Birds

The European countries had an obligation to the Bern and Bonn Conventions, both of which were passed in 1979 and came into force in 1985, to maintain a favourable conservation status of its species. To fulfil this obligation they came up with the EEC Birds Directive (79/409/EEC). This directive provided a framework for the conservation and management of wild birds in Europe. It set certain targets and it placed restrictions on hunting and other such damaging practices.

It is now understood that even populations with established numbers need some form of protection in order to keep their numbers stable. Protection of habitats is therefore vitally important. There are several designations that are placed in order to protect the bird life of Greece. For example the NATURA 2000 network across Europe aims to protect species and birds of importance. Areas have also been designated as National Parks, Ramsar designated Wetlands and IBA’s (Important Bird Areas).

Archipelagos Actions

Researchers working for Archipelagos have long been carrying out assessments of the biodiversity and abundance of bird populations. This includes noting whether or not they are resident and migratory and if they breed on the islands of Ikaria and, more recently, Samos.

These studies into bird demographics have led to comprehensive species lists being formulated for the island. In turn these studies have highlighted the most commonly found species in the area as well as recording sightings of rare and important bird species. As this data has been collected fluctuations of bird numbers over time can be monitored. The calls of localised birds have also been recorded and have been treated with special software to allow people to recognise them more easily.

All the information collected is being collated in order to create a guide to the most common bird species within the Aegean. Alongside this Archipelagos has created an online wildlife library, that is accessible to all interested parties, that contains detailed descriptions, photographs and illustrations of numerous bird species. The creation of awareness posters and education material is a constant on going project.
 

Read about the Associated Species and Conservation Threats