Record Numbers of Yellow-breasted Buntings in 2024, Linda Wong Calls for Species Reevaluation by IUCN Redlist

In recent years, the observation data for the Yellow-breasted Bunting (Emberiza aureola) has shown a remarkable upward trend, reaching an unprecedented peak in 2024. According to recent statistics, the number of sightings has significantly increased across various regions in China, revealing new patterns in the species' distribution and migratory behavior.

A Yellow-breasted Bunting recorded in Nanhui, Shanghai. Photo by: Kai Pflug

On October 12, 2024, the  OceanWetlands working group under the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF) held a discussion on the current status of Yellow-breasted Bunting data and population trends. The discussion was led by Prof. Linda Wong, Deputy Secretary-General of the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF) and a member of IUCN SSC. She shared findings from her team of interns in the 2024 summer program at the Beijing Normal University-Hong Kong Baptist University United International College (BNU-HKBU UIC). The research team had analyzed occurrence data for the Yellow-breasted Bunting, drawing from publicly available citizen science birdwatching platforms. Their literature-research and analysis uncovered some notable trends. For example, the below are openly available occurence data from the China Bird Report website. 

Significant Growth in Observation Data

Between 2019 and 2024, the number of Yellow-breasted Buntings recorded has surged dramatically. In 2019, only 19 buntings were observed across China, but by 2024, this number had skyrocketed to 1,733. The increase has been particularly pronounced since 2020, when 29 individuals were recorded. This number rose to 148 in 2021, 363 in 2022, 823 in 2023, and reached a record high in 2024. This upward trend may reflect enhanced conservation efforts as well as improved observation methods.

Distribution in Key Regions

The data highlights Beijing, Zhejiang, and Guangdong as major observation hotspots for the Yellow-breasted Bunting. In 2024, Beijing recorded 349 individuals, making it the region with the highest number of observations nationwide. Zhejiang followed closely with 319 individuals, while Guangdong, which has consistently reported high numbers in recent years, recorded 199 sightings. Other significant regions included Hubei (172 individuals) and Jiangsu (142 individuals), suggesting these areas might be critical habitats or important migratory corridors for the species.

These regional patterns underline the importance of protecting key habitats in these areas to ensure the species' long-term survival.

Annual Observation Trends

A clear pattern of increasing sightings from 2019 to 2024 has emerged. While the numbers were relatively low in 2020 and 2021, with 29 and 148 individuals recorded respectively, the trend shifted notably from 2022 onwards. The count rose to 363 in 2022, 823 in 2023, and reached a striking 1,733 in 2024. This sustained growth could be attributed to advances in observation techniques, heightened conservation awareness, and potentially changes in the species' migratory routes.

Sparse Observations in Certain Regions

In contrast to the observation hotspots, certain regions reported fewer sightings. For instance, Shanxi, Guizhou, and Heilongjiang recorded relatively low numbers, and in some years, no observations were made. Similarly, areas such as Hong Kong, Tianjin, and Hainan saw fluctuating numbers of sightings, with occasional gaps in the data. These variations might be related to the species' distribution patterns, migratory pathways, or differences in observation efforts across these regions.

The sharp rise in Yellow-breasted Bunting sightings in recent years, especially in key regions such as Beijing, Zhejiang, and Guangdong, suggests that increased conservation efforts and research have raised awareness of the species’ plight. However, future conservation efforts remain crucial. Continued observation and research will help deepen understanding of the species' migratory behavior and habitat requirements, while protecting critical ecosystems will be vital to its long-term survival.

The above data is just from one platform alone. The CBCGDF-OceanWetlands WG has collected multiple-source data, which shows that overall, the data on Yellow-breasted Buntings provides valuable information for researchers and conservationists. While there is still much work to be done to ensure the safety of their habitats, the current observation trends have laid a strong foundation for the species’ continued protection.

The image above features the family Emberizidae, a group of about 316 species of small passerine birds. They are primarily distributed across the Old World, with some species found in North and South America. Emberizidae birds are generally smaller than sparrows, feeding mainly on seeds and insects, characterized by their short, stout, conical bills. Photo by Linda Wong.

Prof. Linda Wong emphasized that since the Yellow-breasted Bunting was listed as "Critically Endangered" on the IUCN Red List in 2018, it has garnered significant attention. However, in the past six years, more records of the species have surfaced, suggesting that previous assessments may have lacked comprehensive data. According to Wong, it may be time to reevaluate the species’conservation status. As a member of the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC), Wong expressed her intention to engage with relevant assessment teams and potentially propose a reevaluation of the species at an appropriate time in the near future.

(Please note: This article is a routine work record. It is based on meeting minutes and is for information only.)

Reported by Wendy

Editor: Richard

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