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 was 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 were 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 implemented 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.
RESULTS
Achieved results:
- Increased area of breeding habitat for European pond turtle (from 0.4 ha to 1.2 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 65 instead of 50 in Poland);
- Building of hibernation sites for fire-bellied toad (6 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 (4,100 instead of 2,000), rearing and the release of 3,400 instead of 1,500 juveniles of fire-bellied toad in the Skar Island Natura 2000 site in Denmark;
- Organisation of 21 instead of 15 educational meetings in three Polish Natura 2000 sites; and
- Organisation of an international conference, presentation of project results at 20 instead of 15 meetings, and participation at other meetings and seminars.
