Active protection of the rare amphibian and reptile species on the Natura 2000 sites in Europe

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND

There has been a decrease in the populations of the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) and the fire-bellied toad (Bombina bombina) in Poland and globally. These Annex II species of the Habitats Directive depend on both terrestrial and aquatic habitats. They are particularly sensitive to the negative impacts of human activities, especially where this relates to habitat deterioration and fragmentation. Barriers to migration are isolating populations, especially of European pond turtle, and low public awareness of the need to protect the two species impedes conservation actions. In addition, progressive climate change is resulting in threats from more frequent and intense storms, while rising sea level may mean that populations of fire-bellied toad inhabiting low-lying habitats on islands are at risk of extinction in Denmark.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the Emys_PL_LIFE project is to address problems related to the decline of European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) and fire-bellied toad (Bombina bombina) populations, in five Natura 2000 sites in Poland and Denmark, to improve the conservation status of these species.

The project objectives are to:

Increase the area and improve the quality of habitats for both species, with actions to restore water quality and to remove trees and shrubs from non-forest areas;

Prevent the genetic deterioration, isolation and extinction of European pond turtle and fire-bellied toad populations, for example, by removing barriers to migration; and

Increase knowledge and raise ecological awareness, especially among local communities, concerning the target species.

The project directly implements the Habitats Directive and the EU Biodiversity Strategy by 2020, as well as national and regional legislation that protects these two species in Poland and Denmark.

Expected results:

Increased area of breeding habitat for European pond turtle (from 0.4 ha to 1.4 ha) in a Natura 2000 site in Poland;

Increased area of foraging habitat for European pond turtle (from 0.2 ha to 2.8 ha) in sites in Poland;

Revitalisation of breeding sites for fire-bellied toad (12 in Denmark and 50 in Poland);

Building of hibernation sites for fire-bellied toad (12 in Denmark and 12 in Poland);

Removal of three existing barriers in European pond turtle migration corridors in three Natura 2000 sites in Poland;

Collection of eggs (2 000 per species), rearing and the release of 1 500 juveniles of fire-bellied toad in the Skar Island Natura 2000 site in Denmark;

Organisation of 15 educational meetings in three Polish Natura 2000 sites; and

Organisation of an international conference, presentation of project results at around 15 meetings, and participation at other meetings and seminars.