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Description
The project is based on the success of Josefov meadows bird reserve in enhancing biodiversity by various measures, which have led into breeding of critically endangered birds, growth of populations of amphibians or existence and breeding of endangered dragonflies. The reserve has become an important centre for biodiversity. For some species, e. g. Redshank, it is only breeding site in Eastern Bohemia. There are 8 species of amphibians, meaning all species recorded before intensification of agriculture. This place will provide the source in population dynamics, allowing endangered species’ dispersal to other existing or emerging suitable habitats in the surroundings.
The main activity is the excavation of shallow ponds with differentiated bottoms inspired by current and fully functioning ponds. The outcome will be 5 ponds, of which 4 will contain little islands, serving the targeted species. Mostly wetland birds, amphibians and water insects will benefit. Out of it 40 species are listed on the Red List of threatened species in the Czech Republic; these are consequently the target groups. Macrophyte vegetation of still waters (V1F and V2A) will be supported habitats on the Red List (VU).
The content refers to aims and measures of National Biodiversity Strategy of the Czech Republic 2016-2025, EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030 and Concept of Protection Against Drought Consequences on the Territory of the Czech Republic. These strategies emphasize the need of monitoring and evaluation of the targeted species’ current stage, aiming to obtain updated information essential in decision making. Hence, a partnership will be established with CSOP JARO; an organization experienced in zoological surveys, who will monitor the indicator species groups throughout the project.
Summary of project results
The aim was strengthening populations of wetland species of birds, amphibians and dragonflies. We have done it by excavation of shallow ponds of total area 3.11 ha. A part of the project was the monitoring of these groups of organisms. The monitoring started prior to excavation, lasted during the work and final monitoring was done after the work was completed. The monitoring confirmed that the priority species of endangered animals increased their populations. Some endangered species even appeared for the very first time. The Josefov meadows meet the predetermined aims. Not only they retain water but also provide habitat for strong source populations of endangered species. Furthermore we have successfully extended vulnerable habitats of Macrophyte vegetation of still waters.
The main activity we have conducted within the project was an excavation of 5 shallow pools. Thanks to subsequent ideal measures in a form of natural grazing, there is no extensive overgrowth of vegetation. The pools are very varied and show high diversity of water plants. Vegetation determines diversity of invertebrates and amphibians. Furthermore, combination of these measures allowed an expansion of an endangered habitat - Macrophyte vegetation of still waters with dominant Ranunculus sp. The positive results of monitoring of fauna and flora were proved in final reports of these surveys. Our verified approaches might serve as an example for wetland restauration/conservation.
Newly excavated ponds of total area 3.11 ha increased quantity and diversity of birds, dragonflies and plants at the locality. For example, during the project two indicating priority wader species – the lapwing and the redshank showed highest numbers of courting pairs in all history of the reserve. In case of the lapwing it was 10 pairs and in the redshank 3 pairs. Several new species of birds started to nest here due to newly excavated ponds: e.g. the Crane, the Grey-legged Goose and the Mute Swan. Diversity of amphibians did not change, however the local populations have been enlarged. We have observed at least 10 new dragonfly species during the project in the reserve. Total number of recorded dragonfly species is 41. Unexpected were finds of rarer wetland and water plants. Not only in the targeted habitat extension of Ranunculus sect. Batrachium we succeeded but also rare Potamogeton trichoides and Lemna trisulca
occurred.
The project significantly contributed to nature restoration which we are aiming at in the reserve in long term. Very satisfying is the success of measures (excavation of the ponds) in supporting all aimed groups of organisms. The results show that in long term our approach is correct and it will lead to further quantity increase of populations of priority species and habitats. Additionally the project contributed to water retention which is a function which will be relevant in many years to come.