Rudi Drent Chair in Global Flyway Ecology: Annual Report 2020 - 2021

he Rudi Drent Chair in Global Flyway Ecology at the University of Groningen has contributed significantly to waterbirds conservation worldwide. The team conducted cutting-edge and high impact science to inform decision makers and the wider public on the status of many flyways across the globe as well as the
challenges and solutions. Over the last year, the Chair and his team published more than 32 publications, of which 26 are peer-reviewed. The Chair gave more than 18 presentations to audiences of all backgrounds and hierarchies. Our twitter account (4172 followers) received over the reported year 4.3 million ‘impressions’ and 81,000 profile visits. In addition, the Chair continued the battle for the protection of shorebirds and their habitats at the national and
international media via constant outreaches and influential tweets. At the scientific frontier, the team continue expanding the PhD and research network of people working on flyways globally. Special attention has been given to students that are less fortunate such as in West Africa and southeast Asia. At the issue of habitat management, the Chair kept trying to close the gap between science, managers and local stakeholders. The Chair and his team continue to strive to provide a platform of trust where all involved find themselves respected. Clearly, building on the organizational strengthening and the immense outreach achieved, it is becoming urgent that new and hopefully longer-term funding will be established.