To conserve and re-establish natural dynamics along the Danube River is one of the main concerns of all DANUBEPARKS protected areas. The two little birds Little-ringed Plover and Sandmartin are symbols for the efforts to preserve natural river dynamics, as they breed in habitats that are only established by the natural changes between floods and low waters: The little-ringed Plover puts its eggs directly on gravel or sand banks, and the Sandmartin breeds in holes in steep river slopes. Both habitat types disappear rapidly, as rivers are embanked most of them time.
To identify the still existing valuable dynamic river stretches and ensure their protection, as well as possible revitalization sites, DANUBEPARKS will do a Danube-wide monitoring of Little-ringed Plover and Sandmartin this spring. On March 22-23, over 40 experts from the Danube countries met in Persina Nature Park (Belene, Bulgaria) to discuss the last details for this joint monitoring effort.
Additionally to the scientific work, DANUBEPARKS also wants to raise awareness for these habitats by two actions: The DANUBEPARKS website now offers an online game, where players can help protect the river habitat by collecting trash and jumping over frogs and Little-ringed Plover eggs. If you register after playing, there is the chance that you win a little gift from one of the DANUBEPARKS protected areas!
These gifts will be awarded on this years Danube Day (June 29th), when also several protected areas offer special excursions, childrens activities and insights into monitoring for their visitors regarding this important topic!
Drop by the protected area close to your home and experience the fascinating ever-changing habitats live in nature!
