Important Bird Areas in Europe –

■ ITALY

FABIO CASALE, UMBERTO GALLO-ORSI AND VINCENZO RIZZI

Gargano National Park (IBA 129), a mountainous promontory along the Adriatic coast important for breeding raptors and some open- country species. (PHOTO: ALBERTO NARDI/NHPA)

GENERAL INTRODUCTION abandonment in marginal areas in recent years (ISTAT 1991). In the lowlands, agriculture is very intensive and devoted mainly to Italy covers a land area of 301,302 km² (including the large islands arable monoculture (maize, wheat and rice being the three major of and ), and in 1991 had a population of 56.7 million, crops), while in the hills and mountains traditional, and less resulting in an average density of c.188 persons per km² (ISTAT intensive agriculture is still practised although land abandonment 1991). Plains cover 23% of the country and are mainly concentrated is spreading. in the north ( valley), along the coasts, and in the Puglia region, A total of 192 Important Bird Areas (IBAs) are listed in the while mountains and hilly areas cover 35% and 41% of the land present inventory (Table 1, Map 1), covering a total area of respectively. 46,270 km², equivalent to c.15% of the national land area. This The climate varies considerably with latitude. In the south it is compares with 140 IBAs identified in Italy in the previous pan- warm temperate, with almost no rain in summer, but the north is European IBA inventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989; LIPU 1992), cool temperate, often experiencing snow and freezing temperatures covering some 35,100 km². Some of these original IBAs have been in winter, with rainfall more evenly distributed through the year. grouped for the current inventory: former site IT081 has been The 5,000-km-long coastline comprises a mixture of sandy beaches merged with IT082 to form current site 119; former sites IT086 and with sand-dunes, brackish lagoons, and marshes, and sections of IT087 now form site 133; IT089 and IT100 are now site 141; and cliffs and offshore rocky islands and islets. The three main estuaries IT104 and IT106 are now site 149. Of the 17 subsites listed in 1989 are those of the Po, the and the Arno rivers. for the IBA ‘River Po from Dora Baltea mouth to Scrivia mouth’ Out of 262,028 km² of agricultural land, 90,123 km² are arable (former site IT005), four have been excluded from the current and 48,776 km² are permanent pasture. The average agricultural inventory (they do not meet the revised IBA criteria) while the holding covers 7.5 ha, and the number and average area of holdings remaining 13 have been grouped into four discrete IBAs (‘new’ have decreased by 7.5% and 5% respectively following land sites 017, 020, 025 and 027). The name or boundaries of some

Table 1. Summary of Important Bird Areas in Italy. 192 IBAs covering 46,270 km2 IBA 1989 code code International name National name Administrative region Area (ha) Criteria (see p. 11) 001 — Mont Blanc (Italian side) Monte Bianco (lato italiano) Valle d’Aosta 11,300 A3, C6 002 — (Valle d’Aosta side) Monte Rosa (versante valdostano) Valle d’Aosta 8,200 C6 003 IT002 Anzasca and Antrona valleys Valle Anzasca e Val Antrona Piemonte 42,600 A3, C6 004 IT001 Antigorio and Formazza valleys Val Antigorio e Val Formazza Piemonte 50,000 A3, B2, C6 005 IT003 Val Grande Val Grande Piemonte 29,000 C7 006 IT014 Mount Tabor Monte Tabor Lombardia 28,000 C7 007 IT012 Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola Pian di Spagna e Lago di Mezzola Lombardia 3,400 C7 008 IT004 Gran Paradiso Gran Paradiso Piemonte, Valle d’Aosta 110,000 A3, B2, C6

357 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Table 1 ... continued. Summary of Important Bird Areas in Italy. 192 IBAs covering 46,270 km2 IBA 1989 code code International name National name Administrative region Area (ha) Criteria (see p. 11) 009 — Lago Maggiore Piemonte, Lombardia 21,600 C6 010 IT017 Campo dei Fiori, Valganna and Cuvia valley Campo dei Fiori, Valganna e Val Cuvia Lombardia 24,500 C7 011 IT016 Grigne Grigne Lombardia 14,038 B2, C6 012 IT013 Orobie Orobie Lombardia 107,000 A3, B2, C6 013 IT015 Camonica valley Val Camonica Lombardia 15,000 B2, C6 014 IT018 Brabbia peatland and Lake Varese Palude Brabbia e Lago di Varese Lombardia 1,960 A1, B2, B3, C1, C6 015 — Lago di Garda Lombardia, 38,000 A4i, B1i, C3 Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto 016 — Lake Viverone Lago di Viverone Piemonte 930 B3 017 IT005 Novara heronries Garzaie del Novarese Piemonte 50 A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 018 — river Fiume Ticino Piemonte, Lombardia 25,000 A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C3, C6 019 IT020 Iseo peatlands Torbiere d’Iseo Lombardia 325 B3, C6 020 IT005 River Sesia heronries Garzaie del Sesia Piemonte 500 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, C1, C2, C6 021 IT006 Lake Candia Lago di Candia Piemonte 295 B3 022 IT023 Heronries of Pavia province Garzaie del Pavese Lombardia 1,173 A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, C2, C4, C6 023 IT022 Sud Park heronries Garzaie del Parco Adda Sud Lombardia 1,000 A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 024 IT007 Susa and Chisone valleys Valle di Susa e Val Chisone Piemonte 60,946 A3, B2, C6 025 IT005 rice-fields Risaie del Vercellese Piemonte 15,000 A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 026 — river (lower course) Fiume Trebbia (basso corso) Emilia Romagna 30 C6 027 IT005 River Po: from Dora Baltea mouth Fiume Po: da Dora Baltea a Scrivia Piemonte 14,000 B2, B3, C2, C6 to Scrivia mouth 028 IT024 River Po: from Ticino mouth to Adda mouth Fiume Po: da Ticino a Adda Lombardia, Emilia Romagna 25,000 A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 029 — Marengo heronry Garzaia di Marengo Piemonte 30 A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 030 — Stirone stream Torrente Stirone Emilia Romagna 2,400 B2 031 IT042 Taro river Fiume Taro Emilia Romagna 6,000 B2, C2, C6 032 IT043 Torrile LIPU reserve Oasi LIPU Torrile Emilia Romagna 200 C6 033 — Scrivia stream Torrente Scrivia Piemonte 3,000 B2, C6 034 IT008 Crava– lakes Laghetti di Crava-Morozzo Piemonte 300 C7 035 IT010 Maritime Alpi Marittime Piemonte 95,400 A3, B1iv, B2, C5, C6 036 IT009 Mount Beigua Monte Beigua 10,000 B1iv, C5, C6 037 — Finalese Finalese Liguria 3,750 C6 038 IT011 Alpi Liguri Liguria 15,000 B2, C6 039 — Alpi Apuane Alpi Apuane Toscana 16,800 B2, C6 040 IT049 Apennines from Passo del Cerreto to Appennino dal Passo del Cerreto a Toscana, Emilia Romagna 45,000 B2, B3, C6 Monte Caligi Monte Caligi 041 IT027 Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio Lombardia, 134,621 A3, B2, C6 Trentino-Alto Adige 042 — Dolomiti Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto 48,507 A3, C6 043 IT036 Carniche Alps Alpi Carniche Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 30,000 B2, C6 044 IT037 Tarvisio forest Foresta di Tarvisio Friuli-Venezia Giulia 23,300 B2, B3, C6 045 IT028 Adamello–Brenta Adamello–Brenta Lombardia, Trentino-Alto Adige 112,800 A3, B2, C6 046 IT029 Lagorai mountains Catena dei Lagorai Trentino-Alto Adige 40,000 B2, C6 047 IT038 Carniche pre-Alps Prealpi Carniche Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 63,000 A1, B2, C1, C6 048 — Middle course of Tagliamento river Medio corso del Tagliamento Friuli-Venezia Giulia 3,579 C6 049 — Cividalese and upper Torre valley Cividalese e Alta Val Torre Friuli-Venezia Giulia 28,400 A1, B3, C1, C2, C6 050 IT031 Belluno Dolomites Dolomiti Bellunesi Veneto 31,512 A1, B2, C1, C6 051 IT032 Lago di Busche and Vincheto di Cellarda Lago di Busche e Vincheto di Cellarda Veneto 125 C7 052 — Giulie pre-Alps Prealpi Giulie Friuli-Venezia Giulia 39,400 C6 053 — Magredi of Pordenone Magredi di Pordenone Friuli-Venezia Giulia 6,814 B2, C6 054 — Mount Grappa Monte Grappa Veneto 40,000 A1, B1iv, B2, C1, C5, C6 055 — Piave river Medio corso del Fiume Piave Veneto 10,000 B1iv, B2, C5, C6 056 — Assa valley Val d’Assa Veneto 2,000 A1, C1, C6 057 IT030 Lessini mountains Monti Lessini Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto 39,000 C6 058 IT019 Alto Garda Bresciano Alto Garda Bresciano Lombardia 38,269 C6 059 — Middle course of River Brenta Medio corso del Fiume Brenta Veneto 1,100 B2, C6 060 — Quinto heronry Garzaia di Quinto Veneto 50 B2, C2, C6 061 IT033 Caorle lagoon Laguna di Caorle Veneto 2,200 A4i, B1i, B2, B3, C2, C6 062 IT039 Grado and Marano lagoon Laguna di Grado e Marano Friuli-Venezia Giulia 21,000 A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, C2, C3, C4, C6 063 IT040 Isonzo mouth, Cona island and Foci dell’Isonzo, Isola della Cona e Friuli-Venezia Giulia 5,000 B1i, B2, C2, C3, C6 Panzano Gulf Golfo di Panzano 064 IT034 lagoon Laguna di Venezia Veneto 50,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3, C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 065 IT021 River Mincio and Bosco Fontana Fiume Mincio e Bosco Fontana Lombardia 8,000 A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C3, C6 066 IT041 Carso Carso Friuli-Venezia Giulia 18,950 B2, C6 067 IT026 Boscone island Isola Boscone Lombardia 200 A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6

358 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Table 1... continued. Summary of Important Bird Areas in Italy. 192 IBAs covering 46,270 km2 IBA 1989 code code International name National name Administrative region Area (ha) Criteria (see p. 11) 068 IT025 River Po: from the mouth of Adda river Fiume Po: da Adda a Ostiglia Lombardia, Veneto, 30,000 A4i, B1i, B2, B3, C2, C6 to Ostiglia Emilia Romagna 069 — Codigoro heronry Garzaia di Codigoro Emilia Romagna 60 A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 070 IT035 Po delta Delta del Po Veneto 17,000 A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, C2, C3, C4, C6 071 — Valle Bertuzzi and Goro lagoon Valle Bertuzzi e Sacca di Goro Emilia Romagna 4,000 B1i, B2, B3, C2, C3, C6 072 IT044 Valli di Comacchio and Bonifica Valli di Comacchio e Bonifica del Emilia Romagna 28,570 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, C1, C2, C3, del Mezzano Mezzano C4, C6 073 IT045 Valli di Argenta Valli di Argenta Emilia Romagna 2,000 A1, B1i, B2, C1, C2, C3, C6 074 IT046 Punte Alberete and Valle della Canna, Punte Alberete, Valle della Canna, Emilia Romagna 3,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, C1, C2, C3, C6 Pineta San Vitale and Pialassa della Baiona Pineta San Vitale e Pialassa della Baiona 075 IT047 Ortazzo and Ortazzino Ortazzo e Ortazzino Emilia Romagna 900 B1i, B2, C2, C6 076 IT048 Cervia saltpans Salina di Cervia Emilia Romagna 1,000 A4i, B1i, B2, B3, C2, C3, C6 077 IT050 Lake Massaciuccoli Lago di Massaciuccoli Toscana 1,700 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 078 — Foreste Casentinesi Foreste Casentinesi Toscana, Emilia Romagna 36,300 B2, B3, C6 079 — Calvana mountains Monti della Calvana Toscana 3,900 C6 080 IT052 Fucecchio marsh Palude di Fucecchio Toscana 2,500 B2, B3, C2, C6 081 — Arezzo heathlands Brughiere Aretine Toscana 4,394 B2, B3, C6 082 IT051 Migliarino–San Rossore Migliarino–San Rossore Toscana 7,000 A1, B2, C1 083 — Pools of Florence plain Stagni della Piana Fiorentina Toscana 1,000 A1, B2, C1, C2, C6 084 IT053 Ponte Buriano–Lago della Penna Ponte Buriano–Lago della Penna Toscana 200 C6 085 — Mount Conero Monte Conero 1,140 B1iv, C5, C6 086 — Furlo gorge and Mount Catria Gola del Furlo e Monte Catria Marche 36,000 B3, C6 087 — Sentina Sentina Marche 180 C6 088 IT055 River Cecina Fiume Cecina Toscana 2,400 B3 089 IT054 Bolgheri Toscana 562 C6 090 — Crete Senesi Crete Senesi Toscana 50,000 B2, C6 091 IT062 Lake Trasimeno Lago Trasimeno Umbria 13,200 A4iii, B1i, C3, C4, C6 092 IT057 Farma valley Valle del Farma Toscana 10,000 B2 093 IT058 Lakes Montepulciano and Chiusi Laghi di Montepulciano e Chiusi Toscana 900 B1i, B2, C3, C6 094 — Colfiorito Colfiorito Umbria 500 B2, C6 095 IT063 Sibillini mountains Monti Sibillini Umbria, Marche 71,374 A3, B2, C6 096 IT056 Arcipelago Toscano Toscana 28,000 A1, A3, A4i, A4ii, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3, C1, C2, C3, C6 097 IT059 Diaccia Botrona Diaccia Botrona Toscana 1,350 A1, B1i, C1, C2, C3, C6 098 IT060 Uccellina mountains, Trappola marshes Monti dell’Uccellina, Stagni della Toscana 5,670 A1, B1i, C1, C3 and Ombrone mouth Trappola e Bocca d’Ombrone 099 — Lago di Bolsena 16,000 B2, C6 100 IT065 Lake Alviano Lago di Alviano Umbria, Lazio 900 C6 101 IT064 Laga mountains Lazio, , Marche 60,000 A1, B2, C1, C6 102 IT066 Selva del Lamone Selva del Lamone Lazio 2,200 B2, B3, C6 103 — Argentario Argentario Toscana 5,200 A3 104 IT061 Orbetello lagoon and Burano lake Laguna di Orbetello e Lago di Burano Toscana 3,680 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, C1, C2, C4, C6 105 IT068 Rieti lakes Laghi Reatini Lazio 3,278 C6 106 IT067 Rieti mountains Monti Reatini Lazio 22,980 B2, C6 107 IT077 Gran Sasso d’Italia Gran Sasso d’Italia Abruzzo 75,000 A3, B2, C6 108 IT069 Vico lake Lago di Vico Lazio 4,000 C6 109 IT078 Cicolano Cicolano Lazio, Abruzzo 49,485 B2, B3, C6 110 IT070 and surrounding areas Lago di Bracciano e aree circostanti Lazio 31,300 B2, B3, C6 111 IT072 hills Lazio 75,000 B2, B3, C6 112 — saltpans Saline di Tarquinia Lazio 170 C2 113 IT071 Lucretili mountains Monti Lucretili Lazio 21,000 C6 114 IT079 Sirente, Velino and Duchessa mountains Sirente, Velino e Montagne della Duchessa Lazio, Abruzzo 50,000 A1, B2, C1, C6 115 IT080 Maiella, Pizzi and Frentani mountains Maiella, Monti Pizzi e Monti Frentani Abruzzo 177,500 B2, B3, C2, C6 116 — Coast from Palo to Santa Marinella Costa da Palo a Santa Marinella Lazio 6,300 B1ii, C2 117 — Litorale Romano Litorale Romano Lazio 19,529 B1i, B2, C3, C6 118 IT073 Ernici and Simbruini mountains e Simbruini Lazio, Abruzzo 70,000 B2, C6 119 IT081, Abruzzo National Park Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo Lazio, Abruzzo, 110,000 B2, B3, C2, C6 IT082 120 IT074 Lepini mountains Lazio 49,600 B2, C6 121 IT075 Parco Nazionale del Circeo Lazio 8,350 A1, B2, C1, C2, C6 122 IT076 Ponziane islands Isole Ponziane Lazio 1,130 B2, C6 123 — Ausoni and e Aurunci Lazio 137,200 B2, C6 124 IT084 Matese , Molise 41,718 B2, B3, C6 125 IT083 River Biferno Fiume Biferno Molise 30,000 B2, C6 126 — Daunia mountains Monti della Daunia Puglia 50,000 B2, C6 127 IT092 Tremiti islands Puglia 2,116 A4ii, B1ii, B2, C3, C6

359 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Table 1... continued. Summary of Important Bird Areas in Italy. 192 IBAs covering 46,270 km2 IBA 1989 code code International name National name Administrative region Area (ha) Criteria (see p. 11) 128 IT093 Lakes Lesina and Varano Laghi di Lesina e Varano Puglia 20,353 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, C1, C2, C3, C4 129 IT094 Gargano promontory Promontorio del Gargano Puglia 240,000 A1, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 130 IT095 Manfredonia Gulf wetlands Zone umide del Golfo di Manfredonia Puglia 8,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3, C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 131 IT085 Capri island Isola di Capri Campania 1,036 C6 132 — Serre Persano Serre Persano Campania 300 C6 133 IT086, Picentini mountains Monti Picentini Campania 64,000 C6 IT087 134 IT088 Alburni mountains Monti Alburni Campania 16,000 B2, C6 135 IT096 Murge Murge Puglia 90,000 A1, A3, A4ii, B1iii, B2, C1, C2, C6 136 IT090 Mount Cervati Monte Cervati Campania 44,000 B2, C6 137 IT099 Dolomiti di Dolomiti di Pietrapertosa 2,500 B2, C6 138 — Manferrara forest Bosco della Manferrara Basilicata 500 B2, C6 139 IT097 Gravine Gravine Puglia, Basilicata 30,000 A1, A4ii, B1iii, B2, C1, C2, C6 140 IT091 Coast between Marina di Camerota and Costa tra Marina di Camerota e Campania 5,700 B2, C6 Policastro Bussentino Policastro Bussentino 141 IT089, Lagonegrese and gorges of River Calore Lagonegrese e Gole del Fiume Calore Campania, Basilicata 50,000 B2, C6 IT100 142 IT103 Mounts Orsomarso and Verbicaro Monte Orsomarso e Monte Verbicaro Calabria 48,000 C6 143 IT101 Pollino Basilicata, Calabria 115,814 B2, C6 144 IT102 Ferro valley Valle del Ferro Calabria 8,500 C6 145 — Sant’Andrea island Isola di Sant’Andrea Puglia 52 A1, B2, C1, C6 146 IT098 Le Cesine Le Cesine Puglia 620 C7 147 — Cape Otranto Capo d’Otranto Puglia 3,100 B1iv, C1, C5 148 IT105 Sila Grande Sila Grande Calabria 28,450 C6 149 IT104, Marchesato and River Neto Marchesato e Fiume Neto Calabria 44,125 B1iii, B2, C2, C6 IT106 150 — Costa Viola Costa Viola Calabria 19,750 A1, B1iii, B1iv, C1, C5 151 IT107 Aspromonte Aspromonte Calabria 35,650 B1iv, C5, C6 152 IT127 Eolie islands Isole Eolie Sicilia 11,610 A4ii, B1iii, B2, C2, C6 153 IT128 Peloritani mountains Monti Peloritani Sicilia 17,100 A4iv, B1iv, C5 154 IT129 Nebrodi Nebrodi Sicilia 85,587 B2, C6 155 IT132 Mount Pecoraro and Pizzo Cirina Monte Pecoraro e Pizzo Cirina Sicilia 12,000 B2, C7 156 IT133 Mount Cofano, Cape San Vito and Monte Cofano, Capo San Vito e Monte Sicilia 18,000 A3, B2, C6 Mount Sparagio Sparagio 157 IT134 Egadi islands Isole Egadi Sicilia 3,700 B1ii, B2, C2, C6 158 IT135 Stagnone di Marsala and Trapani Stagnone di Marsala e Saline di Trapani Sicilia 3,700 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3, C1, C2, saltpans C3, C4, C6 159 IT131 Rocca Busambra Rocca Busambra Sicilia 100,000 A1, B2, C1, C6 160 — Sicani mountains Monti Sicani Sicilia 18,000 A1, A4ii, B1iii, B2, C1, C2, C6 161 — Castelluzzo Castelluzzo Sicilia 7,500 A1, B2, C1, C2 162 IT136 Cape Feto Capo Feto Sicilia 150 C7 163 IT137 Simeto mouth and Biviere di Lentini Foce del Simeto e Biviere di Lentini Sicilia 1,500 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 164 IT130 Madonie Madonie Sicilia 39,941 A1, C1, C6 165 IT138 Anapo gorges Gole dell’Anapo Sicilia 3,712 A3, B2, B3, C6 166 — Biviere and Plain of Gela Biviere e Piana di Gela Sicilia 500 A1, B1i, C1, C2, C6 167 IT139 Pantani di Capo Passero Pantani di Capo Passero Sicilia 3,000 A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, C2, C3, C4, C6 168 IT140 and Isole Pelagie Pantelleria e Isole Pelagie Sicilia 2,445 A4ii, B1ii, B1iii, B2, B3, C2, C6 169 — Coast from Coghinas river mouth to Cape Testa Costa da foce Coghinas a Capo Testa Sardegna 300 A1, B1i, C1, C2 170 IT108 Arcipelago della Maddalena Sardegna 800 A1, B1i, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 171 IT109 island and peninsula cliffs Isola Asinara e Peninsola di Stintino Sardegna 4,900 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 172 IT111 Pilo and Casaraccio pools Stagni di Pilo e di Casaraccio Sardegna 500 B2 173 IT112 Campo d’Ozieri Campo d’Ozieri Sardegna 20,000 B2, B3, C6 174 IT113 Isola Tavolara Sardegna 3,000 A1, A4ii, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3, C1, C2, C3, C6 175 IT110 Cape Caccia Capo Caccia Sardegna 35,000 A1, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 176 IT115 Coast between Bosa and Alghero Costa da Bosa a Alghero Sardegna 20,000 B2, B3, C6 177 IT114 Altopiano di Campeda Altopiano di Campeda Sardegna 19,500 A1, B2, C1, C2, C6 178 IT116 Central Campidano Campidano centrale Sardegna 20,000 B2, C6 179 IT119 Altopiano di Abbasanta and Lake Omodeo Altopiano di Abbasanta e Lago Omodeo Sardegna 20,000 A1, B2, C1, C2, C6 180 IT117 Cuglieri coast Costa di Cuglieri Sardegna 2,800 B1i, B2, C2, C6 181 IT118 Orosei Gulf and Gennargentu mountains Golfo di Orosei e Monti del Gennargentu Sardegna 59,102 A1, A3, A4ii, B1i, B1iii, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 182 IT120 Oristano wetlands Stagni di Oristano Sardegna 7,780 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, C1, C2, C3, C4, C6

360 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Table 1 ... continued. Summary of Important Bird Areas in Italy. 192 IBAs covering 46,270 km2 IBA 1989 code code International name National name Administrative region Area (ha) Criteria (see p. 11) 183 IT121 Mount Ferru of Tertenia Monte Ferru di Tertenia Sardegna 1,000 A1, B2, B3, C1, C6 184 — Cape San Marco Capo San Marco Sardegna 200 A1, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 185 IT122 Flumendosa and Colostrai pools Stagni del Flumendosa e di Colostrai Sardegna 3,400 A1, B2, C1 186 IT123 Mount Sette Fratelli and Sarrabus Monte dei Sette Fratelli e Sarrabus Sardegna 50,000 B2, B3, C6 187 — Coast between Cape Boi and Cape Ferrato Costa tra Capo Boi e Capo Ferrato Sardegna 200 A1, C1 188 IT124 Cagliari wetlands Stagni di Cagliari Sardegna 5,600 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3, C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 189 IT126 Mount Arcosu Monte Arcosu Sardegna 4,500 B2, C6 190 Palmas Gulf wetlands Stagni del Golfo di Palmas Sardegna 4,000 A4i, B1i, B2, B3, C2, C3, C6 191 IT125 San Pietro and Sant’Antioco islands Isole di San Pietro e Sant’Antioco Sardegna 6,000 A1, A3, A4ii, B1ii, B1iii, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 192 — Coast between Cape Teulada and Pula Costa tra Capo Teulada e Pula Sardegna 500 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6

Map 1. Location, area and criteria category of Important Bird Areas in Italy.

