FLEMISH REGION – The once-common blackbird, a familiar sight in Flemish gardens for over a decade, is becoming increasingly rare due to the spread of the Usutu virus.
The latest figures from nature conservation association Natuurpunt show a worrying decline, with blackbirds now appearing in only 63% of surveyed gardens – a nearly one-third drop since the counts began in 2004.
Between 2004 and 2017, blackbirds were observed in approximately 80% to 90% of gardens. However, the species has seen a steady decline, with a 4.9 percentage point drop recorded from 2024 alone.
Experts attribute this to the Usutu virus, a disease originating in Africa that made its way to Europe via Tuscany, Italy, at the start of the century. The virus is spread by mosquitoes and primarily affects birds, particularly blackbirds.
The impact of the Usutu virus has been severe in recent years. In 2016, the breeding population of blackbirds saw a 15% decline due to the virus.
By 2017, certain parts of Flanders reported losses of up to 50%, signaling a significant blow to the species. The trend has continued, raising concerns among conservationists about the long-term survival of blackbirds in the region.
Aside from blackbirds, house sparrows have also recorded their lowest numbers since Natuurpunt began its bird counts. In 2024, house sparrows were found in just 42.4% of Flemish gardens, marking a 4.7 percentage point decrease compared to the previous year.
Since 2004, their presence has fallen by nearly 20%, primarily due to habitat loss. As wilder gardens and shrubbery become less common, house sparrows struggle to find suitable nesting sites and food sources. Despite this decline, house sparrows remain the most frequently counted birds, ahead of blue tits and chaffinches.
The survey also revealed that Turkish turtle doves are decreasing in numbers, likely due to competition with the larger and more dominant wood pigeon.
Meanwhile, certain species such as jackdaws and goldfinches are experiencing population growth, demonstrating the shifting dynamics of bird species in Flanders.
This year’s edition of Natuurpunt’s Great Bird Weekend attracted 57,650 participants, who collectively recorded an impressive total of 887,728 birds. The annual event provides valuable insight into the health of bird populations and highlights the importance of conservation efforts.
Experts warn that if current trends continue, more bird species could face similar declines due to environmental changes, diseases, and habitat destruction.
Conservation groups are calling for increased efforts to protect bird habitats and control the spread of the Usutu virus to ensure the survival of vulnerable species.
As the situation develops, bird enthusiasts and conservationists alike are urged to remain vigilant, support habitat preservation, and participate in future bird counts to monitor the ongoing changes in Flanders’ avian populations.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
