What does the DSG do?
Global network
The IUCN Species Survival Commission Duck Specialist Group (DSG) is a global network of duck experts working on the monitoring, research, conservation and management of wild duck populations. The DSG facilitates communication and transfer of knowledge and best practice between members and with others with an interest in duck conservation and management, and helps to identify emerging conservation issues and stimulate work by members and others on these strategic priorities.
It works closely with the Threatened Waterfowl Specialist Group (TWSG), whose focus includes globally threatened duck species, and incorporates the formerly separate Seaduck Specialist Group. It also works closely with Wetlands International to support their key activities, particularly long-term population monitoring and status assessment.
We communicate through this website, through an email forum and at regular conferences and other meetings.
The DSG membership currently includes almost 250 people from 46 countries, spanning all continents. If you are actively working within duck conservation and management and would like to become part of the DSG network, find out how to join us.
Communication among wildfowl biologists, conservationists and managers in North America is carried out through a list-server maintained by Al Afton – if you would like to join this list-server please send an email to Al.
Monitoring and evaluation
A key role of the DSG is to support the identification of new conservation priorities and emerging conservation issues, and respond accordingly, e.g. by undertaking more detailed assessments, or supporting members and others to develop relevant projects.
As a part of this our members provide technical knowledge and data to support a number of different status assessments, particularly the IUCN Red List and Waterbird Population Estimates. We also assist with the moderation of discussions relating to ducks on BirdLife International’s Globally Threatened Bird Forum.
Awareness raising
We ensure that information about duck conservation and management, and other relevant issues, is disseminated to appropriate organisations, government agencies, MEAs, other decision makers and the general public so that there is widespread awareness of these issues. Our members play a vital role in providing this information and also supporting responses by these stakeholders.
Best practice
Collectively, our members have vast experience in methods and techniques relevant to duck conservation and management. We collate this information and provide best practice guidance to support the development of new monitoring and research.