SWITZERLAND

AUSTRIA 4 41 42 1 7 3 9 6 43 2 12 44 13 45 8 5 46 50 47 48 14 10 11 15 16 20 54 51 49 18 57 53 24 21 17 19 55 63 SLOVENIA 25 22 52 FRANCE 23 58 56 59 60 27 66 29 26 28 65 61 62 33 67 64 35 34 30 68 36 69 70 37 31 32 71 38 73 40 72 39 74 75 77 79 80 78 76 82 83 88 84 86 89 90 81 85 87 96 92 91 93 94 97 95 ADRIATIC 102 99 100 SEA 98 101 105 106 107 103 104 111 108 109 112 110 115 116 113 114 127 171 169 170 117 120 119 125 129 172 174 118 173 124 128 175 121 126 123 176 177 130 180 122 135 184 179 132 181 134 178 182 131 137 138 139 183 133 186 136 141 191 189 188 185 146 TYRRHENIAN 140 147 SEA 144 145 190 187 142 192 143 148 149 Highest category of criteria met by IBA 156 155 157 152 IONIAN A (89 IBAs) 150 SEA B (71 IBAs) 158 153 C (32 IBAs) 159 162 154 151 Area of IBA (ha) 160 164 35,000 to 240,000 161 163 11,300 to 34,999 165 0 125 250 2,116 to 11,299 168 166 km 30 to 2,115 167

361 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy other IBAs have also been changed since 1989, to facilitate Table 2. Important Bird Areas in Italy that are important for identification or protection according to administrative or species of global conservation concern (meeting criterion A1). ecological boundaries. The IBAs are evenly spread across the country although they Species IBA code occur in a wide variety of sizes. As a general rule, where the IBAs Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck 014, 064, 072, 073, 074, 083, 101, 104, are more spaced apart, they tend to be larger, e.g. in southern Italy 128, 130, 158, 163, 166, 182 or the Alps (see Map 1, Table 1). Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle 150 Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel 114, 135, 139, 150, 159, 160, 161, 164, 182 Crex crex Corncrake 047, 049, 050, 054, 056 ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard 129, 177, 179 Numenius tenuirostris 020, 077, 082, 097, 098, 104, 121, 128, A total of 137 species of European conservation concern (SPECs) breed regularly in the country, of which 80 have an unfavourable Slender-billed Curlew 130, 163 conservation status in Europe (Tucker and Heath 1994), the latter Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull 096, 145, 169, 170, 171, 174, 175, 181, including four species of global conservation concern (Aythya 183, 184, 185, 187, 188, 191, 192 nyroca, Falco naumanni, Crex crex and Larus audouinii). Forty Acrocephalus paludicola Aquatic Warbler 163 SPECs occur regularly in Italy during migration or in winter, including three globally threatened species (Aquila clanga, Numenius tenuirostris and Acrocephalus paludicola). A. nyroca and Falco naumanni; and Costa Viola (150) for Aquila A total of 51 sites are IBAs due to their importance for such clanga and Falco naumanni. species of global conservation concern (Table 2). The following sites The IBA network is particularly important for congregatory qualify for more than one such species: Simeto mouth and Biviere species, especially breeding waterbirds and seabirds. In total, di Lentini (site 163) for Aythya nyroca, Numenius tenuirostris and 60 IBAs support 50 congregatory bird species in important Acrocephalus paludicola; Orbetello lagoon and Burano lake (104), numbers, i.e. meeting A4/B1 criteria (Table 3). Of these: 39 IBAs Lakes Lesina and Varano (128) and Manfredonia Gulf wetlands support important numbers of 20 breeding species; 24 IBAs support (130) for A. nyroca and N. tenuirostris; Oristano wetlands (182) for important numbers of 26 wintering species; and nine IBAs support

Table 3. Important Bird Areas in Italy 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 Tachybaptus ruficollis Little Grebe W 074 Mergus serrator W 062, 128 Podiceps nigricollis W 015, 064, 070, 188 Red-breasted Merganser Black-necked Grebe Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 135, 139, 160 Calonectris diomedea R 168, 191 Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon P 149, 150 Cory’s Shearwater B 096, 175 Falco eleonorae Eleonora’s Falcon B 152, 168, 181, 191 N116 Fulica atra Coot W 062, 064, 128 Puffinus yelkouan R 174 Himantopus himantopus B 025, 072, 076 Yelkouan Shearwater B 096, 127 Black-winged Stilt Hydrobates pelagicus Storm Petrel R 157, 168 Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet R 188 B 175 B 076, 130 Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 018, 062, 064, 065, 070, 071, 072, 091, 093, W 076, 130, 182 117, 128, 163, 182, 190 P 130 Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 169, 170, 171, 174, 175, 180, 181, 192 Glareola pratincola B 072, 182 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 017, 018, 020, 022, 023, 025, 028, 029, 067, Collared Pratincole 068, 069, 072 Charadrius alexandrinus W 130, 182, 188, 190 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 025 Kentish Plover P 130, 158, 167 Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 017, 018, 020, 022, 023, 025, 061, 064, 067, Calidris minuta Little Stint P 167 069, 070, 074, 188 Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper P 167 W 064, 182 Calidris alpina Dunlin W 064 N 076 Tringa erythropus Spotted Redshank P 062 Egretta alba Great White Egret W 064, 065, 104 Larus melanocephalus W 064 Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis P 163, 167 Mediterranean Gull Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill P 158, 163, 167 Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull W 074 Phoenicopterus ruber R 188 N 076 Greater Flamingo W 104, 182, 188, 190 Larus genei Slender-billed Gull R 188 N 188 W 130, 188, 190 Anser anser Greylag Goose W 062, 072, 098 P 167 Tadorna tadorna Shelduck W 130 Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 171, 192 Anas penelope Wigeon W 062, 063, 064, 070, 097, 130 Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull R 062, 096 Anas strepera Gadwall W 062, 073, 130 W 070 Anas crecca Teal W 064 N 076 Anas querquedula Garganey P 158 Gelochelidon nilotica R 188 Anas clypeata Shoveler W 130, 188 Gull-billed Tern B 072, 182 Aythya ferina Pochard W 072, 182 Sterna caspia Caspian Tern P 167 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 128, 130 Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern B 072 P 163, 166, 182 Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 072 Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck W 128 Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 070, 072, 075, 076, 130, 182 Clangula hyemalis W 128 N 064 Long-tailed Duck Chlidonias niger Black Tern P 163, 167 Bucephala clangula Goldeneye W 062, 063, 064, 072 N 064, 077

362 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Table 4. Species of European conservation concern and species listed on Annex I of the EC Birds Directive with significant breeding populations at IBAs in Italy (meeting any IBA criteria). Minimum Proportion (%) of Minimum Proportion (%) of national breeding national population national breeding national population population breeding at all IBAs population breeding at all IBAs Species 1 (pairs) 2 in Italy Species 1 (pairs) 2 in Italy Calonectris diomedea Cory’s Shearwater 15,000 78 Athene noctua Little Owl 10,000 4 Puffinus yelkouan Yelkouan Shearwater 11,000 59 Strix aluco 5,000 24 Hydrobates pelagicus Storm Petrel 1,500 100 Aegolius funereus Tengmalm’s Owl 1,000 6 Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag 1,600 76 Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar 5,000 13 Phalacrocorax pygmeus Pygmy Cormorant 7 100 Alcedo atthis Kingfisher 4,000 6 Botaurus stellaris Bittern 20 1003 Merops apiaster Bee-eater 2,000 37 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern 1,000 46 Coracias garrulus Roller 300 18 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron 12,000 82 Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker 500 21 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron 250 1003 Picus viridis Green Woodpecker 5,000 10 Egretta garzetta Little Egret 25,500 25 Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker 1,500 12 Egretta alba Great White Egret 30 73 Dendrocopos medius Middle Spotted Woodpecker 300 15 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron 700 1003 Dendrocopos leucotos White-backed Woodpecker 200 1003 Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis 1 100 Picoides tridactylus Three-toed Woodpecker 50 76 Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill 2 1003 Melanocorypha calandra Calandra Lark 5,000 15 Phoenicopterus ruber Greater Flamingo 1,600 63 Calandrella brachydactyla Short-toed Lark 15,000 4 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck 25 1003 Galerida cristata Crested Lark 200,000 1 Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard 500 28 Lullula arborea Woodlark 20,000 4 Milvus migrans Black Kite 700 29 Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit 15,000 4 Milvus milvus Red Kite 130 79 Erithacus rubecula Robin 1,000,000 1 Neophron percnopterus Egyptian Vulture 10 1003 Saxicola torquata Stonechat 200,000 1 Gyps fulvus Griffon Vulture 35 86 Oenanthe hispanica Black-eared Wheatear 1,000 17 Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle 200 33 Monticola saxatilis Rock Thrush 5,000 4 Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier 50 1003 Monticola solitarius Blue Rock Thrush 10,000 12 Circus pygargus Montagu’s Harrier 200 27 Turdus torquatus Ring Ouzel 10,000 1 Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle 300 47 Turdus philomelos Song Thrush 100,000 1 Hieraaetus fasciatus Bonnelli’s Eagle 15 73 Locustella luscinioides Savi’s Warbler 1,000 13 Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel 500 1003 Acrocephalus melanopogon Moustached Warbler 1,000 68 Falco tinnunculus Kestrel 5,000 9 Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler 10,000 8 Falco eleonorae Eleonora’s Falcon 400 85 Acrocephalus scirpaceus Reed Warbler 30,000 5 Falco biarmicus Lanner 150 40 Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler 5,000 13 Falco peregrinus Peregrine 430 76 Sylvia undata Dartford Warbler 10,000 14 Bonasa bonasia Hazel Grouse 5,000 8 Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler 30,000 9 Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse 10,000 11 Sylvia melanocephala Sardinian Warbler 300,000 2 Tetrao urogallus Capercaillie 2,000 9 Sylvia hortensis Orphean Warbler 1,000 3 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge 10,000 25 Sylvia nisoria Barred Warbler 1,000 6 Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge 3,000 20 Regulus ignicapillus Firecrest 100,000 2 Coturnix coturnix Quail 5,000 6 Ficedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher 1,000 3 Porzana porzana Spotted Crake 50 8 Parus cristatus Crested Tit 20,000 1 Crex crex Corncrake 350 46 Parus caeruleus Blue Tit 100,000 5 Porphyrio porphyrio Purple Gallinule 300 1003 Certhia brachydactyla Short-toed Treecreeper 100,000 2 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard 350 individuals 82 Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike 30,000 6 Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt 900 1003 Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike 1,000 21 Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet 1,200 87 Lanius senator Woodchat Shrike 5,000 9 Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew 200 95 Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough 500 1003 Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole 81 1003 Corvus monedula Jackdaw 50,000 2 Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover 1,800 34 Sturnus unicolor Spotless Starling 50,000 2 Larus melanocephalus Mediterranean Gull 223 1003 Serinus citrinella Citril Finch 5,000 2 Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull 550 1003 Emberiza cia Rock Bunting 30,000 3 Gelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern 200 1003 Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting 4,000 7 Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern 138 1003 Emberiza melanocephala Black-headed Bunting 2,000 4 Sterna hirundo Common Tern 4,000 68 1. Only those species of European conservation concern (see Box 1, p. 12) that meet IBA Sterna albifrons Little Tern 3,000 97 criteria in Italy are listed, together with those species listed on Annex I of the EC Birds Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern 180 36 Directive that fulfil criterion C6 in IBAs in Italy. 2. Data are taken from the BirdLife/EBCC European Bird Database 1998 (Heath and Borggreve 2000). Chlidonias niger Black Tern 100 100 3. The percentage of the national population in IBAs exceeds 100%. Usually this is because Streptopelia turtur Turtle Dove 50,000 3 the national population estimate has not been updated recently whilst the IBA population Otus scops Scops Owl 4,000 5 estimate has been recently updated with new data as a result of comprehensive surveys of IBAs themselves. Also, the individual site count for a species may be the maximum or Bubo bubo Eagle Owl 200 28 average over recent years, and summing these may record more birds than are present Glaucidium passerinum Pygmy Owl 300 10 nationally in any single year. important numbers of 13 species staging on migration. Three IBAs For 21 species that are SPECs and/or are listed on Annex I of (all coastal wetlands) each host ten or more congregatory species the EC Birds Directive, the IBA network supports the entire in important numbers: Venice lagoon (site 064) has 12 species, Valli national breeding population, and there are 39 such species with di Comacchio/Bonifica del Mezzano (072) has 11 species and more than half of their national population breeding within IBAs Oristano wetlands (182) has 10 species. (Table 4).

363 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Figure 1. Habitats at Important Bird Areas in Italy Official statistics concerning agricultural land cover (ISTAT (see Appendix 3 for definitions of habitats). 1991) do not match perfectly the habitat classification used in this work, but a general comparison between land cover at the national level and in the IBAs can be made anyway. ‘Artificial landscapes’ Forest and woodland in Italy include 90,123 km² of arable fields and 29,598 km² of Artificial landscape orchards and vineyards, but the so-called ‘unproductive areas’ covering 65,210 km² include not only roads and developed/urban Wetland areas but also some fallow land and rocky areas. ‘Permanent Scrub grassland’ accounts for 48,776 km² nationally, but the actual area may be larger since some poor (rocky or arid) grasslands are Grassland classified under other categories. Lowland grassland is mainly Rocky areas ³ 50% cover¹ represented by dry calcareous pastures in Sardinia, Puglia, Sicily 5%–49% cover¹ and , which are important for SPECs such as Neophron Marine areas < 5% or unknown¹ percnopterus, Falco naumanni, Falco biarmicus, Tetrax tetrax, 03010 204050 60 70 80 90 Melanocorypha calandra, Calandrella brachydactyla and Merops Percentage of IBAs (100% = 192 sites) apiaster. In hilly and mountainous areas, grasslands contain key 1. percentage of area of individual IBA covered by habitat species such as Alectoris graeca, Alectoris barbara in the drier parts of Italy, Crex crex in hayfields at 500–1,200 m elevation, and Pyrrhocorax graculus on calcareous mountains. Figure 2. Land-uses at Important Bird Areas in Italy All of the more important Italian wetlands have been included (see Appendix 3 for definitions of land-uses). in the IBA list and a high proportion of the waterbirds which breed or congregate in them are represented. Wetlands are mainly coastal Agriculture (estuaries, deltas, lagoons, intertidal mudflats, salt-pans, beaches Nature conservation/research and dunes) but some rivers in northern Italy, e.g. the Po (sites 027, 067 and 068), support important numbers of herons, and inland Tourism/recreation lakes and peatlands are important for wintering duck, e.g. Lake Garda (015), or breeding Botaurus stellaris, e.g. Colfiorito (094). Hunting Scrub and rocky areas are often found together with broadleaved Forestry evergreen woodland in the Mediterranean zone, and are important for Sylvia warblers, Lanius senator, Lanius collurio, Caprimulgus Urban/industrial/transport europaeus and many other birds. ‘Rocky areas’ includes many sea Fisheries/aquaculture cliffs and islets, on which Larus audouinii and Falco eleonorae nest.

Water management Not utilized IMPACTS ON IBAs – LAND-USE AND THREATS Military ³ 50% cover¹ Agriculture is the most frequent land-use at IBAs in Italy, although Other 5%–49% cover¹ it is predominant at only c.10% of IBAs (Figure 2). About 40% of < 5% or unknown¹ IBAs receive legal protection over more than half of their individual Unknown area, and so are devoted to nature conservation, but hunting is 01020304050 60 70 80 90 allowed to some extent in more than 50% of all sites. Recreation Percentage of IBAs (100% = 192 sites) and tourism occur in the majority of IBAs, but this use is 1. percentage of area of individual IBA covered by land-use predominant at less than 15% of all IBAs. Despite the fact that most IBAs are forested or wooded to some extent (Figure 1), forestry is the main land-use in only a few IBAs, reflecting the fact HABITATS that most Italian woods are often poorly managed (Figure 2). Fisheries and aquaculture occur at 25% of IBAs, often together Mainland Italy may be divided into four major geographical and with water management. Urban, industrial and transport are nearly vegetational zones: the Alps, in the north of the peninsula; the Po always minor land-uses, although they occur at more than 40% of valley in the north-west; the , which includes the sites. most of mainland Italy; and the coastal zone. The intensifying use of natural resources is the main threat to The Alpine area is relatively unspoiled, with deciduous, mixed birds at IBAs in Italy (Figure 3). The high incidence of ‘recreation/ and coniferous forests (as semi-natural stands and as plantations), tourism’ and ‘disturbance to birds’ as threats is often due to the alpine pastures above the timberline (grazed by cattle and sheep), lack of a suitable infrastructure that would allow the general public and snowfields and glaciers on the higher peaks. The is to enjoy natural areas without interrupting birds’ essential activities the largest lowland area in Italy, mainly covered by intensive such as breeding or foraging. Other sources of disturbance are agriculture, notably cereal and rice fields, and stock-farming, but hunting (excluding gamebirds) and forestry activities when also including areas of deciduous forest, lakes and rivers. Large performed near the breeding sites of some raptors. There is evidence areas of the Apennines are still covered by semi-natural deciduous that hunting is reducing the abundance and species-richness of forest, predominately oak Quercus, beech Fagus and sweet chestnut breeding waterbirds at some sites, and cases have been reported of Castanea, although large areas have been cleared for agriculture. nest abandonment by Hieraaetus fasciatus due to tree-felling or The coastal areas of Italy are dominated by typical Mediterranean the creation of forestry roads in previously unspoiled forest areas. scrub, usually referred to as ‘macchia’ or, when less dense, as ‘Unsustainable exploitation’ refers mainly to over-hunting and is ‘gariga’; scrub of evergreen oak Quercus ilex is the characteristic the second most important threat to birds at IBAs in Italy, not climax vegetation-type. only to those species that are legally hunted but also many other According to figures from the National Forest Inventory (1985, species, due to the lack of controls and proper hunting management quoted by Ministero dell’Ambiente [1997]) woodland covers 8.7 procedures. million ha (c.29% of the national land surface), being concentrated Agricultural intensification and changes in crops or management in mountain areas, with only 5% on the plains. Most woodland is procedures (e.g. towards soya, sunflowers, ‘dry’ rice cultivation) mixed broadleaved coppice dominated by Quercus species (a are affecting bird populations, but the magnitude of the impact is minority by Castanea or Fagus), while forests are mainly coniferous, not yet clear, due to a lack of appropriate studies and monitoring. dominated by spruce Picea, larch Larix and fir Abies. Twenty-five Agri-environmental schemes do not seem to have had any percent of the IBAs in Italy are mainly forest, on an individual significant positive effects on bird populations, while land basis (Figure 1), and this is due to the importance of this habitat abandonment is a serious threat in some areas, because the previous for raptors, gamebirds, owls and woodpeckers. management tends to have been traditional, low-impact agriculture,

364 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

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

Recreation/tourism Disturbance to birds Unsustainable exploitation Infrastructure Agricultural intensification/expansion Industrialization/urbanization Abandonment/reduction of land management Burning of vegetation Forest grazing Afforestation Consequences of animal/plant introductions Aquaculture/fisheries Firewood collection Natural events Filling-in of wetlands Drainage Extraction industry Deforestation (commercial) Groundwater abstraction Dredging/canalization High impact Intensified forest management Medium to low impact Other Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage Unknown impact Selective logging/cutting Unknown 0 10 20 3040 50 60 70 Percentage of IBAs (100% = 192 sites) which is often beneficial for birds. Afforestation of areas that are in this chapter) are established according to the national hunting marginal for agriculture (by deliberate tree-planting and natural plant law (no. 157/92) which endorses the EC Birds Directive. The total succession following land abandonment) is having an important surface extent of areas protected for nature conservation in Italy is impact on birds in some areas, reducing the richness and abundance 1,981,287 ha, representing 6.6% of the national land surface; this of open-country species. Poor or absent management of forests and figure is not the direct sum of the previously listed areas since some woodlands often increases the risk of fire, which every year burns types of protected area overlap and other areas are also protected hundreds of thousands of woods in Italy. according to other legal tools. Agricultural, industrial and tourist development and infra- The national protection status of IBAs is far from satisfactory structure, often aided by EU funding, have in the past destroyed (Table 5). Only 30% overlap to a high extent with the national large areas of semi-natural habitat throughout the country, and in protected-area system, while 29% have no protection at all (Figure 4). some areas this is still occurring. Large areas of wetland have been drained for land-claim: while there were 7,640 km² of wetland in ■ International protection Italy in 1865, there are now only 1,800 km², and drainage remains Italy is a contracting party to all of the international conventions a threat to some wetland IBAs (Figure 3). that are relevant to nature conservation at particular sites (Box 1). The protection of IBAs by these instruments is very low, with only 9% of IBAs receiving a high level of coverage individually and 57% PROTECTION STATUS being totally unprotected at the international level (Figure 5). The Italian government has designated 45 sites as ‘wetlands of ■ National protection international importance’ (Ramsar Sites), with a total area of about The national law on protected areas (no. 394/92) identifies several 56,500 ha, of which 44 are IBAs. The current IBA review has kinds of protected areas: (1) National Parks (17 covering an area identified a total of 39 wetland IBAs that meet Ramsar criteria, of of 1,231,351 ha), (2) National Nature Reserves (147 covering which 27 currently overlap with one or more (up to five) existing 40,020 ha), (3) National Marine Reserves (seven covering Ramsar Sites. At four such IBAs, the Ramsar Site needs to be 28,290 ha), (4) Regional Parks and Regional Reserves (218 covering enlarged to cover the whole of the wetland, as agreed in the Montrose 683,964 ha). Other protected areas (referred to as ‘Wildlife Reserves’ Declaration of the Contracting Parties which calls for the protection

Figure 4. The national protection status of Important Bird Areas Figure 5. The international protection status of Important Bird in Italy. Areas in Italy. High None High 18 IBAs (9%) 55 IBAs (29%) 58 IBAs (30%) None 109 IBAs (57%) Partial 27 IBAs (14%)

% of area of % of area of individual individual IBA overlaps IBA overlaps with international Low 15 IBAs (8%) with national protected areas: protected areas: High >90% High >90% Low Partial 10–90% 16 IBAs (8%) Partial 10–90% Partial Low <10% Overlaps, but Low <10% 63 IBAs (33%) None extent unknown 23 IBAs (12%) None Total area of overlap between IBA network in Italy and international protected-area system Total area of overlap between IBA network in Italy and national protected-area system (see Table 5 for categories) = 4,314 km2 (9% of total IBA area). Sites of unknown status (see Table 5 for categories) = 19,334–21,109 km2 (42–46% of total IBA area). overlap with one or more of the 99 SPAs declared by the Italian government in late 1998.

365 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Table 5. Protection status of Important Bird Areas in Italy. A tick (✔) indicates that an IBA overlaps with a protected area (to any extent). For the meaning of ‘+’ sign against SPAs, see ‘Analytical methods’. 2 2 1 1

National International National International 3 3

IBA International IBA International National Park National Nature Reserve National Marine Reserve Regional Park/Reserve Reserve Wildlife Private Reserve Nature Monument Ramsar Site Area Special Protection Biogenetic Reserve code name National Park National Nature Reserve National Marine Reserve Regional Park/Reserve Reserve Wildlife Private Reserve Nature Monument Ramsar Site Area Special Protection Biogenetic Reserve code name 001 Mont Blanc (Italian side) 051 Lago di Busche and ✔✔✔ 002 Monte Rosa (Valle d’Aosta side) Vincheto di Cellarda ✔ 003 Anzasca and Antrona valleys 052 Giulie pre-Alps 004 Antigorio and Formazza 053 Magredi of Pordenone valleys ✔ 054 Mount Grappa 005 Val Grande ✔✔ ✔ 055 Piave river 006 Mount Tabor 056 Assa valley 007 Pian di Spagna and 057 Lessini mountains ✔ + Lake Mezzola ✔✔✔058 Alto Garda Bresciano ✔ 008 Gran Paradiso ✔✔ ✔059 Middle course of River Brenta 009 Lake Maggiore 060 Quinto heronry ✔ 010 Campo dei Fiori, Valganna 061 Caorle lagoon ✔ and Cuvia valley 062 Grado and Marano lagoon ✔✔✔ 011 Grigne ✔ 063 Isonzo mouth, Cona island 012 Orobie ✔ and Panzano Gulf ✔ + 013 Camonica valley 064 Venice lagoon ✔✔✔✔ 014 Brabbia peatland and 065 River Mincio and Lake Varese ✔✔✔ Bosco Fontana ✔✔ ✔✔ 015 Lake Garda 066 Carso ✔ 016 Lake Viverone ✔ 067 Boscone island ✔✔+ 017 Novara heronries 068 River Po: from the mouth ✔✔✔ 018 Ticino river ✔ of Adda river to Ostiglia 069 Codigoro heronry ✔✔ 019 Iseo peatlands ✔✔✔ 070 Po delta ✔✔✔ 020 River Sesia heronries ✔ 071 Valle Bertuzzi and 021 Lake Candia ✔ Goro lagoon ✔✔ ✔✔ 022 Heronries of Pavia province ✔ 072 Valli di Comacchio and ✔ 023 Adda Sud Park heronries Bonifica del Mezzano ✔✔ ✔✔ ✔ 024 Susa and Chisone valleys 073 Valli di Argenta ✔✔ ✔✔ ✔ 025 Vercelli rice-fields 074 Punte Alberete and Valle della 026 Trebbia river (lower course) Canna, Pineta San Vitale and ✔✔ ✔✔ 027 River Po: from Dora Baltea Pialassa della Baiona mouth to Scrivia mouth ✔ 075 Ortazzo and Ortazzino ✔✔✔✔✔ 028 River Po: from Ticino mouth 076 Cervia saltpans ✔✔✔ to Adda mouth ✔ 077 Lake Massaciuccoli ✔✔ 029 Marengo heronry ✔ 078 Foreste Casentinesi ✔ 030 Stirone stream ✔ 079 Calvana mountains 031 Taro river ✔✔080 Fucecchio marsh ✔ 032 Torrile LIPU reserve ✔ 081 Arezzo heathlands 033 Scrivia stream ✔ 082 Migliarino–San Rossore ✔ + 034 Crava–Morozzo lakes ✔ 083 Pools of Florence plain 035 Maritime Alps ✔ 084 Ponte Buriano–Lago della 036 Mount Beigua ✔ Penna ✔ 037 Finalese ✔ 085 Mount Conero ✔ 038 Ligurian Alps 086 Furlo gorge and Mount Catria 039 Alpi Apuane ✔✔ ✔ 087 Sentina 040 Apennines from Passo del 088 River Cecina ✔ Cerreto to Monte Caligi ✔✔ ✔✔089 Bolgheri ✔✔✔ 041 Stelvio National Park ✔✔090 Crete Senesi 042 Dolomites ✔ 091 Lake Trasimeno ✔ 043 Carniche Alps ✔ 092 Farma valley ✔ 044 Tarvisio forest ✔ 093 Lakes Montepulciano 045 Adamello–Brenta ✔✔✔ and Chiusi ✔ 046 Lagorai mountains ✔ + 094 Colfiorito ✔✔✔ 047 Carniche pre-Alps + 095 Sibillini mountains ✔✔ 048 Middle course of 096 Tuscan archipelago ✔✔ Tagliamento river ✔ 097 Diaccia Botrona ✔✔✔ 049 Cividalese and upper Torre 098 Uccellina mountains, Trappola valley marshes and Ombrone mouth ✔ + 050 Belluno Dolomites ✔✔099 Lake Bolsena Subtotal of IBAs 4 3 0 29 5 1 0 4 13 1 Subtotal of IBAs 7 12 0 54 13 2 0 19 36 1

366 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Table 5 ... continued. Protection status of Important Bird Areas in Italy. A tick (✔) indicates that an IBA overlaps with a protected area (to any extent). For the meaning of ‘+’ sign against SPAs, see ‘Analytical methods’. 2 2 1 1

National International National International 3 3

IBA International IBA International code name National Park National Nature Reserve National Marine Reserve Regional Park/Reserve Reserve Wildlife Private Reserve Nature Monument Ramsar Site Area Special Protection Biogenetic Reserve code name National Park National Nature Reserve National Marine Reserve Regional Park/Reserve Reserve Wildlife Private Reserve Nature Monument Ramsar Site Area Special Protection Biogenetic Reserve 100 Lake Alviano ✔✔150 Costa Viola 101 Laga mountains ✔✔ ✔ ✔ 151 Aspromonte ✔✔ 102 Selva del Lamone ✔ 152 Eolie islands ✔ + 103 Argentario 153 Peloritani mountains + 104 Orbetello lagoon and 154 Nebrodi ✔ + ✔✔✔ Burano lake 155 Mount Pecoraro and 105 Rieti lakes ✔ Pizzo Cirina + 106 Rieti mountains ✔ 156 Mount Cofano, Cape San Vito 107 Gran Sasso d’Italia ✔✔ and Mount Sparagio ✔ + 108 Vico lake ✔ 157 Egadi islands ✔ + 109 Cicolano ✔ 158 Stagnone di Marsala and 110 Lake Bracciano and Trapani saltpans ✔ + surrounding areas 159 Rocca Busambra ✔ + 111 Tolfa hills ✔✔160 Sicani mountains ✔ 112 Tarquinia saltpans ✔✔161 Castelluzzo + 113 Lucretili mountains ✔✔162 Cape Feto ✔ 114 Sirente, Velino and 163 Simeto mouth and Biviere ✔✔ ✔ Duchessa mountains di Lentini ✔ + 115 Maiella, Pizzi and Frentani 164 Madonie ✔ + mountains ✔✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ 165 Anapo gorges ✔ 116 Coast from Palo to 166 Biviere and Plain of Gela ✔✔+ Santa Marinella ✔✔✔ ✔ 167 Pantani di Capo Passero ✔✔✔ 117 Litorale Romano ✔✔+ 168 Pantelleria and Isole Pelagie + 118 Ernici and Simbruini mountains ✔✔ 169 Coast from Coghinas 119 Abruzzo National Park ✔✔✔ river mouth to Cape Testa 120 Lepini mountains ✔ 170 Maddalena archipelago ✔ 121 Circeo National Park ✔✔✔ 171 Asinara island and Stintino 122 Ponziane islands ✔✔✔ ✔ peninsula cliffs ✔ 123 Ausoni and Aurunci 172 Pilo and Casaraccio pools ✔ mountains ✔ 173 Campo d’Ozieri 124 Matese ✔✔ 174 Tavolara island ✔ 125 River Biferno ✔ 175 Cape Caccia ✔ 126 Daunia mountains 176 Coast between Bosa 127 Tremiti islands ✔✔ and Alghero 128 Lakes Lesina and Varano ✔✔ ✔ 177 Altopiano di Campeda 129 Gargano promontory ✔✔ ✔✔ 178 Central Campidano 130 Manfredonia Gulf wetlands ✔✔ ✔✔ 179 Altopiano di Abbasanta 131 Capri island ✔ and Lake Omodeo 132 Serre Persano ✔ 180 Cuglieri coast 133 Picentini mountains ✔ 181 Orosei Gulf and Gennargentu ✔ 134 Alburni mountains mountains ✔ 135 Murge + 182 Oristano wetlands ✔✔✔ ✔ 136 Mount Cervati 183 Mount Ferru of Tertenia ✔ 137 Dolomiti di Pietrapertosa + 184 Cape San Marco 138 Manferrara forest 185 Flumendosa and Colostrai pools 139 Gravine ✔ + 186 Mount Sette Fratelli 140 Coast between Marina di and Sarrabus Camerota and Policastro 187 Coast between Cape Boi and Bussentino ✔ Cape Ferrato 141 Lagonegrese and gorges of 188 Cagliari wetlands ✔✔ River Calore ✔✔ 189 Mount Arcosu ✔✔ 142 Mounts Orsomarso and Verbicaro ✔✔ ✔ 190 Palmas Gulf wetlands 143 Pollino ✔✔ ✔ 191 San Pietro and Sant’Antioco islands ✔ 144 Ferro valley 192 Coast between Cape Teulada 145 Sant’Andrea island + and Pula 146 Le Cesine ✔✔✔ Total number of IBAs 28 27 5 79 22 8 1 27 83 2 147 Cape Otranto 1. Includes Nature Reserve, Integral Nature Reserve and State Nature Reserve. 148 Sila Grande ✔✔ 2. Includes Marine Reserve and Marine Nature Reserve. ✔ 149 Marchesato and River Neto 3. Includes Nature Park, Regional Park, Regional Nature Park, Regional Urban Park and Subtotal of IBAs 24 27 2 68 18 7 1 23 64 2 Regional Nature Reserve.

