Important Bird Areas in Europe –

■ ROMANIA

DAN MUNTEANU

Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus. (PHOTO: DOMINIQUE ROBERT)

GENERAL INTRODUCTION lie between the Prahova river valley to the east and the Timiș and Cerna river valleys to the west. The Western Carpathians Romania is situated in south-east Europe and has an area of form a discontinuous range between the and Someș river 237,500 km2. It borders Ukraine to the north, to the north- valleys. east, Bulgaria to the south, Yugoslavia to the south-west and Lying on the northern edge of the Dobruja region, the Danube to the west. The human population in 1993 was 22,789,000. delta covers c.5,054 km2, of which 4,536 km2 are in Romania. It is Romania is divided into eight historical provinces—Maramureș, the largest European wetland after the Volga delta, and includes Crișana, , Banat, , Dobrogea (Dobruja), one of the most extensive reedbeds (Phragmites) in the world. Sand- Oltenia and Muntenia (the two latter were once known as dunes, large sandy beaches and several fresh or salt-water lakes are Walachia)—and 40 counties. found along the coast. Romania’s topography is dominated by the Carpathian Forty-four Important Bird Areas (IBAs) have been identified in Mountains, and can be divided into three parts: the Eastern, Southern Romania (Table 1), covering a total area of 6,557 km2, or 3% of and Western Carpathians. The Eastern Carpathians extend from the country’s land area. The sites are not uniformly distributed the northern frontier to the Prahova river valley, reaching their (Map 1)—most are wetlands found along the Danube and other main maximum height in the Rodna mountains. The Southern Carpathians river corridors. The previous international IBA inventory identified

Table 1. Summary of Important Bird Areas in Romania. 44 IBAs covering 6,557 km2 IBA 1989 code code International name National name Administrative region Area (ha) Criteria (see p. 11) 001 RO001, and Razelm–Sinoe complex Delta Dunãrii ºi complexul lagunar Tulcea 442,000 A1, A4i, A4ii, A4iii, B1i, RO001.1– Razelm–Sinoe B1iii, B2, B3 RO001.6 002 — Parcheº–Somova wetland Ghiolurile Parcheº–Somova Tulcea 3,100 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 003 — Lake Beibugeac Lacul Beibugeac Tulcea 180 A1, B1i, B3 004 RO002 Niculiþel and Babadag forest Pãdurea Babadag–Niculiþel Tulcea 10,000 A1, B2 005 — Black Sea coast–Chituc Litoralul Mãrii Negre–Chituc Constanþa 5,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 006 RO003 Lake Taºaul Lacul Taºaul Constanþa 1,830 B1i 007 RO004 Lake Siutghiol Lacul Siutghiol Constanþa 2,000 A1, A4i, B1i 008 RO005 Lake Techirghiol Lacul Techirghiol Constanþa 1,170 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 009 RO006 Hagieni forest Pãdurea Hagieni Constanþa 600 B2, B3 010 —Vãdeni–Maþa–Cârja–Rãdeanu wetlands Bãlþile Vãdeni–Maþa–Cârja–Rãdeanu Galaþi, Vaslui 380 A1 011 — Odobeºti hill Mãgura Odobeºtilor Vrancea 12,000 B2 012 — Bârnova–Repedea woodland Pãdurile Bârnova–Repedea Iaºi 15,000 B2 013 RO011 gorge and Lake Roºu Cheile Bicazului ºi Lacu Roºu Neamþ, Harghita 2,200 B2

481 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

Table 1 ... continued. Summary of Important Bird Areas in Romania. 44 IBAs covering 6,557 km2 IBA 1989 code code International name National name Administrative region Area (ha) Criteria (see p.11) 014 —Vlãdeni fish-ponds Eleºteele Vlãdeni Iaºi 1,200 A1, B1i, B2 015 — Stânca–ªtefãneºti reservoir Acumularea Stânca–ªtefãneºti Botoºani 7,000 B1i, B2 016 —Slãtioara forest Codrul Secular Slãtioara Suceava 397 B2 017 RO013 Pietrosul Rodnei mountain Muntele Pietrosul Rodnei Maramureº 3,300 B2 018 — Dobron forest Pãdurea Dobron Mureº 220 B2, B3 019 — Zau de Câmpie–Tãureni fish-ponds Eleºteele Zau de Câmpie–Tãureni Mureº 520 B2 020 —Fizeº valley Valea Fizeºului Cluj 450 B2 021 —Vlãdeasa mountain Masivul Vlãdeasa Cluj, Bihor 14,000 B2 022 RO016 Întregalde and Râmeþi gorges Cheile Întregalde ºi Cheile Râmeþilor Alba 4,000 B2, B3 023 — Rotbav fish-ponds Eleºteele Rotbav Braºov 180 B2 024 RO021 Parcul National Reþezat Hunedoara 54,400 B2, B3 025 RO018 fish-ponds and Rãdvani wood Eleºteele Cefa–Pãdurea Rãdvani Bihor 1,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 026 — Lunca wood Pãdurea Lunca Arad 174 B2 027 — wood Pãdurea Socodor Arad 500 B2 028 RO019 Mureº river flood-plain: Arad––Cenad Lunca Mureºului: Arad–Pecica–Cenad Arad 12,000 B1i, B2, B3 029 RO020 Satchinez marsh Mlaºtina Satchinez Timiº 236 A1, B2 030 — Murani lake and Piºchia forest Lacul Murani ºi Pãdurea Piºchia Timiº 1,500 A1, B2 031 RO022 Domogled mountain Muntele Domogled Caraº-Severin 2,382 A1, B2 032 — Porþile de Fier reservoir Lacul de acumulare Porþile de Fier Caraº-Severin, Mehedinþi 32,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i 033 — Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Izvoarele Eleºteele Mehedinþi–Izvoarele Mehedinþi 210 A1 034 — Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Gruia Eleºteele Mehedinþi–Gruia Mehedinþi 200 B2 035 — Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Gârla Mare Eleºteele Mehedinþi–Gârla Mare Mehedinþi 140 A1, B2 036 — Lake Dunãreni–Bistreþ Lacul Dunãreni–Bistreþ Dolj 1,936 A1, A4i, B1i, B2 037 — Strejeºti reservoir Acumularea Strejeºti Valcea 2,000 A1, B1i 038 — Lake Comana Lacul Comana Gorj 800 A1, B2, B3 039 — Ciocãneºti fish-farm Ferma piscicolã Ciocãneºti Cãlãraºi 300 A1, A4i, B1i, B2 040 — Lake Strachina Lacul Strachina Ialomiþa 1,050 A1, B2 041 — Lake Fundata Lacul Fundata Ialomiþa 510 B1i 042 — Lake Tãtaru Lacul Tãtaru Brãila 120 A1, B2 043 — The Little Island of Brãila Insula Micã a Brãilei Brãila 14,862 A1, A4i, B1i, B2 044 RO009 Balta Albã, Amara and Jirlãu lakes Balta Albã, Lacul Amara ºi Lacul JirlãuBrãila, Buzãu 2,680 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 Sites identified in the previous inventory of IBAs in Europe (Grimmett and Jones 1989) but no longer considered to be IBAs RO007 Canaraua Fetii; RO008 Lacul Dunãreni; RO010 Eleºteele Sînpaul (Sînpaul Ponds); RO012 Lacul Bicaz (Izvoru Muntelui); RO014 Fãrãgãu–Glodeni Fish-ponds; RO015 Cheile Turzii ( Gorge); RO017 Iezerele Cindrelului (Cindrel Lakes); RO023 Zona Mostiºtea (Mostiºtea wetlands); RO024 Lacul Snagov.

Map 1. Location, area and UKRAINE criteria category of Important 15 Bird Areas in Romania.

MOLDOVA HUNGARY 17 16 14

12 25 20 21 18 13 26 19 27 22 28 10 29 30 11

24 23 44 4 2 3 1 31 42 32 43 37 41 5 YUGOSLAVIA 40 33 6 34 7 Highest category of 35 38 39 criteria met by IBA 8 A (24 IBAs) 36 9 BLACK B (20 IBAs) SEA Area of IBA (ha) 5,000 to 442,000 BULGARIA 1,500 to 4,999 397 to 1,499 0 100 200 120 to 396 km

482 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

24 IBAs (Grimmett and Jones 1989). Of these, nine have been threatened (Pelecanus crispus, Aythya nyroca, Aquila clanga, A. dropped (Table 1), either because of (adverse) changes to the habitats heliaca, Falco naumanni, Crex crex and Otis tarda) and 75 have an present at the site, or because they do not meet the revised IBA unfavourable conservation status in Europe (Tucker and Heath criteria. Twenty-nine new sites have been identified between 1994 1994). Twenty-one SPECs regularly occur on passage or overwinter, and 1997. and include the globally threatened Pelecanus crispus, Branta ruficollis A further six areas are subject to monitoring in order to and Aythya nyroca, and the near-threatened Phalacrocorax pygmeus. determine whether they meet IBA criteria: Herghelia Marsh Twenty-four IBAs hold internationally important numbers of (Dobruja), Lake Bugeac (Dobruja), Lake Brateș (Moldavia), Lake at least one species of global conservation concern and therefore Galbeni (Moldavia), Lower valley of the Tur river (Transylvania) meet the A1 criterion (Table 2). Two endemic subspecies occur in and Reservoirs of the Argeș river (Muntenia). Romania—Tetrao urogallus rudolfi and Parus montanus transylvanicus—but no restricted-range species. As a result of its location towards the east of the European ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE continent, Romania supports many breeding species either at the western or northern limits of their ranges. Most are waterbirds (for There are 144 species of European conservation concern (SPECs) example, Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Bubulcus ibis, Plegadis falcinellus, breeding regularly in Romania. Of these, seven are globally Tadorna ferruginea and Chlidonias leucopterus) or species of dry grassland/steppe (for example, Circus macrourus, Accipiter brevipes, Apus melba, Hirundo daurica, Cercotrichas galactotes, Oenanthe Table 2. Important Bird Areas in Romania that are important for species of global conservation concern (meeting criterion A1). isabellina, O. pleschanka, O. hispanica, Acrocephalus agricola, Parus lugubris, Emberiza cirlus and E. melanocephala). Romania is also Species IBA code on the migration route of many northern breeders—especially ducks Phalacrocorax pygmeus Pygmy Cormorant 001, 002, 005, 007, 008, 032, 035, 036, (for example, Anas penelope, A. acuta and A. clypeata) and waders 037, 039, 042, 043 (for example, Calidris spp., Philomachus pugnax, Gallinago spp., Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican 001, 036, 039, 044 Limosa limosa, Tringa erythropus, T. nebularia, T. ochropus and Anser erythropus 014 T. glareola), and provides wintering quarters for some species Lesser White-fronted Goose (Cygnus cygnus, Anser albifrons, Branta ruficollis, Anas crecca, Branta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose 001, 002, 003, 008 Aythya fuligula, Bucephala clangula, Mergus spp., Circus cyaneus, Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck 001, 010, 025, 029, 030, 032, 033, 038, Buteo lagopus, Larus fuscus, Turdus pilaris, Lanius excubitor, 040, 043, 044 Fringilla montifringilla and Carduelis flammea). Oxyura leucocephala White-headed Duck 001, 008 The Danube delta (IBA 001) supports a variety of species, with Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier 001 320 having been recorded, some in very large numbers (for example, Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle 001 Phalacrocorax carbo, Pelecanus onocrotalus, Ixobrychus minutus, Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle 001, 004, 031 Nycticorax nycticorax, Egretta garzetta, Anser anser, Anas Crex crex Corncrake 001, 038, 043 platyrhynchos, Aythya ferina, Aythya nyroca, Falco subbuteo, Glareola nordmanni 001 Porzana spp., Vanellus vanellus, Larus ridibundus, Chlidonias spp., Locustella spp., Acrocephalus spp. and Panurus biarmicus). Along Black-winged Pratincole with other wetlands in Moldavia and Dobruja, the delta acts as a

