Wildfowl survey in south-west Asia: a progress report

Abstract

A private survey was started by the author during 1964, with the advice and encouragement of the Wildfowl Trust, to study the distribution and status of wildfowl species in southwestern Asia particularly in the context of the human changes which are taking place. The scope of enquiries includes the Middle East, India and Pakistan but ringing of birds will be confined to Iran and Pakistan through the Game Departments of these countries. A reconnaissance was made of the Hamun-e Hirmand in Iranian Sistan where recession of the swamp affects the local economy as well as wintering waterfowl. Information, particularly details of game bags, would be welcomed from Members.