Avifauna of the vicinity of Lake Elton (Pallasovsky District, Volgograd Region) in the springs of 2023-2024

The vicinity of Lake Elton is important for birds as nesting and migratory stopover sites. They are included in the list of Important Bird Areas (IBA) of international importance in European Russia (Lake Elton – VG-002). The article presents the results of ornithological studies carried out in the vicinity of Lake Elton in the springs of 2023 and 2024. The routes covered sections of the northern and eastern shores of the lake and the vicinity of the village of Elton. The aim of the work is to carry out regular monitoring to identify changes in the avifauna and the state of bird populations at IBA VG-002 “Lake Elton”. A total of 108 bird species have been recorded, including 44 species that are likely to breed or nest. Data were collected on the spring fauna of rare bird species, including several species of diurnal birds of prey and owls, as well as the little bustard.

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