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Construction work threatens rare Belarusian birds

Ornithologists are sounding the alarm bell over plans to expand a residential neighborhood in the southern Belarusian city of Brest, BelaPAN reports.

As part of preparations for the construction of new apartment buildings, workers backfill with sand ponds that are home to rare birds. Critically endangered species of little tern, along with other rare birds such as lapwing, redshank, black-headed gull, coot, wild duck and common tern are found there.

Local residents are protesting the construction plans at the only green area in the neighborhood. There are only concrete houses and paving slabs around.

The authorities have promised to suspend the work. But it continues.

Photo:
1 – the Vulka residential neighborhood
3 – lapwing
4, 7 – wild ducks
6 – eggs of little terns