Table 3. Important Bird Areas in Romania that support important numbers of one or more congregatory species (i.e. meeting criteria A4 and/or B1). IBAs meeting both criteria A4 and B1 for the species are shown in bold. IBAs meeting only criterion B1 for the species concerned, and not A4, are shown in normal type. For key to ‘Season’, see p. 7. Species Season IBA code Species Season IBA code Podiceps grisegena Red-necked Grebe B 001 Anas crecca Teal P 001 Podiceps nigricollis B 001, 008 Anas platyrhynchos Mallard B 001, 044 Black-necked Grebe W 005 Anas clypeata Shoveler P 044 Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant B 001, 002 Netta rufina Red-crested Pochard B 001 N 036 Aythya ferina Pochard B 001 Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 001, 002, 043 W 005, 032 W 008 P 006 N 036 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 001 Pelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican B 001 P 032, 044 Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 001 Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck W 001, 005 P 044 Aythya marila Scaup W 005 N 036, 039 Bucephala clangula Goldeneye W 001, 005 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 001 Mergus albellus Smew W 001, 005 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 001, 036 Mergus merganser Goosander W 001 Egretta alba Great White Egret B 001 Oxyura leucocephala W 008 N 025 White-headed Duck Ardea cinerea Grey Heron B 001 Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon B 001 Ciconia nigra Black Stork P 001 Gallinula chloropus Moorhen B 001 Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 001, 043, 044 Fulica atra Coot B 001 P 014, 025 Grus grus Crane P 001, 025 Cygnus olor Mute Swan B 001 Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 001 Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 001, 003, 005 Larus minutus Little Gull P 007, 008 Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 001, 002, 003, 008, 014, 028, 037 Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull R 006 P 025, 036, 039 Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 001 Anser anser Greylag Goose B 043 Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 001 W 003 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 001, 002 P 015, 025 P 041 Branta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 001, 002, 008 Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 001 Anas penelope Wigeon P 001 Chlidonias leucopterus B 001 Anas strepera Gadwall B 001 White-winged Black Tern

483 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania stop-over site for migrants passing north–south along the western north-north-east–south-south-west direction over Crișana and coast of the Black Sea. Several of these wetlands have been identified Banat in western Romania (IBAs 025, 028, 029 and 030)—a as IBAs (001, 002, 005, 006, 007, 008, 010, 014, and 015), forming a secondary route links to the Danube valley (IBAs 032, 033, 034, linear network of great importance to wildfowl and waders. A total 035 and 036). of eleven IBAs support more than 1% of the biogeographic Thirty-seven IBAs support important breeding populations of populations of those congregatory species listed in Table 3, and SPECs (meeting criteria B2 and B3)—the entire national breeding therefore meet the A4i criterion. populations of seven waterbirds and one raptor are found within Key migration routes also run in a north-west–south-east IBAs (Table 4). diagonal over the middle of Transylvania (IBAs 019, 020 and 023) Species with a dispersed distribution (for example, Circaetus and eastern Muntenia (IBAs 039, 040, 041, 042 and 043), and in a gallicus, Aquila heliaca, A. chrysaetos, Falco tinnunculus and F. vespertinus) or those with restricted local distributions (for example, Tetrao tetrix, Otis tarda, Monticola saxatilis, Emberiza cia and E. Table 4. Species of European conservation concern with hortulana) are not adequately covered by the IBA inventory. significant breeding populations at Important Bird Areas in Romania (meeting any IBA criteria). Minimum Proportion (%) of HABITATS national breeding national population population breeding at all IBAs Species 1 (pairs) 2 in Romania Between the Black Sea coast and the Carpathian peaks (2,543 m

3 above sea-level) there are a wide range of vegetation-types and plant Phalacrocorax pygmeus Pygmy Cormorant 6,000 100 associations. Forests cover about 27% of the land area—Quercus Pelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican 3,000 100 predominates up to c.800 m, with Fagus between 800 and 1,400 m, Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican 200 100 Picea between 1,400 and 1,800 m and dwarf Pinus above the treeline. 3 Botaurus stellaris Bittern 500 100 At the highest altitudes, subalpine and alpine grasslands occur. Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern 10,000 53 Cultivation has, to a large degree, replaced natural vegetation in Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron 5,000 1003 the foothills and plain regions. Approximately 45% of Romania’s Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron 3,500 95 land area is under agriculture, including arable land, pasture and Ardea purpurea Purple Heron 800 68 hay-meadows, and perennial crops (orchards and vineyards). Ciconia nigra Black Stork 40 8 Plantations comprise mainly Picea, Pinus, Populus and Robinia. Ciconia ciconia White Stork 4,000 2 Wetland habitats, in the form of natural wetlands, fish-ponds Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis 3,600 1 and reservoirs, are present at 30 IBAs (68%), with cover exceeding Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill 650 41 50% at 26 of these (Figure 1). On the lower Danube alone, wetlands Anas strepera Gadwall 4,500 89 total approximately half a million hectares. Key breeding species Netta rufina Red-crested Pochard 1,000 30 in wetland habitats include Pelecanus onocrotalus, Pelecanus crispus, Aythya ferina Pochard 20,000 1003 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck 8,000 40 Figure 1. Habitats at Important Bird Areas in Romania Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle 30 20 (see Appendix 3 for definitions of habitats). Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle 100 21 Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle 10 40 Wetland Falco tinnunculus Kestrel 3,000 12 Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon 500 1003 Forest and woodland Porzana porzana Spotted Crake 5,000 82 Artificial landscape Porzana parva Little Crake 3,000 35 Crex crex Corncrake 20,000 1 Grassland Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet 200 1003 Scrub Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew 300 60 ³ 50% cover¹ Rocky areas Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole 200 24 5%–49% cover¹ < Sterna albifrons Little Tern 400 75 Marine areas 5% or unknown¹ Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern 12,000 89 0 10 2030 4050 60 70 Chlidonias niger Black Tern 7,000 86 Percentage of IBAs (100% = 44 sites) Otus scops Scops Owl 1,000 1 1. percentage of area of individual IBA covered by habitat Bubo bubo Eagle Owl 200 25 Strix aluco Tawny Owl 3,000 2 Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar 2,000 7 Figure 2. Land-uses at Important Bird Areas in Romania Alcedo atthis Kingfisher 2,000 4 (see Appendix 3 for definitions of land-uses). Merops apiaster Bee-eater 10,000 2 Coracias garrulus Roller 3,000 2 Fisheries/aquaculture Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker 20,000 1 Dendrocopos medius Middle Spotted Woodpecker 3,000 8 Agriculture Picoides tridactylus Three-toed Woodpecker 2,000 7 Hunting Lullula arborea Woodlark 30,000 <1 Riparia riparia Sand Martin 30,000 2 Nature conservation/research Parus lugubris Sombre Tit 1,000 2 Forestry Parus cristatus Crested Tit 100,000 1 Tourism/recreation Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike 600,000 <1 Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike 30,000 <1 Not utilized Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting 10,000 11 Water management ³ 50% cover¹ 1. Only those species of European conservation concern (see Box 1, p. 12) that meet IBA criteria in Romania are listed. Urban/industrial/transport 5%–49% cover¹ 2. Data are taken from the BirdLife/EBCC European Bird Database 1998 (Heath and Borggreve 2000). < 5% or unknown¹ 3. The percentage of the national population in IBAs exceeds 100%. Usually this is because Other the national population estimate has not been updated recently whilst the IBA population estimate has been recently updated with new data as a result of comprehensive surveys of 0 10 20 3040 50 60 IBAs themselves. Also, the individual site count for a species may be the maximum or Percentage of IBAs (100% = 44 sites) average over recent years, and summing these may record more birds than are present nationally in any single year. 1. percentage of area of individual IBA covered by land-use

484 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

Figure 3. Threats at Important Bird Areas in Romania (see Appendix 3 for definitions of threat types and impact categories).

Recreation/tourism Aquaculture/fisheries Agricultural intensification/expansion Disturbance to birds Unsustainable exploitation Forest grazing Dredging/canalization Deforestation (commercial) Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage Burning of vegetation Selective logging/cutting Firewood collection Other Natural events Consequences of animal/plant introductions Abandonment/reduction of land management Drainage Extraction industry High impact Intensified forest management Infrastructure Medium to low impact Industrialization/urbanization Unknown impact Filling-in of wetlands Afforestation 0 51525354510 20 30 40 Percentage of IBAs (100% = 44 sites)

Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Plegadis falcinellus, Nycticorax nycticorax, Hunting takes place at 18 IBAs (41%) (Figure 2), and the Ardeola ralloides, Ardea purpurea, Aythya nyroca, Recurvirostra pressure on ducks and geese (Anatidae) can be intense, especially avosetta, Himantopus himantopus, Glareola pratincola, Chlidonias at the beginning of the hunting season or during cold spells. The hybridus, C. niger and C. leucopterus. hunting season is long—from 15 August to 15 March for ducks, There are fewer IBAs covering forest and/or mountainous for example. It should be noted that the number of Romanian habitats (Figure 1). Those that have been identified are nevertheless hunters is relatively small (about 65,000 people—0.3% of the total representative of the extensive forests found on the Carpathians population), and that the fines and punishment handed down to (IBAs 013, 016, 017, 021, 022, 024 and 031). These coniferous forests poachers can be very severe. There is some illegal trade in songbirds support boreal species (for example, Tetrao urogallus, Glaucidium (for example, Carduelis chloris, C. carduelis and C. spinus) caught passerinum, Strix uralensis, Aegolius funereus, Picoides tridactylus in the wild. and Nucifraga caryocatactes); the alpine grasslands at higher Tourism/recreational activities are reasonably well developed, altitudes support tundra species (for example, Charadrius especially in the vicinity of large towns, in the mountains and on morinellus). the coast. The overall impact of such activities is relatively low Artificial landscapes occur at 21 IBAs (48%), and take the form (Figure 3), although in recent years the increasing popularity of agricultural land (including perennial crops), secondary pasture of angling has resulted in greater levels of disturbance to waterbirds. (used for grazing or hay production), tree plantations and human The most threatened IBAs are wetlands, especially those that settlements. are the subject of intensive exploitation or those that suffer pollution. Despite being protected, the Danube delta (IBA 001) receives pollutants in the form of chemicals transported down IMPACTS ON IBAs – LAND-USE AND THREATS river for great distances, as well as from industrial discharges from plants in Tulcea. Many dykes and canals built in the past are The dominant land-use at Romanian IBAs is fisheries/aquaculture still causing perturbations to the hydrological regime in the delta (59% of IBAs) (Figure 2), reflecting the predominance of wetland region. habitats referred to in the previous section. Several types of threat are associated with this land-use—over-fishing causes serious reductions in fish populations, and the burning and cutting of PROTECTION STATUS reedbeds reduces the amount of breeding habitat available to waterbirds. The destruction of the nests of piscivorous species (for Table 5 and Figures 4 and 5 summarize the national and example, Phalacrocorax spp., Ardea cinerea and gulls (Laridae)) international protection status of all Romanian IBAs. by fishermen is also encountered (Figure 3). Agriculture is widespread, occuring at 21 IBAs (48%). During ■ National protection the post-war period the Romanian state took action to extend the The protected-area system is under the control of the Ministry of land area under agriculture, mainly by draining wetlands and Waters, Forests and Environment Protection, which cooperates turning natural grasslands over to cultivation. As a result the area with the Commission of Natural Monuments (Romanian Academy) of natural wetland and grassland has decreased, although losses of and with local authorities. the former have been partly compensated for by the creation of many large reservoirs and fish-ponds. These changes have had a 1. National Parks direct impact on the diversity and abundance of birds—waterbirds Comprise natural geomorphological units that support extensive and grassland species (for example, Tetrax tetrax and Otis tarda) ecosystems subject to minimal human pressure. Public access and have declined. The present move towards diversification of any other human interference are banned in limited scientific areas agricultural practices, as a consequence of land privatization during (core zones)—only scientific research is permitted. the 1990s, is likely to be beneficial for birds such as Perdix perdix, warblers, shrikes and buntings. Less intensive agricultural 2. Nature Reserves production should be accompanied by declines in the use A network exists, comprising various types: botanical, zoological, of expensive fertilizers and pesticides. Agricultural intensification ornithological, mixed, palaeontological, geological or speleological. and expansion does however remain as a threat to 11 IBAs (25%) All are state-owned. In addition to the reserves at the national level (Figure 3). there are local reserves that are created by local authorities.

