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| Title | Birds of prey conservation at the Faia Brava Reserve - 2nd edition |
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| Description |
BIRDS OF PREY CONSERVATION WORK CAMP IN THE CÔA VALLEY
June 29 to july 5, 2009 The Côa valley, located in the northeast of Portugal, near the Douro International Natural Park, is a small but important SPA (Special Protected Area – Bird EU Directive), due to its significant cliff breeding bird populations. This area is also classified as an Archaeological Park, because of the existence of Palaeolithic engravings. ATN (Associação Transumância e Natureza), has dedicated this last 6 years to the creation of a biological micro-reserve, which now includes around 600 ha of land. ATN’s main aim is to increase biodiversity levels and to maintain eagle and vulture populations. This area is very important as a breeding site for Bonelli’s Eagles and Egyptian vultures. Rabbits, partridges and pigeons are important prey species. Their abundance is balanced with various management measures, such as the restoration or creation of suitable habitat (barley fields, traditional olive and almond yards and pigeon houses). Active management of the mosaic landscape also provides a safe structure for fire containment. During summer permanent surveillance is necessary to prevent fire outbreaks. Protecting the last pieces of natural woodland in the region, from fires and overgrazing in a semiarid deforested landscape has been another priority, through the establishment of sustainable practices for domestic and wild grazers. Contrary to many other countries in Europe, private nature conservation is still at a pioneer stage in Portugal. Thanks to international help, the Faia Brava micro-reserve is growing and heading towards sustainable development. Periodically, ATN organizes volunteer activities to promote the participation of the community in reforestation of burned areas, traditional pigeon houses recovery, in traditional activities, such as the olive harvest, and in practical birds conservation actions. This way, we hope ATN and its projects can serve as a learning platform for the community, on the importance of the habitat mosaic for biodiversity conservation in this region. This summer, ATN (Associação Transumância e Natureza) is organizing a work camp, from June 29 to july 5, in which national and international volunteers are encouraged to take action in the conservation of birds of prey in the Côa Valley. The main activities will be the recovery of a traditional pigeon house, building a vulture feeding spot or a fence for reintroduction of rabbits, fire surveillance and bird monitoring. ATN also want to provide free days for the volunteers to get to know about other conservation projects that are taking place, and to leave time for recreation, contact with the local village population and music. This work camp is open to all volunteers over 18 years old, who want different and active holidays. It is essential that volunteers stay for the whole duration of the camp. Work will be done outside, under relatively high summer temperatures, therefore it is important to wear fresh clothing, hat and sun block, but above all you need enthusiasm and interest in nature conservation! |