367 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

maxima. Where the quoted figures are averages over a number Box 1. International legislation Global and initiatives that are Biodiversity Convention ✔ of years, the time-period is usually indicated as a footnote to relevant to site conservation in Ramsar Convention ✔ the figure. Italy (see Appendix 1 for a Bonn Convention ✔ • Wintering waterbird data come mainly from the Midwinter general description of these World Heritage Convention ✔ Waterbird Count coordinated by INFS (National Wildlife agreements). MAB Programme ✔ Institute). Data on breeding herons were provided by the Annual Pan-European Breeding Heron Record Scheme by the University of Pavia Bern Convention ✔ (courtesy of Prof. M. Fasola). Data on Falco biarmicus, Falco Regional eleonorae, Milvus milvus, Hieraaetus fasciatus, Neophron EC Birds Directive ✔ percnopterus and Falco naumanni came from a specific LIFE- EC Habitats Directive ✔ funded project that was managed by LIPU. National, regional Barcelona Convention ✔ and local bird atlas databases provided useful data for many ✔ Convention ratified/initiative supported areas as well. ✔ ( ) Convention signed • Breeding population sizes are poorly known for most birds in Italy (see Table 4). Reliable data are available for only a limited of the ecological units rather than sub-units of wetlands. These selection of species, including colonial waterbirds (herons, gulls sites are Venice lagoon (site 064), Po delta (070), Grado and Marano and terns), some rare or localized raptors (e.g. Falco biarmicus, lagoon (062) and Orbetello lagoon (104). Falco eleonorae), some newly established species (e.g. Platalea Of the 20 IBAs which meet Ramsar criteria but which have not leucorodia, Phoenicopterus ruber), some nationally endangered yet been declared as Ramsar Sites, seven are heronries (017, 020, species (Neophron percnopterus, Crex crex, Hieraaetus fasciatus), 022, 023, 025, 029, 069) while the others are inland lakes (015, 091, and gamebirds (Tetraonidae). National population figures for 093), coastal lagoons (061, 128, 158, 190), estuaries (063, 098, 163), most passerines are only rough estimates. However, data rivers (018, 028) or coasts (117). collection as part of this IBA review allowed the revision of The designation of IBAs as Special Protection Areas (SPAs) national population figures for some bird species. under the EC Birds Directive has been very poor until recently, • Data on habitats, land-uses, threats and protection status are with only 108 SPAs (503,657 ha) having been declared by November the most up-to-date available. Some difficulties were 1998, of which only 58 were IBAs. Following an infringement encountered in identifying the provincial protected areas referred procedure by the European Commission, the Italian government to as Wildlife Reserves since they may change quite often. is now declaring a new batch of SPAs. During November and • The unavailability of maps for the 99 new SPAs (declared in December 1998, 99 new SPAs were listed, raising the total SPA November/December 1998) while compiling this chapter did not area to 898,028 ha. This information came too late to be fully allow them to be fully incorporated into the individual site- incorporated into this chapter, but see ‘Analytical methods’. accounts, but Table 5 identifies the IBAs involved (with a ‘+’ sign), and the existence of the new SPAs has also been incorporated into Figure 5. CONSERVATION • IBAs and protected areas represent a potentially good network GLOSSARY for monitoring many bird species and this is actually happening for some species at some regional or national protected areas LIFE The European Union’s all-encompassing fund for nature conservation. (see ‘Analytical methods’). Monitoring and research mainly LIPU Lega Italiana Protezione Uccelli (the BirdLife Partner in Italy). cover specific issues such as acid rain in alpine forests, excessive SPA Special Protection Area (designated under Article 4 of the EC Birds erosion at coastal pine woods and sand-dunes, fires in Directive). Mediterranean evergreen woodland, nutrient pollution in NUTS Nomenclature des Unités Territoriales Statistiques (the administrative lagoons and lakes, and river pollution. regions of the European Union are called NUTS regions, and are designated • Projects funded by the EU’s LIFE Regulation and managed by by the EC Statistical Office. non-governmental organizations (often in collaboration with protected-area authorities) have allowed the writing and implementation of management plans at some IBAs: Brabbia ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS peatland (site 014), Mount Beigua (036), Po delta (070), Orbetello lagoon (104), and those IBAs in the central Apennine LIPU acknowledges the Ministry of Agriculture, (Comitato Tecnico protected areas and on the Sardinian steppes. Management plans Faunistico Venatorio Nazionale) for partially funding the IBA programme are also being implemented at some National Parks (i.e. Gran in Italy. We gratefully acknowledge the work of the contributors to the Paradiso and Abruzzo), and by the Regional Park Service in IBA review in Italy, listed below. M. Accinelli, C. Allegri, A. Ambrogio, some regions (i.e. , , Emilia-Romagna, M. Azzolini, N. Baccetti, A. Badami, L. Baghino, R. Balestrini, A. Bernardoni, ). Conservation activities in national reserves are M. Bernoni, G. Bianchi, R. Bionda, M. Biondi, G. Boano, M. Bocca, implemented by the Corpo Forestale dello Stato (National P. Bonvicini, A. Bozzetti, P. Brichetti, M. Brunelli, F. Bulgarini, D. Burdisso, Forest Guards), but many national protected areas still do not E. Calvario, G. Campo, C. Carere, F. Casale, L. Casini, F. Castiglione, have clear management plans. Surveillance and law enforcement R. Cataudella, B. Cauli, V. Cavallaro, G. Cherubini, A. Ciaccio, A. Cirelli, at protected areas is often, especially in the newly established L. Concezzi, P. Cortone, M. Costa, V. Cripezzi, P. De Franceschi, M. Della National Parks, inadequate. Some of the Ramsar Sites do not Toffola, F. Diana, E. Faraglia, U. Faralli, M. Fasola, L. Favilli, L. Felcher, have a management plan, and/or the responsibility for G. Floris, S. Follini, M. Fraissinet, G. Framarin, U. Gallo-Orsi, A. Gariboldi, management and surveillance is not clearly allocated. V. Giacoia, M. Gioiosa, E. Giudice, A. Golfré Andreasi, Gruppo NISORIA, M. Grussu, W. Guenzani, G. Guerrieri, M. Gustin, L. Ianniello, C.Iapichino, Istituto Nazionale Fauna Selvatica, F. La Carbonara, G. La Gioia, ANALYTICAL METHODS G. Lacarbonara, LIPU Abruzzo, P. Lodeserto, F. Lugarini, G. Manganelli, Martignago, C. Meo, A. Meschini, F. Mezzavilla, M. Milone, A. Minganti, • Data used for IBA identification included site-specific research T. Mingozzi, F. Mogavero, G. Monterosso, G. Motta, C. Movalli, M. Nicolino, carried out by the compilers of IBA data-sheets for individual G. Nuovo, PAI, G. Palumbo, M. Pandolfi, Parco Nazionale Circeo, R. Parodi, sites. A. Pepponi, F. Perco, M. Pesente, M. Pesente, F. Pezzo, S. Piciocchi, • About 75% of the bird data displayed in the site accounts date F. Presutti, L. Puglisi, A. Putignani, E. Quarenghi, G. Rannisi, M. Ravasini, from the period 1994–1996, and only about 25% of the bird F. Riga, V. Rizzi, F. Roscelli, S. Russo, M. Sanna, R. Santopaolo, P. Santucci, data are of ‘poor’ or ‘unknown’ accuracy, indicating that the S. Sarrocco, N. Scala, F. Scarton, G. Silveri, F. Simmi, A. Sorace, P. Spada, data-set is substantially up-to-date and of good quality. Counts P. Sposimo, M. Stangalini, F. Stiglitz, G. Tallone, G. Tellini, R. Toffoli, of migrating raptors that are quoted in the site-accounts tend to A. Urban, P. Utmar, F. Velatta, P. Ventrella, M. Visentin, S. Zanghellini, be seasonal totals, while counts of waterbirds tend to be daily S. Zerunian, L. Ziotti, T. Zorzenon.

368 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ SITE ACCOUNTS

Mont Blanc (Italian side) A3, C6 001 Anzasca and Antrona valleys A3, C6 003 Admin region Valle d’Aosta Admin region Piemonte Coordinates 45°50’N 6°51’E Coordinates 46°00’N 8°06’E Altitude 1,400–4,810 m Area 11,300 ha Altitude 247–4,637 m Area 42,600 ha

■ Site description ■ Site description The Italian side of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain of the Alps, A mountainous area in the south-west Alps, on the east side of the from Col de la Seigne up to Col Ferret. The site includes typical alpine Monte Rosa complex, covered mainly by broadleaved and coniferous habitats, especially glaciers (50% of the area) and rocky areas. woodlands and by alpine grasslands. The main land-uses are cattle- rearing, cultivation, forestry and tourism. Habitats Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (20%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (70%; scree/boulders; inland cliff) Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Land-use Agriculture (10%), Not utilized (50%), Tourism/recreation (50%) forest; mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (9%; scrub), Grassland (15%; dry siliceous grassland; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (1%; standing fresh water; river/ stream), Rocky areas (5%; scree/boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (10%; highly ■ Birds improved reseeded grassland; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation; Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria urban parks/gardens; other urban/industrial areas) 1 Lagopus mutus Ptarmigan R 1997 Frequent — C6 Land-use Agriculture (7%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (10%), Not utilized, Tourism/ 2 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1997 Frequent — C6 recreation (1%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1997 Common — A3 Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1997 Common — A3 Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1997 Frequent — A3 ■ Birds Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1997 Common — A3 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Serinus citrinella Citril Finch R 1997 Frequent — A3 Bonasa bonasia Hazel Grouse R 1997 Uncommon — C6 1. L. m. helveticus. Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1997 Frequent — C6 2. A. g. saxatilis. Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1996 30 — B A3 An important breeding site for five of the 10 species of the Eurasian Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1996 10 — — A3 high-montane biome, and for two gamebirds. Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1998 20 — C A3 Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1996 20 — C A3 ■ Protection status Serinus citrinella Citril Finch R 1988 — — — A3 National None International None Five of the 10 species of the Eurasian high-montane biome breed in important numbers, as do grouse (Tetraonidae). ■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Recreation/tourism (A) National None International None The main threats are posed by tourism and land abandonment. There are thousands of visitors each year, putting strong pressure on such a ■ Conservation issues fragile environment. The abandonment of grazing means that many Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Construction/impact of dyke/ grassland areas are reverting to scrub. The area is a proposed dam/barrage (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable International Parc between Italy and France, and is a proposed Special exploitation (U) Area for Conservation. The abandonment of land management is a major threat to grouse.

Monte Rosa (Valle d’Aosta side) C6 002 Admin region Valle d’Aosta Antigorio and A3, B2, C6 004 Coordinates 45°54’N 7°47’E Formazza valleys Altitude 2,100–4,531 m Area 8,200 ha Admin region Piemonte Coordinates 46°16’N 8°18’E Altitude 337–3,552 m Area 50,000 ha ■ Site description A large, high-altitude mountain area (the second highest in the Alps), dominated by rocky areas, glaciers and alpine grasslands. The main ■ Site description land-uses are tourism and cattle-grazing, in summer. A mountainous area in the south-western Alps, which includes the valleys of Antigorio and Formazza (the main ones), Devero, Carrasca Habitats Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (20%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky and . Broadleaved and coniferous woodlands are extensive, with areas (70%; scree/boulders; inland cliff) relatively unspoilt alpine grasslands and rocky areas. The main land- Land-use Agriculture (10%), Not utilized (60%), Tourism/recreation (40%) uses are cattle-rearing, forestry and tourism.

Habitats Forest and woodland (45%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous ■ Birds forest; mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (6%; scrub), Grassland (22%; alpine/ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (1%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Rocky 1 Lagopus mutus Ptarmigan R 1994 Frequent — C6 areas (15%; scree/boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (10%; highly improved 1. L. m. helveticus. reseeded grassland; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation; urban parks/ gardens; other urban/industrial areas) Land-use Agriculture (7%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (50%), Nature conservation/research ■ Protection status (15%), Not utilized, Tourism/recreation (5%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%), Water National None International None management (1%) ■ Conservation issues ■ Birds Threats Recreation/tourism (C) Five of the 10 species of the Eurasian high-montane biome breed in The building of new ski-resorts poses a threat. The area is a proposed important numbers. The area is also important for Aquila chrysaetos Special Area for Conservation. and grouse (Tetraonidae).

369 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Mount Tabor C7 006 Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 5 6 A B2, C6 Admin region Lombardia Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 3 5 B C6 Coordinates 46°04’N 9°09’E Bonasa bonasia Hazel Grouse R 1997 10 — B C6 Altitude 500–2,245 m Area 28,000 ha Lagopus mutus Ptarmigan R 1998 Common — C6 1 Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R — Common — B2 Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1998 4 — B C6 ■ Site description Glaucidium passerinum Pygmy Owl R 1998 5 — B C6 A mountainous area in the south-central Alps, on the west side of Dryocopus martius R 1997 10 — B C6 , and covered mainly by broadleaved woodlands. The main Black Woodpecker land-uses are hunting and forestry. Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1996 Common — A3 Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1996 Uncommon — A3 Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest), Scrub Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1996 Frequent — A3 (10%), Grassland (15%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (5%; standing fresh Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1996 Uncommon — A3 water; river/stream), Rocky areas (5%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (5%; arable land) Serinus citrinella Citril Finch R 1996 Uncommon — A3 Land-use Agriculture (5%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (20%), Tourism/recreation (5%), 1. Numbers not yet estimated. Unknown (45%), Water management (5%)

■ Protection status ■ Birds National Partial International None The area is notable for its high diversity of breeding raptors and for 11,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Alpe Veglia e its woodland passerines. Devero, 11,000 ha). ■ Protection status ■ Conservation issues National None International None Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Construction/impact of ■ Conservation issues dyke/dam/barrage (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Extraction industry (A), Firewood No major threats are present. It is a candidate Special Protection Area. collection (C), Natural events (U), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (U) The main threats are abandonment of land management, extraction Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola C7 007 industry (quarries), and tourism, the last one especially linked to Admin region Lombardia disturbance of grouse. There is research on the population density of Coordinates 46°13’N 9°27’E Tetrao tetrix in the Regional Nature Park. Altitude 198–698 m Area 3,400 ha

■ Site description Val Grande C7 005 A medium-sized freshwater lake (Lago di Mezzola) in a mountain Admin region Piemonte valley in the foothills of the south-central Alps, north of Lago di Como Coordinates 46°03’N 8°26’E and connected with it by the river. The lake and its associated Altitude 196–2,301 m Area 29,000 ha wetlands are surrounded by cultivated areas. Pian di Spagna is an alluvial flood-plain, lying between the two lakes. The site comprises ■ Site description mainly open water, reedbeds and intensively cultivated land. The main A mountainous Alpine area, on the west side of Lake Maggiore, land-uses are nature conservation, agriculture, and fisheries. including the following valleys: Val Grande, Val Pogallo, Val Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest), Cannobina and the south side of Val Vigezzo. The area is almost Scrub (5%; scrub), Grassland (2%; dry siliceous grassland; alpine/subalpine/boreal uninhabited, and comprises one of the largest wildernesses in grassland), Wetland (55%; shingle/stony beach; standing fresh water; river/stream; the Alps. It is mainly covered by broadleaved woodlands (beech water-fringe vegetation), Rocky areas (2%; scree/boulders; inland cliff), Artificial Fagus), with coniferous woodlands, alpine grasslands, streams and landscape (31%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/ rocky areas also present. The only current land-use is nature orchards/groves; urban parks/gardens; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) conservation. Land-use Agriculture (30%), Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Hunting (10%), Nature Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous conservation/research (50%), Tourism/recreation (2%) forest; mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (3%; scrub), Grassland (20%; alpine/ subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (2%; river/stream), Rocky areas (5%; inland cliff), ■ Birds Artificial landscape (10%) A notable area for migrating and wintering waterbirds. Species of Land-use Agriculture (2%), Nature conservation/research (80%), Not utilized (18%) global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (1, winter). ■ Birds The area is rich in breeding species of forests and mountains, including ■ Protection status raptors, gamebirds, owls and woodpeckers. National Partial International Partial 1,740 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Lago di ■ Protection status Mezzola-Pian di Spagna, 1,740 ha). 1,740 ha of IBA covered by Special National Partial International Partial Protection Area (Lago di Mezzola e Pian di Spagna, 1,740 ha). 12,210 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Val Grande, 12,210 ha). 1,740 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Pian di Spagna–Lago di 2,410 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Monte Mottac, Mezzola, 1,740 ha). 2,410 ha). 973 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Val Grande, 973 ha). 973 ha of IBA covered by Integral Nature Reserve ■ Conservation issues (Val Grande, 973 ha). 11,856 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Burning of vegetation (A), Area (Riserva Naturale Monte Mottac e Val Grande, 11,856 ha). Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (A), Dredging/canalization (A), Industrialization/ urbanization (A), Recreation/tourism (B) ■ Conservation issues Important threats are posed by the large reedbed fires that happen Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Burning of every year, the lowering of the water-level, and water pollution from vegetation (B) domestic, agricultural and industrial sources. The protection of the There are no major threats. There was a LIFE-funded project (1994– reserve is not implemented. Field studies are under way to compile a 1996) to prepare a management plan for the National Park. management plan for the reserve. The site is a bird-ringing field station.

370 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Gran Paradiso A3, B2, C6 008 Habitats Wetland (100%; shingle/stony beach; standing fresh water; river/stream; water- Admin region Piemonte, Valle d’Aosta fringe vegetation) Coordinates 45°33’N 7°16’E Land-use Hunting, Nature conservation/research (5%), Tourism/recreation (100%), Altitude 450–4,061 m Area 110,000 ha Water management (100%)

■ Site description ■ Birds A mountain area in the western Alps of Italy, between the rivers Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Dora Baltea and Orco. The site includes the area of Monte Emilius. A wide range of montane habitats are present, relatively intact and Gavia arctica Black-throated Diver W 1998 2 5 A C6 Milvus migrans Black Kite P 1997 100 — B C6 little disturbed by man—from deciduous forests to glaciers. The main Pandion haliaetus Osprey P 1997 10 — B C6 land-use is nature conservation. The most managed habitats are the forests. An important site for wetland raptors on passage and for wintering waterbirds. The reedbeds support good numbers of breeding waterbirds. Habitats Forest and woodland (22%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (10%; scrub; heathland), Grassland (8%; ■ Protection status dry siliceous grassland; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (55%; scree/ National None International None boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (5%; other urban/industrial areas) Land-use Forestry (10%), Hunting (20%), Nature conservation/research (80%), Tourism/ ■ Conservation issues recreation (30%), Water management (1%) Threats Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) ■ Birds The main threat is hunting—if this was forbidden, the site would hold many more wintering waterbirds. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard B 1996 10 20 C C6 Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 11 13 A B2, C6 1 Lagopus mutus Ptarmigan R 1996 200 — B C6 Campo dei Fiori, Valganna C7 010 Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1996 150 200 B B2, C6 and Cuvia valley 2 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 150 200 C B2, C6 Admin region Lombardia Aegolius funereus Tengmalm’s Owl R 1996 10 — C C6 Coordinates 45°55’N 8°46’E Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1996 12 15 C C6 Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1996 500 1,000 C A3 Altitude 350–1,226 m Area 24,500 ha Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1996 100 — C A3 Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1996 300 — C A3 ■ Site description Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1996 50 — C C6 A subalpine, mountainous area north of the town of Varese, covered Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1996 200 — C A3 Serinus citrinella Citril Finch R 1996 30 — C A3 mainly by broadleaved woodlands, with some streams and small lakes. The main land-uses are recreation and forestry. 1. L. m. helveticus. 2. A. g. saxatilis. Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest; treeline ecotone), Grassland (5%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (1%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water- This is one of the best areas in the Alps for birds of the Eurasian high- fringe vegetation), Rocky areas (1%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (13%; highly improved montane biome; five species occur in good numbers, out of the 10 reseeded grassland; arable land; forestry plantation; other urban/industrial areas) possible species. Also important for Aquila chrysaetos. Gypaetus Land-use Agriculture (3%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (20%), Nature conservation/ barbatus is present, having been reintroduced at the nearby protected research (22%), Tourism/recreation (90%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%) areas of Vanoise National Park (France; where it bred for the first time in 1997), Mercantour Natural Park (France) and Argentera Natural Park (Italy). ■ Birds The area is important mainly for species of woodland passerine and ■ Protection status for some breeding raptors. National Partial International Partial 70,200 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Gran Paradiso, ■ Protection status 70,200 ha). 3,521 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Mont National Partial International None Avic, 3,521 ha). 70,000 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area 5,400 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Campo dei Fiori, (Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso, 70,000 ha). 5,400 ha).

■ Conservation issues ■ Conservation issues Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Industrialization/urbanization (C), Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Industrialization/ Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (B) urbanization (C), Infrastructure (B) In some areas, forests are periodically cleared and cut, while new The main threats are urbanization, including the building of new forestry roads are continually being made. Research focuses mainly infrastructure, and the abandonment of land management. The site is on ibex Capra ibex (numbering about 4,000, the most important a candidate Special Protection Area. population in the world) and chamois Rupicapra rupicapra; the only studied bird species is Aquila chrysaetos. Grigne B2, C6 011 Admin region Lombardia Lake Maggiore C6 009 Coordinates 45°57’N 9°22’E Admin region Piemonte, Lombardia Altitude 199–2,409 m Area 14,038 ha Coordinates 45°55’N 8°40’E Altitude 198–283 m Area 21,600 ha ■ Site description Habitats Forest and woodland (45%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest), Scrub ■ Site description (5%; scrub), Grassland (35%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; alpine/subalpine/boreal A large freshwater lake of glacial origin in a pre-Alpine area of grassland), Wetland (5%; river/stream), Rocky areas (10%; inland cliff; caves) northern Italy, bordered by broadleaved deciduous forest, very wet Land-use Agriculture (10%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation (5%), and alluvial forest, reedbeds and rocky cliffs. The main land-uses are Urban/industrial/transport (5%) tourism and recreation.

371 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

The Grigne is a mountain complex located in the south-central Alps, west corner of the Camonica valley, south of the town of Edolo. Main on the east side of Lake Como, north of the town of Lecco. It includes habitats are broadleaved and coniferous woodlands. The main land- broadleaved forests, alpine grasslands and rocky areas. The main land- uses are hunting, agriculture and forestry. uses are cattle-rearing and nature conservation. Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (20%; alpine/ ■ Birds subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (standing fresh water; river/stream), Rocky areas Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria (5%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (15%; arable land) Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1995 20 — A B2, C6 Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (30%), Hunting (30%), Not utilized (15%), Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1995 50 100 B B2, C6 Tourism/recreation (15%) An important site for Milvus migrans and mountain bird species. ■ Birds ■ Protection status Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria National High International None Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R — — — — B2, C6 14,038 ha of IBA covered by Nature Park (Grigne, 14,038 ha).

■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status National None International None Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Consequences of animal/ plant introductions (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/ ■ Conservation issues tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A) The most important threats are the reduction in traditional agricultural activities and the lack of management for conservation. The main threats are poaching and hunting, including illegal trapping of passerines. The area has one of the highest concentrations of poachers and hunters in Italy. Orobie A3, B2, C6 012 Admin region Lombardia Coordinates 46°03’N 9°50’E Brabbia peatland A1, B2, B3, C1, C6 014 Altitude 658–3,050 m Area 107,000 ha and Lake Varese Admin region Lombardia Coordinates 45°47’N 8°45’E ■ Site description Altitude 238–241 m Area 1,960 ha A subalpine, mountainous area in the south-central Alps. It includes the southern part of low Valtellina and the high parts of Val Brembana, Val Seriana and Val di Scalve. Extensive broadleaved and coniferous ■ Site description woodlands, alpine grasslands and rocky areas predominate. The main Palude Brabbia is a fen peatland located at the foot of the pre-Alps, land-uses are linked to nature conservation and to agriculture and west of the town of Varese. The area includes open water, marsh forestry in mountain habitats. vegetation (mainly Phragmites and Carex), humid meadows and wet woodlands, and it is fed by the Brabbia Canal which links it to two Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous lakes. One of them is Lago di Varese, a medium-sized freshwater lake forest; mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (15%), Grassland (20%; alpine/subalpine/ surrounded by a fringe of reedbed. The main land-uses are nature boreal grassland), Wetland (5%; river/stream), Rocky areas (5%; inland cliff), Artificial conservation in Palude Brabbia, and tourism and hunting in Lago di landscape (5%; arable land; forestry plantation) Varese. Land-use Agriculture (5%), Forestry (20%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation (10%) Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (2%; scrub), Grassland (2%; humid grassland; mesophile grassland), Wetland (83%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation; fen/transition ■ Birds mire/spring), Artificial landscape (3%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation) Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 6 — A B2, C6 Land-use Agriculture (3%), Hunting (52%), Nature conservation/research (48%), Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R — Common — A3 Tourism/recreation (30%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%), Water management Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R — Frequent — A3 Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R — Common — A3 (50%) Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R — Frequent — A3 Serinus citrinella Citril Finch R 1996 Common — A3 ■ Birds The area is important for five of the 10 species of the Eurasian high- Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria montane biome, and for Aquila chrysaetos. Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 30 40 A B2, C6 ■ Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1996 15 17 A C6 Protection status 1 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 4 6 A A1, C1, C6 National High International None Locustella luscinioides Savi’s Warbler B 1996 10 15 A B3 63,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Orobie 1. Since 1992 (also a record of 1 in winter). Bergamasche, 63,000 ha). 44,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Orobie Valtellinesi, 44,000 ha). An important site for breeding Aythya nyroca, herons (including a mixed heronry of Nycticorax nycticorax and Ardea cinerea) and ■ Conservation issues reedbed passerines, and for foraging raptors. Numbers are based on No major threats are present. regular counts during 1987–1996, apart from breeding herons which started to colonize the area in 1993.

■ Protection status Camonica valley B2, C6 013 National Partial International High Admin region Lombardia 128 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Lago di Coordinates 46°03’N 10°13’E Biandronno, 128 ha). 459 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Altitude 328–2,743 m Area 15,000 ha Reserve (Palude Brabbia, 459 ha). 1,889 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Valli del Mincio, Paludi di Ostiglia, Torbiere d’Iseo, ■ Site description 1,889 ha). 459 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Palude Brabbia, A mountainous area of the south-central Alps, including the north- 459 ha).

372 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Conservation issues ■ Conservation issues Threats Burning of vegetation (A), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Burning of vegetation (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (C), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Groundwater Disturbance to birds (B), Recreation/tourism (C) abstraction (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (C), Recreation/ The main threats are agricultural intensification in the surrounding tourism (C) land, disturbance of birds by motor boats, and the regular (and At present the main threats are reedbed-burning, disturbance to apparently deliberate) burning of reedbeds. birds, and water pollution from domestic and industrial sources. Palude Brabbia is a LIPU reserve and is covered by a management plan. Novara heronries A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 017 Admin region Piemonte Coordinates 45°30’N 8°33’E Lake Garda A4i, B1i, C3 015 Altitude 80–185 m Area 50 ha Admin region Lombardia, Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto ■ Site description Coordinates 45°50’N 10°00’E The heronries are located in small woodlands surrounded by rice-fields, Altitude 65–65 m Area 38,000 ha on the west Padana plain, north-west of the town of Novara. The site was listed in the previous pan-European IBA inventory (Grimmett ■ Site description and Jones 1989) as subsite 4 of the IBA ‘Heronries in the catchment A large freshwater lake of glacial origin, in a pre-Alpine area of of the upper Po and Sesia Rivers’ (former site IT005). northern Italy. Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet Habitats Wetland (100%; shingle/stony beach; standing fresh water; river/stream; water- forest), Grassland (5%), Artificial landscape (15%; arable land) fringe vegetation) Land-use Agriculture (15%), Hunting (50%), Not utilized (35%) Land-use Tourism/recreation (100%) ■ Birds ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 — 1,219 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 Podiceps nigricollis W 1995 1,468 2,087 A A4i, B1i, C3 Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 — 507 A A4i, B1i, C2, C6 Black-necked Grebe Two mixed heronries: Garzaia di Morghengo–San Bernardino, and An important site for wintering waterbirds (16,800 in January 1994), Garzaia di Casaleggio. and especially for Podiceps nigricollis. ■ Protection status ■ Protection status National None International None National None International None ■ Conservation issues ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Firewood Threats Industrialization/urbanization (B), Recreation/tourism (C) collection (B), Unsustainable exploitation (C) There are no major threats. Water pollution comes from domestic The main threat is disturbance to birds by activity at a game reserve sewage, especially in summer when the area receives many tourists. at Garzaia di Morghengo–San Bernardino and by gravel extraction Regulation of boating on the lake is necessary. close to the same heronry. This is causing breeding pairs to move to Garzaia di Casaleggio. The Garzaia di Morghengo is included in a game reserve. Lake Viverone B3 016 Admin region Piemonte Coordinates 45°23’N 8°03’E Ticino river A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C3, C6 018 Altitude 220–235 m Area 930 ha Admin region Piemonte, Lombardia Coordinates 45°33’N 8°51’E Altitude 60–350 m Area 25,000 ha ■ Site description A freshwater lake of glacial origin on the western Padana plain, 15 km south of the town of Biella. The site includes large reedbeds and a wet ■ Site description woodland (Alnus). Tourism is the main human activity. A lowland wooded area on the west Padana plain, with small freshwater wetlands and cultivated areas, along the valley of the Ticino Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (80%; standing river, a tributary of the River Po. The main land-uses are agriculture, fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (10%) nature conservation and recreational activities. Land-use Agriculture (5%), Fisheries/aquaculture (20%), Nature conservation/ research (5%), Tourism/recreation (70%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) Habitats Forest and woodland (75%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (3%; scrub; heathland), Wetland (5%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (17%; highly ■ Birds improved reseeded grassland; arable land; forestry plantation; urban parks/gardens) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Land-use Agriculture (15%), Fisheries/aquaculture (3%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (30%), Locustella luscinioides Savi’s Warbler B 1995 Frequent — B3 Military (1%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation (30%), Urban/ industrial/transport (5%), Water management (5%) An important site for migrating and wintering waterbirds (up to 15,000 in winter) and for breeding reedbed passerines. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca ■ Birds (max. 5 on passage). Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Protection status Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1996 1,000 2,000 A B1i, C3 National Low International None Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 10 — C C2 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 — 1,995 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 49 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Lago di Viverone, Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1996 20 — B C2 49 ha).