485 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

Figure 4. The national protection status of Important Bird Areas Figure 5. The international protection status of Important Bird in Romania. Areas in Romania.

None High 23 IBAs (52%) 8 IBAs (18%) None High 39 IBAs (89%) 5 IBAs (11%)

% of area of % of area of individual individual IBA overlaps IBA overlaps with national with international Partial protected areas: 10 IBAs (23%) protected areas: High >90% High >90% Partial 10–90% Partial 10–90% Low <10% Low Low <10% None 3 IBAs (7%) None Total area of overlap between IBA network in Romania and national protected-area system Total area of overlap between IBA network in Romania and international protected- (see Table 5 for categories) = 4,653–4,665 km2 (71% of total IBA area). area system (see Table 5 for categories) = 5,026 km2 (77% of total IBA area).

Table 5. Protection status of Important Bird Areas in Romania. A tick (✔) indicates that an IBA overlaps with a protected area (to any extent). National International National International

IBA International IBA International National Park Forestry area Bird Sanctuary Ramsar Site Heritage Site World Biosphere Reserve code name National Park Nature Reserve Forestry area Bird Sanctuary Ramsar Site Heritage Site World Biosphere Reserve code name 001 Danube delta and Razelm–Sinoe complex ✔✔✔ 023 Rotbav fish-ponds 002 Parcheº–Somova wetland ✔ 024 Retezat National Park ✔✔ 003 Lake Beibugeac 025 Cefa fish-ponds and Rãdvani wood ✔ 004 Niculiþel and Babadag forest ✔ 026 Lunca wood ✔ 005 Black Sea coast–Chituc ✔ 027 Socodor wood ✔ 006 Lake Taºaul 028 Mureº river flood-plain: Arad–Pecica–Cenad ✔ 007 Lake Siutghiol 029 Satchinez marsh ✔ 008 Lake Techirghiol 030 Murani lake and Piºchia forest ✔ 009 Hagieni forest ✔ 031 Domogled mountain ✔ 010 Vãdeni–Maþa–Cârja–Rãdeanu wetlands 032 Porþile de Fier reservoir 011 Odobeºti hill 033 Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Izvoarele 012 Bârnova–Repedea woodland 034 Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Gruia 013 and Lake Roºu ✔ 035 Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Gârla Mare 014 Vlãdeni fish-ponds 036 Lake Dunãreni–Bistreþ 015 Stânca–ªtefãneºti reservoir 037 Strejeºti reservoir 016 Slãtioara forest ✔ 038 Lake Comana ✔ 017 Pietrosul Rodnei mountain ✔✔039 Ciocãneºti fish-farm 018 Dobron forest ✔ 040 Lake Strachina 019 Zau de Câmpie–Tãureni fish-ponds 041 Lake Fundata 020 Fizeº valley 042 Lake Tãtaru 021 Vlãdeasa mountain 043 The Little Island of Brãila ✔ 022 Întregalde and Râmeþi gorges ✔ 044 Balta Albã, Amara and Jirlãu lakes ✔ Subtotal of IBAs 0 6 10114 Total number of IBAs 1 13 31115

3. Bird Sanctuaries ■ International protection Small areas that support large numbers of breeding, wintering or Box 1 lists those international conventions and initiatives ratified passage birds. by Romania. Full implementation of Romania’s obligations under these has not, however, been achieved. 4. Forestry areas The Danube delta is designated as a World Heritage Site and Local forestry authorities protect large areas of woodland from Biosphere Reserve, and is the only Ramsar Site in Romania. It is exploitation. managed by the Authority of the Danube Delta Reserve. The

Of great importance for bird conservation is the Law on Hunting Box 1. International legislation Global and Game Protection (1996), which relates to 200 bird species and initiatives that are Biodiversity Convention ✔ (including raptors and passerines) and takes into consideration relevant to site conservation in Ramsar Convention ✔ almost all stipulations of the Bern Convention. As there is no Romania (see Appendix 1 for Bonn Convention ✔ ✔ effective bird-protection law, this is the only piece of national a general description of these World Heritage Convention agreements). ✔ legislation to provide protection for wild birds. MAB Programme The Environment Protection Law was adopted in 1995, and it Pan-European ✔ is expected that a more definitive law will be adopted concerning Bern Convention ✔ Convention ratified/initiative supported protected areas. Additional tools for environmental protection ✔ include the 1996 Forestry Code and the Law of Waters (also 1996). ( ) Convention signed

486 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania responsible authorities for other international reserves are the to the small numbers of ornithologists in large parts of the reserve administration (if any), the forestry service or local country. administrative bodies. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) • Species that do not necessarily meet IBA criteria—due, for are involved in the protection of several national and local example, to dispersed distributions—were also monitored, reserves. including Ciconia ciconia, diurnal raptors, Tetrao tetrix, Tetrao urogallus, Perdix perdix, Charadrius morinellus, Riparia riparia and Hirundo rustica. Special attention was paid to those CONSERVATION species whose main distributions lie to the north (in most cases) (for example, Tetrao tetrix and Turdus pilaris) or south • The institutional framework for environmental protection at the of Romania (for example, Apus melba, Passer hispaniolensis, national level is inadequate—too few institutions exist and there Sturnus roseus, Oenanthe isabellina, Hirundo rupestris and is a lack of human, financial and capital resources. Consequently, H. daurica). the majority of ‘less important’ reserves have been abandoned • Wintering and passage bird figures are minimum/maximum by the authorities and are now threatened with alteration or daily counts. destruction. • Bird count averages have usually been calculated over a number • Once the law on protected areas is passed, the Romanian of years. The year given in the species tables is the last year of Ornithological Society (ROS) will try to obtain Nature Reserve the count period. designation for as many IBAs as possible. • Numbers of breeding birds are given as pairs. • The Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve (IBAs 001, 002 and 005) • The following sites of national importance were proposed as has a management plan issued under the auspices of the Ministry IBAs but did not meet the current criteria: Braniște Reserve, of Waters, Forests and Environment Protection. Other sites have Nucet fish-farm, Mândra fish-ponds, Jijila lake, Bucecea management plans performed by their owners or administrators reservoir, Vermeș marsh, Goșmanu mountain, Livada fish-farm, (for example, fish-farms, the local forestry service or reserve Drocea mountain, , Lakes Ianca and Plopu, administrations). Pârâul de Câmpie valley, and Lake Sărături–Murighiol. • Between 1995 and 1999 the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve • It is possible that in the southern part of the country, especially was subject to a conservation management programme financed in the Danube valley, areas exist that might meet IBA criteria. by the Global Environment Facility. Public awareness Their identification will be one of the key tasks in the future (education and training) and bird monitoring were the primary activities of ROS, with an immediate goal being the publication aims. BirdLife International supported this programme both of a national IBA inventory. directly and through the work of ROS. ROS now has a local office in Tulcea and works with local authorities to promote BirdLife policies in the Danube delta. GLOSSARY • The Ministry of Waters, Forest and Environment Protection, together with other institutions (including ROS), have published ROS Romanian Ornithological Society (Societatea Ornitologică Romănă, a ‘National Strategy for biodiversity conservation’ (Anon. 1996), the BirdLife International Partner in Romania). but there is a long way to go before implementation is complete. • The biological research institutes, museums of natural sciences and university biology departments undertake research on ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS biodiversity. • NGOs are taking more of a role in the process of studying and The IBA programme started in Romania in 1987 following discussions conserving nature. between Richard Grimmett (International Council for Bird Preservation) and Dan Munteanu. After the foundation of the Romanian Ornithological Society in 1990, the IBA programme became a priority in ROS activities. ANALYTICAL METHODS The IBA Officer between 1996 and 1998 was Sorin Dîrjan, who was helped in his work by the following people who provided valuable information: • The midwinter wildfowl count (Wetlands International Adrian Andrei, Libus András, Gabriel Bănică, Hodor Călin, Marcel programme) began in 1988 and takes place annually. Since 1991 Ciobanu, József Béres, Carmen Gache, Mirela Gheorghe, Iordache Ion, it has been included in the activities of ROS, and is run in Dan Traian Ionescu, Ladislau Kalabér, Andrei Kiss, János Botond Kiss, cooperation with the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Ștefan Kohl, Mihai Marinov, Dan Munteanu, Nicolae Onea, Péter László Administration, several institutions and a large number of Papp, Aurel Papadopol, Petre Teodor, Angela Petrescu, Raluca Rășinariu, volunteers. BirdLife International and ROS are also involved Rozalia Poliă, Attila D. Sándor, Imre Simó, József Szabó, József Szabó in monitoring numbers of breeding birds. jun., Nicolae Toniuc and Peter Weber. The programme was financed • Data concerning Romanian IBAs were updated during the between 1992 and 1996 by BirdLife International and then by the Royal period 1992–1999. Bird counts were undertaken by individual Society for the Protection of Birds (BirdLife International Partner in the researchers and, at the national level, by ROS. Nevertheless the UK). The national coordinator thanks all financial supporters and all level of bird monitoring currently undertaken is insufficient and volunteers who have given their best efforts (and continue to do so) to the data are therefore incomplete for some sites. This is due mainly development of the Romanian IBA programme.

■ SITE ACCOUNTS

‘plauri’. Two forests, Letea and Caraorman, cover 22,700 ha, and Salix Danube delta and A1, A4i, A4ii, A4iii, 001 is widespread. Also present are sand-dunes and beaches, wet and dry B1i, B1iii, B2, B3 Razelm–Sinoe complex grassland, salt vegetation (in the south), agricultural lands (some Admin region Tulcea abandoned), fish-ponds and human settlements. The Razim–Sinoe Coordinates 44°56’N 29°12’E lagoon complex is situated to the south of the delta. Formally brackish, Altitude 0–12 m Area 442,000 ha the lagoons have become fresh following the closure of the link to the sea. Reed-harvesting takes place (‘Other’ land-use). ■ Site description Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (70%; mudflat/sandflat; The most extensive wetland in Europe after the Volga delta, comprising saltmarsh; coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Marine three arms of the Danube (Chilia, Sulina and Sf. Gheorghe) areas (5%), Artificial landscape (18%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas) interspersed with marine and river sandbanks, fields, marshes, lakes Land-use Agriculture (12%), Fisheries/aquaculture (57%), Forestry (8%), Hunting (10%), and canals. Reedbeds (Phragmites) cover large areas (totalling Not utilized (23%), Other 160,000 ha), and include a type of floating reed habitat known as

