The current state of Black Stork <i>Ciconia nigra</i> in Armenia

The state of Black Stork Ciconia nigra in Armenia was last updated in 2009. Since then, the knowledge of this species has significantly increased, and there is a need for an update on its conservation status. Results of 2003-2024 data collection and analysis show that its population makes 7-9 breeding pairs, and the population trend demonstrates a moderate increase (p<0.05). The area of occupancy is 764 km2, and the extent of occurrence is 6,977 km2. While some pairs of the species could be overlooked, there is an objective increase in breeding pairs by at least two. The species qualifies for the category Critically Endangered (criteria D1). The existing conservation measures require improvement. The proposed conservation measures include revision of the Emerald Network of Armenia to better cover nesting ranges of the species, official adoption of the candidate Emerald Sites and development of management plans for them, securing proper Environmental Impact Assessments of constructions in the buffer zone of the known nests, and restriction of the outdoor activities, including drone video shooting, in the buffer zone of the known nests in the breeding season. The monitoring of the species should accompany these measures.