373 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Burning of vegetation (C), Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 — 889 A A4i, B1i, C2, C6 Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Filling-in of Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1996 20 — C C6 wetlands (C), Other (A), Recreation/tourism (A) Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1996 100 — C C6 Alcedo atthis Kingfisher R 1996 50 — C C6

There are three main heronries: Cascina Portalupa, La Zelata and River Sesia heronries A1, A4i, B1i, B2, 020 San Massimo, all of which were listed in the previous pan-European Admin region Piemonte C1, C2, C6 IBA inventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989) as subsites 3–5 of the former Coordinates 45°24’N 8°23’E site IT023, ‘Heronries close to Pavia and the catchment of the Fiume Altitude 143–162 m Area 500 ha Ticino’. Counts for Nycticorax nycticorax and Egretta garzetta refer to the period 1990–1995. ■ Site description ■ Protection status The site lies along the Sesia river and its tributaries, on the west Padana National High International None plain, north-west of the town of Vercelli. The main land-use is nature Part of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Valle del Ticino conservation. The site was listed in the previous pan-European IBA (Lombardia), 90,640 ha). 6,136 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature inventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989) as subsites 1–3 of the IBA Park (Valle del Ticino (Piemonte), 6,136 ha). ‘Heronries in the catchment of the upper Po and Sesia Rivers’ (former site IT005). ■ Conservation issues Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Consequences of animal/plant forest), Scrub (5%; scrub), Wetland (10%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water- introductions (C), Deforestation (commercial) (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Firewood fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (15%; arable land) collection (C), Groundwater abstraction (U), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Natural Land-use Agriculture (15%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/ events (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Selective logging/cutting (C), Unsustainable recreation (10%) exploitation (C) The main threats are from agricultural intensification, industrialization ■ Birds and urbanization. All of the site is covered by a management plan. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria At Parco del Ticino, a project to reintroduce Eurasian otter Lutra Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 — 2,979 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 lutra Capreolus capreolus Emys , roe deer and European pond turtle Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 — 1,570 A A4i, B1i, C2, C6 orbicularis (globally near-threatened) is ongoing, and there are 1 Numenius tenuirostris W 1995 1 1 A A1, C1 censuses of wintering ducks and Phalacrocorax carbo, and of breeding Slender-billed Curlew herons. 1. One record, in February 1986. The site includes four large mixed heronries: Garzaia di , Garzaia di Vettignè, Garzaia di (Torrente Druma), and B3, C6 Iseo peatlands 019 Garzaia di Oldenico/Parco Naturale Lame del Sesia. Admin region Lombardia Coordinates 45°38’N 10°02’E ■ Protection status Altitude 186–230 m Area 325 ha National High International None 91 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia di Carisio, ■ Site description 91 ha). 10 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia Freshwater pools formed by peat-cutting in the pre-Alps, south of di Villarboit, 10 ha). 52 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve Lago d’Iseo. The pools are fringed by reedbeds, wet meadows and (Isolone di Oldenico, 52 ha). 500 ha of IBA covered by Regional woodlands. Most of the peat was extracted after the Second World Nature Park (Lame del Sesia, 845 ha). War. The main land-uses are nature conservation and recreation activities. ■ Conservation issues Habitats Forest and woodland (2%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (10%; scrub), Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B) Grassland (3%; humid grassland), Wetland (75%; standing fresh water; water-fringe The main threat is the change from ‘wet’ to ‘dry’ cultivation in the vegetation; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (10%) rice-fields around the sites. Land-use Agriculture (5%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/ recreation (5%)

Lake Candia B3 021 ■ Birds Admin region Piemonte Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Coordinates 45°18’N 7°58’E Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier B 1996 2 2 A C6 Altitude 280–280 m Area 295 ha Porzana porzana Spotted Crake B 1996 2 2 A C6 Locustella luscinioides Savi’s Warbler B 1996 8 10 A B3 ■ Site description A breeding and wintering site for waterbirds and reedbed passerines. A freshwater, nutrient-rich lake of modest dimensions, located on the western Padana plain, 10 km south of the town of Ivrea. It is bordered ■ Protection status by reedbeds and wet woodlands, and surrounded by meadows and National High International High maize-fields. The main human activities are nature conservation and 325 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Torbiere d’Iseo, tourism. 325 ha). 325 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Valli del Habitats Forest and woodland (alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (standing fresh water; Mincio, Paludi di Ostiglia, Torbiere d’Iseo, 1,889 ha). 324 ha of IBA water-fringe vegetation) covered by Ramsar Site (Torbiere d’Iseo, 324 ha). Land-use Agriculture, Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation ■ Conservation issues The main problems are posed by poor control over recreational ■ Birds activities, and over water management in the surrounding area Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria (‘Other’ threat), as well as water pollution from domestic and Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler B 1995 Common — B3 agricultural sources. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. Research on breeding bird populations is carried out regularly. The area is important for reedbed-breeding passerines.

374 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Protection status Threats are posed by agricultural intensification and by clear-cutting National High International None of trees (mainly illegal, by local people) for commercial reasons or to 295 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Parco Provinciale Lago increase the amount of cultivable land. Most of the heronries are di Candia, 295 ha). protected as Regional Nature Reserves, but some heronries are located inside game reserves, where the habitat management is sometimes not ■ Conservation issues favourable for the nesting herons. Censuses of breeding pairs are regularly carried out by the Università di Pavia on behalf of Regione Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Lombardia. Every heronry has a management plan, prepared by Drainage (C), Filling-in of wetlands (C) Regione Lombardia. Possible threats are the destruction of wetland habitats by agricultural activities, and the disturbance to birds due to tourism. Adda Sud Park A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 023 heronries Heronries of A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, C2, C4, C6 022 Admin region Lombardia Pavia province Coordinates 45°16’N 9°39’E Admin region Lombardia Altitude 60–100 m Area 1,000 ha Coordinates 45°18’N 9°10’E Altitude 63–107 m Area 1,173 ha ■ Site description Riparian habitats of the Adda river, a tributary of the River Po. ■ Site description Habitats are dominated by shallow standing water, aquatic vegetation A complex of heronries on the western Padana plain, isolated from and wet woodlands, and the site is surrounded by cultivated land each other and situated mainly inside small broadleaved woodlands and poplar Populus plantations. The main land-uses are nature surrounded by cultivated land, especially rice-fields. The main land- conservation and agriculture. uses are nature conservation and agriculture. ‘Water management’ is Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet linked to rice-fields. forest), Wetland (40%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet Artificial landscape (30%; arable land) forest), Grassland (3%; humid grassland), Wetland (7%; standing fresh water; river/ Land-use Agriculture (30%), Nature conservation/research (100%) stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; ruderal land) ■ Birds Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Forestry (30%), Hunting (20%), Nature conservation/research (80%), Tourism/recreation (10%), Water management Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria (10%) 1 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 70 564 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2 1 Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 57 299 A B1i, C2, C6 1 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1995 6 59 A C2, C6 ■ Birds 1. 1990–1995. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria There are two large mixed heronries, called Garzaia di Cascina Pioppo 1 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 — 5,443 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 and Garzaia di Zerbaglia. The latter was listed in the previous pan- 1 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1995 — 91 A B2, C2 1 Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 — 4,811 A A4i, B1i, C2, C6 European IBA inventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989) as ‘La Zerbaglia’ 1 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1995 — 61 A C2, C6 (former site IT022). 1. 1990–1995. ■ Protection status There are 12 main heronries: Abbazia Acqualunga, Bosco Basso, National High International None Carola, Cascina Notizia, Cascina Villarasca, Celpenchio, Porta 1,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Adda Sud, Chiossa, Rinalda, Roggia Torbida, Sant’Alessandro, Verminesca, and 23,600 ha). Villa Biscossi. The site holds internationally important numbers of breeding Nycticorax nycticorax (second-largest breeding colony in ■ Conservation issues Europe) and Egretta garzetta. The average total number of breeding Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Disturbance to birds (C) herons exceeds 20,000 birds. No major threats are present. ■ Protection status National High International None 42 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia del Bosco A3, B2, C6 Basso, 42 ha). 32 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve Susa and Chisone valleys 024 Admin region Piemonte (Garzaia della Carola, 32 ha). 76 ha of IBA covered by Regional Coordinates 45°03’N 7°00’E Nature Reserve (Garzaia della Cascina Isola, 76 ha). 75 ha of IBA Altitude 500–3,538 m Area 60,946 ha covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia della Cascina Notizia, 75 ha). 53 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia della Cascina Villarasca, 53 ha). 37 ha of IBA covered by Regional ■ Site description Nature Reserve (Garzaia della Rinalda, 37 ha). 13 ha of IBA covered A mountainous area in the south-west Alps, west of the town of Torino by Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia della Roggia Torbida, 13 ha). and east of the French border. There is a high diversity of habitats, 173 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia della with extensive coniferous woodlands, calcareous rocky areas and Verminesca, 173 ha). 122 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature alpine grasslands. Reserve (Garzaia di Acqualunga, 122 ha). 140 ha of IBA covered by Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia di Celpenchio, 140 ha). 83 ha of treeline ecotone), Grassland (alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (river/stream), IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia di Porta Chiossa, Rocky areas (inland cliff), Artificial landscape 83 ha). 256 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Nature conservation/research, Not utilized, Tourism/ di Sant’Alessandro, 256 ha). 72 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature recreation, Urban/industrial/transport Reserve (Garzaia di Villa Biscossi, 72 ha).

■ Conservation issues ■ Birds An important breeding area for Aquila chrysaetos and other raptors, Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Deforestation (commercial) (A), and for five out of the 10 species of the Eurasian high-montane Disturbance to birds (C) biome.

375 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Trebbia river (lower course) C6 026 Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard P 1992 600 — B C6 Admin region Emilia Romagna Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1995 4 5 B B2, C6 Coordinates 45°02’N 9°37’E Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1995 8 10 A B2, C6 Altitude 60–90 m Area 30 ha Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1995 4 7 A B2, C6 Aegolius funereus Tengmalm’s Owl R 1995 Common — C6 Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1995 6 — C C6 ■ Site description Lullula arborea Woodlark B 1995 Frequent — C6 The lower course of a tributary of the River Po. The site is dominated Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1995 Frequent — A3 by riparian and dry habitats, mainly wet woodlands (Populus and Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1995 Frequent — A3 Salix), ponds, pseudo-steppe, gravel-pits, and sandy areas. The main Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1995 Frequent — A3 land-use is gravel extraction. Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1995 35 70 B B2, C6 Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1995 Frequent — A3 Habitats Forest and woodland (alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (scrub), Grassland Serinus citrinella Citril Finch R 1995 Frequent — A3 (steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (shingle/stony beach; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (arable land) Land-use Agriculture, Military, Not utilized, Urban/industrial/transport ■ Protection status National Partial International None 23 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Orrido e Stazione ■ Birds di Leccio di Chianocco, 23 ha). 2,030 ha of IBA covered by Regional Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Nature Park (Gran Bosco di Salbertrand, 2,030 ha). 10,927 ha of IBA Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew B 1996 10 20 B C6 covered by Regional Nature Park (Orsiera-Rocciavre, 10,927 ha). 3,265 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Val Troncea, A notable breeding site for birds of dry areas (especially Burhinus 3,265 ha). oedicnemus, Calandrella brachydactylata and Anthus campestris) and for terns (Sterna hirundo and S. albifrons). ■ Conservation issues No major threats are present. There is research on Petronia petronia. ■ Protection status National None International None

■ Conservation issues Vercelli rice-fields A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 025 Admin region Piemonte Threats Disturbance to birds, Dredging/canalization, Extraction industry (A), Filling-in of wetlands Coordinates 45°12’N 8°16’E The lack of protection allows commercial gravel extraction (the main Altitude 136–182 m Area 15,000 ha threat), disturbance to birds by uncontrolled four-wheel drive vehicles and motorbikes and, occasionally, by sheep-grazing, and illegal ■ Site description dumping. LIPU has proposed the area as a Regional Nature Reserve, A lowland agricultural area on the western Padana plain, south-west and is carrying out an awareness/education campaign by means of a of the town of Vercelli, covered mainly by rice-fields. The area includes video shown in schools. Some or all of the site is covered by a a broadleaved woodland called Bosco della Partecipanza and a management plan. wetland called Palude di San Genuario. Part of the site was listed in the previous pan-European IBA inventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989) as subsite 6 of the IBA ‘Heronries in the catchment of the upper Po River Po: from Dora Baltea B2, B3, C2, C6 027 and Sesia Rivers’ (former site IT005). mouth to Scrivia mouth Habitats Forest and woodland (5%), Wetland (5%), Artificial landscape (90%; Admin region Piemonte arable land) Coordinates 45°07’N 8°20’E Land-use Agriculture (75%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (25%), Altitude 90–150 m Area 14,000 ha Nature conservation/research (10%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) ■ Site description ■ Birds A stretch of the River Po on the west Padana plain, including riparian woodlands, freshwater wetlands, poplar Populus plantations and other Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria cultivation. Botaurus stellaris Bittern R 1995 5 5 A C6 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1995 8 — B C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 1,764 2,952 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 forest), Scrub (5%; scrub), Wetland (60%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water- Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1995 24 164 A B1i, B2, C2, C6 fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded grassland; Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 468 1,372 A A4i, B1i, C2 arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation; ruderal land) Himantopus himantopus B 1995 300 330 A A4i, B1i, C2, C6 Land-use Agriculture (15%), Hunting (50%), Nature conservation/research (50%), Black-winged Stilt Tourism/recreation (25%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%), Water management Philomachus pugnax Ruff P 1995 3,500 5,000 B C6 Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1995 100 150 C C2, C6 ■ Birds A large mixed heronry (Garzaia di Montarolo) is located in Bosco Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria della Partecipanza. The rice-fields are important for breeding and Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 — 329 A B2, C2, C6 migrating waders. 1 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1995 5 57 A C2, C6 Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1995 100 220 B C6 ■ Protection status Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1995 60 120 B C6 Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler B 1995 100 200 C B3 National Low International None Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1995 10 40 C C6 1,068 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Bosco delle Sorti 1. Largest colony (Valenza) destroyed by flood November 1994. della Partecipanza di , 1,068 ha). Four heronries define this area: Garzaia della Tenuta Baraccone, ■ Conservation issues Garzaia di Camino (or di Ghiaia Grande), Garzaia di Valmacca (or G. di C. Mezzano) and Garzaia di Valenza. The first and the last Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance heronries were listed in the previous pan-European IBA inventory to birds (C), Filling-in of wetlands (C), Intensified forest management (C) (Grimmett and Jones 1989) as subsites 5 and 13 respectively of the IBA The change from ‘wet’ to ‘dry’ cultivation of rice is a very significant ‘Heronries in the catchment of the upper Po and Sesia Rivers’ (former threat. site IT005).

376 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ ■ Protection status Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria National High International None Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 — 968 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 14,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Po e Orba, 24,854 ha). ■ Protection status ■ Conservation issues National High International None 30 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Torrente Orba, 246 ha). Threats Afforestation (C), Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B), Extraction ■ Conservation issues industry (U), Recreation/tourism (C) No major threats are present. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan.

Stirone stream B2 030 River Po: from Ticino A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 028 Admin region Emilia Romagna mouth to Adda mouth Coordinates 44°50’N 9°59’E Admin region Lombardia, Emilia Romagna Altitude 76–474 m Area 2,400 ha Coordinates 45°00’N 10°00’E Altitude 40–50 m Area 25,000 ha ■ Site description The middle course of an Apennine stream, on the Padana plain. The ■ Site description main land-uses are agriculture and nature conservation. A stretch of the River Po, including large islands of shingle and sand, Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%; scrub; together with the surrounding wooded and cultivated areas. Main heathland), Wetland (30%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), land-uses are agriculture and recreation. The area includes a nuclear Artificial landscape (65%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial power station (close to the village of Caorso), not working at present. crops/orchards/groves; other urban/industrial areas) Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Land-use Agriculture (60%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/ Scrub (5%; scrub), Wetland (50%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), recreation (10%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%) Artificial landscape (35%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; forestry plantation) Land-use Agriculture (25%), Fisheries/aquaculture (50%), Hunting (50%), Nature ■ Birds conservation/research (5%), Tourism/recreation (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%), Water management (50%) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Merops apiaster Bee-eater B 1995 70 100 A B2 ■ Birds An important breeding site for Merops apiaster which also supports good numbers of terns and Riparia riparia. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 10 20 B C6 ■ Protection status Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 412 681 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 National Partial International None Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier R 1996 1 3 A C6 1,769 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Fiume Stirone, Alcedo atthis Kingfisher R 1996 15 20 C C6 1,769 ha). There are two important heronries: Monticchie (or Somaglia) and Isola de Pinedo. ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Firewood collection (C), ■ Protection status Infrastructure (B), Natural events (B), Recreation/tourism (B) National Low International None 200 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Monticchie, 200 ha). There are no high-impact threats.

■ Conservation issues Threats Afforestation (A), Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Consequences of Taro river B2, C2, C6 031 animal/plant introductions (C), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B), Admin region Emilia Romagna Drainage (A), Filling-in of wetlands (A), Industrialization/urbanization (A) Coordinates 44°49’N 10°13’E Altitude 27–172 m Area 6,000 ha The main threats are posed by: agricultural intensification, with consequent drainage; filling-in of wetlands and creation of poplar Populus plantations; water pollution by agricultural activities and by ■ Site description untreated urban sewage from the town of Milano. Isola de Pinedo is a The middle course of the Taro river, on the southern Padana plain, a proposed LIPU reserve. Monticchie is a WWF reserve. few kilometres west of the town of Parma. The alluvial plain is rich in gravel areas and sandbanks. The area is surrounded by cultivation. The main land-uses are nature conservation, agriculture, tourism, hunting and gravel extraction. Marengo heronry A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 029 Admin region Piemonte Habitats Forest and woodland (8%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (12%; scrub; Coordinates 44°49’N 8°39’E heathland), Grassland (6%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (28%; standing fresh Altitude 100–120 m Area 30 ha water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (46%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; forestry plantation; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture (35%), Forestry (15%), Hunting (60%), Nature conservation/ ■ Site description research (30%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Urban/industrial/transport (20%) An area of woodland along the Orba river, on the west Padana plain, 10 km south of the town of Alessandria. The main land-use is nature conservation. ■ Birds Habitats Forest and woodland Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Nature conservation/research 1 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 — 700 A B2, C2, C6 Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew B 1995 20 30 A C6 ■ Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1995 150 200 A C6 Birds Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1995 35 40 A B2, C2 A large, mixed heronry.

377 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria riverine woodlands (poplar Populus, oak Quercus). The main land- uses are nature conservation and research, and gravel extraction. Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1995 30 50 A B2, C6 Calandrella brachydactyla Short-toed Lark B 1995 40 60 A C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%; scrub), 1. Ozzano Taro and Gramignazzo heronries. Grassland (5%), Wetland (20%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Rocky areas (40%; scree/ boulders), Artificial landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; Important numbers of Burhinus oedicnemus (also many Merops ruderal land) apiaster and Riparia riparia) breed on the alluvial plain. Land-use Agriculture (20%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Hunting (30%), Nature conservation/research (30%), Urban/industrial/transport (15%) ■ Protection status National Partial International Partial 2,500 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Taro, 2,500 ha). ■ Birds 3,144 ha of IBA contains Special Protection Area (Fiume Taro da Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Fornovo di Taro all’Autostrada del Sole, 3,144 ha). Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1996 10 20 B C6 ■ Merops apiaster Bee-eater B 1996 80 160 A B2 Conservation issues Calandrella brachydactyla Short-toed Lark B 1996 10 80 A C6 Threats Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), Disturbance to birds (B), The area is important for the presence of breeding Merops apiaster Dredging/canalization (A), Extraction industry (A), Groundwater abstraction (A), and there is a small mixed heronry. Species of global conservation Industrialization/urbanization (A), Recreation/tourism (B) concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila clanga (min. 1, winter). The main threat is of wetland destruction by groundwater extraction, dredging and canalization, and gravel extraction. The ■ Protection status increase in industrial activities around the IBA is another important National Partial International None threat. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. The 900 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Torrente Scrivia, 900 ha). University of Parma is carrying out a long-term study of Riparia riparia. ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance Torrile LIPU reserve C6 032 to birds (C), Extraction industry (A), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Recreation/ Admin region Emilia Romagna tourism (C) Coordinates 44°56’N 10°20’E The main threat is from gravel-extraction activities. Bird-ringing has Altitude 29–35 m Area 200 ha been carried out regularly since 1990 by Museo di Storia Naturale di Carmagnola. ■ Site description An artificially created wetland, in a heavily cultivated, lowland area of the Padana plain, 15 km north of the city of Parma. Habitats include Crava–Morozzo lakes C7 034 wet grasslands, arable land, streams and rivers. Admin region Piemonte Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (10%; scrub), Wetland Coordinates 44°26’N 7°50’E (20%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (65%; Altitude 384–420 m Area 300 ha highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/industrial areas) Land-use Agriculture (45%), Hunting (15%), Nature conservation/research (15%), Tourism/ ■ Site description recreation (25%), Urban/industrial/transport (25%) An area of broadleaved woodland and wetland in north-west Italy, 10 km east of the town of Cuneo. Habitats include wet grasslands, ■ Birds freshwater ponds and cultivated areas. The main human activities are nature conservation, tourism and agriculture. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt B 1996 80 120 A C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Grassland (10%; humid grassland), Wetland (40%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe A notable site for migrating waterbirds and for breeding Himantopus vegetation), Artificial landscape (20%) himantopus and terns Sterna. Land-use Agriculture (20%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/ recreation (50%) ■ Protection status National Partial International None 35 ha of IBA covered by Private Reserve (Torrile, 35 ha). ■ Birds Notable species include woodland-breeding passerines and migrating ■ Conservation issues waterbirds. Threats Consequences of animal/plant introductions (A), Disturbance to birds (B), ■ Protection status Groundwater abstraction (A), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B) National High International None The main threats are the building of a power-station in the surroundings, 300 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Alta Valle Pesio, the abundance of coypu Myocastor coypu (an introduced, non-native 3,955 ha). aquatic rodent), groundwater extraction by the large sugar factory next to the reserve, and hunting in the surroundings. The reserve is owned ■ Conservation issues by LIPU, and there are projects on Ciconia ciconia (captive breeding), No major threats are present. The site is a candidate Special Protection Tyto alba and Himantopus himantopus. Area and has been a LIPU reserve since the 1970s.

Scrivia stream B2, C6 033 Maritime Alps A3, B1iv, B2, C5, C6 035 Admin region Piemonte Admin region Piemonte Coordinates 44°45’N 8°51’E Coordinates 44°18’N 7°10’E Altitude 120–250 m Area 3,000 ha Altitude 650–3,841 m Area 95,400 ha

■ Site description ■ Site description A stretch of the Scrivia stream, between the villages of Arquata and A large tract of the south-west Italian Alps, from Punta Marguaréis . Habitats include large areas of shingle, dry grasslands, and to Monviso. The area is divided into three sites: (1) Alta Valle Pesio e

378 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Tanaro (Nature Park), (2) Alpi Marittime (Nature Park) including A mountainous area in the northern Apennines, 10 km north-east Media e Alta Valle Stura and Alta Valle Gesso, and (3) Alta Valle of the town of Savona. The main habitats are broadleaved and Varaita. The main habitats are coniferous and broadleaved woodlands, coniferous forests, cultivated and ruderal lands, streams and, in the glaciers and rocky areas, and alpine grasslands. Cattle-breeding and highest areas, alpine grasslands and rocky cliffs. The main land-uses tourism are the main economic activities for local people. are nature conservation, forest management, sheep-rearing, and tourism. Habitats Forest and woodland (45%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest), Scrub (15%), Grassland (19%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (1%), ■ Birds Rocky areas (10%), Artificial landscape (10%) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (10%), Nature conservation/ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria research (30%), Tourism/recreation (10%), Urban/industrial/transport (2%) Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1995 20 — C C6 Sylvia undata Dartford Warbler R 1996 100 — A C6 ■ Birds An important ‘bottleneck’ site for birds migrating along the French Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria coast towards the Padana plain in spring, especially for raptors (more than 3,000 per season, especially Pernis apivorus, Circaetus gallicus Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1995 5 9 B B2, C6 and Circus aeruginosus), pigeons/doves, swifts and passerines Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle P 1994 33 62 A C6 Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1995 16 20 A B2, C6 (swallows, etc.). Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1995 7 10 A C6 ■ Lagopus mutus Ptarmigan R 1995 100 — B C6 Protection status Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1995 230 410 B B2, C6 National Partial International None Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge B 1995 350 550 B B2, C6 7,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Monte Beigua, Bubo bubo Eagle Owl B 1995 4 7 A B2, C6 17,500 ha). Aegolius funereus Tengmalm’s Owl R 1995 13 18 B C6 Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1995 20 — C C6 ■ Conservation issues Lullula arborea Woodlark R 1995 Frequent — C6 Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1995 Common — A3 Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Afforestation (C), Burning of Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1995 Frequent — A3 vegetation (A), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Forest grazing (B), Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1995 Abundant — A3 Recreation/tourism (C) Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1995 55 85 B B2, C6 The main threat to the area is from fires caused by man, e.g. by Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1995 Frequent — A3 shepherds to create ‘fresh’ grazing. Attempts are being made to prevent Serinus citrinella Citril Finch R 1995 Frequent — A3 and stop woodland fires. Some or all of the site is covered by a Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1995 50 70 B C6 management plan. A LIFE project has been funded for the period The site supports good breeding numbers of some raptors and 1999–2000. There are ornithological studies on migratory species, gamebirds, as well as five of the ten species of the Eurasian high- especially raptors. montane biome. The locality ‘Media e Alta Valle Stura’ is an important ‘bottleneck’ for migrating raptors (2,900–3,200 per autumn), mainly Pernis apivorus (2,000–3,000). Species of global conservation concern Finalese C6 037 that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila clanga (max. 1, passage). Admin region Liguria Coordinates 44°15’N 8°20’E ■ Protection status Altitude 0–300 m Area 3,750 ha National Partial International None 1,061 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Bosco e Laghi di Palanfre, 1,061 ha). 25,643 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature ■ Site description Park (Alpi Marittime, 25,643 ha). 3,955 ha of IBA covered by Regional A coastal area, rich in small valleys and chalk cliffs (inland as well as Nature Park (Alta Valle Pesio, 3,955 ha). coastal). Vegetation cover is mainly maquis and coniferous woodland. The main land-uses are agriculture and tourism. ■ Conservation issues Habitats Forest and woodland (27%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Afforestation (C), Disturbance coniferous forest; broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (45%; sclerophyllous scrub/ to birds (C), Firewood collection (C), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (C), Selective garrigue/maquis), Rocky areas (8%; sea cliff/rocky shore; inland cliff), Artificial logging/cutting (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C) landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded grassland; perennial crops/orchards/ groves; ruderal land) Major threats are posed by a project to build a highway to France, and Land-use Agriculture (15%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/ by the large and ongoing loss of traditionally cultivated areas and of recreation (15%) alpine grasslands. Projects in the Parco Naturale delle Alpi Marittime include the ongoing reintroduction of Gypaetus barbatus (and in the nearby Parc National du Mercantour in France), management of ■ Birds ungulates and fish, and studies on migratory birds, on breeding raptors, Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria on Nucifraga caryocatactes and on Aegolius funereus. Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1995 1 3 A C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1995 3 3 A C6 Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1995 3 3 A C6 Mount Beigua B1iv, C5, C6 036 A notable breeding site for raptors. Admin region Liguria Coordinates 44°25’N 8°40’E ■ Protection status Altitude 200–1,287 m Area 10,000 ha National High International None 3,750 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Finale, 3,750 ha). ■ Site description ■ Conservation issues Habitats Forest and woodland (25%; broadleaved deciduous forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (20%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (15%; Threats Burning of vegetation (A), Disturbance to birds (B), Infrastructure (C), alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (10%; inland cliff), Artificial Recreation/tourism (C) landscape (30%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; forestry The main threats are the burning of vegetation, and disturbance to plantation; other urban/industrial areas) breeding raptors by free-climbers (very common in the area). A Land-use Agriculture (17%), Forestry (10%), Nature conservation/research (70%), regional park was declared in the area but is not yet operative. LIPU Tourism/recreation (30%) has proposed that free-climbing in the area should be regulated.

