Drastic reduction of the population distribution of White Storks predicted in absence of landfills.

The article focuses on predicting the impact of landfill closures, mandated by the European Landfill Directive (1999/31/CE), on the breeding population distribution of the White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) in the Community of Madrid, Spain. Using species distribution models that incorporate nest occurrence, land cover, human population density, and climate change scenarios, the study forecasts a drastic reduction in suitable breeding habitat and population distribution in the absence of landfills, with declines potentially reaching levels observed when the species was threatened in 1984. Climate change, especially under extreme emission pathways, and increasing urbanization further exacerbate these declines. The authors recommend gradual landfill management changes, continuous monitoring of breeding populations, and evaluation of White Stork use of natural feeding areas to mitigate potential negative effects on the species.