Protection of the black-tailed godwit and other meadow-nesting birds

Meadow-nesting birds are birds that breed in dry and wet grassland. Due to the intensification of agriculture, increasing pressure from predators such as foxes and raccoons, and the more frequent occurrence of extreme weather events (spring droughts, heavy rainfall) caused by climate change, populations of meadow-nesting birds have already declined dramatically throughout Germany.

Meadow-breeding waders such as the black-tailed godwit, curlew, lapwing, common snipe and redshank have been particularly hard hit. In Bavaria, there are now only 14 breeding pairs of black-tailed godwit (as of 2025), spread across four very small breeding areas. To ensure the survival of the black-tailed godwit and other meadow birds in Bavaria, every fledgling counts. However, it is precisely the nests and chicks that are particularly vulnerable. Premature mowing or meadow cultivation can destroy clutches. Changes to habitats mean that eggs and young birds are exposed to increased predation pressure from foxes, raccoons and crows.

Together with the LBV, we are implementing measures to protect the clutches and young birds of the black-tailed godwit and other meadow-nesting birds. Nests are identified using thermal drones and protected in a targeted manner, for example, by means of electric fences. The aim is to prevent the black-tailed godwit from becoming extinct in Bavaria by increasing breeding success. In parallel, measures are being taken to create and restore wet meadows and fens in order to improve the habitat.