379 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

The main threat is from marble quarrying. Some or all of the site is Ligurian Alps B2, C6 038 covered by a management plan. Admin region Liguria Coordinates 44°00’N 7°40’E Altitude 670–2,200 m Area 15,000 ha Apennines from Passo del B2, B3, C6 040 Cerreto to Monte Caligi ■ Site description Admin region Toscana, Emilia Romagna A mountain area in the south-west corner of the Italian Alps, from Coordinates 44°12’N 10°27’E Monte Alto to Monte Tanarello, at the border with France. The area Altitude 450–2,050 m Area 45,000 ha includes both Mediterranean and alpine habitats, from broadleaved evergreen woodlands to alpine grasslands. Tourism and cattle-breeding are the most important human activities. ■ Site description A large, mountainous area in the northern Apennines, including Habitats Forest and woodland (50%), Scrub (10%), Grassland (30%), Rocky areas (10%) broadleaved (mainly beech Fagus) and coniferous woodlands, Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (5%), Not utilized (60%), Tourism/ alpine grasslands and rocky areas, crossed by rivers and streams. recreation (15%) The main land-uses are nature conservation, forestry, cattle-rearing and hunting. ■ Birds Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria forest), Scrub (7%), Grassland (20%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard B 1986 Abundant — C6 (1%; river/stream), Rocky areas (2%), Artificial landscape (10%) Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1996 5 — A B2, C6 Land-use Agriculture (5%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (60%), Nature conservation/ Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1986 Frequent — C6 research (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1986 Frequent — C6 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 100 — C B2, C6 Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1986 5 — C C6 ■ Birds Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1986 5 — C C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Lullula arborea Woodlark R 1986 Frequent — C6 Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1986 Common — C6 Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard B 1996 2 10 C C6 Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1995 2 3 A C6 There are important breeding numbers of several raptors, gamebirds Strix aluco Tawny Owl R 1995 500 — C B3 and species of forest or open country. Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1993 50 — C B2 Picus viridis Green Woodpecker R 1995 100 — C B2 ■ Protection status Monticola saxatilis Rock Thrush B 1995 40 60 B B2 Parus caeruleus Blue Tit R 1995 1,000 — C B3 National None International None Important for breeding species of forest and mountain. ■ Conservation issues No major threats are present. A Regional Park is proposed. ■ Protection status National Partial International Low 98 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Campolino, 98 ha). 167 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Lamarossa, 167 ha). B2, C6 Alpi Apuane 039 192 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Orrido di Botri, Admin region Toscana 192 ha). 135 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Pania di Coordinates 44°06’N 10°14’E Corfino, 135 ha). 590 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Pian Altitude 800–1,947 m Area 16,800 ha degli Ontani, 590 ha). 217 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Orecchiella, 217 ha). Part of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park ■ Site description (Alto Appennino Modenese, 14,844 ha). Part of IBA covered by A mountain complex in Tuscany, east of the towns of Massa and Carrara. Regional Nature Park (Alto Appennino Reggiano, 16,981 ha). 584 ha The area is particularly rich in rocky areas and alpine grasslands. The of IBA covered by Biogenetic Reserve (Abetone, 584 ha). 584 ha of main land-uses are grazing, nature conservation, and marble extraction. IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Abetone, 584 ha). 98 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Campolino, 98 ha). 192 ha Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (10%; scrub), of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Orrido di Botri, 192 ha). Grassland (75%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; dry siliceous grassland; alpine/ 135 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Pania di Corfino, subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (5%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (5%) 135 ha). 590 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Pian degli Land-use Agriculture (65%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Urban/industrial/ Ontani, 590 ha). transport (5%) ■ Conservation issues ■ Birds Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Afforestation (B), Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Infrastructure (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C) Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1995 1 3 A C6 The most important threat is the abandonment of traditional Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1996 30 60 B C6 cultivation and cattle-rearing activities, with consequent loss of Monticola saxatilis Rock Thrush B 1996 40 60 B B2 pastures and grasslands. A National Park is proposed in the area. Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1996 15 45 B C6

Important breeding site for montane passerines. Stelvio National Park A3, B2, C6 041 ■ Protection status Admin region Lombardia, Trentino-Alto Adige National High International High Coordinates 46°30’N 10°32’E IBA contains Wildlife Reserve (Campocatino, area not known). Altitude 639–3,905 m Area 134,621 ha 16,800 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Alpi Apuane, 60,000 ha). 16,800 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Praterie primarie e secondarie delle Apuane, 17,414 ha). ■ Site description A large area of the central-southern Alps, with all the typical mountain ■ Conservation issues habitats, and where coniferous woodlands, alpine grasslands and rocky areas predominate. The main land-use is nature conservation (National Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Afforestation (C), Extraction Park). The main human activities are tourism, nature conservation, industry (A), Infrastructure (C), Natural events (C), Recreation/tourism (C) forestry and cattle-rearing.

380 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Protection status Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous National High International None forest; mixed forest), Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (30%; alpine/subalpine/boreal 11,192 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Dolomiti grassland), Wetland (river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Rocky areas (35%; inland d’Ampezzo, 11,192 ha). 11,635 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature cliff), Artificial landscape (5%; highly improved reseeded grassland; forestry plantation) Park (Dolomiti di Sesto, 11,635 ha). 25,680 ha of IBA covered by Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (20%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Regional Nature Park (Fanes Sennes Braies, 25,680 ha). Tourism/recreation (50%), Water management (5%) ■ Conservation issues ■ Birds Threats Deforestation (commercial) (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Infrastructure (C), Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Intensified forest management (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (C), Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 20 22 A B2, C6 Unsustainable exploitation (A) Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1989 10 — B C6 Bonasa bonasia Hazel Grouse R 1989 170 — B C6 The main threats are from tourism and hunting of grouse. The latter Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1989 300 — B B2, C6 practice is unsustainable, especially for Lagopus mutus helveticus. Tetrao urogallus Capercaillie R 1989 72 — A C6 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge B 1989 280 — B B2, C6 Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1996 50 — C C6 B2, C6 Picoides tridactylus R 1996 10 — C C6 Carniche Alps 043 Three-toed Woodpecker Admin region Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1996 100 — C A3 Coordinates 46°35’N 12°50’E Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1996 20 — C A3 Altitude 553–2,780 m Area 30,000 ha Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1996 100 — C A3 Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1996 100 — C A3 ■ Site description Serinus citrinella Citril Finch R 1996 50 — C A3 A mountain area in the south-east Alps, bordering Austria to the north. The area is important for gamebirds, raptors and five out of the 10 The site includes extensive coniferous woodlands of spruce Picea abies, species of the Eurasian high-montane biome. alpine grasslands, streams and rocky areas. Forestry and hunting are the main land-uses. ■ Protection status Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous National High International Partial forest; mixed forest), Grassland (40%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; dry siliceous 134,621 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Stelvio, 148,271 ha). grassland; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (river/stream), Rocky areas 62,824 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Parco Nazionale (10%; scree/boulders; inland cliff; caves) dello Stelvio (the part in Lombardia), 62,824 ha). Land-use Agriculture (6%), Forestry (50%), Hunting (75%), Nature conservation/ research (15%), Not utilized (15%), Tourism/recreation (30%) ■ Conservation issues Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Construction/impact of dyke/ ■ Birds dam/barrage (B), Disturbance to birds (C), Infrastructure (B), Intensified forest management (U), Other (A), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle B 1995 3 — B C6 The most important threats are posed by the abandonment of Lagopus mutus Ptarmigan R 1995 20 — B C6 mountain pastures, the building of tourist resorts, intensified forest Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1995 20 — C C6 management, and the poor management of the National Park, due to Tetrao urogallus Capercaillie R 1995 10 — C C6 the lack of funds and a management plan, and its division into three Glaucidium passerinum Pygmy Owl R 1995 10 — C C6 parts managed by three different public bodies (‘Other’ threat). Aegolius funereus Tengmalm’s Owl R 1995 20 — C C6 Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1996 5 — C B2, C6 Picoides tridactylus R 1995 3 — C C6 Three-toed Woodpecker Dolomites A3, C6 042 An important breeding site for forest/mountain species, especially Admin region Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto gamebirds, owls, raptors and woodpeckers. Coordinates 46°40’N 12°05’E Altitude 1,268–3,225 m Area 48,507 ha ■ Protection status National Low International None ■ Site description 2,000 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Bordaglia, 2,000 ha). Various groups of mountains in the Alps, with extensive scree and boulders, cliffs, alpine grasslands, scrub and coniferous woodlands. ■ Conservation issues Habitats Forest and woodland (25%; native coniferous forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Afforestation (C), (5%; scrub), Grassland (25%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (40%; scree/ Disturbance to birds (B), Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C), Intensified boulders; inland cliff) forest management (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (U), Land-use Agriculture (15%), Forestry (25%), Hunting (77%), Nature conservation/ Unsustainable exploitation (B) research (100%), Tourism/recreation (25%) There are no major threats. There is research on Tetrao tetrix by Osservatorio Faunistico di Udine. ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1995 50 — B C6 Tarvisio forest B2, B3, C6 044 Tetrao urogallus Capercaillie R 1995 15 — B C6 Admin region Friuli-Venezia Giulia Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1995 Frequent — C6 Coordinates 46°30’N 13°30’E Picoides tridactylus R 1995 5 — B C6 Altitude 580–2,753 m Area 23,300 ha Three-toed Woodpecker Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1995 15 — B A3 Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1995 10 — B A3 ■ Site description Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1995 100 — B A3 One of the largest forests in the Alps, relatively intact and undisturbed. Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1995 20 — B A3 The area is comprised mainly of native coniferous woodland of Serinus citrinella Citril Finch U 1995 Rare — A3 spruce Picea abies and mixed woodland, with some alpine pastures An important breeding site for at least four of the 10 species of the and grasslands. Cattle-grazing and forestry are the main human Eurasian high-montane biome, and for grouse and woodpeckers. activities.

381 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Habitats Forest and woodland (62%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria forest; mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (3%), Grassland (15%; steppe/dry Glaucidium passerinum Pygmy Owl R 1996 10 — C C6 calcareous grassland; dry siliceous grassland; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Aegolius funereus Tengmalm’s Owl R 1996 15 — C C6 Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1995 40 — B C6 Wetland (5%; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Rocky areas (15%; inland cliff; Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1996 300 — B A3 caves) Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1996 20 — C A3 Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (65%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Not Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1996 200 — B A3 utilized (15%), Tourism/recreation (10%) Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1996 100 — C A3 Serinus citrinella Citril Finch R 1996 Uncommon — A3 ■ Birds 1. L. m. helveticus. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria The area is important for gamebirds, raptors and five out of the 10 1 Gyps fulvus Griffon Vulture N 1995 20 30 B C6 species of the Eurasian high-montane biome. Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1995 3 4 A C6 Bonasa bonasia Hazel Grouse R 1995 120 200 A C6 ■ Protection status Lagopus mutus Ptarmigan R 1995 40 50 A C6 National High International Low Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1995 65 70 A C6 48,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Adamello, Tetrao urogallus Capercaillie R 1995 60 70 — C6 48,000 ha). 61,800 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1995 20 25 A B2, C6 (Adamello Brenta, 61,864 ha). 37 ha of IBA covered by Special Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1995 20 30 A C6 Protection Area (Lago di Tovel, 37 ha). 37 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Picoides tridactylus R 1995 20 40 B C6 Site (Lago di Tovel, 37 ha). Three-toed Woodpecker Turdus torquatus Ring Ouzel B 1995 Common — B3 ■ Parus cristatus Crested Tit R 1995 Common — B3 Conservation issues 1. Oversummering birds from Austrian Alps (and Croatia?). Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/ tourism (C) An important site for forest/mountain species of grouse, raptor and woodpecker. Counts refer mostly to 1995. Breeding species of The building of new infrastructure, especially for tourism and forest global conservation concern that does not meet IBA criteria: Crex exploitation (roads), is the main threat. A project to reintroduce crex (2–4 pairs). Gypaetus barbatus is ongoing, as are studies on Tetrao urogallus.

■ Protection status National Low International None Lagorai mountains B2, C6 046 21 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Cucco, 21 ha). 378 ha Admin region Trentino-Alto Adige of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Rio Bianco, 378 ha). Coordinates 46°11’N 11°36’E Altitude 1,000–2,754 m Area 40,000 ha ■ Conservation issues Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Afforestation (C), Firewood ■ Site description collection (C), Forest grazing (C), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (A), A mountain chain in the central-southern Alps. One of the largest Natural events (A), Other (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (C), areas of wilderness in the Alps, with almost no human settlement. Unsustainable exploitation (B) The alpine habitats are relatively intact and undisturbed by man, Industrial/urban development and infrastructure, and hunting, are ranging from coniferous woodlands (Picea, Larix, Pinus) to grasslands, threats in the zone around the IBA, but there are no major threats rocky areas, and many small lakes. Cattle-rearing and forestry are within the site. The whole area is protected and managed by the important human activities. National Forestry Department. Some or all of the site is covered by a Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; management plan. Research has been carried out since the early 1980s mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (scrub), Grassland (alpine/subalpine/boreal on birds (mainly gamebirds), mammals (ungulates, Ursus arctos), grassland), Wetland (river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Rocky areas (inland cliff) reptiles and invertebrates. Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Hunting, Tourism/recreation

■ Birds Adamello–Brenta A3, B2, C6 045 Admin region Lombardia, Trentino-Alto Adige Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Coordinates 46°08’N 10°46’E Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R — — — — B2 Altitude 280–3,556 m Area 112,800 ha Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1996 5 — C B2, C6

■ Site description ■ Protection status A large, mountainous area in the central-southern Alps. Half of the National Partial International Unknown area is covered by woodlands, mainly spruce Picea abies, while higher 10,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Paneveggio-Pale areas are dominated by alpine grasslands, bushes (Pinus, di San Martino, 19,097 ha). Overlaps with SPA. Rhododendron, Alnus, Juniperus), rocky areas and glaciers. Cattle- rearing, forestry and tourism are the dominant land-uses. ■ Conservation issues Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Infrastructure (C), Recreation/ forest), Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (25%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky tourism (C) areas (10%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (5%) No major threats are present. Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (50%), Hunting (90%), Nature conservation/ research (55%), Tourism/recreation (20%)

Carniche pre-Alps A1, B2, C1, C6 047 ■ Birds Admin region Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Coordinates 46°16’N 12°33’E Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 8 11 B B2, C6 Altitude 313–2,479 m Area 63,000 ha Bonasa bonasia Hazel Grouse R 1996 50 — B C6 1 Lagopus mutus Ptarmigan R 1996 50 — B C6 Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1996 100 — B B2, C6 ■ Site description Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 100 — B B2 A mountainous area of the pre-Alps in north-east Italy, characterized

382 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy by extensive pastures, streams, rivers, and coniferous and broadleaved Cividalese and A1, B3, C1, C2, C6 049 woodlands. Agriculture is the main land-use. upper Torre valley Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Admin region Friuli-Venezia Giulia forest; mixed forest), Scrub (scrub), Grassland (alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland; Coordinates 46°10’N 13°26’E humid grassland), Rocky areas (inland cliff) Altitude 180–1,641 m Area 28,400 ha Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Hunting, Urban/industrial/transport ■ Site description ■ Birds An area of hills and mountains in north-eastern Italy, with large areas of agriculture and broadleaved woodland. Agriculture and forestry Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria are the main land-uses. Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 21 — A A1, C1, C6 Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1988 5 — C B2, C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (scrub), Grassland (alpine/ subalpine/boreal grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (river/stream), Artificial landscape (highly An important breeding area for Crex crex. improved reseeded grassland; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation; ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Hunting, Urban/industrial/transport ■ Protection status National None International Unknown Overlaps with SPA. ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Conservation issues Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 67 — A A1, C1, C2, C6 Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Disturbance to birds (U), Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1990 10 — C C6 Industrialization/urbanization (C), Infrastructure (U), Intensified forest management (U), Turdus pilaris Fieldfare W 1990 1,000 — C B3 Natural events (C), Recreation/tourism (U), Unsustainable exploitation (C) Turdus iliacus Redwing W 1990 1,000 — C B3 The main threat is the abandonment of traditional land-use on An important breeding area for Crex crex. The only breeding site in grasslands. Italy for Strix uralensis.

■ Protection status National None International None Middle course C6 048 of Tagliamento river ■ Conservation issues Admin region Friuli-Venezia Giulia Coordinates 46°13’N 13°01’E Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Disturbance to birds (U), Altitude 158–1,478 m Area 3,579 ha Natural events (C), Other (C), Recreation/tourism (U) Abandonment of land management is the main threat to Crex crex. ■ Site description The middle course of Tagliamento river, in north-eastern Italy, is a pre-Alpine area with various dry and wet habitats (steppe grasslands, Belluno Dolomites A1, B2, C1, C6 050 boulders, broadleaved and wet woodlands, springs, rocky cliffs). The Admin region Veneto main land-uses are hunting and recreational activities. Coordinates 46°10’N 12°02’E Habitats Forest and woodland (52%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native Altitude 300–2,600 m Area 31,512 ha coniferous forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (30%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (13%; shingle/stony beach; standing fresh ■ Site description water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation; fen/transition mire/spring), Rocky areas A large mountain area in the south-eastern Alps, rich in pastures, (5%; scree/boulders; inland cliff) rocky cliffs, gorges, narrow valleys and coniferous woodlands. The Land-use Hunting (50%), Tourism/recreation (19%) main land-use is nature conservation.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%), Grassland (15%), Wetland (5%), Rocky areas (15%), ■ Birds Artificial landscape (15%) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (30%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1996 3 5 B C6 Tourism/recreation (20%), Water management (5%) 1 Bonasa bonasia Hazel Grouse R 1996 40 40 A C6 Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew B 1996 2 10 B C6 ■ Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1996 2 4 A C6 Birds Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1996 10 50 B C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike B 1996 10 30 B C6 Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1995 3 5 A B2, C6 Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1996 Uncommon — C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1995 3 5 A C6 1 Lagopus mutus Ptarmigan R 1995 20 40 B C6 1. Individuals. Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1996 20 40 A C6 An important breeding site for birds of dry or open habitats, and a Tetrao urogallus Capercaillie R — 10 20 — C6 foraging area for large raptors. Breeding species of global conservation Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 10 20 B A1, C1, C6 concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex (2–4 pairs). Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1995 10 20 B B2, C6 Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1995 30 50 B C6 ■ Protection status 1. L. m. helveticus. National Partial International None 487 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Lago di Cornino, ■ Protection status 487 ha). National High International Partial 31,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Dolomiti Bellunesi, ■ Conservation issues 31,000 ha). 17,455 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Riserve Naturali delle Dolomiti Bellunesi, 17,455 ha). Threats Burning of vegetation (C), Infrastructure (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C) ■ Conservation issues No major threats are present. The area is a proposed Regional Park. Threats Recreation/tourism (C) A feeding station for large raptors, especially Gyps fulvus, is maintained in the area. There are no major threats.

383 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Conservation issues Lago di Busche and C7 051 Vincheto di Cellarda Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Infrastructure (C), Intensified Admin region Veneto forest management (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (A) Coordinates 46°03’N 11°59’E The main threats are the abandonment of grassland management, Altitude 230–240 m Area 125 ha which allows shrubs and trees to invade, and illegal hunting of gamebirds. ■ Site description A wetland complex of the Piave river, located 15 km south-west of the town of Belluno. Habitats include an artificial lake (Lago di Magredi of Pordenone B2, C6 053 Busche), a wet woodland (Vincheto di Cellarda) of willow Salix and Admin region Friuli-Venezia Giulia alder Alnus, a peatland and a wet grassland. The main land-uses are Coordinates 46°01’N 12°44’E nature conservation, recreation and water management. Altitude 69–273 m Area 6,814 ha Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (scrub), Wetland (80%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation; fen/transition mire/ ■ Site description spring) A lowland, almost uninhabited area in north-east Italy, north-east of Land-use Nature conservation/research (80%), Tourism/recreation (30%), Water the town of Pordenone. It includes the localities Magredi di S. Foca, management (70%) Magredi del Cellina and Magredi di Vivaro. It is a very dry and gravelly site, dominated by pseudo-steppe vegetation, and used mainly for ■ Birds military purposes. An important stop-over site for waterbirds migrating along the valley Habitats Forest and woodland, Grassland (steppe/dry calcareous grassland), of Piave river (crossing the Alps). Wetland (shingle/stony beach; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape ■ Protection status Land-use Agriculture, Hunting, Military, Tourism/recreation National Partial International Partial 92 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Vincheto di Cellarda, 92 ha). 92 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Vincheto di Cellarda, ■ Birds 92 ha). 99 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Vincheto di Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Cellarda, 99 ha). 99 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Vincheto di Circus pygargus Montagu’s Harrier B 1996 3 5 A C6 Cellarda, 99 ha). Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew B 1996 5 15 A C6 Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1997 50 — B B2, C6 ■ Conservation issues Calandrella brachydactyla B 1996 10 20 B C6 Short-toed Lark Threats Disturbance to birds (C) Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1997 150 — B B2, C6 No major threats are present. Wintering waterbirds are monitored Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1996 20 50 A C6 regularly. Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1996 50 100 A C6 An area of notable importance for breeding birds of open country, and for migrating and wintering raptors. Giulie pre-Alps C6 052 ■ Protection status Admin region Friuli-Venezia Giulia National None International None Coordinates 46°02’N 12°43’E Altitude 360–2,587 m Area 39,400 ha ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Disturbance to birds (U), Dredging/ ■ Site description canalization (U), Extraction industry (U), Industrialization/urbanization (U), A pre-Alpine area in north-eastern Italy, with mountains and hills Infrastructure (U), Recreation/tourism (U) dominated by broadleaved woodland (beech Fagus) and scrub (Pinus mugo), with some alpine grasslands. The current area incorporates part Agricultural intensification is the main threat. of a site that was listed in the previous pan-European IBA inventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989), ‘Area between Gemona, Valle Resia, Monte Canin and Foresta del Tarvisio’ (part of former site IT037). Mount Grappa A1, B1iv, B2, C1, C5, C6 054 Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Admin region Veneto forest; mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (10%; steppe/dry Coordinates 45°53’N 11°48’E calcareous grassland; dry siliceous grassland; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Altitude 200–1,775 m Area 40,000 ha Wetland (5%; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Rocky areas (5%; scree/boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (10%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; ■ Site description perennial crops/orchards/groves; other urban/industrial areas) A large pre-Alpine area, part of the Prealpi Venete, north of the town Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (50%), Hunting (25%), Nature conservation/ of Bassano del Grappa. Large areas of broadleaved woodland and research (22%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) pasture dominate the site.

Habitats Forest and woodland (45%), Scrub (5%), Grassland (30%), Wetland (5%), ■ Birds Rocky areas (10%), Artificial landscape (5%) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Land-use Agriculture (5%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (80%), Tourism/recreation (10%), Lagopus mutus Ptarmigan R 1990 Uncommon — C6 Urban/industrial/transport (10%) Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1990 Uncommon — C6 Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 16 16 A C6 ■ Birds The site is particularly important for Crex crex, which breeds in the Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria grasslands, and for gamebirds. Bonasa bonasia Hazel Grouse R 1995 5 20 B C6 Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1995 30 50 A C6 ■ Protection status Tetrao urogallus Capercaillie R 1995 6 10 B C6 National Partial International None Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1995 50 75 A C6 9,402 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Prealpi Giulie, Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 22 — A A1, C1, C6 9,402 ha).

384 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Birds Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1995 3 5 A B2, C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Glaucidium passerinum Pygmy Owl R 1995 3 10 B C6 Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 15 30 A A1, C1, C6 Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1995 50 — B B2 Sylvia nisoria Barred Warbler B 1996 5 10 B C6 Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1995 15 25 B C6 Important site for breeding Crex crex. The site is important for breeding Crex crex, and is also a ‘bottleneck’ site for migrating raptors in spring, especially Pernis apivorus (3,000– ■ Protection status 3,500 per season). National None International None

■ Protection status ■ Conservation issues National None International None Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Disturbance to birds (B) ■ Conservation issues The main threat for Crex crex is the abandonment of grassland management. There is a yearly census of Crex crex by a local Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Afforestation (C), Disturbance ornithological group (NISORIA). to birds (A), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) The abandonment of pastures, with consequent natural reforestation, and the early cutting of grass are the main threats for Crex crex. Lessini mountains C6 057 Admin region Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto Coordinates 45°44’N 11°10’E Piave river B1iv, B2, C5, C6 055 Altitude 658–2,259 m Area 39,000 ha Admin region Veneto Coordinates 45°50’N 12°08’E ■ Site description Altitude 10–496 m Area 10,000 ha A mountain area located north of the town of Verona. Habitats include broadleaved, coniferous and mixed forests, rocky areas and ■ Site description alpine grasslands. Cattle-rearing and forestry are the main economic The middle course of the Piave river, north of the town of activities. Treviso, including the surrounding wooded hills (Colli Maser). Habitats Forest and woodland (45%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Dominant riparian habitats are wet grasslands and woodlands (Alnus, forest; mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (15%; scrub), Grassland (10%; alpine/ Salix, Populus), alluvial flats of gravel, sand and mud, and also steppic subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (1%; river/stream), Rocky areas (4%; inland cliff), areas. Artificial landscape (25%; arable land; forestry plantation; urban parks/gardens; other Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (10%), Grassland urban/industrial areas) (10%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (40%; river/stream), Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (50%), Hunting (80%), Tourism/recreation (60%), Artificial landscape (10%) Urban/industrial/transport (5%) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (20%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (95%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Birds Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 2 4 A C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 4 6 A C6 Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1995 70 100 A B2, C6 An important site for two raptors. There is an important flyway of migrating raptors along Colli Maser, mainly Pernis apivorus (3,000–5,000 per season). Breeding species of ■ Protection status global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex National Partial International Unknown (6 pairs). A small heronry is present. 10,368 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Lessinia, 10,368 ha). Overlaps with SPA. ■ Protection status National None International None ■ Conservation issues Threats Afforestation (B), Infrastructure (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B) ■ Conservation issues Hunting is an important threat. Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Extraction industry (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A) C6 The most important threat is the excavation of new gravel-pits. The Alto Garda Bresciano 058 Admin region Lombardia area is a proposed Regional Park. Coordinates 45°39’N 10°28’E Altitude 65–1,977 m Area 38,269 ha

Assa valley A1, C1, C6 056 ■ Site description Admin region Veneto A pre-Alpine mountain area on the west side of Lago di Garda, north Coordinates 45°51’N 11°24’E of the town of Salò. The site is rich in broadleaved woodlands, Altitude 300–1,100 m Area 2,000 ha grasslands, gorges and rocky cliffs. It is almost uninhabited and mainly used for nature conservation. ■ Site description Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous An Alpine valley that is surrounded by a high plain, on the west side forest; mixed forest; broadleaved evergreen forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (5%), of the Altopiano di Asiago. The area is covered mainly by cultivated Grassland (20%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (5%; standing fresh water; grassland. river/stream), Rocky areas (10%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land; Habitats Forest and woodland (45%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Grassland (40%; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation; ruderal land) mesophile grassland), Rocky areas (15%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (arable land) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (20%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Land-use Agriculture (40%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (40%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) Tourism/recreation (10%)

385 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Birds are freshwater wetland and wet woodland. Main land-uses are nature conservation and fish-farming. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1996 2 3 A C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (80%; standing Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 50 — A C6 fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation) Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/ A notable breeding site for raptors and gamebirds. recreation (10%) ■ Protection status National High International None ■ Birds 38,269 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Alto Garda Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Bresciano, 38,269 ha). Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 200 300 A B2, C2, C6 ■ Conservation issues An important colony of Nycticorax nycticorax. Threats Burning of vegetation (C), Deforestation (commercial) (C), Firewood ■ Protection status collection (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Selective logging/cutting (C) National High International None The main threat is the possibility that the park will be abolished or 50 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Fiume Sile, that its status will be downgraded so as to allow hunting again, a 3,097 ha). topic that is presently (1997) under discussion. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. ■ Conservation issues Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Drainage (C), Recreation/tourism (C) Fish-farming is the main threat: herons that try to feed at the Middle course B2, C6 059 artificial ponds are sometimes trapped by the nets that cover the of River Brenta ponds. Admin region Veneto Coordinates 45°40’N 11°42’E Altitude 35–80 m Area 1,100 ha Caorle lagoon A4i, B1i, B2, B3, C2, C6 061 Admin region Veneto ■ Site description Coordinates 45°39’N 12°55’E The middle course of the River Brenta, from the bridge at Nove to the Altitude 0–1 m Area 2,200 ha bridge at Carturo, about 15 km north-east of the town of Vicenza. The main habitats are large stretches of shingle, pseudo-steppes, shrubs and wet woodlands. Most of the area is not utilized by man. ■ Site description A large, brackish lagoon complex on the west coast of the northern Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (40%; scrub), Adriatic, between the larger Venice lagoon and the lagoon of Grado Grassland (10%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (45%; shingle/stony beach; and Marano. The lagoon is used for fish-farming and for hunting. river/stream; water-fringe vegetation) The surroundings are mainly large, cultivated fields on claimed land. Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (15%), Nature conservation/research (10%), Main land-uses are fishing (especially fish-farming), hunting and Not utilized (75%) agriculture.

