HOPE TAKES FLIGHT: POSITIVE SIGNS FROM THE RED RIVER’S SEASONAL WETLANDS

During the early 2025 migration monitoring, Center for Nature Conservation and Development (CCD) recorded no bird trapping activities along the Red River floodplains — a positive sign that regular patrols and community outreach are effectively deterring illegal hunting. The monitoring is part of CCD’s annual Red River Floodplain Bird Monitoring and Protection Program.

Since 2021, particularly during the migration season (from around September to April), CCD, in collaboration with the Hanoi Forest Protection Department and local commune authorities, has been conducting species surveys, preventing poaching, and reducing habitat destruction. Thousands of meters of mist nets have been removed or destroyed, along with decoy birds and calling devices. The program has also organized dozens of awareness activities for local officers and thousands of residents along the riverbanks.

CCD will continue regular monitoring, strengthen patrols during the migration season, and call on communities and local authorities to work together in protecting the natural floodplains along the Red River. Protecting birds and riverside habitats means safeguarding wetlands — preserving natural values in the heart of Hanoi, the City of Peace and Nature.

The Red River floodplains are seasonal wetlands composed of sandbars, grasslands, and shrub belts — vital habitats for both migratory and resident bird species to feed, rest, and shelter. This area serves as an important stopover site on the East Asian–Australasian Flyway (EAAF) and has recorded several globally threatened species listed by the IUCN, such as: Scaly-sided Merganser (Mergus squamatus) – Endangered (EN); Fairy Pitta (Pitta nympha) – Vulnerable (VU); Brown-breasted Flycatcher (Cyornis brunneatus) – Vulnerable (VU); Yellow-breasted Bunting (Emberiza aureola) – Critically Endangered (CR); Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus mellianus) – Endangered (EN); etc., …along with many other migratory and resident birds.