487 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

■ Birds The main threats are from drainage, canalization and dredging, Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria wetland infilling and pollution (‘Other’ threat). Additional threats Podiceps grisegena Red-necked Grebe B 1996 2,000 — — A4i, B1i include overfishing, disturbance from boat traffic, reedbed fires, Podiceps nigricollis B 1996 2,000 — — A4i, B1i grazing and other agricultural practices. Hunting is permitted in several Black-necked Grebe areas, including buffer zones. The Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant B 1998 13,500 — A A4i, B1i Authority (DDBRA) is responsible for conservation and protection Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 1998 6,400 — A A1, A4i, B1i, B2 projects, and the Danube Delta Institute undertakes research and Pygmy Cormorant management work. The DDBRA management plan covers biodiversity Pelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican B 1998 3,000 — A A4i, B1i, B2 conservation, bird monitoring and public awareness. The recent Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1998 200 — A A1, A4i, B1i, B2 restoration of 3,680 ha of former agricultural land has been Botaurus stellaris Bittern B 1996 1,500 — C B2 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 5,000 — B B2 successfully completed. Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1998 4,400 — A A4i, B1i, B2 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1998 3,200 — A A4i, B1i, B2 Egretta alba Great White Egret B 1998 360 — A A4i, B1i Ardea cinerea Grey Heron B 1996 1,600 — B A4i, B1i Parcheº–Somova wetland A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 002 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1998 500 — A B2 Admin region Tulcea Ciconia nigra Black Stork P 1996 300 — C A4i, B1i Coordinates 45°12’N 28°38’E Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1996 216 — B A4i, B1i, B2 Altitude 2–3 m Area 3,100 ha Cygnus olor Mute Swan B 1996 1,200 — B A4i, B1i Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1996 1,755 — B A4i, B1i, B3 Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1996 100,000 300,000 A A4i, B1i ■ Site description Branta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 1996 20,000 55,000 A A1, A4i, B1i An area of lakes and reedbeds (Phragmites) bordered by the Danube Anas penelope Wigeon P 1996 6,000 — A B1i and situated upstream from Tulcea. Reedbeds cover approximately Anas strepera Gadwall B 1996 4,000 — B A4i, B1i, B2 65% of the site; a few Salix trees and Populus plantations occur along Anas crecca Teal P 1996 10,000 — B B1i the Danube. Human activities include fishing and reed-harvesting by Anas platyrhynchos Mallard B 1998 30,000 80,000 A A4i, B1i local people (‘Other’ land-use). Netta rufina Red-crested Pochard B 1996 300 — B A4i, B1i Aythya ferina Pochard B 1996 55,000 — B A4i, B1i, B3 Habitats Wetland (100%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation) Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 3,000 — B A1, A4i, B1i, B2 Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Nature conservation/research (90%), Other Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck W 1994 10,000 — B B1i Bucephala clangula Goldeneye W 1994 3,000 — B B1i Mergus albellus Smew W 1994 1,500 — B A4i, B1i ■ Birds Mergus merganser Goosander W 1994 200 — B B1i Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Oxyura leucocephala W 1994 10 — C A1 Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant B 1993 1,400 — — A4i, B1i White-headed Duck Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 1999 80 — A A1, A4i, B1i, B2 Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier P 1996 100 — B A1 Pygmy Cormorant Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle P 1996 20 — B A1 Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1993 60 120 — B3 Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle P 1996 80 — B A1 Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1996 2,000 — — B1i Falco tinnunculus Kestrel B 1996 300 — B B2 Branta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 1996 1,000 — — A1, A4i, B1i Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon B 1996 600 — B A4ii, B1iii, B2 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1999 300 — — B1i, B2 Porzana porzana Spotted Crake B 1996 4,000 — B B3 Porzana parva Little Crake B 1996 1,000 — B B3 The site is important for breeding and passage waterbirds, with a Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 60 — B A1, B2 bird fauna similar to that of the Danube delta. Species of global Gallinula chloropus Moorhen B 1996 10,000 — B A4i, B1i conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Pelecanus crispus Fulica atra Coot B 1996 50,000 100,000 B A4i, B1i (20 passage birds) and Aythya nyroca (18 breeding pairs). Grus grus Crane P 1996 1,000 — C B1i Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1996 150 — B B1i ■ Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew B 1996 180 — B B2 ■ Protection status Glareola nordmanni U 1996 10 — C A1 National High International High Black-winged Pratincole 3,100 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Danube Delta, Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1996 15,000 — B A4i, B1i 580,000 ha). Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1996 300 — B A4i, B1i, B2 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1996 10,000 — B A4i, B1i, B2 ■ Conservation issues Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1996 6,000 40,000 A A4i, B1i, B2 Chlidonias leucopterus B 1996 2,000 — B A4i, B1i Threats Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B) White-winged Black Tern The dyke constructed along the Danube hinders water inflow to the This is one of Europe’s most important sites for breeding, passage IBA. A management plan exists for the site. and wintering waterbirds, particularly wintering Anatidae. It is also an important site for breeding and passage raptors and passerines. The site regularly holds more than 20,000 waterbirds breeding, on Lake Beibugeac A1, B1i, B3 003 passage and in winter. Species of global conservation concern that do Admin region Tulcea not meet IBA criteria: Anser erythropus (wintering), Haliaeetus albicilla Coordinates 45°02’N 29°06’E (breeding), Falco naumanni (passage), Gallinago media (passage) and Altitude 8–8 m Area 180 ha Acrocephalus paludicola (passage).

■ Protection status ■ Site description National High International High A shallow brackish lake with a maximum depth of 1.5 m. The water- IBA overlaps with 16 strictly protected (or core) areas (totalling level and lake area varies considerably depending upon the amount 50,600 ha). 442,000 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Danube of rainfall. Along the western shore there is a narrow fringe of reed Delta, 580,000 ha). IBA overlaps with Ramsar Site (Danube Delta). Phragmites. Natural grassland, agricultural land and human IBA overlaps with World Heritage Site (Danube Delta). settlements surround the IBA.

Habitats Wetland (98%; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation) ■ Conservation issues Land-use Not utilized (98%) Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Agricultural intensification/ expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Burning of vegetation (C), Consequences of ■ Birds animal/plant introductions (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (B), Dredging/ canalization (B), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Firewood collection (B), Other (B), Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B) Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1997 — 280 A B1i, B3

488 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

■ Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Birds Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1997 — 2,000 B B1i Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Anser anser Greylag Goose W 1997 — 200 A B1i Podiceps nigricollis W 1998 200 1,200 A A4i, B1i Branta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 1997 — 600 A A1 Black-necked Grebe Phalacrocorax pygmeus W 1998 10 30 A A1 This is an important wintering site for Anatidae and is also a breeding Pygmy Cormorant site for waders including Himantopus himantopus and Recurvirostra Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1998 30 230 A B1i, B3 avosetta. Passage species of global conservation concern that do not Aythya ferina Pochard W 1998 2,000 40,000 A A4i, B1i meet IBA criteria: Pelecanus crispus and Aythya nyroca. Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck W 1998 5,000 80,000 A A4i, B1i Aythya marila Scaup W 1998 400 4,000 A A4i, B1i, B2 Bucephala clangula Goldeneye W 1998 300 1,200 A B1i ■ Protection status Mergus albellus Smew W 1998 200 1,100 A A4i, B1i National None International None An important area for wintering wildfowl, holding 20,000 or more on ■ Conservation issues a regular basis. Wintering species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca, Oxyura leucocephala and Threats Disturbance to birds (C) Haliaeetus albicilla. There is limited human disturbance of birds; grazing animals may disturb nests around the edge of the lake. Managed by ROS. ■ Protection status National High International High IBA overlaps with Biosphere Reserve (Danube Delta).

Niculiþel and A1, B2 004 ■ Babadag forest Conservation issues Admin region Tulcea Threats Other (B) Coordinates 45°00’N 28°25’E The main threat is pollution, which is reducing the food resource Altitude 20–300 m Area 10,000 ha available to birds (‘Other’ threat, above). The Danube Delta Research and Management Institute study the reserve as a whole; ROS study ■ Site description the bird fauna. A management plan exists for the site. An area of forest found on the Niculiţel and Babadag hills. The forest is dominated by Quercus but includes Tilia, Ulmus, Populus, and Acer, with forest composition primarily dependent upon the slope aspect. Lake Taºaul B1i 006 The valleys contain grasslands and areas under agriculture. Admin region Constanþa Habitats Forest and woodland (95%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%) Coordinates 44°21’N 28°34’E Land-use Forestry (40%), Hunting (30%), Tourism/recreation (30%) Altitude 1–10 m Area 1,830 ha

■ Birds ■ Site description Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria A coastal lake at the end of the Casimcea valley with a steep limestone Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle P 1992 10 — B A1 shoreline, except on the eastern side where it is separated from the sea Bubo bubo Eagle Owl B 1992 16 20 A B2 by a sandbank. The lake reaches a depth of 5.6 m and has two islands. Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1992 100 200 A B2 Sparse reedbeds (Phragmites) are found in the north-west of the lake. Coracias garrulus Roller B 1992 60 100 A B2 Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1992 1,000 2,000 A B2 Habitats Wetland (88%; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (8%) The site is particularly important for breeding raptors and for Land-use Agriculture (8%), Fisheries/aquaculture (80%), Urban/industrial/transport (8%) woodland species in general. Raptors also occur in large numbers on passage. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Falco naumanni (2–4 breeding pairs). ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Protection status Aythya ferina Pochard P 1996 50 10,000 B B1i National Low International None Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull R 1996 20 1,000 A B1i 11 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Valea Fagilor, 11 ha). This is an important site for passage and wintering waterbirds. ■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status Threats Deforestation (commercial) (C), Forest grazing (B), Intensified forest National None International None management (B) The main threats are from overgrazing in the forest, which prevents ■ Conservation issues regeneration, and intensive forest management and exploitation. A Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance project is underway to establish a Nature Park in the Macin mountains, to birds (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B) which will include part of the IBA. The main threats are from intensive agricultural practices in the lake surrounds, and disturbance, particularly along the eastern shore, from sheep-grazing, fishing, a factory and quarry. Air pollution from the A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 Black Sea coast–Chituc 005 Navodari oil refinery is an occasional problem. Admin region Constanþa Coordinates 44°30’N 28°52’E Altitude 0–0 m Area 5,000 ha Lake Siutghiol A1, A4i, B1i 007 Admin region Constanþa ■ Site description Coordinates 44°16’N 28°36’E The site includes the narrow sand beach of Chituc and associated Altitude 0–10 m Area 2,000 ha coastal waters; there is very little tidal fluctuation. There are only two temporary fishing settlements along a 22 km stretch of coastline. ■ Site description Habitats Wetland (sand-dunes/sand beach), Marine areas (sea inlet/coastal features) The site is a former marine inlet now separated from the sea by a Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Nature conservation/research (100%) narrow sand-spit. The lake is predominantly freshwater with a

489 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania maximum depth of 18 m. The western shore is formed by a steep freshwater springs. In the western third of the lake two dams have limestone promontory, and narrow reedbeds (Phragmites) occur. In been built to prevent the invasion of freshwater. Ducks and geese are winter up to 90% of the lake area may freeze. hunted in winter.