Habitats Wetland (75%; tidal river/enclosed tidal water; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; ■ Birds sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing brackish and salt water), Artificial Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria landscape (25%; highly improved reseeded grassland; urban parks/gardens; other urban/ Alcedo atthis Kingfisher R 1995 20 50 C B2, C6 industrial areas) Sylvia nisoria Barred Warbler B 1995 50 100 B C6 Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (60%), Hunting (70%), Tourism/ Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1995 100 200 B C6 recreation (20%) Notable numbers of several passerines breed in the area. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila ■ Birds clanga (min. 1, winter). Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Protection status Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 200 250 B B2, C2, C6 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1996 10 30 B C2, C6 National None International None Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 — 350 B A4i, B1i, C2, C6 ■ Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1996 10 10 B C6 Conservation issues Acrocephalus palustris B — 100 — C B3 Threats Dredging/canalization (B), Extraction industry (C), Forest grazing (C), Marsh Warbler Industrialization/urbanization (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable An important site for breeding herons and wintering waterbirds. The exploitation (B) average number of wintering waterbirds during 1993–1996 was 18,800. The main threats are the proposed dredging of the riverbed and the Wintering species of global conservation concern that do not meet proposed re-opening of hunting in the area, which is currently a no- IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (max. 50, but that was in 1975), Aquila hunting zone (so as to allow game species to reproduce). The area is a clanga (1). proposed Regional Park. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. Bird-ringing takes place. ■ Protection status National None International None

■ Conservation issues Quinto heronry B2, C2, C6 060 Admin region Veneto Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance Coordinates 45°40’N 12°15’E to birds (C), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable Altitude 60–60 m Area 50 ha exploitation (B) Important threats are agricultural intensification, hunting and ■ Site description consequent disturbance to birds, and projects for urban, industrial The site lies on the Sile river, close to the village of Quinto, 10 km and touristic development, such as the proposal for the construction west of the town of Treviso, on the eastern Padana plain. Main habitats of a marina close to the mouth of Tagliamento river.

386 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

The main threats are: drainage; increased sedimentation of wetlands Grado and A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, 062 by mud from the dredging of channels; disturbance by tourists of Marano lagoon C2, C3, C4, C6 breeding birds along sandbars; intensification of fish-farming; the Admin region Friuli-Venezia Giulia extension of industrial and touristic infrastructure; illegal hunting; Coordinates 45°45’N 13°19’E and motor-boating. Some or all of the site is covered by a management Altitude 0–5 m Area 21,000 ha plan. There has been a regular census of wintering waterbirds and breeding gulls and herons since the 1970s. Since 1987 the Osservatori ■ Site description Faunistici di Gorizia e Udine has monitored breeding species regularly. A large, shallow tidal lagoon on the north Adriatic coast, fed by six Cygnus olor and Anser anser have been introduced as breeding species. rivers, 30 km in length and about 5 km in width, with six main connections with the open sea and a number of small islands and sandbars along the coast. The area is rich in tidal mudflats, sand-dunes B1i, B2, C2, C3, C6 and large reedbeds. The deeper parts of the lagoon are covered by eel- Isonzo mouth, Cona 063 island and Panzano Gulf grass Zostera and sea lettuce Ulva; the mudflats have cord-grass Spartina Admin region Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Ruppia; permanently exposed banks have Salicornia and the dunes Coordinates 45°45’N 13°34’E are vegetated by grasses (Agropyron, Ammophila), etc. There are fringing Altitude 0–5 m Area 5,000 ha stands of Scirpus, Phragmites and Salix around the freshwater channels and rivers which enter the lagoon. The site also includes the final stretch (and mouth of) the Stella river, a lowland woodland, some agricultural ■ Site description areas, and the sea up to 5 m depth. Fishing, fish-farming, hunting, The Isonzo river meets the north some 30 km west of tourism and agriculture are the main uses of the area. . There are saltmarshes, reedbeds, mudflats and sandbars, riparian woods, wet grasslands and agricultural areas. Panzano Gulf Habitats Forest and woodland (3%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet is an open sea bay. The main human activities are nature conservation, forest), Wetland (75%; tidal river/enclosed tidal water; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; sand- tourism, hunting, fishing, mussel-collecting and agriculture. dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing brackish and salt water; river/stream; water- fringe vegetation), Marine areas (14%; sea inlet/coastal features), Artificial landscape Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Wetland (55%; tidal (8%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas) river/enclosed tidal water; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; river/ Land-use Agriculture (2%), Fisheries/aquaculture (80%), Hunting (70%), Nature stream; water-fringe vegetation), Marine areas (10%; sea inlet/coastal features), Rocky conservation/research (15%), Tourism/recreation (5%), Urban/industrial/transport (3%) areas (1%; sea cliff/rocky shore), Artificial landscape (29%; arable land) Land-use Agriculture (30%), Fisheries/aquaculture (40%), Hunting (45%), Nature conservation/research (50%), Tourism/recreation (5%) ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1996 1,000 — A B1i, C3 Birds Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 10 20 A C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 1 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1994 100 100 A C6 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 5 10 A C6 Egretta garzetta Little Egret B — — — — C6 Anas penelope Wigeon W 1996 5,000 — B B1i, C3 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1996 80 80 A C2, C6 1 Bucephala clangula Goldeneye W 1994 120 400 A B1i, C3 Anser anser Greylag Goose W 1994 133 221 A B1i, C3 Numenius arquata Curlew W 1996 260 260 A B2 Anas penelope Wigeon W 1995 18,202 18,202 A A4i, B1i, C3 Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1996 50 50 A B2, C2, C6 Anas strepera Gadwall W 1996 3,188 3,188 A A4i, B1i, C3 1. Data 1992–1994. 2 Bucephala clangula Goldeneye W 1996 1,276 2,603 A B1i, C3 3 Mergus serrator W 1994 245 882 A B1i, C3 Panzano Gulf is important for wintering waterbirds, with Red-breasted Merganser internationally important numbers of Anas penelope and Bucephala Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier B 1996 30 30 A C6 clangula. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA Fulica atra Coot W 1996 11,730 64,795 A A4i, B1i, C3 criteria: Aythya nyroca (max. 4, winter). More than 280 species have Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover B 1995 25 25 A B2 been recorded, of which 70 breed. Numenius arquata Curlew W 1996 450 450 A B2 Tringa erythropus Spotted Redshank P 1993 1,000 — B A4i, B1i, C3 ■ Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull R 1996 4,500 4,500 A A4i, B1i, C3 Protection status Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1996 200 200 A B2, C2, C6 National Partial International Unknown Alcedo atthis Kingfisher R 1996 10 15 B C6 2,400 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Foci Isonzo, 1. Isola del Belli heronry; 1994 data. 2,400 ha). Overlaps with SPA. 2. 4,050 in winter 1982. 3. 882 in 1981. ■ Conservation issues A very important site for waterbirds in winter (more than 100,000) as Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), well as when breeding and on passage, with internationally important Consequences of animal/plant introductions (U), Disturbance to birds (A), Recreation/ numbers of a wide variety of species. Species of global conservation tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (max. 1, winter). A total of 280 species recorded, of which about 100 breed. Winter An important threat is the disturbance of birds by visitors and mussel- waterbird counts are from January, from the period 1992–1994 unless collectors along the seashore. Some or all of the site is covered by a otherwise stated. management plan. The area is a proposed Ramsar Site and is already partially managed as a Wildlife Sanctuary (Isola della Cona), with ■ Protection status ongoing projects to restore wetland habitat and to introduce Anser National Low International Low anser as a breeding species. Since 1988 the Osservatorio Faunistico 1,450 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Foci dello Stella, della Provincia di Gorizia has been managing a bird-ringing station 1,450 ha). 128 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Valle in the area. Canal Novo, 128 ha). 340 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Valle Cavanata, 340 ha). 1,400 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Marano Lagunare e Foce dello Stella, 1,400 ha). 243 ha Venice lagoon A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3, 064 of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Valle Cavanata, 243 ha). Admin region Veneto C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 243 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Valle Cavanata, 243 ha). Coordinates 45°22’N 12°28’E Altitude 0–1 m Area 50,000 ha ■ Conservation issues Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (B), Dredging/ ■ Site description canalization (B), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Industrialization/urbanization (C), An extensive brackish coastal lagoon along the eastern coast of the Infrastructure (C), Natural events (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B) northern Adriatic Sea, between the mouths of the Brenta and Piave

387 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy rivers. Three large, open water-bodies form the actual lagoon, ■ Conservation issues surrounded by a chain of smaller, closed lagoons (called ‘valli’) of Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance lower salinity. The bottoms of the large water-bodies are covered by to birds (A), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Natural events (A), Recreation/tourism (B), eel-grass Zostera and Ruppia. There are tidal mudflats with sea-lettuce Unsustainable exploitation (A) Ulva and Enteromorpha, and cord-grass Spartina is locally common. The surrounding areas are largely cultivated intensively (mainly maize). The main threats are posed by natural erosion, by increasing industrial Main land-uses are fish-farming, aquaculture and hunting inside the activities, by increasing water pollution from agriculture and from ‘valli’, and tourism. the industrial area of Porto Marghera, and by disturbance to birds caused mainly by tourism and hunting. Only a small part of the lagoon Habitats Forest and woodland, Wetland (93%; tidal river/enclosed tidal water; mudflat/sandflat; (Valle Averto) is a Special Protection Area. Numerous small wildlife saltmarsh; coastal lagoon; standing brackish and salt water), Artificial landscape (7%; highly reserves were created in the 1990s by the provincial authority improved reseeded grassland; arable land; urban parks/gardens; other urban/industrial areas) (Provincia di Venezia), following the national hunting law of 1991 Land-use Agriculture (5%), Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Hunting (20%), Nature that obliges a certain percentage of the provincial territory to be closed conservation/research (5%), Tourism/recreation (5%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%), to hunting. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. Water management (30%)

■ Birds River Mincio A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C3, C6 065 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria and Bosco Fontana Podiceps nigricollis W 1994 1,833 3,552 A A4i, B1i, C3 Admin region Lombardia Black-necked Grebe Coordinates 45°11’N 10°45’E Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1994 1,006 1,197 — B1i, C3 Altitude 18–32 m Area 8,000 ha Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 50 — B B2, C6 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 300 300 A B2, C2, C6 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1995 60 60 A B2, C2, C6 ■ Site description Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1996 1,008 1,008 A A4i, B1i, C2, C6 A river and its surroundings on the Padana plain, bordering the town Egretta garzetta Little Egret W 1994 612 1,522 A A4i, B1i, C2 of Mantova. The site is rich in freshwater wetland habitat, large Egretta alba Great White Egret W 1995 362 362 A A4i, B1i, C2 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1995 215 355 A B2, C2, C6 reedbeds and areas of open water (Valli del Mincio) close to the river, Anas penelope Wigeon W 1995 7,269 7,269 A B1i, C3 while agricultural land and broadleaved forests (Bosco Fontana) Anas crecca Teal W 1995 10,256 10,259 A B1i, C3 predominate in the surroundings. Agriculture is the main human 1 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 1994 3 33 A A1, C1 activity. Bucephala clangula Goldeneye W 1994 96 295 A B1i, C3 Circus pygargus Montagu’s Harrier B 1996 10 — B B3, C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet Fulica atra Coot W 1994 28,880 32,957 A B1i, C3 forest), Scrub (10%; scrub), Wetland (50%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water- Himantopus himantopus B — 150 — A C6 fringe vegetation; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (30%; highly improved Black-winged Stilt reseeded grassland; arable land; forestry plantation; urban parks/gardens; other urban/ Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1996 60 60 A C6 industrial areas) Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet W 1995 115 115 A B2 Land-use Agriculture (30%), Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Forestry (3%), Nature Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover B 1992 145 145 A B2 Calidris alpina Dunlin W 1995 22,310 22,310 A A4i, B1i, B2, C3 conservation/research (60%), Tourism/recreation (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%), Numenius arquata Curlew W 1996 459 459 A B2 Water management (30%) 2 Larus melanocephalus W 1995 163 4,053 A B1i, C2 Mediterranean Gull ■ Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern R 1996 200 — A C2, C6 Birds Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1996 800 — A C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1993 128 128 A B2, C2 Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1995 1,310 1,310 A B1i, C3 3 Sterna albifrons Little Tern N 1992 5,000 7,000 A A4i, B1i, C2 1 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 266 843 A B2, C2 3 Chlidonias niger Black Tern N 1992 6,000 10,000 A A4i, B1i, C2 1 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1995 7 25 A C2, C6 Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler B 1996 100 — C B3 Egretta alba Great White Egret W 1995 124 124 A A4i, B1i 1. 3 in 1994, 33 in 1985. Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1995 114 125 A B2, C2, C6 2. 1993–1995; a few pairs breed. 2 Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1996 — — — C6 3. Roosting July–September. 1. Breeding at Garolda, Valdaro and Lago Superiore heronries. 2. Reduced since 1980s (see text). A very important site for more than 100,000 wintering waterbirds (Fulica atra and Calidris alpina are particularly common), for breeding An important site for breeding, migrating and wintering waterbirds. herons, and for post-breeding terns which collect to roost here in large There is a large colony of tree-nesting herons (Garolda) and a colony numbers from all over the eastern Adriatic Sea (especially Sterna of Chlidonias niger (Valli del Mincio). There used to be a large number albifrons and Chlidonias niger, which form their largest concentrations of breeding Milvus migrans (min. 30 pairs), mostly at Bosco Fontana, in Europe here). The maximum total number of wintering waterbirds until the 1980s. Counts for heronries refer to the 1990–1995 period. in January was 74,642 in 1993 and 100,048 in 1994. ■ Protection status ■ Protection status National High International Partial National Partial International Low 233 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Bosco Fontana, IBA contains State Nature Reserve (Valle Millecampi, area not 233 ha). 1,081 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Valli known). 245 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Barene di S. del Mincio, 1,082 ha). 8,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Giuliano, 245 ha). 233 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Boschi Park (Mincio, 13,708 ha). 1,889 ha of IBA covered by Special di Cà Savio-Punta Sabbioni, 233 ha). 1,450 ha of IBA covered by Protection Area (Valli del Mincio, Paludi di Ostiglia, Torbiere d’Iseo, Wildlife Reserve (Casse di , 1,450 ha). 40 ha of IBA covered 1,889 ha). 1,081 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Valli del Mincio, by Wildlife Reserve (Cà Roman, 40 ha). 115 ha of IBA covered by 1,081 ha). Wildlife Reserve (Dune degli Alberoni, 115 ha). 14,500 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Isolotto petrolchimico e Laguna Viva, ■ Conservation issues 14,500 ha). 45 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Laghetti Decal, Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Consequences of animal/plant 45 ha). 90 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Le Vignole-La introductions (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Certosa, 90 ha). 158 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Pineta di Infrastructure (B), Natural events (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B) Cà Ballarin, 158 ha). 137 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Seca del Bacan, 137 ha). 52 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve The main threats to the site come from unsustainable use of water (Vallesina-Canale Casson, 52 ha). 500 ha of IBA covered by Special resources for agricultural purposes, and from water pollution by Protection Area (Valle Averto, 500 ha). 200 ha of IBA covered by agricultural sources (also much more from domestic and industrial Ramsar Site (Valle Averto, 200 ha). sources in the past).

388 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Conservation issues Carso B2, C6 066 Admin region Friuli-Venezia Giulia Threats Natural events (A) Coordinates 45°44’N 13°46’E The main threat is posed by the large floods of the River Po that Altitude 0–670 m Area 18,950 ha periodically destroy or modify parts of the island. The area is managed by LIPU for Regione Lombardia. Some or all of the site is covered by ■ Site description a management plan. Conservation activities include excavation works An area of karst between the northern Adriatic coast and the Slovenian for wetland restoration, education and birdwatching. border, north of the town of Trieste. It is rich in forests, with inland and coastal rocky cliffs, and a small lake. Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Grassland River Po: from the mouth A4i, B1i, B2, B3, 068 (5%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Rocky areas (5%; sea cliff/rocky shore; inland of Adda river to Ostiglia C2, C6 cliff), Artificial landscape (30%; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation) Admin region Lombardia, Veneto, Emilia Romagna Land-use Agriculture (15%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (80%), Military (5%), Nature Coordinates 45°00’N 10°36’E conservation/research (5%), Tourism/recreation (80%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%) Altitude 16–41 m Area 30,000 ha

■ Birds ■ Site description Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria A stretch of the River Po, including large islands of shingle and sand, riparian woodlands, poplar Populus plantations and flat, cultivated Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1996 3 3 A B2, C6 1 Emberiza cia Rock Bunting R 1996 400 — B B2 areas. The area includes a lowland freshwater wetland (169 ha) located Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1996 10 — C C6 a few kilometres north of the River Po, called Palude di Ostiglia. This 1. Possibly the most important breeding site in Italy. marshland of reed Phragmites and sedge Carex is separated from the surrounding intensively cultivated countryside by a 2 m high dyke. The area supports both Mediterranean and alpine species, as well as Main land-uses are intensive agriculture (especially maize), forestry numerous species of raptor. (poplar), and recreational activities. In Palude di Ostiglia the main land-use is the sustainable exploitation of sedge for producing ■ Protection status traditional handcrafts. National Low International None Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet 760 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Doberdò e forest), Wetland (50%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Pietrarossa, 760 ha). 100 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Artificial landscape (40%; arable land; forestry plantation) Reserve (Falesie di Duino, 100 ha). 300 ha of IBA covered by Regional Land-use Agriculture (25%), Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (20%), Nature Reserve (Monte Lanaro, 300 ha). 166 ha of IBA covered by Nature conservation/research (5%), Other (5%), Tourism/recreation (30%), Urban/ Regional Nature Reserve (Monte Orsario, 166 ha). 500 ha of IBA industrial/transport (5%), Water management (30%) covered by Regional Nature Park (Val Rosandra, 500 ha).

■ Conservation issues ■ Birds Threats Deforestation (commercial) (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Industrialization/ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B), Intensified forest management (C), Recreation/ Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1994 5 20 B C6

tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (C) Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1994 — 2,045 A A4i, B1i,B2, C2,C6 Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier R 1994 3 3 B C6 Circus pygargus Montagu’s Harrier B 1994 1 5 B C6 Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1994 — 80 C B2, C2, C6 Athene noctua Little Owl R 1996 50 100 B B2 Boscone island A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 067 Alcedo atthis Kingfisher R 1996 20 50 B B2, C6 Admin region Lombardia Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler B 1996 150 300 B B3 Coordinates 45°02’N 11°15’E This site is important for three large heronries (Pomponesco, Altitude 25–25 m Area 200 ha Gramignazzo and Bellaguarda), and especially for Nycticorax nycticorax. The area also supports notable numbers of a wide variety ■ Site description of other wetland species. Species of global conservation concern that An alluvial island on the south bank of the River Po, connected to the do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (max. 1, passage), shore by a narrow isthmus. It is covered mainly by shrubby Salix Acrocephalus paludicola (max. 1, passage). woodland, and bordered by reedbeds. The main land-use is nature conservation. The surrounding land is agricultural, mainly poplar ■ Protection status Populus plantations. National Partial International Low 23 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Garzaia di Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (50%; standing Pomponesco, 23 ha). 123 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature fresh water; river/stream) Reserve (Paludi di Ostiglia, 123 ha). IBA also covered by four Regional Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%) Nature Reserves of unknown area (Bosco Ronchetti, Lanca di Gerole, Lancone di Gussola, Spiaggioni di Spinadesco). 1,889 ha of IBA ■ Birds covered by Special Protection Area (Valli del Mincio, Paludi di Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Ostiglia, Torbiere d’Iseo, 1,889 ha). 123 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar 1 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 564 682 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 Site (Palude di Ostiglia, 123 ha). 2 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1988 5 14 A C2 1 Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 5 328 A B1i, C2, C6 ■ Conservation issues 1. 1990–1995. 2. Censused 1981, 1985, 1986, 1988. Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (A), Dredging/canalization (A), Filling-in of wetlands (A), Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C), The island holds an important mixed heronry of Nycticorax nycticorax, Infrastructure (A), Natural events (A), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (C) Egretta garzetta and Ardeola ralloides. The main threats are posed by the drainage, dredging, canalization ■ Protection status and filling-in of wetlands. Building of civil infrastructure and periodic National High International High large floods also have a large negative impact on the area. Palude di 200 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Isola Boscone, Ostiglia is a LIPU Reserve, and the area has been proposed as a 200 ha). 200 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Isola Boscone, Natural Park. Istituto Nazionale Fauna Selvatica carries out bird- 201 ha). Overlaps with SPA. ringing regularly at Ostiglia in spring and autumn.

389 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Codigoro heronry A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 069 Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Admin region Emilia Romagna Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull W 1994 5,921 5,921 A A4i, B1i, C3 Coordinates 44°56’N 12°14’E Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1994 1,249 1,249 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 Altitude 1–1 m Area 60 ha Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1995 1,250 1,250 A B1i, C3 1. Maistra, Bastimento, Pila and Dindona heronries. 2. Maistra and Dindona heronries. ■ Site description 3. Maistra, Dindona, Tramontana and Dritta heronries. The site is located on the east Padana plain, close to the village of 4. 1987–1994. 5. 1991–1994. Codigoro, inland of the Po delta. The pools of a sugar factory are the main land-use of the area, together with nature conservation. A very important site for wintering waterbirds (maximum count is 48,931 for all species) and for colony-breeding waterbirds (5,500 pairs Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved deciduous forest), Wetland (standing fresh of herons, 5,000 pairs of gulls, 5,200 pairs of terns). In particular, this water; water-fringe vegetation) is the most important breeding site in the western Palearctic for Sterna Land-use Nature conservation/research (67%), Urban/industrial/transport (67%) albifrons. Only 1994 counts are available for wintering waterbirds (January) and for breeding herons. Species of global conservation ■ Birds concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (rare breeder and winterer). Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria

Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 — 785 A A4i, B1i,B2, C2,C6 ■ Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1995 — 75 A B2, C2, C6 Protection status Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 — 863 A A4i, B1i, C2, C6 National Partial International None 457 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Bocche di Po, 457 ha). A large mixed heronry. The presence of the colony is linked to the 14 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Bonello Cà Zuliani, sugar-factory pools. 14 ha). IBA also contains three State Nature Reserves of unknown area (Bonello Bacucco, Bonello Cornerona, Bonello Giozzette). 35 ha ■ Protection status of IBA covered by Private Reserve (Biotopo Bonello, 35 ha). 32 ha of National Partial International High IBA covered by Private Reserve (Cà Mello, 32 ha). Part of IBA covered 31 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Bacini dello Zuccherificio by Regional Nature Park (Delta del Po, area unknown). di Codigoro, 31 ha). 60 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Garzaia dello zuccherificio di Codigoro, 60 ha). ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), ■ Conservation issues Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/ No major threats are present. barrage (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (B), Dredging/canalization (B), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Groundwater abstraction (B), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Natural events (A), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) Po delta A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, C2, C3, C4, C6 070 Important threats are: the discharge into the River Po of urban and Admin region Veneto agricultural (especially pig-farming) sewage, causing nutrient Coordinates 44°56’N 12°16’E pollution; the erosion of coastal sandbars (excessive water extraction Altitude 0–10 m Area 17,000 ha is causing subsidence); illegal hunting; and disturbance of birds by hunting and tourism (the former at the ‘valli’, the latter along the ■ Site description coast). Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. A large Mediterranean delta on the north-east coast of the Adriatic Sea, between the Adige river-mouth and the Sacca di Goro. The delta is fed by six major branches of the River Po. Its main habitats are Valle Bertuzzi B1i, B2, B3, C2, C3, C6 071 closed brackish lagoons (‘valli’), open coastal lagoons (‘sacche’), sand beaches and sandbanks, rivers and riverine vegetation, and farmland. and Goro lagoon Admin region Emilia Romagna Vegetation ranges from wet woodlands to reedbeds and plants of sand- Coordinates 44°47’N 12°15’E dunes and saline soils. The site is surrounded by intensively cultivated Altitude 1–1 m Area 4,000 ha arable land. Fish-farming, agriculture and hunting are the main human activities. ■ Site description Habitats Forest and woodland (2%; alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (85%; tidal river/ This area lies on the eastern Adriatic coast, and comprises Valle enclosed tidal water; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal Bertuzzi (a large brackish lagoon) and Sacca di Goro (an open lagoon), lagoon; standing fresh water; standing brackish and salt water; river/stream; water-fringe as well as some smaller sites: Lago delle Nazioni, Taglio della Falce, vegetation), Marine areas (8%; open sea; sea inlet/coastal features), Artificial landscape Scannone di Volano and Valli Cannaviè e Porticino. The main (5%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land) activities are fishing and fish-farming. Land-use Agriculture (3%), Fisheries/aquaculture (70%), Hunting (70%), Tourism/ recreation (20%), Urban/industrial/transport (1%), Water management Habitats Forest and woodland (1%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (2%; scrub), Wetland (97%; tidal river/enclosed tidal water; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/ sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing brackish and salt water; river/stream; water-fringe ■ Birds vegetation) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (80%), Hunting (80%), Nature conservation/ Podiceps nigricollis W 1994 2,933 2,933 A A4i, B1i, C3 research (80%) Black-necked Grebe Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1994 2,496 2,496 — B1i, C3 ■ 1 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1994 385 385 A B2, C2, C6 Birds 2 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1994 54 54 A B2, C2, C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 1 Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1994 913 913 A B1i, C2, C6 1 Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1994 126 220 A C2, C6 3 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1994 151 151 A B2, C2, C6 2 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1995 238 355 A B2, C2, C6 Anas penelope Wigeon W 1994 12,839 12,839 A B1i, C3 Circus pygargus Montagu’s Harrier B 1994 5 5 A B3, C6 4 Himantopus himantopus B 1994 64 79 A C6 1 Himantopus himantopus B 1994 40 70 B C6 Black-winged Stilt Black-winged Stilt Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet W 1994 112 112 A B2 Numenius arquata Curlew W 1994 124 124 A B2 5 Charadrius alexandrinus B 1994 65 140 A B2 Larus melanocephalus B 1994 641 641 A C2, C6 Kentish Plover Mediterranean Gull Calidris alpina Dunlin W 1994 1,012 1,012 A B2 3 Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1994 663 1,213 A B1i, C2, C6

390 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 4 Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1994 153 153 A B2, C2, C6 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 1976 95 95 A A1, C1 Acrocephalus scirpaceus Reed Warbler B 1996 100 300 A B3 Bucephala clangula Goldeneye W 1995 686 686 A B1i, C3 Himantopus himantopus B 1994 — 140 A B1i, C2, C6 1. 1993–1994. 2. 1994–1995. Black-winged Stilt 3. 1990–1994. Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1994 — 149 A C6 4. 1994 only. Glareola pratincola B 1996 — 30 B B1i, C2, C6 An important breeding and wintering site for waterbirds, notably for Collared Pratincole colony-breeding gulls and terns, for breeding Ardea purpurea (the Charadrius alexandrinus B 1994 36 96 A B2 largest colony in Italy and one of the largest in the western Paleartic), Kentish Plover Larus melanocephalus R 1994 — 1,550 A C2, C6 Phalacrocorax carbo and for roosting in winter (Valle Bertuzzi is the Mediterranean Gull largest such roost on the Adriatic coast). Winter data refer to January Gelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern B 1993 — 145 A B1i, B2, C2, C6 1994 count only. Wintering waders occur on the sandbanks and Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern B 1994 — 569 A B1i, C2, C6 beaches of Sacca di Goro. Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1994 — 1,010 A B1i, C2, C6 Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1994 178 1,750 — A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 ■ Protection status Acrocephalus melanopogon R 1996 10 20 A C6 National Partial International Partial Moustached Warbler 221 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Po di Volano, 221 ha). Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1996 50 100 B C6 Part of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Delta del Po, Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1996 50 100 B C6 59,118 ha). Part of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Valle A very important site for breeding, migrating and wintering waterbirds, Gorino, Bertuzzi, Comacchio, Ortazzo, Baiona, 20,400 ha). 3,100 ha especially for Sterna albifrons. Valli di Comacchio is important for of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Valle Bertuzzi, 3,100 ha). breeding terns, gulls and waders and for passage and wintering ducks and Fulica atra. Bonifica del Mezzano is important as a feeding area ■ Conservation issues for wintering geese Anser, for the presence of heronries, and for its potential value for wetland-restoration projects. Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance to birds (A), Natural events (A) Important threats to the waterbird colonies are: erosion and subsidence ■ Protection status of the islets; predation by rats Rattus; predation, disturbance and National Partial International Partial competition for breeding sites by Larus cachinnans; disturbance by 48 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Destra foce fiume aquaculture workers. Some or all of the site is covered by a Reno, 48 ha). 45 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Foce management plan. There have been studies on the colony-breeding fiume Reno, 45 ha). 163 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Sacca waterbirds (since the 1970s), on the impact of Phalacrocorax carbo di Bellocchio (I), 163 ha). 83 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve on fish-farming, and on plants and invertebrates. (Sacca di Bellocchio (II), 83 ha). 38 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Sacca di Bellocchio (III), 38 ha). 13,500 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Delta del Po, 59,118 ha). Part of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Valle Gorino, Bertuzzi, A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, Valli di Comacchio 072 Comacchio, Ortazzo, Baiona, 20,400 ha). 223 ha of IBA covered by and Bonifica C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 del Mezzano Ramsar Site (Sacca di Bellocchio, 223 ha). 13,500 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Valli residue del comprensorio di Comacchio, Admin region Emilia Romagna 13,500 ha). Coordinates 44°37’N 12°10’E Altitude 1–1 m Area 28,570 ha ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance ■ Site description to birds (B), Groundwater abstraction (B), Natural events (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B) A complex of wetlands and cultivated land on the eastern Padana plain, being the remnants of a large complex of lagoons, most of which Major threats are: the lowering of the water-table and consequent were drained from 1850 onwards. The main sites are Valli di erosion of the small islets used by breeding waterbirds; disturbance of Comacchio, Sacca di Bellocchio, Bonifica del Mezzano and three birds by hunters, birdwatchers and photographers; intensive fish- heronries (Garzaia di Lepri, Garzaia di Bando, Garzaia di Ostellato). farming involving the creation of artificial pools in place of the The shallow, brackish lagoon of Valli di Comacchio is the largest in traditional ‘valli’, especially along the southern border of the Valli di Italy and one of the largest in the . Sacca di Comacchio, using EU funds; pollution of water with nutrients from Bellocchio is a complex of saltmarshes (Salicornia, Suaeda) located in cultivated land and especially from a large 26,000-pig farm. Waterbirds between the Valli and the Adriatic Sea. Bonifica del Mezzano is an are censused in midwinter and during the breeding season (colonial agricultural area, formerly a lagoon (linked to the Valli di Comacchio) species). Botanical and entomological studies have been carried out which was drained in the 1960s. The most important human activities by Università di Ferrara. LIPU is carrying out a wetland-restoration are fish-farming, hunting and tourism in Valli di Comacchio, project at Volta Scirocco, along the southern border of the Valli di agriculture in Bonifica del Mezzano and nature conservation in Sacca Comacchio, with support from the EU (LIFE programme). di Bellocchio.

