Specialist Group 
Bee-eaters

Aims of the specialist group

The Specialist Group (SG) Bee-eaters is dedicated exclusively to the European Bee-eater (Merops apiaster) and works closely with the DDA, the Radolfzell Bird Observatory, various state bird conservation centres, state environmental authorities and numerous committed amateur ornithologists and scientists.

Using the breeding population data collected every year by many members of the specialist group and supplementary ecological information, the group aims to create a database – to better understand the fascinating range expansion of the Bee-eater and its dynamics.

In addition to the coordinated nationwide breeding census, the group seeks close professional exchange with species specialists in Germany and abroad.

Main activities of the specialist group

• Organisation of annual population surveys with substantial support from regional coordinators
• Creation, maintenance and further development of the breeding database (status of the database as of mid-2025)
  - Breeding records since 1950 (partly also historical records)
  - So far approx. 50,000 broods from more than 1,000 sites in Germany
  - More than 4,300 broods from other countries
• Documentation of populations and population trends in Germany and some neighbouring countries
• Presentation of national and regional population trends
• Further detailed analyses, e.g. of site habitats
• Annual reports to the members of the specialist group and as a download
• Publications on aspects of range expansion

Meetings and events

Members of the specialist group meet for informal exchanges during the DOG annual conventions.

Participation

If you are interested, please send us a message, contact one of the spokespersons of the specialist group or drop by our annual meeting during the DOG Annual Convention. We welcome new members and ideas.