In a remarkable ecological breakthrough, the Little Bustard (Tetrax tetrax), a bird species long presumed extinct in Algeria, has been rediscovered after three decades. A resident population has been identified in the Macta Marsh, a critical wetland in northwestern Algeria, according to a report by Ornithomedia. This discovery offers a glimmer of hope for the species, which has faced severe declines across its historic range due to habitat loss, hunting, and agricultural expansion.
A Species Reborn
The Little Bustard was last recorded in Algeria in the 1990s, after which it was believed to have vanished from the country. However, recent surveys conducted between August 2023 and January 2024 revealed a small but significant population thriving in Macta Marsh. Researchers documented two groups totaling 27 birds, with additional reports from local farmers and hunters suggesting sporadic sightings of up to 100 individuals in previous years.
The findings indicate that Macta Marsh supports a permanent population of Little Bustards, which is supplemented by migratory birds during the winter months. Seasonal fluctuations in numbers, with declines during the breeding season, suggest partial migration and post-breeding dispersal patterns.
Historical Decline and Global Significance
Once widespread across a vast range stretching from Morocco and southwestern Europe to Central Asia, the Little Bustard has suffered dramatic population declines over the past two centuries. Habitat destruction, particularly the conversion of grasslands to intensive agriculture, and unregulated hunting have driven the species to the brink of extinction in many regions. Today, its strongholds are limited to Morocco, southern Europe, and parts of Russia and Kazakhstan.
The rediscovery of the species in Algeria highlights the resilience of remnant populations and underscores the importance of protecting fragmented habitats. Macta Marsh, a Ramsar-designated wetland of international importance, plays a critical role in sustaining this population. However, the site faces mounting threats, including agricultural encroachment, poaching, and prolonged droughts exacerbated by climate change.
Urgent Conservation Needed
The survival of the Little Bustard in Algeria is a testament to the adaptability of nature, but it also serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for conservation action. Experts are calling for immediate measures to safeguard the species and its habitat. Strengthening anti-poaching efforts through increased enforcement of wildlife protection laws is critical to curb illegal hunting. Habitat restoration, including reclaiming grasslands and managing water resources, is essential to sustain the wetland ecosystem. Engaging local communities and integrating traditional knowledge into conservation efforts will also play a vital role. Additionally, international cooperation through initiatives like the African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement (AEWA) is necessary to protect migratory routes and ensure the species’ long-term survival.
A Call to Action
The rediscovery of the Little Bustard in Algeria is a rare piece of good news in the face of global biodiversity loss. It challenges assumptions about extinction and highlights the potential for overlooked habitats to harbor hidden biodiversity. However, without immediate and sustained conservation efforts, this rediscovered population could vanish once again.
As Algeria celebrates this ecological milestone, the world is reminded of the importance of preserving fragile ecosystems and the species that depend on them. The Little Bustard’s return is not just a victory for Algeria but a beacon of hope for conservationists across the globe.