Bernat Espluga is a biologist specialising in ecology and evolution, and works as a technician at the Catalan Ornithological Institute (ICO), where he is involved in the European LIFE Aquatic Warbler On the Move (AWOM) project, dedicated to the study and conservation of the Aquatic Warbler. For many years, he has collaborated on bird monitoring and scientific ringing projects, combining fieldwork with data analysis and science communication.
In this talk, he will share his experience working with this remarkable species and explain the crucial role that wetlands play in its conservation. The Aquatic Warbler is one of Europe’s most threatened birds and, at the same time, one of its least known. During the presentation, we will discover its fascinating biology, the extraordinary migratory journey that takes it between Eastern Europe and West Africa, and the vital importance of wetlands for its survival.
The talk will also explore the main threats facing this species and how the loss and degradation of wetlands affect countless other organisms. Finally, we will learn about the European LIFE AWOM project, an international initiative working to identify, restore and protect the key sites that the Aquatic Warbler depends on during migration and wintering, demonstrating how conserving a single species can help safeguard an entire ecosystem.
