A new scientific paper entitled “Breeding record of the Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides (Scopoli, 1769) in Libya” has been published in the Open Veterinary Journal (Volume 16, Issue 7, 2026), documenting the first confirmed breeding record of the Squacco Heron (Ardeola ralloides) in Libya.

This study represents a significant contribution to the country’s ornithological knowledge, providing the first scientific evidence that the species breeds in Libya. Until now, the Squacco Heron had been regarded primarily as a passage migrant within the country.

The researchers documented a successful breeding attempt in July 2022 at the wastewater treatment ponds of Wadi Saso, Misrata, in northwestern Libya. A breeding pair was observed incubating a clutch of four eggs in a nest constructed on a tree within the treatment facility.

The findings highlight the important ecological role that artificial wetlands can play in supporting breeding populations of waterbirds, particularly in arid environments where natural wetlands are limited. The study emphasizes the need to conserve and manage these habitats as valuable refuges for biodiversity.

This publication adds an important reference to the growing body of ornithological research in Libya and demonstrates the value of long-term field monitoring and scientific documentation in improving our understanding of bird distribution, breeding ecology, and conservation across the country.

The full paper is available in the “Scientific Publications” section.