfond.

As part of this initiative, several articles will be published to highlight the project’s progress and impact. For further details about the project and the SOTKA initiative, visit kosteikko.fi

Learn more about our ongoing efforts to support better and more sustainable breeding habitats for waterbirds here: Support for the SOTKA-project.