Wetlands International has a long history in monitoring waterbirds and studying and protecting their wetlands. This knowledge enables us to advise governments on the risks of the spread of the flu by waterbirds. We advise and provide information to make sure that decisions are based on facts. This will enable an effective approach to combat the disease. It also prevents ineffective and destructive panic-measures; for instance against waterbirds or wetlands.

Providing advise
We conduct in the spring of 2006 a major programme for the European Commission to determine  the high-risk waterbird species and wetlands along the African and Eurasian flyways of waterbirds. This will enable governments to value the real risks based on facts. The report has been finalised in the summer of 2006.

Investigating waterbirds in the field
For the United Nations food and agriculture organiation FAO, we coordinate a major investigation in Africa to collect samples in high-risk areas. Small teams from Wetlands International with local support are sent to wetland areas to investigate birds. This provides information on the (in)possibility of migration of the avian influenza by wild birds.

Satellite tracking programme
In 2007 Wetlands International and the French organisation CIRAD join in a satellite tracking programme. With support of the FAO and USGS (U.S. Geological Survey), this satellite tracking programme is implemented in 3 African countries for 4 Wild Duck species.
To see the movements of the birds or for more information .

Advocating our views at conventions
Besides these structural activities; we provide all our information to government bodies, organizations or press involved in this subject. Our goal is an effective approach to combat this disease.
We are present at international governmental conventions and meetings were the avian influenza is or should be on the agenda.