Habitats Wetland (94%; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; water-fringe vegetation) Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (60%), Tourism/recreation (50%), Urban/industrial/ transport (20%) Hagieni forest B2, B3 009 Admin region Constanþa Coordinates 43°48’N 28°27’E ■ Birds Altitude 60–80 m Area 600 ha Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Phalacrocorax pygmeus P 1996 10 100 B A1 ■ Site description Pygmy Cormorant An isolated area of forest in a steppe zone, dominated by Quercus. Larus minutus Little Gull P 1996 20 2,000 A A4i, B1i The forest contains many small clearings with wetlands and patches This is an important site for passage waterbirds, particularly Anatidae of grassland. and Laridae; the surrounds are a stop-over site for migrating Habitats Forest and woodland (65%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (10%), passerines. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet Artificial landscape (15%; forestry plantation) IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (2–40 passage birds). Land-use Forestry (20%), Hunting (10%), Nature conservation/research (70%) ■ Protection status National None International None ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Conservation issues Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1992 2 4 B B2 Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1995 20 30 B B2 Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Recreation/tourism (A) Dendrocopos medius R 1995 10 30 A B3 The tourist towns of Constanţa, Mamaia and Ovidiu surround the Middle Spotted Woodpecker 1 lake. Disturbance of birds during the summer is high. Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1990 100 250 B B2 1 Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike B 1990 24 50 B B2 1. Threshold not met but population size significant at European level. This is an important site for breeding forest species and migrating A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 Lake Techirghiol 008 passerines. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet Admin region Constanþa IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (4–8 passage birds). Coordinates 44°01’N 28°28’E Altitude 0–6 m Area 1,170 ha ■ Protection status National Partial International None ■ Site description 393 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Hagieni, 393 ha). This predominantly saltwater lake lies 18 km from Constanţa; it is separated from the Black Sea by a 200 m sand-spit. The high salt ■ Conservation issues concentrations in the south-eastern part of the lake prevent it from Threats Afforestation (C), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C) freezing during winter. Narrow reedbeds (Phragmites) are found in the western part of the lake. Surrounding slopes support fragmented The most important threat is from afforestation with Pinus—fewer steppic vegetation and arable land. species have been recorded in plantations compared with natural forest. Habitats Wetland (93%; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (5%; arable land) Land-use Agriculture (5%), Hunting (30%), Tourism/recreation (10%) Vãdeni–Maþa–Cârja– A1 010 Rãdeanu wetlands ■ Birds Admin region Galaþi, Vaslui Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Coordinates 46°04’N 28°07’E Podiceps nigricollis B 1996 100 2,000 A A4i, B1i Altitude 40–50 m Area 380 ha Black-necked Grebe 1 Phalacrocorax pygmeus W 1995 25 800 A A1, A4i, B1i Pygmy Cormorant ■ Site description Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1996 2 40 A B3 An area of wetland with numerous pools and fish-ponds close to the Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1996 100 20,000 A A4i, B1i Branta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 1996 — 7,000 A A1, A4i, B1i River Prut. Aquatic vegetation is well developed and includes reedbeds Aythya ferina Pochard R 1996 20 3,000 A B3 (Phragmites); there are also areas of Salix and Populus. Oxyura leucocephala W 1998 — 800 A A1, A4i, B1i White-headed Duck Habitats Wetland (95%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation) Larus minutus Little Gull P 1996 100 5,200 A A4i, B1i Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (40%), Not utilized (60%) Riparia riparia Sand Martin B 1996 200 1,000 C B2 1. Large increase over last 20 years. ■ Birds This is a very important site for wintering and passage waterbirds— Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria sometimes holding more than 20,000 wintering individuals. Species Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 19 40 B A1 of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Anser erythropus (2–10 wintering birds) and Circus macrourus (passage). This is an important breeding, wintering and stop-over site for waterbirds. Seventy-four species have been recorded. Species of global ■ Protection status conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Phalacrocorax National None International None pygmeus (2–20 non-breeding birds).

■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status National None International None Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Infrastructure (C), Natural events (A), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) ■ Conservation issues The main threat is posed by decreasing salt-levels in the lake due to Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Burning of vegetation (C) the irrigation of surrounding agricultural land and inflow from

490 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

The main threats are disturbance from fish-farming activities and Bicaz gorge and Lake Roºu B2 013 reedbed burning. Access to the site is partly restricted due to its position Admin region Neamþ, Harghita on the state boundary—a situation beneficial to nature conservation Coordinates 46°48’N 25°51’E interests. Altitude 700–1,100 m Area 2,200 ha

■ Site description Odobeºti hill B2 011 The 8 km long Bicaz gorge lies in the eastern Carpathians. The Admin region Vrancea dominant vegetation is Abies forest with traditionally grazed alpine Coordinates 45°50’N 26°55’E grassland also present. Lake Roșu is naturally dammed by landslide Altitude 240–999 m Area 12,000 ha debris and occupies 12.6 ha. The area is crossed by a major highway; human activities include rock-climbing. ■ Site description Habitats Forest and woodland (83%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest), A hilly area covered with a mosaic of deciduous woodland, scrub, Grassland (5%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (7%; scree/boulders) grassland, orchards, vineyards and arable land. Human activities Land-use Forestry (79%), Nature conservation/research (10%), Tourism/recreation (19%) include arable agriculture and livestock-grazing.

Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (20%), Grassland ■ Birds (30%), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Land-use Agriculture (6%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (30%) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1994 8 12 A B2 ■ Birds This is an important site for species of upland conifer forests and open alpine habitats. Species of global conservation concern that do not Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria meet IBA criteria: Falco naumanni (breeding). Ciconia nigra Black Stork B 1998 1 2 — B2 The site is important as a staging post for migratory species. Species ■ Protection status of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila National High International None clanga (passage) and Crex crex (breeding). A total of 143 species have 2,128 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Cheile Bicazului–Lacu been recorded. Roșu, 2,128 ha).

■ Protection status ■ Conservation issues National None International None Threats Extraction industry (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (C) ■ Conservation issues The main threat is from the development of tourism and its associated infrastructure. Stone extraction is a threat in peripheral areas. A Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Deforestation (commercial) (C), management plan exists for the site. Firewood collection (C) Agricultural expansion and deforestation are low-level threats. Vlãdeni fish-ponds A1, B1i, B2 014 Admin region Iaºi Bârnova–Repedea woodland B2 012 Coordinates 47°28’N 27°20’E Admin region Iaºi Altitude 42–60 m Area 1,200 ha Coordinates 47°03’N 27°30’E Altitude 120–407 m Area 15,000 ha ■ Site description The site includes a series of fish-ponds associated with the rivers Jijia ■ Site description and Miletin and a reservoir used for irrigation. The northern and An area of low hills on the Central . The area is eastern shores of the reservoir are reinforced with concrete; the predominantly covered by deciduous forests with Fagus dominant at southern shore supports cereal cultivation. The western shore is higher altitudes and Quercus on lower slopes. There are also patches marshy, with c.450 ha of reedbed (Phragmites). The Jijia plain is subject of grassland, agricultural fields, and a few orchards and vineyards. to flooding; grassland and agricultural land comprise the surrounds. The site also includes the Borsa and Catachi forests. Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (6%), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Habitats Grassland (10%), Wetland (87%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (50%), Not utilized (40%), Tourism/recreation Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (70%), Hunting (10%), Water management (20%)

■ Birds ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1993 8 — C B2 Botaurus stellaris Bittern B 1996 10 20 A B2 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 40 40 A B2 This is an important site for migratory species, particularly raptors Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1996 40 50 A B2 such as Pernis apivorus, Milvus milvus and Aquila pomarina. Species Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill P 1996 50 92 A B1i of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Circus Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1994 2,000 2,200 B B1i macrourus (passage). A total of 210 species have been recorded. Anser erythropus P 1996 30 46 A A1 Lesser White-fronted Goose ■ Protection status The site is particularly important for breeding waterbirds, wintering National None International None and passage Anatidae; waders occur in large numbers on passage. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: ■ Conservation issues Phalacrocorax pygmeus (passage), Aythya nyroca (8 breeding pairs), Haliaeetus albicilla (passage), Aquila heliaca (passage), Crex Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Firewood collection (B), Forest grazing (C), crex (8–10 breeding pairs) and Gallinago media (passage). A total of Recreation/tourism (B) 190 species have been recorded. The main threats include tree-cutting for firewood, local deforestation and pressure from tourism on weekends. A management plan exists ■ Protection status for the area. National None International None

491 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status National High International None Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance 397 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Slătioara, 854 ha). to birds (B), Other (U), Recreation/tourism (C) The main threats are destruction of nests of piscivorous birds ■ Conservation issues (‘Other’ threat), hunting, and degradation of wet meadows caused by No serious threats are known at the site. grazing.

Pietrosul Rodnei mountain B2 017 Stânca–ªtefãneºti B1i, B2 015 Admin region Maramureº reservoir Coordinates 47°35’N 24°37’E Admin region Botoºani Altitude 700–2,303 m Area 3,300 ha Coordinates 47°57’N 27°10’E Altitude 61–92 m Area 7,000 ha ■ Site description Pietrosul mountain lies in the northern part of the Rodna mountains. ■ Site description Four vegetation belts occur: Fagus forest up to 1,000 m; Abies forest A large reservoir situated in the valley of the River Prut, on the border up to 1,700 m; dwarf Pinus shrubs at the treeline; and alpine grasslands with Moldova. One side of the river has slopes dominated by arable and rocky areas above that. crops and small patches of grassland. The old river valley contains Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous riverine forest dominated by Salix, Fagus, Quercus and Ulmus. There forest; treeline ecotone), Grassland (25%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky is also a Populus plantation. areas (14%) Habitats Forest and woodland (23%), Scrub (12%), Wetland (38%; standing fresh Land-use Nature conservation/research (50%), Tourism/recreation (50%) water), Artificial landscape (27%; arable land; forestry plantation) Land-use Agriculture (20%), Fisheries/aquaculture (34%), Tourism/recreation (10%), ■ Birds Water management (34%) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1996 4 6 C B2 ■ Birds Picoides tridactylus R 1995 10 20 A B2 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Three-toed Woodpecker Ciconia ciconia White Stork B 1996 7 50 B B2 This is an important site for species characteristic of upland deciduous Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 50 1,200 B B1i forests, montane conifer forests and open, rocky alpine habitats. This is an important stop-over site for passage waterbirds due to its location on a migration route for birds moving to the Danube delta ■ Protection status and the Black Sea. 124 species have been recorded in the IBA. Passage National High International High species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: 3,068 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Pietrosul Mare, 3,068 ha). Aythya nyroca, Aquila heliaca and Crex crex. 3,068 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Pietrosul Mare Nature Reserve, 3,068 ha). ■ Protection status National None International None ■ Conservation issues Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/ ■ Conservation issues cutting (B) Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (A), Dredging/ The main threats are from tourism, selective logging, livestock-grazing canalization (C) and disturbance as a result of chamois Rupicapra rupicapra hunting. No serious threats are known at the site, which is to be proposed as a A management plan exists for the site. The Biology Institute from protected area. Hunting is not permitted due to the IBA’s proximity Cluj, sponsored by the Environment Ministry, has carried out research to an international border. The Biology Faculty from Iasi is in the Nature Reserve. researching the flora and fauna of the Prut catchment.

Dobron forest B2, B3 018 Slãtioara forest B2 016 Admin region Mureº Admin region Suceava Coordinates 46°46’N 24°40’E Coordinates 47°27’N 25°27’E Altitude 390–440 m Area 220 ha Altitude 800–1,320 m Area 397 ha ■ Site description ■ Site description A forest predominantly composed of Quercus, Carpinus, Populus, Tilia Situated on the eastern side of the Rarău mountains in the East and Acer. Most trees are 30–80 years old. There is a well-developed Carpathians, this is thought to be one of the oldest natural conifer shrub layer. Grasslands, agricultural fields and orchards surround the forests in Europe (some trees are up to 350 years old). forest.

Habitats Forest and woodland (82%; native coniferous forest), Scrub (8%), Rocky Habitats Forest and woodland (75%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%), areas (2%) Artificial landscape (16%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%) Land-use Forestry (30%), Hunting (50%), Tourism/recreation (20%)

■ Birds ■ Birds

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1996 2 3 A B2 Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1992 5 8 A B2 Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1996 4 6 B B2 Strix aluco Tawny Owl R 1992 40 80 A B3 This is an important site for breeding raptors, particularly owls. This is an important site for breeding and passage raptors. Species of 128 species have been recorded. Species of global conservation concern global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila that do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex (non-breeding). heliaca (passage) and Crex crex (4–6 breeding pairs).

