Protection of the Eagle Owl in Western Slovenia
The project was implemented by DOPPS – BirdLife Slovenia from January 2023 until June 2024.
The project information and the achieved results will be soon presented below.
Challenge
The magnificent Eagle Owl, the largest owl species in Europe, is in great danger in Slovenia. Its distinctive hunting behavior of perching on high voltage power lines has led to a tragic number of electrocutions. Urgent action is needed to secure medium voltage pylons and ensure the survival of this remarkable species.
Objective
Our ambitious project aims to identify and protect key hunting areas around eagle owl nests. We aim to provide essential protection to at least three key areas at high risk of electrocution by installing insulation on 20 to 30 medium-voltage transmission towers in 2023. Comprehensive surveys will be conducted in 2023 and 2024, before and after pylon insulation, to measure the impact of our efforts.
Approach
To achieve the goals of the project, we will
- Conduct a comprehensive survey to collect data on breeding sites.
- Develop a model that prioritizes and highlights the most important areas for conservation.
- Identify at least 5 areas that require immediate attention.
- Implement isolation measures on at least 20-30 vulnerable medium voltage poles.
Expected Results
Our mission is to reduce the number of electrocutions in critical eagle owl hunting areas. By targeting up to five key areas for immediate action and mitigating up to three areas notorious for electrocution risk, we will promote regular territory occupancy, particularly in areas with historically low breeding success. This will ultimately strengthen the Eagle Owl population in this important segment of its range.
Protection of the Eagle Owl in Western Slovenia
The project was implemented in the Municipality of Nova Gorica, on the slopes of Trnovski gozd and stretching along the Karst edge from Movraž village to Dekani village
Nearest city: Gorizia (Italy)
Project lead: DOPPS – BirdLife Slovenia
Tržaška cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana
Grant: 39.990,13 €
Duration: 18 months
Contact person for the BESTbelt project: Tomaž Mihelic tomaz.mihelic(at)dopps.si
Website: www.ptice.si
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