The results of synchronous mid-winter waterbird census of the Azov-Black Sea region (Ukraine) in 2012

This dataset is part of the data obtained during the synchronous mid-winter waterbird census of the Azov-Black Sea region of Ukraine. It includes 305 records of 47 species of waterfowl during 11-26 January 2012. The Azov-Black Sea region is located in the steppe zone in the south of Ukraine. It is of great importance for migratory birds, especially waterfowl, as the combination of natural complexes creates good conditions for birds to rest and feed. In addition, The Azov-Black Sea region is on the border of the wintering areas of many wetland bird species, especially Anseridae and waders. The warming of the climate is well reflected over the years in the advancement of the limit of possible wintering in the northeastern direction, which is clearly visible in the change in the species composition and number of wintering wetland birds in the region. The length of the region is about 800 km. There are 23 Ramsar wetlands with a total area of 767,396.3 hectares within its boundaries.