492 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

■ Protection status This is an important site for breeding and passage waterbirds. Wildfowl National Partial International None use the ponds for roosting. There are few wintering birds as the lakes Protected by the local forestry authority (functional category no.1). usually freeze over. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Branta ruficollis (4 wintering birds), Aythya ■ Conservation issues nyroca (10–36 passage birds). Threats Recreation/tourism (B) ■ Protection status The main threat is from recreational activities although the occasional National None International None felling of old trees, hunting and grazing also occur in the forest. ■ Conservation issues Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Recreation/tourism (C) Zau de Câmpie– B2 019 Tãureni fish-ponds Admin region Mureº Coordinates 46°38’N 24°09’E Vlãdeasa mountain B2 021 Altitude 282–300 m Area 520 ha Admin region Cluj, Bihor Coordinates 46°47’N 22°45’E Altitude 400–1,836 m Area 14,000 ha ■ Site description The Zau de Campie–Taureni are situated on the Transylvanian Plain along a tributary of the Mureș river. There are three large lakes and ■ Site description several smaller ponds with about 50 ha of reedbed (Phragmites). There The site is situated in the northern part of the . is also a Pinus nigra plantation which supports a mixed heron colony. Forest predominates, with deciduous forest composed mainly of The main use of the ponds is fish production, with some angling. Quercus and Carpinus, mixed forest of Fagus and Abies, and coniferous forest of Abies and Juniperus. Grasslands and small agricultural fields Habitats Wetland (91%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial are also present, and a large reservoir is situated on the western landscape (9%; forestry plantation) boundary. The area is well populated and is a popular tourist Land-use Agriculture (5%), Fisheries/aquaculture (91%), Hunting (10%) destination.

Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous ■ Birds forest; mixed forest), Scrub (6%), Grassland (10%), Rocky areas (10%) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (15%), Tourism/recreation (5%) Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 130 320 A B2 Falco tinnunculus Kestrel B 1996 20 42 A B2 ■ Birds Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1996 14 48 A B2 Otus scops Scops Owl B 1996 7 10 A B2 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 1 Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike B 1996 10 45 A B2 1 Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1996 50 100 B B2 1. Threshold not met but population size significant at European level. Picoides tridactylus R 1996 20 80 A B2 Three-toed Woodpecker This is an important site for passage waterbirds and breeding herons. 1. Threshold not met but population size significant at European level. Breeding species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (1–4 pairs) and Crex crex (3–4 pairs). This site is important for species of montane Abies and Fagus forest, and as a staging site for migrants crossing the Carpathians. Species of ■ Protection status global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex National None International None (5–8 breeding pairs).

■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status National None International None Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Other (B), Recreation/tourism (B) ■ Conservation issues The main threats are from recreation (particularly disturbance caused Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Deforestation (commercial) (B), by angling), disturbance as a result of maintenance work around the Recreation/tourism (C) ponds and reed-cutting during the autumn (‘Other’ threat, above), and the destruction of heron nests. A management plan exists for the site. The main threats are from deforestation and pressure from tourism— there are many access roads and marked trails.

Fizeº valley B2 020 Admin region Cluj Întregalde and B2, B3 022 Coordinates 46°53’N 24°06’E Râmeþi gorges Altitude 280–300 m Area 450 ha Admin region Alba Coordinates 46°15’N 23°24’E Altitude 550–900 m Area 4,000 ha ■ Site description The site comprises nine large fish-ponds in the Fizeș valley, created in areas of old marsh. Some ponds support reedbeds (Phragmites). The ■ Site description surrounding hills have grassland, arable fields and small woodlands. Two limestone gorges in the Trascău mountains. The steep slopes are Human activities include angling and traditional grazing. partially covered by herbs, bushes and Pinus trees. Quercus, Fagus and Carpinus dominated woodlands, grasslands and hay-meadows also Habitats Scrub (5%), Grassland (5%), Wetland (80%; standing fresh water; water-fringe occur. The surrounds are used for agriculture and cattle-grazing, with vegetation), Artificial landscape (10%) tourism in the gorges. Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (80%), Hunting (20%) Habitats Forest and woodland (31%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest), Grassland (35%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Rocky areas (14%; scree/ ■ Birds boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (20%) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Land-use Agriculture (65%), Fisheries/aquaculture (25%), Forestry (20%), Hunting, Botaurus stellaris Bittern B 1995 5 — B B2 Nature conservation/research

493 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

■ Birds ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1996 2 4 B B2 Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1984 6 — C B2 Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1996 6 15 B B2 Parus cristatus Crested Tit R 1985 1,000 4,000 B B3 1 Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1996 25 50 B B2 Lullula arborea Woodlark B 1996 100 400 B B2 This is an important site for species associated with open alpine Parus lugubris Sombre Tit R 1996 20 30 B B3 habitats and extensive montane Fagus and coniferous forests. 1 Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1996 300 500 B B2 ■ 1. Threshold not met but population size significant at European level. Protection status National High International High This is an important area for breeding raptors, forest species and birds 54,400 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Retezat, 54,400 ha). associated with rocky habitats. 54,400 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Retezat National Park, 54,400 ha). ■ Protection status National Partial International None ■ Conservation issues 355 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Întregalde, 355 ha). 200 ha Threats Forest grazing (C), Recreation/tourism (C) of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Râmeţi, 200 ha). No serious threats are known at the site. The World Bank (GEF) ■ Conservation issues began sponsoring a programme of research and management in 1999; a management plan exists for the site. Threats Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C) The main threat is from increasing and currently uncontrolled tourism. Unregulated climbing threatens breeding species such as Aquila Cefa fish-ponds A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 025 chrysaetos. Poaching of game species occurs. and Rãdvani wood Admin region Bihor Coordinates 46°55’N 21°41’E Rotbav fish-ponds B2 023 Altitude 96–108 m Area 1,000 ha Admin region Braºov Coordinates 45°30’N 25°33’E ■ Site description Altitude 486–487 m Area 180 ha The site consists of a fish-pond complex in an area of old marsh, fed by the Crisul Negru river and surrounded by the Corhana canal. ■ Site description Reedbeds (Phragmites) grow along the dykes and edges of the fish- A fish-farm situated on the flood-plain of the River Olt. There are ponds. The site also includes agricultural fields, grasslands and hay five large ponds and 9–10 smaller ones. The ponds have an extensive meadows and to the south the Rădvani forest which is dominated by covering of reed Phragmites, bulrush Scirpus and other aquatic plants. Quercus and Ulmus. Cultivated fields and patches of Salix scrub surround the ponds. Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%), Habitats Wetland (90%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial Grassland (5%; humid grassland), Wetland (60%; standing fresh water; river/stream; landscape (10%; arable land) water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land) Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (100%) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (70%), Hunting (10%), Nature conservation/research (5%), Tourism/recreation (5%) ■ Birds ■ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Birds Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1998 10 20 B B2 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 30 160 A B2 The site is important for breeding and passage waterbirds, particularly Egretta alba Great White Egret N 1996 — 174 A A4i, B1i herons, ducks and waders. Species of global conservation concern that Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill P 1996 — 53 B B1i do not meet IBA criteria: Phalacrocorax pygmeus (non-breeding) and Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 — 7,000 B B1i Aythya nyroca (passage). Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 — 230 — B1i 1 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 2 20 A A1 ■ Protection status Grus grus Crane P 1996 9 325 A B1i 1 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1996 40 150 A B2 National None International None Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1996 2 37 B B2 ■ Conservation issues 1. Also occurs on passage. This is a very important site for breeding and passage waterbirds. The Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Burning of vegetation (U), Dredging/canalization (B) site holds 20,000 or more waterbirds on passage on a regular basis The main threats are fluctuations in water-level and the cutting and (includes 7,000 Anser albifrons, 2,500 Anas crecca, 1,160 Anas burning of reed. platyrhynchos, 2,000 Calidris alpina). Rădvani wood holds a heronry. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Phalacrocorax pygmeus (passage), Branta ruficollis (wintering) and Haliaeetus albicilla (wintering). Retezat National Park B2, B3 024 Admin region Hunedoara ■ Protection status Coordinates 45°22’N 22°40’E National Low International None Altitude 700–2,482 m Area 54,400 ha 3 ha of IBA covered by Bird Sanctuary (Rădvani Wood Mixed Heron Colony, 3 ha). ■ Site description A mountainous area in the south-eastern Carpathians supporting a ■ Conservation issues diversity of habitat-types. Fagus and Abies forests predominate with Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Construction/ dwarf Pinus scrub at the treeline and alpine pastures above that. impact of dyke/dam/barrage (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Dredging/canalization (B), Habitats Forest and woodland (78%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; Recreation/tourism (C), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B) treeline ecotone), Grassland (9%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (10%) Phalacrocorax carbo and game species (geese and ducks) are hunted. A Land-use Agriculture (10%), Nature conservation/research (95%), Tourism/recreation (5%) management plan exists for the site, which is a proposed Ramsar Site.

494 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

the Mureș river between Arad and the Hungarian border. In wetter Lunca wood B2 026 areas Salix and Populus dominate with Quercus, Ulmus and Fraxinus Admin region Arad on drier sites. Only 14% of the remaining woods are natural, most Coordinates 46°38’N 21°35’E having been replaced by plantations. The woods are interspersed with Altitude 95–95 m Area 174 ha clearings, pastures and permanent small marshes and lakes. Flooding occurs each spring. ■ Site description Habitats Forest and woodland (52%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet A Quercus–Fraxinus woodland in an agricultural landscape, forest), Grassland (7%; humid grassland), Wetland (5%; river/stream), Artificial approximately 1 km north of the village of Misca. Wet meadows are landscape (30%; arable land) present along the River . Land-use Agriculture (30%), Forestry (52%), Not utilized (18%) Habitats Forest and woodland (98%; broadleaved deciduous forest) Land-use Forestry (10%) ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Birds Botaurus stellaris Bittern B 1994 4 10 B B2 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1994 2,000 3,000 A B1i Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1999 3 6 A B2 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 200 250 A B2 Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon B 1999 5 10 A B2 The site holds an important breeding colony of Nycticorax nycticorax, Strix aluco Tawny Owl B 1994 20 40 B B3 Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1994 20 30 B B2 Egretta garzetta and Ardea cinerea, which covers c.4 ha. Alcedo atthis Kingfisher B 1996 20 30 B B2 Merops apiaster Bee-eater B 1994 100 120 B B2 ■ Protection status 1 Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1994 40 60 B B2 National Partial International None Dendrocopos medius R 1998 200 300 B B3 Protected by the local forestry authority (functional category no.1). Middle Spotted Woodpecker Riparia riparia Sand Martin B 1999 500 1,000 A B2 1 Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1999 200 300 A B2 ■ Conservation issues 1. Threshold not met but population size significant at European level. Threats Forest grazing (C) This is an important site for breeding, passage and wintering waterbirds No serious threats are known at the site. Local people are allowed to and raptors. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet cut wood from dead trees for their own purposes but there is no IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (10 breeding pairs), Haliaeetus albicilla commercial forestry. A management plan exists for the site. (3–4 wintering birds) and Crex crex (breeding).

■ Protection status National Low International None Socodor wood B2 027 25 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Bezdin Lake, 25 ha). 17 ha Admin region Arad of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Prundul Mare Island), 17 ha). Coordinates 46°33’N 21°26’E Altitude 90–90 m Area 500 ha ■ Conservation issues Threats Deforestation (commercial) (A), Dredging/canalization (B), Unsustainable ■ Site description exploitation (B) A wood on the flood-plain of the Crisul Alb river, dominated by Quercus. In places Robinia plantations have replaced native species. Salix scrub The main threats are from deforestation, dyke construction and grows along the banks of the river. Hunting is of mammals only. hunting. The area has been proposed as a transboundary reserve.

