Flyway population increase and emergence of new wintering grounds with climate change in an Arctic-breeding goose

A significant rise in the Greater White-fronted Goose (GWfG) population along the Pannonic flyway, particularly in Hortobágy National Park, has been linked to climate change. Over 31 years (1989–2019), GWfG counts surged from under 2,000 to over 30,000 individuals, with a notable shift toward overwintering beginning in the mid-2000s. Milder winters, characterized by fewer frost and snowy days, have been the primary driver of this increase, while hunting disturbance and land cover changes played minor roles. Spring counts rose rapidly in the early years, whereas autumn counts increased more recently, indicating a dynamic response to climate shifts. The study highlights how climate change is reshaping migratory patterns, with implications for conservation strategies.

Gyüre, P., & Lengyel, S. (2026). Flyway population increase and emergence of new wintering grounds with climate change in an Arctic-breeding goose. Scientific Reports, 16(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-40447-0