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Description
The project aims on improving the state of the environment in ecosystems, especially for 11 Red List species living in human settlements through educational and awareness-raising activities targeted to the general public. It shows possible solutions and motivates the public to active participation. The concept of umbrella species is used – several charismatic species from the red list help to protect whole the ecosystem. These species are: the positively perceived White Stork, House Martin and Barn Swallow as conflict species and Jackdaw, Barn Owl, Little Owl and bats (Lesser Horseshoe, Grey Long-eared, Greater Mouse-eared and Geoffroy''s bats) threatened by building restoration works. Collisions with glass will be also emphasised. The project will stress out the options for peaceful coexistence of conflict species with humans. Also professional public will be educated to increase their competences in the field of nature protection.
Activities and outputs:
- series of 4 films and 4 spots, a total of 45 minutes, English subtitles
- 2 popular-science publications with ISBN, 8000 + 5000 copies, the second also online in English
- series of 3 popular-science articles in national periodicals
- seminars for the professional public, lectures for schools (at least 550 participants in total)
- workshops and field trainings for general public (at least 2200 participants in total)
- online campaign (50,000 addressed members of public).
Summary of project results
Our project focused on educating both the public and professionals about protecting animals living within or close to human settlements. Our main aim was to promote a positive attitude towards these species, crucial for their survival and biodiversity in our communities. We focused mainly on species like white storks, skylarks, swallows, cuckoos, barn owls, tits, and bats, all threatened by building reconstructions. We also addressed bird collisions with glass. We emphasized solutions and individual actions. For example, creating diverse landscapes for storks, using nesting mats for plovers and swallows, and preserving habitats for bats and swifts. Many birds and bats lose shelter due to human actions, often due to ignorance. We aimed to raise awareness and inspire active involvement in conservation efforts, crucial for preserving biodiversity in our neighbourhoods and for maintaining wellbeing of our winged neighbours.
We have organized awareness campaigns to spotlight urban challenges for birds and bats, including seminars for civil servants, architects, teachers, and schools nationwide. Our event “Glass Killer Week” aimed to protect birds from deadly collisions with glass surfaces by demonstrating proper safety measures and encouraging public involvement in monitoring and securing high-risk areas. Articles in “Our Nature” magazine showcased best practices, while field workshops allowed close contact with birds under expert guidance. We distributed informative publications and aired special episodes of “Ornithologist on the Wire” podcast on social media, engaging audiences in bird and bat conservation discussions. Additionally, we produced four educational documentaries about the issue which aired on national TV station. With our activities we’ve reached a total of over 300,000 people to foster positive human-bird relationships and emphasize our shared responsibility for their well-being.
Raising awareness about local wildlife, particularly among young people, is crucial for fostering a harmonious coexistence. Many species have adapted to living alongside humans, but their survival depends on our actions. Dangers like glass collisions threaten their existence. Public campaigns have spurred action, leading to reports of at-risk nesting sites and bird fatalities. We''ve shared these findings with conservation authorities and provided guidance on solutions. Training sessions for architects and officials have addressed bird-glass collision risks in new constructions. Educators have also been equipped with resources to teach about urban birdlife, ensuring a lasting impact beyond the project''s end. Films, publications, and online programs offer practical tips for supporting our feathered friends, serving as enduring conservation tools for our communities.