Protecting overseas wetlands

An RSPB report highlighting the importance of the Tagus Estuary for migrant waders along the East Atlantic Flyway has been submitted to the Portuguese courts. This report was produced by the NGO consortium, led by BirdLife Partner SPEA, opposing a proposed new airport at Montijo that would threaten one of Europe’s most important wetlands for waterbirds.

Around 300,000 birds use the site each year to rest and refuel, including over 60,000 Black-tailed Godwits. The Portuguese Government has since commissioned an assessment looking at alternative locations.

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