Two new bird species for Belarus were discovered in the Vitebsk region in autumn
As previously reported, a Redwing was spotted in Vitebsk in October. In November, a Dusky Thrush was found in the Polotsk district. According to specialists in fundamental and applied biology, the identification of new bird species in Belarus is linked to climate warming and the expansion of migratory routes for feathered creatures, as well as the availability of food.
The Redwing nests in Scandinavian countries, and previously, their migration for wintering to southern countries most often occurred through Western Europe, bypassing Belarus. Due to our harsher winters, the bird preferred to avoid the Northern Capital.
Dusky Thrushes nest in Siberia. They are very similar to our Belarusian White-browed Thrush, differing only in plumage, belly coloration, and slightly in size (the Dusky Thrush is slightly larger than its Belarusian counterpart). Dusky Thrushes migrate to South Asian countries, but sometimes also to Europe.
Specialists also consider increased recording capabilities as another factor in the discovery of new species.
Previously, ornithologists required expensive equipment such as binoculars and cameras to identify a new species, which demanded a high level of dedication to their pursuit. Currently, researchers are increasingly using more "convenient" gadgets and setting up camera traps. Online photo identification applications also aid in research.