Habitats Forest and woodland (85%; alluvial/very wet forest; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (10%), Grassland (5%) Land-use Forestry (10%), Hunting (80%) Satchinez marsh A1, B2 029 Admin region Timiº Coordinates 45°58’N 21°04’E ■ Birds Altitude 90–92 m Area 236 ha Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 120 180 A B2 ■ Site description The site is important for a stable, mixed breeding colony of Nycticorax A remnant wetland associated with the Ier river. Extensive areas of nycticorax, Egretta garzetta and Ardea cinerea. reedbed (Phragmites) are interspersed with open water; wet meadows occur in the surrounds. Salix trees and bushes provide breeding sites ■ Protection status for herons. National Partial International None Habitats Wetland (93%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation) Protected by the local forestry authority (functional category no.1). Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%) ■ Conservation issues ■ Birds Threats Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C) No serious threats are known at the site, for which a management Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria plan exists. Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 10 120 A B2 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1996 2 25 A B2 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 40 50 A A1 An important site for breeding and passage waterbirds, particularly Mureº river flood-plain: B1i, B2, B3 028 Arad–Pecica–Cenad herons and ducks. There are 69–75 breeding species and a further 79 species have been recorded on passage. Species of global conservation Admin region Arad concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex (5–15 breeding pairs). Coordinates 46°09’N 21°05’E Altitude 90–95 m Area 12,000 ha ■ Protection status National High International None ■ Site description 236 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Satchinez Bird Reserve, A mixture of meadows and almost unbroken woodland situated along 236 ha).

495 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

■ Conservation issues ■ Birds Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Burning of vegetation (B), Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (A), Drainage (A) Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1996 2 3 B B2 Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1992 2 2 B B2 As a result of agricultural intensification, dyke construction and Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle R 1995 2 4 B A1, B2 drainage around the IBA, the wetland is drying out as water-levels drop and organic matter builds up. The wetland is also being grazed An important site for breeding raptors and other species associated and is subject to fires. A warden is responsible for the site, for which a with upland rocky habitats and forest. The area is also used by migrants. management plan exists. Between 1996 and 1997 research on the avifauna was carried out, particularly on a mixed colony of herons. ■ Protection status National Partial International None IBA overlaps with Nature Reserve (Domogled Mountain, 2,382 ha).

Murani lake A1, B2 030 ■ and Piºchia forest Conservation issues Admin region Timiº Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Firewood collection (C), Coordinates 45°55’N 21°20’E Forest grazing (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Selective logging/cutting (C) Altitude 50–135 m Area 1,500 ha The main threat is from tourism and recreational activities. Plans exist for the creation of Cerna Gorge–Domogled National Park—a ■ Site description designation that would be beneficial for the purposes of nature The site includes a lake, deciduous forest and both wet and dry conservation. grassland. At the end of the lake is a 1–2 ha area of reed Phragmites and Salix scrub. The shores of the lake are dominated by grassland and Prunus spinosa scrub. Porþile de Fier reservoir A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i 032 Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%), Admin region Caraº-Severin, Mehedinþi Grassland (40%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (15%; Coordinates 44°34’N 22°12’E standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation) Altitude 60–70 m Area 32,000 ha Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Forestry (30%), Hunting (50%) ■ Site description A large reservoir created on the Danube, on the Romanian/Yugoslavian ■ Birds border (adjacent to Ðerdap gorge, Yugoslavian site 034). The shores are steep and predominantly rocky; deciduous scrub and small areas of Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria grassland dominate the slopes. Reedbeds (Phragmites) are present in Botaurus stellaris Bittern R 1997 4 6 A B2 the upper part of the reservoir. Ciconia nigra Black Stork B 1997 2 3 A B2 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1997 6 41 A A1 Habitats Wetland (98%; standing fresh water) Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1997 2 3 B B2 Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Hunting (5%), Nature conservation/research (5%) This is an important passage site for waterbirds and raptors. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: ■ Birds Phalacrocorax pygmeus (10–11 passage birds), Anser erythropus Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria (passage), Haliaeetus albicilla (2–11 wintering birds), Aquila heliaca (passage) and Crex crex (passage). A total of 189 species have been Phalacrocorax pygmeus P 1996 12 36 B A1 Pygmy Cormorant recorded. Aythya ferina Pochard W 1996 26 26,500 A A4i, B1i Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1996 2 850 A A1, A4i, B1i ■ Protection status 200 ha of IBA covered by Nature/Ornithological Reserve (Mlastinile The IBA lies on an important flyway between the Pannonian plain Murani, 200 ha). and the Balkan peninsula, and is an important staging post for migrating waterbirds. The site holds 20,000 or more wintering ■ Conservation issues waterbirds on a regular basis. Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Dredging/canalization (A), ■ Protection status Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) National None International None The main threats are posed by high hunting pressure, angling, wood cutting, and drying of the surrounding marsh as a result of dredging ■ Conservation issues and canalization. A proposal has existed for many years for the whole Threats Other (C) area to be declared a reserve. Ship traffic poses a threat (‘Other’ threat). Fishing and hunting activities have minimal impact on birds due to the large area of the reservoir. A management plan exists for the area. Domogled mountain A1, B2 031 Admin region Caraº-Severin Coordinates 44°52’N 22°26’E Altitude 190–1,105 m Area 2,382 ha Mehedinþi fish-ponds– A1 033 Izvoarele Admin region Mehedinþi ■ Site description Coordinates 44°21’N 22°40’E An area of limestone valleys with vegetation reflecting both central Altitude 55–55 m Area 210 ha European and Mediterranean influences. Woodland comprises conifers such as Pinus nigra, as well as areas dominated by deciduous Fagus, Fraxinus and Carpinus. Steep limestone slopes, clearings and ■ Site description grasslands are also present. A natural wetland which has partially been converted into over 20 fish-ponds. Aquatic vegetation, including reedbeds (Phragmites), is Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous abundant and covers approximately 60% of the site. Surrounding the forest), Scrub (10%), Rocky areas (70%), Artificial landscape (5%) ponds are sand-hills, uncultivated areas, a Robinia plantation and Land-use Nature conservation/research (90%), Tourism/recreation (10%) grassland.

496 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

■ Birds Habitats Scrub (5%), Grassland (5%), Wetland (90%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Land-use Agriculture (5%), Fisheries/aquaculture (70%) Phalacrocorax pygmeus P 1996 60 — B A1 Pygmy Cormorant Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1996 60 — B B2 ■ Birds This is an important site for passage and breeding waterbirds. Passage Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 20 — B A1 Aythya nyroca and Haliaeetus albicilla. This is an important site for breeding wetland species. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Phalacrocorax ■ Protection status pygmeus (passage). National None International None

■ Protection status ■ Conservation issues National None International None Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance to birds (B) ■ Conservation issues It is important to conserve the areas of natural wetland and reedbed (Phragmites) that remain. Threats Burning of vegetation (A), Natural events (U) The main threat to birds is posed by reedbed burning. In recent years the reed has begun to encroach on areas of open water and muddy A1, A4i, B1i, B2 shore, reducing the overall area of these habitats. A management plan Lake Dunãreni–Bistreþ 036 Admin region Dolj exists for the site. Coordinates 43°51’N 23°36’E Altitude 8–8 m Area 1,936 ha

Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Gruia B2 034 ■ Site description Admin region Mehedinþi A natural lake situated near to the Danube river, and supplied by the Coordinates 44°16’N 22°41’E Desnatui and Baboia rivers. There is limited aquatic vegetation; Altitude 55–55 m Area 200 ha mudflats occur in neighbouring marshy areas. The lake is managed for pisciculture. ■ Site description Habitats Grassland (15%), Wetland (85%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation) The fish-farm consists of one large and six small fish-ponds with Land-use Agriculture (15%), Fisheries/aquaculture (85%) shallow water, situated in a previously natural wetland. Aquatic vegetation is generally poorly-developed although in the largest pond there are abundant submerged plants. ■ Birds Habitats Grassland (10%), Wetland (80%; standing fresh water), Artificial landscape (10%) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (80%), Hunting (20%) Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant N 1997 100 1,500 A B1i Phalacrocorax pygmeus N 1997 200 1,000 A A1, A4i, B1i Pygmy Cormorant ■ Birds Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican N 1997 10 25 A A1, A4i, B1i Botaurus stellaris Bittern B 1997 10 20 B B2 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1997 11 50 A B1i, B2 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1996 60 — B B2 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1997 2 16 A B2 Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1997 500 2,000 A B1i The site is of importance chiefly for passage waterbirds. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: This is an important breeding and stop-over site for large numbers of Phalacrocorax pygmeus (passage). waterbirds; also utilized by non-breeding waterbirds as a feeding area. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: ■ Protection status Branta ruficollis (2–20 wintering birds), Aythya nyroca (10–15 passage National None International None birds) and Haliaeetus albicilla (1–2 passage birds).

■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status National None International None Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance to birds (B) The main threats are from human disturbance and fish-farming ■ Conservation issues activities. Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) Hunting is encouraged, particularly of piscivorous birds. Mehedinþi fish-ponds– A1, B2 035 Gârla Mare Admin region Mehedinþi Strejeºti reservoir A1, B1i 037 Coordinates 44°12’N 22°48’E Admin region Valcea Altitude 65–66 m Area 140 ha Coordinates 44°35’N 24°19’E Altitude 140–140 m Area 2,000 ha ■ Site description The IBA is situated on a low-lying terrace of the Danube river. The ■ Site description site includes natural wetland in the east, a shallow lake with reedbeds One of a series of reservoirs created by damming the Olt river. Small (Phragmites), and small pools for fish breeding. There are Salix trees islands and aquatic vegetation are present due to a build-up of silt. and Populus plantations in the south. Habitats Grassland (5%), Wetland (90%; standing fresh water), Artificial landscape (5%) Habitats Grassland (10%), Wetland (70%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture, Urban/industrial/transport, Water management (100%) Artificial landscape (20%; forestry plantation) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (70%), Hunting (10%), Water ■ Birds management (10%) This is an important site for wintering waterbirds. Species of global

497 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca the ponds; the total area of open water is 220 ha. Pasture, arable fields (2 breeding pairs). and Populus plantations form the surrounds.

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Habitats Grassland (5%), Wetland (93%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation) Phalacrocorax pygmeus P 1996 50 60 A A1 Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (93%) Pygmy Cormorant Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1996 1,000 — B B1i ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Protection status Phalacrocorax pygmeus N 1997 10 40 A A1 National None International None Pygmy Cormorant Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican N 1993 10 30 A A1, A4i, B1i ■ Conservation issues Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1993 40 — B B2 Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1993 — 1,000 B B1i Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (U), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B), This is an important feeding area for waterbirds breeding at Sreberna Extraction industry (U) reserve (Bulgaria), in riverine forest along the Danube and at other Sand extraction poses a major threat to Riparia riparia colonies. Over- wetland sites. It is also an important stop-over site during spring and fishing of the waters surrounding the islands causes disturbance to autumn migration. Passage species of global conservation concern breeding birds. A management plan exists for the site. that do not meet IBA criteria: Branta ruficollis, Aythya nyroca, Haliaeetus albicilla and Gallinago media.

