Spatio-temporal variations of the LUCC of the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary in the past 40 years and its sustainable development

Over the past four decades, Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary—a critical stopover for migratory birds along the East Atlantic Flyway—has experienced dramatic shifts in land use and cover (LUCC) driven by climate change and human activities. Research using multitemporal satellite data reveals two distinct phases of significant transformation: 1984–1990, when soil and saline lands converted to wetlands, water bodies, and vegetation, and 2000–2010, marked by a surge in invasive plant coverage (54.02%) while water bodies and wetlands declined. Agricultural expansion around the site, exacerbated by upstream dam construction, has further threatened the sanctuary’s ecosystem, leading to its twice listing as a World Heritage in Danger due to declining bird populations. The study underscores the urgent need for integrated monitoring and regulatory measures to mitigate human impacts on this vital habitat.

Xia, Y., & Fu, B. (2024). Spatio-temporal variations of the LUCC of the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary in the past 40 years and its sustainable development. International Journal of Geoheritage and Parks, 12(4), 636–648. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijgeop.2024.11.004