Global warming alters ecological landscape of Albania's Vain Lagoon

Albania's Vain Lagoon, once a bustling hub for migratory birds, is now under grave threat from climate change.

The 3,000-hectare wetland that has been a critical passage for numerous bird species migrating between northern Europe and Africa now experiences a severe decline in its avian population.

Kreshnik Toni, responsible for Lezhe's nature reserves, stresses the severity of the situation, saying: "Global warming has affected migration and breeding seasons."

The lagoon, hosting species like pink flamingos, black-headed gulls, and slender egrets, has seen a 40% reduction in its migratory bird population, with the mallard duck nearly extinct.

The issue extends to aquatic life, which is crucial for the birds' survival.

"Water temperatures, rising sea levels, and other factors have led to a decline in fish stocks," observed Nikolle Lucaj, a local fisherman.

Cel Arifi, who manages the lagoon's fishing operations, reports an alarming 80% drop in the eel population, a bird's primary prey.

Additionally, the arrival of non-native species like the blue crab exacerbates the ecosystem's vulnerability.

Human-induced factors such as pollution and habitat destruction also pose significant threats, as Mirjan Topi, a renowned ornithologist and author, noted.

The changing climate is altering migratory patterns. Taulant Bino from the Albanian Ornithological Association (ASO) highlighted unusual behavior in white storks: "Another pair of storks preferred to spend the winter in Albania rather than take the risk of a long and perilous migration to Africa."

Conservation efforts focus on endangered species like the Egyptian vulture, which has only five mating pairs in Albania.

Joint initiatives by Albania and Greece have led to the creation of safe breeding grounds. "Climate change and the risks that migratory birds face during their journeys are a global problem," Bino emphasized.

The ecological crisis impacts wildlife and local communities' livelihoods. Farmers like Brahim Demi and Violeta Nodca face flood-related challenges, necessitating shifts in agricultural practices.

These issues underscore the urgency of Albania's National Adaptation Plan, which advocates ecosystem-based adaptation strategies.

Source: Newsroom