■ Protection status A1, B2, B3 Lake Comana 038 National None International None Admin region Gorj Coordinates 44°10’N 26°06’E ■ Conservation issues Altitude 55–60 m Area 800 ha Threats Disturbance to birds (A) ■ Site description Piscivorous birds, particularly Phalacrocorax carbo, are driven away The site includes the largest natural lake on the Romanian plain, with gunshots and are sometimes killed. In late autumn the water is associated with the Neajlov river. Approximately 75% of its surface is drained from the majority of the ponds until early spring—it is not a covered by reedbeds (Phragmites). The shallow waters increase in depth suitable site for wintering waterbirds. A management plan exists for during periods of flood; intense silting is taking place. An area of the site. forest lies to the south of the lake.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%), Wetland (90%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation) Lake Strachina A1, B2 040 Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (35%), Hunting (35%), Tourism/recreation (30%) Admin region Ialomiþa Coordinates 44°40’N 27°36’E Altitude 18–22 m Area 1,050 ha ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Botaurus stellaris Bittern B 1993 4 6 A B2 Site description Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1993 120 160 A B2 A large brackish lake on the Romanian plain, fed by fresh water from Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1993 100 200 A B2 the Ialomita river. There are small areas of aquatic vegetation, Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1993 20 30 A B2 primarily along the western shore. Agricultural lands and fish-ponds Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1996 10 12 B B2 form the surrounds. Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1993 20 30 A A1 Porzana porzana Spotted Crake B 1993 60 80 B B3 Habitats Wetland (95%; standing brackish and salt water), Artificial landscape (5%) Porzana parva Little Crake B 1993 40 60 B B3 Land-use Agriculture (5%), Not utilized (95%) Crex crex Corncrake B 1993 16 20 A A1, B2 Alcedo atthis Kingfisher B 1993 16 20 B B2 ■ Birds This is an important site for breeding and passage waterbirds. 212 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria species have been recorded from the lake and forest. Passage species Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1993 20 — A A1 of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole B 1993 40 — B B2 Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Pelecanus crispus and Gallinago media. This is an important breeding site for waterbirds, particularly ducks, ■ Protection status and also passage and wintering waterbirds. National Partial International None 80 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Grădinari Wood, 245 ha). ■ Protection status National None International None ■ Conservation issues ■ Conservation issues Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Natural events (B), Recreation/tourism (B) No serious threats are known at the site. The main threats are from fishing and recreational activities. The reed is encroaching on areas of open water, reducing the overall area of this habitat. A management plan exists for the site. Lake Fundata B1i 041 Admin region Ialomiþa Coordinates 44°37’N 27°10’E Ciocãneºti fish-farm A1, A4i, B1i, B2 039 Altitude 35–40 m Area 510 ha Admin region Cãlãraºi Coordinates 44°11’N 27°02’E ■ Site description Altitude 10–14 m Area 300 ha Lake Fundata lies in the Reviga valley. The southern part of the lake is brackish whereas the northern part is fresh and holds most of the ■ Site description aquatic vegetation; few fish species are present. Water depth reaches A fish-farm that comprises c.12 ponds surrounded by dykes and canals, 5 m and the shores are generally steep. The lake is surrounded by situated in the Danube valley. Narrow reedbeds (Phragmites) fringe arable land with a village to the east.

498 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

waterbirds and breeding wetland passerines. Species of global Habitats Wetland (90%; standing fresh water; standing brackish and salt water; water- conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Branta ruficollis fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land) (wintering). Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (40%) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 1993 100 — A A1, A4i, B1i, B2 ■ Birds Pygmy Cormorant Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1993 40 50 B B2 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern P 1993 800 — B B1i Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1993 40 45 B B2 Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1993 52 60 A B2 This is an important site for roosting, wintering and passage Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1993 28 30 A B1i, B2 waterbirds. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet Anser anser Greylag Goose B 1993 80 100 A B1i IBA criteria: Phalacrocorax pygmeus (passage), Branta ruficollis Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1993 46 50 A A1 (wintering) and Aythya nyroca (non-breeding). Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 10 20 — A1, B2 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1993 150 180 B B2 Alcedo atthis Kingfisher R 1993 18 30 C B2 ■ Protection status National None International None ■ Protection status ■ Conservation issues National Partial International None No serious threats are known at the site. 5,336 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Little Island of Brăila, 5,336 ha).

■ Conservation issues Lake Tãtaru A1, B2 042 Admin region Brãila Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Coordinates 44°48’N 27°25’E Deforestation (commercial) (C), Forest grazing (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C) Altitude 16–20 m Area 120 ha The main threats are from deforestation, overgrazing and hunting. A local NGO undertakes conservation work. ■ Site description This brackish lake reaches a maximum depth of 12 m. The shores are a mixture of mud and sand covered with halophytic vegetation. Balta Albã, Amara A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 044 Habitats Grassland (humid grassland), Wetland (80%; standing brackish and salt water), and Jirlãu lakes Artificial landscape (20%) Admin region Brãila, Buzãu Land-use Agriculture (20%), Fisheries/aquaculture (10%) Coordinates 45°15’N 27°15’E Altitude 40–40 m Area 2,680 ha ■ Birds ■ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Site description The site has three lakes associated with the River Buzău. Balta Albă Phalacrocorax pygmeus N — — 180 — A1 Pygmy Cormorant is a salt lake (max. depth 4 m) and does not freeze in winter. Amara is Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole B 1995 8 12 B B2 brackish and supports areas of reedbed (Phragmites). Jirlău is fresh and has extensive reedbeds. The lakes are surrounded by agricultural This is an important site for breeding and passage wildfowl, waders fields and both wet and dry meadows. Reed is harvested at Jirlău and gulls (Laridae). Ducks use the site for moulting. Species of global (‘Other’ land-use). conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca Habitats Grassland (10%), Wetland (90%; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe (8 breeding pairs). vegetation) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Not utilized (60%), Other ■ Protection status National None International None ■ Birds ■ Conservation issues Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria No serious threats are known at the lake, which has no economic or touristic value. Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican P 1995 — 40 B A1, A4i, B1i Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1995 25 40 A B1i, B2 Anas platyrhynchos Mallard B 1995 40 8,000 A B1i Anas clypeata Shoveler P 1995 — 5,000 B A4i, B1i The Little Island of Brãila A1, A4i, B1i, B2 043 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1995 — 1,000 B A1, A4i, B1i Admin region Brãila This is an important site for breeding and passage waterbirds, Coordinates 44°55’N 27°55’E particularly grebes, ducks and herons. The site holds 20,000 or more Altitude 2–8 m Area 14,862 ha passage waterbirds on a regular basis (including 8,000 Anas crecca, 5,000 Anas clypeata, and 8,000 Aythya ferina). Species of global conservation ■ Site description concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex (breeding). A wetland complex of many lakes linked by canals and marshes, situated in the Danube valley. There are open grassy areas with lines ■ Protection status of Salix trees and also areas of riverine forest. The water-level varies National Partial International None according to the Danube’s level and spring floods are common. The 400 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Vișani Bird Sanctuary island also has agricultural crops, meadows and pasture. There are (Lake Jirlău), 400 ha). 600 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Lake only a few small human settlements. Balta Albă, 600 ha). 900 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Lake Amara, 900 ha). Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (10%; humid grassland), Wetland (60%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation) ■ Conservation issues Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (50%), Hunting (10%), Nature conservation/research (30%) Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B) ■ Birds The main threats are from angling, tourism and hunting. A This is an important area for breeding, passage and wintering management plan exists for the site.

499 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

REFERENCES

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PAPADOPOL, A. (1973) Recherches ornithologiques dans le Nord-Est de la HEATH, M. F. AND BORGGREVE, C. (2000) BirdLife International/EBCC Plaine Roumaine (III). Considération aviphénologiques, sur l’importance European Bird Database 1998. Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International. biologique et éconimique des oiseaux dans le sector situé entre les riviéres VAN IMPE, J. (1969) Concentration enorme de Podiceps nigricollis Brehm. en Buzău et Ialomiţa. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București 13: Dobroudja—Romania. Alauda 37(1): 77–78. 346–368. VAN IMPE, J. (1970) Migration d’automne de laro-limicoles en Dobrudja PAPADOPOL, A. (1974) Recherches ornithologiques dans le Nord-Est de maritime du sud (Roumanie). Gerfaut 60: 3–4. la Plaine Roumaine (IV). La zone des étangs situés dans la partie IONESCU, D. (1996) Colonia de pescăruși de la Rotbav. Bul. S.O.R.: 4. centrale de la Plaine du Bărăgan, entre les cours inférieurs des riviéres Călmăţui et Ialomiţa. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. 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(1999) Avifauna din zonele umede ale Banatului. Timișoara, Romania: PAPADOPOL, A. (1989) L’avifaune de la zone des cours inférieures des rivieres Editura Mirton. Argeș, Dâmboviţa, Neajlov et leurs affluents (Roumanie); dynamique KISS, J. B. (1997) Cartea Deltei. Aves. Odorhei, Romania. saisonniére et aspecte écologiques. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa KLEMM, W. AND KOHL, S. (1988) Die Ornis Siebenbürgens. Köln, Germany: București 30: 317–334. Böhlau Verlag. PAPADOPOL, A. (1989) L’avifaune de la zone des cours inférieurs des riviéres LINŢIA, D. (1954/1955) Păsările din R.P.R., Vol. I–II. Bucharest: Ed. Academiei Argeș, Dîmboviţa, Neajlov et leurs affluents (Roumanie); dynamique R.P.R. saisonniére et aspects écologiques. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa MARINOV, M. (1995) Tendinţe recente in evoluţia avifaunei în Rezervaţia București 30: 317–334. Biosferei Delta Dunării. An. șt. Inst. Delta Dunării 4(1): 119–122. PAPADOPOL, A. AND PETRESCU, A. (1995) Lacustrine and forest complex MARINOV, M. AND HULEA, D. (1995) Dinamica coloniilor mixte de cormorani Comana (Romania), a very important area in the avifauna si stârci din Delta Dunării, între 1959–1995. An. șt. Inst. Delta Dunării 5: dynamics. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București 35: 211–226. 609–626. MARINOV, M., HULEA, D. AND CONDAC, M. (1996) Dinamica avifaunei din PAPADOPOL, A. AND CODREANU, A. (1996) Données de syntyhése sur R.B.D.D. in corelatie cu principalii factori de mediu. An. șt. Inst. Delta l’avufaune existant entre les zones inférieures des riviéres Siret et Prut Dunării 6: 25–28. et les lacs du Nord du Bărăgan et de la Dobrogea (Roumanie). Travaux MOHAN, G., ARDELEAN, A. AND GEORGESCU, M. (1993) Pp. 46–48 in Rezervaţii du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București 36: 349–360. si monumente naturale din Romania. Bucharest: Editura Scaiul. PAPADOPOL, A. AND TĂLPEANU, M. (1979) Considération phénologiques et MUNTEANU, D. 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PASPALEVA, M., KISS, J. B. AND TĂLPEANU, M. (1984) Sur la dynamique de PUȘCARIU, V. (1967) La situation de la protection des zones humides en quelques espéces d’oiseaux dominants dans le Delta du Danube. Travaux Roumanie. Compte rendu. Pp. 104–109 in Deuxiéme reunion europeenne du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București 25: 313–329. sur la conservation de la sauvagine. Noordwijk aan Zee, Pays Bas, 9–14 PASPALEVA, M., KISS, J. B. AND TĂLPEANU, M. (1985) Oiseaux coloniaux dans 1966. Netherlands: Salverda. le Delta du Danube. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București RADU, D. (1979) Păsările din Delta Dunării. Bucharest: Ed. Academiei R.S.R. 27: 289–304. SEGHEDIN, T. AND RĂDUCU A. (1969) Rezervaţiile naturale din ţinuturile PETRESCU, A. AND BÉRES, I (1997) Ornithological remarks in the basins of Iza Sucevei. Suceava: Cons. jud. ptr. ocrot. nat. and Săpânta and the Biosphere Reserve Pietrosul Rodnei, Maramureș TĂLPEANU, M. AND PASPALEVA, M. (1973) Aripi asupra Deltei. Bucharest: Edit. (Romania), in 1995–1996. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa Știinţifică. București 39: 379–400. TONIUC, N. AND OLTEAN, M. (1992) List of protected areas in Romania (1932– POLIȘ, R. (1973) Colonii de Ardeidae din nord—vestul României. Nymphaea: 1991). Ocrot. nat. med. înconj. 41–69. TUCKER, G. M. AND HEATH, M. F. (1994) Birds in Europe: their conservation POLIȘ, R. (1976) Observatii asupra avifaunei de la Cefa (judeţul Bihor). status. Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International (BirdLife Conservation Nymphaea: 195–225 . Series no. 3). POP, E. AND SĂLĂGEAN, N. (1969) Monumente ale naturii din România. TUSCHERER, K. AND FÖRSTER, D. (1965) Ornitologische Beobachtungen in Bucharest: Ed. Meridiane. der Umgebung von Constanţa. Der Falke 12(7): 236–241. POPOVICI, I., ED. (1983) Parcul Naţional Retezat. Studii Ecologice. Brașov, Romania: Ed. West Side Computers.

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