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (50%; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; standing brackish and salt Valli di Argenta A1, B1i, B2, C1, C2, C3, C6 073 water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (45%; arable land; Admin region Emilia Romagna urban parks/gardens) Coordinates 44°34’N 11°50’E Land-use Agriculture (40%), Fisheries/aquaculture (40%), Hunting (50%), Military (5%), Altitude 4–15 m Area 2,000 ha Nature conservation/research (50%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Urban/industrial/ transport (5%), Water management (10%) ■ Site description A complex of freshwater wetlands on the eastern Padana plain. Habitats ■ Birds include open water, reedbed, riverine woodland, wet grassland and Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria agricultural areas crossed by three rivers. The area can be divided into Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1995 1,157 1,157 A B1i, C3 the following subsites: Valle Santa, a wetland with reedbeds, Typha Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 455 730 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 beds and wet grassland; Val Campotto, a wetland half-covered by water- Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1995 — 35 A C2, C6 lilies Nymphaea; Bassarone, an open water-body. The surroundings are Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1995 100 300 A B2, C2, C6 mainly cultivated with maize, wheat, and poplar Populus plantations. Anser anser Greylag Goose W 1994 — 230 A B1i, C3 The main use of the site is for nature conservation and research—it is Aythya ferina Pochard W 1976 16,000 16,000 A A4i, B1i, C3 the main bird-ringing station in Italy.

391 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Birds Habitats Forest and woodland (7%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (10%; humid grassland), Wetland (75%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 1 (8%; highly improved reseeded grassland; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Tachybaptus ruficollis Little Grebe W 1996 994 1,000 A A4i, B1i, C3 2,3 Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 1995 7 7 A C6 Land-use Agriculture (3%), Forestry (5%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Water Pygmy Cormorant management (80%) Botaurus stellaris Bittern R 1995 — 3 B C6 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 18 20 A C6 ■ 2,4 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1994 267 361 A B2, C2, C6 Birds 2,4 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1994 25 57 A B2, C2, C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1994 690 977 A A4i, B1i, C2, C6 Botaurus stellaris Bittern B 1996 2 3 B C6 Egretta alba Great White Egret B 1995 22 22 A C6 5 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 50 — A B2, C6 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1994 81 82 A C2, C6 2 Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1996 1 8 A C6 1 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 10 277 A B2, C2 Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1991 5 5 A C6 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1995 — 70 A C2, C6 2,6 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 — 20 B A1, C1, C6 2 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1995 9 70 A C2 Himantopus himantopus B 1995 30 40 A C6 Anas strepera Gadwall W 1994 1,022 1,022 A B1i, C3 Black-winged Stilt Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 1989 12 12 A A1, C1 Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1995 40 50 A C6 3 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1996 15 20 B B2, C6 7 Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull W 1996 12,350 12,500 A B1i, C3 1. 600–900 pairs in 1980s. Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1996 250 300 B C6 2. 80–100 pairs in 1980s. Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1995 10 20 B C2 3. 150–250 pairs in 1980s. Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1997 50 — A B2, C6 Acrocephalus melanopogon R 1996 50 70 A C6 There is a large heronry of Nycticorax nycticorax, Egretta garzetta Moustached Warbler and Ardeola ralloides, as well as the largest Italian colony of 1. Pialassa della Baiona. Phalacrocorax carbo. Winter waterbird data refer to January 1994 2. Punte Alberete. counts only. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet 3. 1995 only. 4. 1992–1994. IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (2–3 pairs breed), Acrocephalus paludicola 5. Valle della Canna (80), Pialassa (1–2). (rare on passage). 6. Valle Mandriole. 7. 1996 only. ■ Protection status This is an important breeding site for a wide variety of waterbirds, National High International High notably herons and terns, and is the best breeding site in Italy for IBA contains Wildlife Reserve (Valli Argenta e Marmorta, area not Aythya nyroca and Acrocephalus melanopogon. Winter waterbird known). 2,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Delta del counts refer to winters of 1993, 1994 and 1996. Po, 59,118 ha). 1,830 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Valle Santa e Val Campotto, 1,830 ha). 1,363 ha of IBA covered by ■ Protection status Ramsar Site (Valle Campotto e Bassarone, 1,363 ha). 261 ha of IBA National High International High covered by Ramsar Site (Valle Santa, 261 ha). 709 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Pineta di Ravenna (San Vitale), 709 ha). 3,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park ■ Conservation issues (Delta del Po, 59,118 ha). 400 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Punte Alberete e Valle della Canna, 400 ha). Part of IBA covered Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Consequences of animal/plant by Special Protection Area (Valle Gorino, Bertuzzi, Comacchio, introductions (A) Ortazzo, Baiona, 20,400 ha). 1,630 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site There are two main threats. Coypu Myocastor coypus (an introduced, (Piallassa della Baiona e Risega, 1,630 ha). 480 ha of IBA covered by non-native aquatic rodent) have caused breeding Chlidonias hybridus Ramsar Site (Punte Alberete, 480 ha). to decline by largely destroying the cover of water-lilies Nymphaea. Nitrates and phosphates from agricultural fields are polluting the ■ Conservation issues wetlands with excess nutrients. Some or all of the site is covered by a Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), management plan. Coypu numbers are controlled by the local Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (B), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Groundwater abstraction (A), management body (Consorzio di Bonifica Renana). There is regular Industrialization/urbanization (A), Other (U), Unsustainable exploitation (A) monitoring of herons and Phalacrocorax carbo by the Università di Bologna. Species listed in the EC Habitats and Birds Directives are Coypu Myocastor coypus, a non-native aquatic rodent, is destroying censused by Regione Emilia Romagna. the floating vegetation. ‘Other’ threats (above) are (1) the unsustainable collection of mushrooms and other products from the pinewood and collection of mussels in the Piallassa della Baiona, and (2) the destruction of terns’ nests built on the roofs of hunting huts in Punte Alberete and Valle della A1, A4i, 074 Piallassa della Baiona. The nearby industrial area of Ravenna causes B1i, B2, Canna, Pineta San Vitale water pollution. Some or all of the site is covered by a management and Pialassa della Baiona C1, C2, C3, C6 plan. Bird studies are carried out by WWF-Italia, Università di Ferrara Admin region Emilia Romagna and Università di Pavia, while breeding gulls and terns are censused Coordinates 44°30’N 12°15’E by LIPU and Provincia di Ravenna. Research is also carried out by Altitude 1–10 m Area 3,000 ha Regione Emilia Romagna on those species and habitats that are listed in the EC Habitats and Birds Directives. ■ Site description An area of mixed wetland and wooded habitats, a few kilometres from the northern Adriatic coast, north of the town of Ravenna. Punte B1i, B2, C2, C6 Alberete (190 ha) is a flooded forest; Pialassa della Baiona (1,200 ha) Ortazzo and Ortazzino 075 Admin region Emilia Romagna is a brackish lagoon; Valle della Canna (260 ha) is a large reedbed; Coordinates 44°22’N 12°19’E Pineta di San Vitale is a pinewood Pinus (not native, but planted in Altitude 0–3 m Area 900 ha Roman times). Punte Alberete and Valle della Canna are used mainly for nature conservation, Pialassa della Baiona and Pineta di San Vitale mainly for recreation and hunting. ■ Site description A complex of brackish wetlands, close to the mouths of the rivers Bevano Habitats Forest and woodland (55%; native coniferous forest; alluvial/very wet forest), and Ghiaia, along the northern Adriatic coast, 10 km south-east of the Wetland (35%; saltmarsh; standing brackish and salt water; river/stream; water-fringe town of Ravenna. The site includes the mouths of the rivers and the vegetation), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land) related coastal area including a stretch of open sea, the natural dune Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (40%), Hunting (85%), Nature system, small lagoons, a pinewood Pinus, maquis, wet grasslands, conservation/research (15%), Tourism/recreation (40%) mudflats and cultivated land. The main land-use is nature conservation.

392 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

An important site for breeding and wintering waders, and for non- Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; mixed forest), Scrub (10%; sclerophyllous scrub/ breeding Egretta garzetta, Recurvirostra avosetta and gulls Larus. garrigue/maquis), Grassland (10%; humid grassland), Wetland (50%; tidal river/enclosed A total of 10,704 waterbirds were recorded in January 1994. Breeding tidal water; mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing brackish data were collected during 1990–1994, wintering data in winter and salt water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Marine areas (10%; sea inlet/ 1990/1991 and in January 1992, 1993 and 1994, while counts of passage coastal features), Artificial landscape (10%; highly improved reseeded grassland; other birds refer to spring 1991. urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture (8%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation (10%), ■ Protection status Urban/industrial/transport (5%) National Partial International Partial 785 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Salina di Cervia, 785 ha). ■ Birds 765 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Riserva Naturale Salina di Cervia, 765 ha). 785 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria (Saline di Cervia, 785 ha). Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1996 35 40 A C6 Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover B 1996 35 45 A B2 ■ Conservation issues 1 Gelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern B 1996 24 24 A B2, C2, C6 Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1996 200 250 A B1i, B2, C2, C6 Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Natural events (B), Other (A) 1. First breeding in 1996. The management of water-levels during salt-extraction activities affects An important breeding site for several waterbirds, and also notable the breeding success of waders. All of the site is covered by a management for its migrating waders and wintering ducks and Fulica atra. plan. Waterbirds are censused in midwinter and while breeding.

■ Protection status National High International High Lake Massaciuccoli A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3, 077 6 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Foce Bevano,6 ha). Part Admin region Toscana C1, C2, C6 of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Pineta di Ravenna, 709 ha). Coordinates 43°51’N 10°20’E 700 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Ortazzo-Ortazzino, 700 ha). Altitude 1–5 m Area 1,700 ha 900 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Delta del Po, 59,118 ha). 900 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Valle Gorino, Bertuzzi, Comacchio, Ortazzo, Baiona, 20,400 ha). 440 ha of ■ Site description IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Ortazzo e Ortazzino, 440 ha). A shallow lake, close to the town of Viareggio, 4 km from the Tyrrhenian coast. The lake is surrounded by a belt of reeds Phragmites ■ Conservation issues of variable width and there is a large freshwater marshland (Padule) adjacent to the lake on the north side, consisting of stands of sedge Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Other (A), Cladium with scattered pools and canals. The surrounding areas are Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) intensively cultivated. Main land-uses are agriculture, nature Birds are disturbed by tourists, especially along the beach where conservation and tourism. Haematopus ostralegus, Sterna albifrons and Charadrius alexandrinus Habitats Wetland (95%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial might otherwise breed. Rapid changes in water-level, due to lack of landscape (5%; arable land) water management, lead to the loss of hundreds of nests of terns and Land-use Agriculture (20%), Fisheries/aquaculture (40%), Nature conservation/ waders (‘Other’ threat). Illegal huts are being built on the beach. research (100%), Tourism/recreation (15%) Research is carried out by Regione Emilia Romagna on those species and habitats that are listed in the EC Habitats and Birds Directives. ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Cervia saltpans A4i, B1i, B2, B3, C2, C3, C6 076 Botaurus stellaris Bittern R 1996 20 22 A C2, C6 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 10 50 C B2, C6 Admin region Emilia Romagna Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1996 85 — A C2, C6 Coordinates 44°15’N 12°21’E Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier B 1991 8 9 A C6 Altitude 1–1 m Area 1,000 ha Numenius tenuirostris P — — — — A1, C1 Slender-billed Curlew Chlidonias niger Black Tern N 1996 2,000 5,000 B A4i, B1i, C2 ■ ■ Site description Locustella luscinioides Savi’s Warbler B 1996 50 100 A B3 A former lagoon on the north-eastern Adriatic coast near the town of Acrocephalus melanopogon R 1996 500 1,200 B C2, C6 Cervia, now isolated from the sea as an active saltpan. The area is Moustached Warbler bounded by two canals and is surrounded by agricultural land. Acrocephalus scirpaceus Reed Warbler B 1996 500 — B B3 An important breeding site for reedbed species, notably Botaurus Habitats Forest and woodland, Wetland (80%; saltmarsh; standing brackish and salt stellaris (the main breeding site in Italy), and a key staging site for the water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded globally threatened Numenius tenuirostris. Formerly much more grassland; arable land) important for wintering waterbirds, especially Fulica atra (tens of Land-use Agriculture (10%), Nature conservation/research (80%), Tourism/recreation, thousands); decline due especially to hunting and a reduction in the Urban/industrial/transport (80%) extent of submerged vegetation. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (max. 4 birds in winter). ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Protection status Egretta garzetta Little Egret N 1990 87 1,856 A A4i, B1i, C2 National High International High Himantopus himantopus B 1994 95 150 A B1i, C2, C6 1,700 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Migliarino–San Black-winged Stilt Rossore–Massaciuccoli, 22,000 ha). 1,700 ha of IBA covered by Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1994 55 240 A B1i, B3, C2 Special Protection Area (Massaciuccoli, 2,000 ha). Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet W 1994 181 700 A B1i, B2, C2 Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover B 1994 45 70 A B2 ■ Calidris alpina Dunlin W 1994 2,070 6,211 A B2 Conservation issues Philomachus pugnax Ruff P 1991 — 5,257 A C6 Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Agricultural intensification/ Larus melanocephalus N 1990 — 699 A C6 expansion (A), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Mediterranean Gull Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull N 1990 — 5,650 A B1i, C3 Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B) Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull N 1990 — 16,089 A A4i, B1i, C3 The main threat is the intensification of agriculture in the surrounding Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1994 200 370 — A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 area, which is leading to water pollution, lowering of the water-table,

393 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy and shrinkage of wetlands. Some or all of the site is covered by a ■ Protection status management plan. There is a LIPU reserve on the east side of the National None International None lake. ■ Conservation issues Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Agricultural intensification/ Foreste Casentinesi B2, B3, C6 078 expansion (U), Afforestation (B), Burning of vegetation (B), Extraction industry (C), Admin region Toscana, Emilia Romagna Recreation/tourism (C) Coordinates 43°52’N 11°42’E Afforestation, uncontrolled fires and overgrazing are the main threats. Altitude 500–1,658 m Area 36,300 ha

■ Site description B2, B3, C2, C6 A large tract of broadleaved and coniferous forest in the northern Fucecchio marsh 080 Admin region Toscana Apennines, dominated by beech Fagus and fir Abies. The main land- Coordinates 43°46’N 10°47’E use is forestry. Altitude 13–33 m Area 2,500 ha Habitats Forest and woodland (88%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest), Artificial landscape (12%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land) ■ Site description Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (80%), Nature conservation/research (10%) A freshwater wetland in Tuscany, a few kilometres south of the town of Montecatini. There are reedbeds, open waters, a wet woodland ■ Birds (Bosco di Chiusi) and surrounding cultivated areas. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest), Strix aluco Tawny Owl R 1993 300 — C B3 Grassland (5%; humid grassland), Wetland (40%; standing fresh water; water-fringe Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1993 50 100 A B2, C6 vegetation), Artificial landscape (40%; arable land; forestry plantation) Picus viridis Green Woodpecker R 1993 50 100 A B2 Land-use Agriculture (35%), Hunting (10%), Nature conservation/research (10%), Water Lullula arborea Woodlark R 1993 100 200 A B2, C6 management (10%) Erithacus rubecula Robin R 1993 3,000 — C B3 Turdus philomelos Song Thrush B 1993 1,000 — C B3 Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B 1993 200 400 A B3 ■ Birds Regulus ignicapillus Firecrest R 1993 2,000 4,000 A B3 Parus caeruleus Blue Tit R 1993 2,000 — C B3 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Emberiza cia Rock Bunting R 1993 150 300 A B2 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1994 10 30 A C6 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 230 270 A B2, C2, C6 An important breeding site for woodland species. Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1996 4 10 A C6 Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 100 150 A C6 ■ Protection status Locustella luscinioides Savi’s Warbler B 1996 20 50 A B3 National Partial International None Acrocephalus melanopogon R 1996 100 — A C6 30,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Foreste Casentinesi, Moustached Warbler 30,000 ha). 69 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Scodella, An important site for breeding herons and reedbed passerines. 69 ha). 1,168 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Camaldoli, 1,168 ha). 1,631 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Badia ■ Protection status Prataglia, 1,631 ha). 764 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve National Partial International None (Sasso Fratino, 764 ha). 1,191 ha of IBA covered by State Nature 300 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Padule di Reserve (Campigna, 1,191 ha). Fucecchio e Lago di Sibolla, 560 ha).

■ Conservation issues ■ Conservation issues Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/ Threats Afforestation (C), Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Consequences of tourism (B) animal/plant introductions (B), Drainage (B), Filling-in of wetlands (A), Infrastructure (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (A) The main threat is from the abandonment of pastures. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. The main threats are hunting and water management.

Calvana mountains C6 079 Arezzo heathlands B2, B3, C6 081 Admin region Toscana Admin region Toscana Coordinates 43°55’N 11°10’E Coordinates 43°25’N 11°45’E Altitude 79–916 m Area 3,900 ha Altitude 400–1,300 m Area 4,394 ha

■ Site description ■ Site description A hilly area of Tuscany, 15 km north-west of Florence. Habitats are A hilly area of Tuscany, mainly covered by heathland. The area can be dominated by pastures, heathland, ruderal land, grassland and divided into three subsites: Alpe di Poti, Monte Ginezzo, Pian di Scò. woodland. Vegetation cover is highly influenced by fire and grazing. Main land-uses are forestry, hunting and heath-cutting (‘Other’). The area is mainly used for stock-grazing. Habitats Forest and woodland (50%), Scrub (35%; heathland), Grassland (5%), Rocky Habitats Forest and woodland (44%), Scrub (heathland), Grassland (22%), Artificial areas (3%), Artificial landscape (7%) landscape (34%) Land-use Agriculture, Forestry (35%), Hunting (100%), Other (15%) Land-use Agriculture (50%), Forestry (10%), Not utilized (40%) ■ Birds ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Circus pygargus Montagu’s Harrier B 1997 6 11 A B3, C6 Lullula arborea Woodlark R 1996 50 100 B C6 Sylvia undata Dartford Warbler R 1995 350 800 A B2, C6 Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1996 40 80 B C6 Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B 1995 250 550 C B3 Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1996 60 120 B C6 An important site for breeding raptors and passerines, especially Sylvia A notable site for passerine species. warblers.

394 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Protection status ■ Protection status National None International None National None International None

■ Conservation issues ■ Conservation issues Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Afforestation (A), Burning of Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Burning of vegetation (C), vegetation (A), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Extraction industry (C), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (C) The main threats are burning of vegetation, afforestation, abandonment of land management, and hunting. The main threats are industrialization, urbanization, hunting and the development of infrastructure. One of the pools is a proposed LIPU reserve. Migliarino–San Rossore A1, B2, C1 082 Admin region Toscana Coordinates 43°46’N 10°16’E Ponte Buriano–Lago della Penna C6 084 Altitude 0–5 m Area 7,000 ha Admin region Toscana Coordinates 43°31’N 11°45’E Altitude 208–208 m Area 200 ha ■ Site description A wetland complex on the Tyrrhenian coast, east of the city of . The site comprises open (San Rossore) and wooded (San Rossore and ■ Site description Migliarino) coastal marshes, the estuaries of two large rivers (Arno An artificial lake and associated freshwater wetland, partly covered and Serchio) and a tract of very shallow sea offshore. There are dunes by reedbeds and sedges, located about 10 km north-west of the town between the marshes and the sea and extensive arable/pasture areas of Arezzo. The surrounding areas are mainly cultivated. Main land- at San Rossore. The main land-use is nature conservation. use is water management for producing electricity.

Habitats Forest and woodland (60%), Wetland (12%; sand-dunes/sand beach; river/ Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet forest), stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (28%; arable land) Scrub (5%; scrub), Grassland (5%), Wetland (70%; standing fresh water; water-fringe Land-use Forestry (25%), Nature conservation/research (70%) vegetation) Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (50%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/ recreation (10%), Water management (70%) ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Birds Lymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe W 1995 — 5 A B2 Numenius tenuirostris P — — — — A1, C1 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Slender-billed Curlew Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron P 1995 5 20 A C6 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1995 1 10 A C6 An important site for some migrating and wintering waders. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: nyroca (max. 2 in winter, also occurs on passage). Aythya nyroca (1, winter).

■ Protection status ■ Protection status National High International Unknown National High International None 7,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Migliarino–San 200 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Ponte Buriano–Lago della Rossore–Massaciuccoli, 22,000 ha). Overlaps with SPA. Penna, 200 ha).

■ Conservation issues ■ Conservation issues Threats Afforestation (C), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), Natural Threats Burning of vegetation (A), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), events (A), Other (A) Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (A), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (B), Recreation/tourism (B) The main threats are coastal erosion and river pollution (‘Other’ threat, above). Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. The main threats are posed by water-level regulation, burning of reedbeds, wetland reclamation, and disturbance of birds by fishermen.

Pools of Florence plain A1, B2, C1, C2, C6 083 Admin region Toscana Mount Conero B1iv, C5, C6 085 Coordinates 43°48’N 11°04’E Admin region Marche Altitude 30–42 m Area 1,000 ha Coordinates 43°32’N 12°45’E Altitude 151–572 m Area 1,140 ha ■ Site description A complex of small freshwater pools, wetlands, abandoned pits and ■ Site description cultivated land on a plain west of Florence. The pools are used mainly A mountain promontory along the west-central Adriatic coast, about as game reserves. Agriculture is the most important human activity 10 km south-east of the town of Ancona. The main habitats are away from the pools. broadleaved evergreen woodland and maquis, with many rocky cliffs and offshore islets. Main land-uses are nature conservation, forestry Habitats Wetland (40%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial and tourism. landscape (60%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/ industrial areas; ruderal land) Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (10%; sclerophyllous Land-use Agriculture (55%), Hunting (30%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (20%), Rocky areas (sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets) Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (50%), Military (5%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation (100%), Urban/industrial/transport (15%) ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Birds Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 200 300 A B2, C2, C6 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1996 — 20 C A1, C1 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1996 15 — B C6 Important especially for the colony of Nycticorax nycticorax.

395 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

An important ‘bottleneck’ site for migrating raptors, with 4,000–5,000 ■ Birds regularly passing each spring, mainly Pernis apivorus, Milvus migrans, Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Circaetus gallicus and Circus aeruginosus. Calandrella brachydactyla B 1998 3 3 A C6 Short-toed Lark ■ Protection status National High International None For many migrating waterbirds this is the only stop-over site along 1,140 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Conero, 5,820 ha). the Adriatic coast between the Gargano promontory and the wetland complexes of the Emilia Romagna region. ■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status Threats Afforestation (C), Burning of vegetation (B), Deforestation (commercial) (C), National None International None Disturbance to birds (B), Filling-in of wetlands (C), Firewood collection (B), Recreation/ tourism (B) ■ Conservation issues The main threats are tourism and the burning of vegetation, although Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Disturbance to birds (A), none have a high impact. Industrialization/urbanization (A), Recreation/tourism (B) There are many important threats: disturbance of birds due to the frequent presence of people (even for illegal activities); projects to B3, C6 Furlo gorge and Mount Catria 086 develop tourist resorts in the area; pools dry up in the absence of the Admin region Marche water management that was formerly done by hunters’ associations. Coordinates 43°33’N 12°40’E The area is a wildlife reserve, designated by the provincial authority, Altitude 200–1,701 m Area 36,000 ha and thus hunting is now forbidden. The site is a proposed ‘Important Flora Area’ at the regional level. There have been scattered bird ■ Site description counts by LIPU, and in 1998 LIPU started a bird-ringing scheme at An area of hills and mountains, south of the town of Urbino, mainly the site. covered by broadleaved woodland. Gola del Furlo is a gorge. Main land-uses are forestry, hunting and tourism. Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; treeline ecotone), River Cecina B3 088 Scrub (10%; scrub; heathland), Grassland (10%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Admin region Toscana Rocky areas (5%; scree/boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (5%) Coordinates 43°20’N 10°52’E Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (35%), Hunting, Nature conservation/research, Altitude 50–450 m Area 2,400 ha Tourism/recreation, Urban/industrial/transport (5%) ■ Site description ■ Birds The site lies about 10 km south of the town of Volterra, in Tuscany, Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria and comprises a large broadleaved evergreen woodland, called Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 2 3 A C6 Berignone, and a stretch of the River Cecina. Habitats include rocky Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 2 4 A C6 cliffs, rivers, streams, grasslands and cultivated areas. Main land-uses Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 15 25 A C6 are forestry, agriculture and hunting. Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1996 Common — C6 Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1996 20 30 B C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved Corvus monedula Jackdaw R — 300 500 B B3 evergreen forest), Scrub (5%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (15%; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Rocky areas (inland cliff), Artificial The site is important for breeding raptors. landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded grassland) Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (50%), Hunting (40%) ■ Protection status National None International None ■ Birds ■ Conservation issues Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Afforestation (B), Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B 1995 200 400 A B3 Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), Deforestation (commercial) (B), The site is also notable for its breeding raptors and woodland passerines. Disturbance to birds (C), Extraction industry (B), Firewood collection (C), Recreation/ tourism (C) ■ Protection status The main threat is the reduction in extent of open grassland, due to National Partial International None the abandonment of pastures which leads to afforestation with non- IBA contains Wildlife Reserve (Berignone, area not known). native conifers as well as natural forest regeneration. ■ Conservation issues Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Agricultural intensification/ Sentina C6 087 expansion (A), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B), Infrastructure (B), Other (A) Admin region Marche The main threats are linked to agricultural intensification, Coordinates 43°29’N 13°40’E abandonment of traditional pastures, and unsustainable exploitation Altitude 0–5 m Area 180 ha of woodland resources (‘Other’ threat). The site is a proposed Regional Nature Reserve. ■ Site description A coastal area of sand-dunes, grasslands and small brackish pools. Most of the site is now cultivated but, after heavy rains or influxes of Bolgheri C6 089 seawater, the fields are flooded and temporary pools are created. The Admin region Toscana area had been largely drained by the mid-1980s. Coordinates 43°14’N 10°33’E Habitats Grassland (10%; humid grassland), Wetland (20%; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand Altitude 0–12 m Area 562 ha beach; standing brackish and salt water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Marine areas (10%; open sea), Artificial landscape (60%; arable land; ruderal land) ■ Site description Land-use Agriculture (60%), Nature conservation/research (10%), Tourism/ A wetland on the Tyrrhenian coast, about 10 km south of the village recreation (10%) of Cecina. Habitats include sand beaches and dunes, maquis, wet

396 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy woodlands and grasslands, and open water. The surroundings include main activity; pig-farming and intensive agriculture dominate the arable land. Its main use is for nature conservation. surrounding area.

Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (20%), Wetland Habitats Wetland (95%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial (30%; sand-dunes/sand beach; standing fresh water), Artificial landscape (20%; arable land) landscape (5%; highly improved reseeded grassland; other urban/industrial areas) Land-use Agriculture (20%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Water Land-use Agriculture (5%), Fisheries/aquaculture (80%), Nature conservation/ management (30%) research (100%), Tourism/recreation (5%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)

■ Birds ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Pluvialis apricaria Golden Plover W 1994 70 137 A C6 Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1996 1,459 2,400 A B1i, C3 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 100 100 A C6 Site is also notable for breeding and wintering waterbirds and Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1996 13 — A C6 migrating waders. Species of global conservation concern that do not Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1996 100 100 A C6 meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (4, winter). An area of international importance for wintering Phalacrocorax carbo ■ Protection status and other waterbirds collectively (more than 20,000 occur on a regular National Partial International High basis, mainly Fulica atra) and for the presence of a mixed heronry. 500 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Bolgheri, 500 ha). 518 ha Winter count data refer to January 1993, 1994 and 1996. The number of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Bolgheri, 518 ha). 562 ha of wintering birds has greatly increased (especially Fulica atra) of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Palude di Bolgheri, 562 ha). following the declaration of the Regional Park in 1995 and the lowering of water-levels. ■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Natural National High International None events (B) 13,200 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Trasimeno, The main threat is the unsustainable use of water resources for 13,200 ha). agriculture. ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Burning of vegetation (B), Crete Senesi B2, C6 090 Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), Filling-in of wetlands (A), Natural Admin region Toscana events (B), Recreation/tourism (A) Coordinates 43°12’N 11°22’E The main threats are: the pollution of the wetland by nutrients and Altitude 130–400 m Area 50,000 ha pesticides from the surrounding agricultural areas; the reduction in reedbed extent due to erosion; the creation of new beaches; the creation ■ Site description of new arable land; fires in the reedbeds; coypu Myocastor coypus, a A hilly area of Tuscany, south-east of the town of Siena. There are non-native aquatic rodent, has dramatically reduced the extent of floating large tracts of cultivated land, small woodlands, gorges and highly water-lilies Nymphaea; extraction of water for agriculture. Some or all eroded slopes. Agriculture is the main land-use. of the site is covered by a management plan. Research is carried out on hydrobiology (Università di Perugia), botany (Università di Perugia, Habitats Forest and woodland (15%), Scrub (15%), Grassland (5%), Rocky areas (inland Università di Camerino) and ornithology (Provincia di Perugia). cliff), Artificial landscape (65%) Land-use Agriculture (85%), Hunting (70%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%)

Farma valley B2 092 ■ Birds Admin region Toscana Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Coordinates 43°04’N 11°04’E Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1995 1 3 A B2, C6 Altitude 167–525 m Area 10,000 ha Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew B 1995 5 10 B C6

■ Site description ■ Protection status A large, hilly, wooded valley in Tuscany, with highly intact beech National None International None woodlands (Fagus) and crossed by the Farma river. Main land-use is forestry. ■ Conservation issues Habitats Forest and woodland (64%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (8%), Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Agricultural intensification/ Wetland (3%; river/stream), Rocky areas (1%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (22%) expansion (A), Disturbance to birds (C), Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (B) Land-use Forestry (50%) The main threat is agricultural intensification, which destroys the eroded land-forms that are important nest-sites for breeding raptors. ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Picus viridis Green Woodpecker R 1996 80 — B B2 A4iii, B1i, C3, C4, C6 Lake Trasimeno 091 Also a notable breeding site for raptors and woodland passerines. Admin region Umbria Coordinates 43°09’N 12°05’E ■ Protection status Altitude 258–262 m Area 13,200 ha National Partial International None 1,509 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Valle del Farma, ■ Site description 1,509 ha). A freshwater eutrophic lake, about 10 km west of the town of Perugia. It is the largest lake in central Italy (12,000 ha) and the ■ Conservation issues fourth-largest in the country. There is a belt of reeds Phragmites, of Threats Infrastructure (C), Recreation/tourism (C) variable width, all around the lakeshore, and submerged beds of waterweed (Potamogeton, Ceratophyllum) offshore. Wet woodlands Threats are associated with the development of tourism. Some or all (Salix, Alnus, Ulmus) and grasslands are also present. Tourism is the of the site is covered by a management plan.

397 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

An important breeding site for reedbed species, especially Botaurus Lakes Montepulciano B1i, B2, C3, C6 093 and Chiusi stellaris. Admin region Toscana ■ Protection status Coordinates 43°04’N 11°58’E National Partial International Partial Altitude 248–253 m Area 900 ha 157 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Colfiorito, 157 ha). 157 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Palude di Colfiorito, ■ Site description 157 ha). 157 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Palude di Colfiorito, Two freshwater lakes, 15 km east of the village of Montepulciano. 157 ha). The lakes are surrounded by extensive reedbeds, cultivated land and small broadleaved woodlands, and there are also some small artificial ■ Conservation issues ponds called Vasche di Dolciano. Lake water-levels fluctuate greatly Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (C), during the year. Infrastructure (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A) Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (80%; standing fresh water; The main threats are agricultural intensification (leading to wetland water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves) drainage, and water pollution with nutrients and pesticides), hunting Land-use Agriculture (10%), Hunting (60%), Nature conservation/research (40%), Tourism/ around the wetland, and a road-building project which will cross the recreation (20%), Water management (70%) area. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. Ornithological research takes place. ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1996 600 1,200 A B1i, C3 Sibillini mountains A3, B2, C6 095 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 30 50 A B2, C6 Admin region Umbria, Marche Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 120 150 A C6 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1995 6 10 A C6 Coordinates 42°56’N 13°10’E Acrocephalus melanopogon R 1996 20 — B C6 Altitude 604–2,448 m Area 71,374 ha Moustached Warbler An important area for breeding Ixobrychus minutus, wintering ■ Site description Phalacrocorax carbo, and for a mixed heronry at Lago di Chiusi. A mountain area in the central Apennines, with large tracts of Herons and cormorants roost at Vasche di Dolciano. Species of global broadleaved woodland and especially extensive alpine grasslands. conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca Main land-uses are nature conservation, tourism and forestry. (1–2 pairs breed, max. 4 in winter). Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; broadleaved deciduous forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (5%; scrub; heathland), Grassland (45%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), ■ Protection status Wetland (5%; river/stream), Rocky areas (10%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (5%) National Partial International None Land-use Agriculture (5%), Forestry (15%), Nature conservation/research (100%), 300 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Lago di Montepulciano, Tourism/recreation (60%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) 300 ha).

■ Conservation issues ■ Birds Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Agricultural intensification/ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Burning of vegetation (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Falco biarmicus Lanner R — — — — B2, C6 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1995 10 100 C B2, C6 Drainage (B), Other (A), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (A) Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R — Frequent — A3 The main threats are: the lack of management of the fluctuating water- Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R — Uncommon — A3 levels (‘Other’ threat, above); water pollution from surrounding Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R — Frequent — A3 cultivated areas; disturbance of birds by hunting in the surroundings; Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1996 10 30 B C6 Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R — Frequent — A3 burning of vegetation. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. There is a LIPU reserve covering part of Lake Montepucliano. A A breeding site for four of the ten species of the Eurasian high-montane LIFE-supported project at Lake Montepulciano for conservation of biome, as well as raptors and owls. Aythya nyroca and Botaurus stellaris. ■ Protection status National High International Partial 71,374 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Sibillini, 71,374 ha). Colfiorito B2, C6 094 17,810 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Monti Sibillini Admin region Umbria (versante umbro), 17,810 ha). Coordinates 43°01’N 12°52’E Altitude 752–988 m Area 500 ha ■ Conservation issues Threats Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Groundwater ■ Site description abstraction (A), Infrastructure (A), Intensified forest management (B), Recreation/tourism (A) A freshwater wetland (157 ha) in the central Apennines, close to the village of Colfiorito. The wetland is fringed by a reedbed and the site Recreation, tourism and the building of new infrastructure (e.g. roads) includes the surrounding hilly areas (Piani di Ricciano, Piani di are the main threats to the area. Arvello, Piano di Annifo).

Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Grassland (15%), Wetland (30%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Rocky areas (5%), Artificial Tuscan archipelago A1, A3, A4i, A4ii, B1i, 096 landscape (20%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation) Admin region Toscana B1ii, B2, B3, C1, C2, C3, C6 Land-use Agriculture (10%), Nature conservation/research (30%), Tourism/recreation (5%) Coordinates 42°48’N 10°20’E Altitude 0–1,000 m Area 28,000 ha ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Site description Botaurus stellaris Bittern R 1996 7 9 B C6 A complex of seven small islands between Tuscany and Corse Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 7 — C C6 (Montecristo, Giannutri, , Capraia, Elba, Giglio e ). Circus pygargus Montagu’s Harrier B 1996 2 2 A C6 They are mainly covered by maquis, garrigue, sclerophyllous scrub, Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 1 2 A B2, C6 pine woodlands and have many rocky cliffs. Some have evergreen

398 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy woodlands, grasslands and agricultural land. The main land-uses are An important site for wintering and migrating waterbirds (more than tourism, fishing, boating and agriculture. 15,000), for breeding Botaurus stellaris, and for Numenius tenuirostris in winter and on passage. There is a heronry in the wood. Species of Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; native coniferous forest), Scrub (45%; sclerophyllous global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (5%), Wetland (1%), Rocky areas (7%; sea cliff/rocky nyroca (max. 2, winter). shore), Artificial landscape (27%; arable land; other urban/ industrial areas) Land-use Agriculture (15%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Nature conservation/research (100%), ■ Protection status Tourism/recreation (5%) National High International High 1,350 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Diaccia ■ Birds Botrona, 1,350 ha). Part of IBA covered by Special Protection Area Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria (Diaccia Botrona, 1,200 ha). 1,350 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Palude della Diaccia Botrona, 2,500 ha). Calonectris diomedea B 1994 100 800 B B1ii, B2, C2, C6 Cory’s Shearwater Puffinus yelkouan Yelkouan Shearwater B 1994 200 1,000 B A4ii, B1ii, C3 ■ Conservation issues Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1994 20 25 A C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1994 15 25 A B2, C6 Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (A), Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (C), Groundwater Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1994 50 85 A A1, C1, C6 abstraction (B) Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull R 1994 — 10,000 B A4i, B1i, C3 The main threat is from aquaculture, which is causing saltwater Oenanthe hispanica B 1994 10 30 B A3 Black-eared Wheatear intrusion along the southern border of the site. Some or all of the site Monticola solitarius Blue Rock Thrush R 1994 100 200 B B2 is covered by a management plan. Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler R 1994 80 150 B A3, B3, C6 Sylvia undata Dartford Warbler R 1994 500 — B B2, C6 Sylvia conspicillata Spectacled Warbler B 1994 10 100 B A3 Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B 1994 800 — B A3, B3 Uccellina mountains, Trappola A1, B1i, 098 Sylvia melanocephala R 1994 1,000 — B A3 marshes and Ombrone mouth C1, C3 Sardinian Warbler Admin region Toscana Coordinates 42°38’N 11°00’E The islands support five of the 21 species of the Mediterranean biome, Altitude 0–417 m Area 5,670 ha as well as breeding Calonectris diomedea, Puffinus yelkouan and Larus audouinii, among other seabirds. ■ Site description ■ Protection status The site comprises wooded hills, mainly covered by Pinus and maquis National High International Low (Monti dell’Uccellina), as well as a large brackish marsh (Stagni della 28,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Arcipelago Toscano, Trappola) with very little vegetation, mainly Salicornia, and a river 67,500 ha). 500 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Isola mouth (Bocca d’Ombrone) on the Tyrrhenian coast of Tuscany, about di Capraia, 500 ha). 10 km south of the town of Grosseto. Habitats also include rocky sea cliffs and sand beaches. The main land-use is nature conservation. ■ Conservation issues Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; native coniferous forest), Scrub (24%; Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Afforestation (C), Burning of sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (3%), Wetland (15%; saltmarsh; river/ vegetation (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Extraction industry (C), Industrialization/ stream), Marine areas, Rocky areas (sea cliff/rocky shore), Artificial landscape (12%) urbanization (C), Infrastructure (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (C) Land-use Agriculture (5%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation (30%) The main threats are: the disturbance of breeding seabirds by tourists, especially using motorboats; the development of tourist resorts and ■ Birds associated infrastructure; burning of vegetation. Mediterranean monk Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria seal Monachus monachus (Critically Endangered) was recorded here until the 1980s. Anser anser Greylag Goose W 1995 422 422 A B1i, C3 Numenius tenuirostris N — — — — A1, C1 Slender-billed Curlew The site is important for wintering waterbirds (especially Anser anser) Diaccia Botrona A1, B1i, C1, C2, C3, C6 097 and is a key non-breeding site for Numenius tenuirostris. Admin region Toscana Coordinates 42°47’N 10°55’E ■ Protection status Altitude 1–1 m Area 1,350 ha National High International Unknown 5,670 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Maremma, 9,800 ha). ■ Site description Overlaps with SPA. A large wetland on the Tyrrhenian coast, close to the village of Castglione della Pescaia, that was formerly freshwater but which is ■ Conservation issues now becoming brackish due to seawater inflow. The main habitats Threats Afforestation (C), Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Disturbance to are large reedbeds, open water, and a small coniferous wood. On the birds (B), Natural events (A), Other (B), Recreation/tourism (C) southern and eastern borders are present large areas of cultivated fields on reclaimed land. The main land-use is nature conservation. Important threats are: coastal erosion; the disturbance of breeding and wintering birds by tourists who walk among the sand-dunes; the poor Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; native coniferous forest), Grassland (10%; humid grassland), water-quality of the Ombrone river, which affects Stagni della Trappola Wetland (85%; standing fresh water; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation) (‘Other’ threat); and overgrazing, which threatens Burhinus oedicnemus. Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (3%), Nature conservation/research (100%) Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan.

■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Lake Bolsena B2, C6 099 1 Botaurus stellaris Bittern R 1996 3 18 A C2, C6 Admin region Lazio Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1992 138 — A C6 Coordinates 42°35’N 11°55’E Anas penelope Wigeon W 1994 4,000 9,000 A B1i, C3 2 Numenius tenuirostris N 1995 1 1 A A1, C1 Altitude 305–550 m Area 16,000 ha Slender-billed Curlew 1. 3 in 1996, 18 in 1991. ■ Site description 2. Two records: 1 in April 1978, 2 in January 1984. A freshwater lake of volcanic origin, 15 km north of the town of Viterbo,

399 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy with large areas of reedbeds. The surroundings include large oak Quercus nyroca (WWF-Italia and University of ), studies of parasites woodlands. The main land-uses are fishing, hunting and tourism. (University of Pisa) and of aquatic insects (University of Perugia).

Habitats Forest and woodland (25%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved evergreen forest), Wetland (75%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation) Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (75%), Hunting (100%), Tourism/recreation (80%), Laga mountains A1, B2, C1, C6 101 Urban/industrial/transport (20%) Admin region Lazio, Abruzzo, Marche Coordinates 42°40’N 13°26’E Altitude 600–2,458 m Area 60,000 ha ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Site description Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1995 15 20 A C6 A mountain area in the central Apennines, between Monti Sibillini (in Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1995 10 15 A B2, C6 the north) and Gran Sasso d’Italia (in the south). The main habitats Otus scops Scops Owl B 1995 30 40 A B2 Quercus Fagus Alcedo atthis Kingfisher R 1995 20 25 A C6 are extensive broadleaved forests (oak , beech ), alpine grasslands, cultivated land, and a freshwater lake (Lago di Campotosto). The reedbeds are important for breeding Ixobrychus minutus. The The main land-use is nature conservation and tourism. woodlands are important for raptors. Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (9%), Grassland (14%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (6%; standing ■ Protection status fresh water; river/stream), Rocky areas (1%; inland cliff) National None International None Land-use Agriculture (10%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation (70%) ■ Conservation issues ■ Birds Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 1 Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (B) Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 1995 10 10 A A1, C1 Falco tinnunculus Kestrel R 1996 50 — B B2 Urbanization and water pollution are the main threats. Urbanization Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 100 — B B2, C6 refers to new buildings along the lake shore and in the woodland. Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1996 1 2 B C6 Water is polluted by pesticides and nutrients from the surrounding Picus viridis Green Woodpecker R 1996 80 — B B2 cultivated land. Disturbance to birds is also an important threat, Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1995 Common — C6 caused by hunters (at the lake and in the woodlands) and by boats Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1996 100 — B C6 Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1996 60 — B B2 during the tourism season. Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1996 80 — B C6 1. 10 in 1987 and 1995. The lake holds nationally important numbers of wintering waterbirds. Lake Alviano C6 100 Admin region Umbria, Lazio ■ Protection status Coordinates 42°34’N 12°15’E National High International Low Altitude 80–90 m Area 900 ha 1,600 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Lago di Campotosto, 1,600 ha). 800 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature ■ Site description Reserve (Gole del , 800 ha). 60,000 ha of IBA covered by A man-made lake in central Italy, created by the construction of a National Park (Gran Sasso–Monti della Laga, 145,000 ha). IBA hydroelectric dam on the Tevere river. Habitats include open water, a contains Special Protection Area (Monti della Laga, 4,841 ha). large reedbed (450 ha), wet woodland of poplar Populus, alder Alnus and willow Salix (150 ha), and freshwater marshes. The surroundings ■ Conservation issues are agricultural. The main land-use is nature conservation. Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (10%; humid grassland), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (B) Wetland (55%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape The main threats are activities linked to tourism and the building of (20%; highly improved reseeded grassland; perennial crops/orchards/groves) new infrastructure (e.g. roads). Regular bird monitoring is carried out Land-use Agriculture (20%), Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Nature conservation/ at Lago di Campotosto. research (80%), Tourism/recreation, Urban/industrial/transport (5%)

■ Birds Selva del Lamone B2, B3, C6 102 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Admin region Lazio Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1995 4 8 A C6 Coordinates 42°30’N 11°34’E Alcedo atthis Kingfisher R 1995 2 10 A C6 Altitude 200–460 m Area 2,200 ha An important stop-over point for some wetland species, mainly those on passage through central Italy. ■ Site description A large old broadleaved woodland of oak Quercus, crossed by streams ■ Protection status and surrounded by cultivated land. The area is located in the upper National High International High part of River Fiora, in central Italy, west of Lake Bolsena. Main land- 900 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Lago di Alviano, 900 ha). uses are nature conservation and forestry. 900 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Valle del Tevere: Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (10%), Laghi Corbara-Alviano [contains Lago di Alviano SPA], 7,200 ha). Artificial landscape (10%; arable land) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (20%), Nature conservation/research (80%) ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), ■ Birds Industrialization/urbanization (C), Other (B) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria The main threat is the low water-quality of the Tevere river, which Streptopelia turtur Turtle Dove B 1996 500 — A B2 carries high levels of nutrients and heavy metals. Some or all of the Lullula arborea Woodlark R 1996 200 — A B2, C6 site is covered by a management plan. The area is managed by WWF- Parus caeruleus Blue Tit R 1996 1,000 — B B3 Italia. There are ongoing projects on the reintroduction of Aythya An important breeding area for woodland species.

400 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Protection status ■ Birds National Partial International None Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 1,600 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Selva del Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 216 216 A C6 Lamone, 1,600 ha). Egretta alba Great White Egret W 1995 203 203 A A4i, B1i, C2 1 Phoenicopterus ruber Greater Flamingo W 1994 616 773 A B1i, C2 2 ■ Conservation issues Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 1995 4 19 A A1, C1 Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet W 1995 40 87 A B2 Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Deforestation (commercial) (C), Forest 3 Numenius tenuirostris P 1995 3 3 A A1, C1 grazing (C) Slender-billed Curlew Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern W 1995 57 96 A C2 1. 26 pairs bred in 1994. 2. 4 in 1995, 19 in 1986. 3. One record, at Orbetello in April 1980. A3 Argentario 103 An important site for wintering waterbirds (more than 20,000 on a Admin region Toscana regular basis, e.g. 21,691 in January 1994), notably for Phoenicopterus Coordinates 42°24’N 11°07’E ruber, and a key site for Numenius tenuirostris. Altitude 0–450 m Area 5,200 ha ■ Protection status ■ Site description National Partial International Partial A calcareous promontory along the Tyrrhenian coast. The main 474 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Duna Feniglia, 474 ha). habitats are maquis, garrigue, broadleaved woodland and rocky cliffs. 360 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Lago di Burano, Land-uses are mainly tourism and forestry. 360 ha). 887 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Laguna di ponente di Orbetello, 887 ha). 410 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve Habitats Forest and woodland (75%; broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (20%; (Lago di Burano, 410 ha). 950 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Rocky areas (5%; sea cliff/rocky shore) (Laguna di Ponente di Orbetello, 950 ha). 474 ha of IBA covered by Land-use Forestry (5%), Hunting (70%), Tourism/recreation (50%) Special Protection Area (Foresta di Protezione Duna Feniglia, 474 ha). 410 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Lago di Burano, ■ Birds 410 ha). 887 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Laguna di Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Orbetello (parte), 887 ha). 410 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Lago di Burano, 410 ha). 887 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Laguna di Oenanthe hispanica B 1990 10 — C A3 Black-eared Wheatear Orbetello, 887 ha). Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler R 1990 20 — C A3 Sylvia conspicillata Spectacled Warbler R 1990 10 — C A3 ■ Conservation issues Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B 1990 500 — C A3 Sylvia melanocephala R 1990 1,000 — C A3 Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Afforestation (C), Aquaculture/ Sardinian Warbler fisheries (B), Disturbance to birds (C), Dredging/canalization (B), Industrialization/ Emberiza melanocephala B 1990 5 — A A3 urbanization (B), Natural events (B), Other (B), Recreation/tourism (B) Black-headed Bunting The main threats are the further development of fish-farming, An important site for six of the 21 species of the Mediterranean biome. urbanization and tourism. ‘Other’ threat is water pollution. Breeding species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Falco naumanni (rare). Rieti lakes C6 105 ■ Protection status Admin region Lazio National None International None Coordinates 42°29’N 12°50’E Altitude 370–400 m Area 3,278 ha ■ Conservation issues Threats Afforestation (B), Burning of vegetation (A), Industrialization/ ■ Site description urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable Two freshwater lakes in central Italy, 5 km north of the town of Rieti. exploitation (A) The lakes are fringed by beds of Phragmites, Scirpus and Typha. The The main threats are the fires that happen every year, the development site has many small rivers, streams, canals and ditches, while the area of tourist resorts and associated infrastructure and urbanization, and around the lakes is mainly agricultural. The main land-use is agriculture. illegal hunting. Habitats Wetland (30%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (70%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land) Land-use Agriculture (70%), Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Orbetello lagoon A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, 104 Water management (30%) and Burano lake C1, C2, C4, C6 Admin region Toscana ■ Birds Coordinates 42°24’N 11°19’E Altitude 0–5 m Area 3,680 ha Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1995 8 12 A C6 ■ Site description A notable site for wintering waterbirds, including Aythya nyroca. Two wetlands on the Tyrrhenian coast of southern Tuscany. Orbetello lagoon is large and brackish, divided in two by a strip of land and ■ Protection status separated from the sea by two sandbars (Tombolo di Feniglia, National High International None Tombolo della Giannella) and by the promontory of Mount 3,278 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Laghi Lungo e Argentario. Burano is a brackish lake, parallel to the coast, 7 km south Ripasottile, 3,278 ha). of the lagoon. The main land-uses are nature conservation and aquaculture (the latter in Orbetello lagoon). ■ Conservation issues Habitats Scrub (2%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (81%; saltmarsh; sand- Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Dredging/ dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing brackish and salt water), Artificial landscape canalization (B) (17%; highly improved reseeded grassland; forestry plantation; other urban/industrial areas) Agricultural intensification is the main threat. Some or all of the site Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (50%), Hunting (60%), Nature conservation/research (20%), is covered by a management plan. The avifauna is regularly monitored Urban/industrial/transport (5%), Water management (60%) for the local and regional authorities.

401 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

75,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Gran Sasso-Monti della Rieti mountains B2, C6 106 Laga, 145,000 ha). 150 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve Admin region Lazio (Lago di Penne, 150 ha). Coordinates 42°27’N 12°59’E Altitude 500–2,216 m Area 22,980 ha ■ Conservation issues Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Disturbance to birds (B), ■ Site description Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (A) A large area of broadleaved forest in the central Apennines, north- east of the town of Rieti, dominated by oak Quercus and beech Fagus. The main threat is the building of new tourist (ski) resorts and related Shrubs and alpine grasslands dominate in the upper parts of the area. infrastructure. Chamois Rupicapra rupicapra are being reintroduced The main land-uses are hunting and nature conservation. to the area. Università dell’Aquila is researching the invertebrates and high-altitude flora, and the avifauna is monitored. There is a WWF Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (9%; scrub), reserve at Lago di Penne. Grassland (9%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (1%; river/stream), Rocky areas (1%; inland cliff) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Hunting (50%), Nature conservation/research (50%), Tourism/recreation (40%) Vico lake C6 108 Admin region Lazio Coordinates 42°20’N 12°10’E ■ Birds Altitude 510–965 m Area 4,000 ha Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1995 2 2 A C6 ■ Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1995 10 30 C C6 Site description Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1995 30 60 B B2, C6 A freshwater lake in central Italy, in a volcanic crater about 10 km south-east of the town of Viterbo. The borders of the lake are fringed Important breeding site for montane species. with Phragmites and Juncus. The surrounding area is mainly broadleaved forest (dominated by oak Quercus, beech Fagus, ■ Protection status hornbeam Carpinus, chestnut Castanea, maple Acer) and agricultural National None International Low land. Main land-use is agriculture. IBA contains Special Protection Area (Monti Reatini, area not known). Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%; scrub), Grassland (5%; humid grassland), Wetland (35%; standing fresh water; water-fringe ■ Conservation issues vegetation), Artificial landscape (25%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; Threats Deforestation (commercial) (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Firewood collection (B), perennial crops/orchards/groves) Forest grazing (B), Groundwater abstraction (B), Intensified forest management (C), Land-use Agriculture (25%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Forestry (20%), Military (5%), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) Nature conservation/research (70%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Urban/industrial/ transport (5%) Winter-sport resorts are the main threat to the area.

■ Birds Gran Sasso d’Italia A3, B2, C6 107 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Admin region Abruzzo Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 1995 4 4 A C6 Coordinates 42°28’N 13°39’E The lake is notable for wintering duck, the surroundings for breeding Altitude 450–2,914 m Area 75,000 ha owls, woodpeckers and passerines.

■ Site description ■ Protection status The highest area in the Apennines. Montane habitats include alpine National Partial International None meadows, rocky areas, glaciers and extensive beech woodlands (Fagus). 3,200 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Lago di Vico, The site includes Lago di Penne, a small artificial lake. The main land- 3,200 ha). uses are nature conservation and tourism. ■ Conservation issues Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (7%; scrub), Grassland (25%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), (18%; scree/boulders; inland cliff) Deforestation (commercial) (C), Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C), Land-use Agriculture (5%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Other (20%), Tourism/ Groundwater abstraction (U), Recreation/tourism (U) recreation (80%) Agricultural intensification is the major threat to the site.

■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Cicolano B2, B3, C6 109 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 30 40 A C6 Admin region Lazio, Abruzzo Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 2 2 A C6 Coordinates 42°20’N 13°11’E Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 1 2 A B2 Altitude 483–1,820 m Area 49,485 ha Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 10 15 A B2, C6 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge B — — — — C6 Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1996 30 — B C6 ■ Site description Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1996 Common — A3 A site in the central Apennines. Gole di Antrodoco–Monte Giano Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1996 Frequent — A3 and Monte Cabbia constitute a predominantly mountainous area, Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1996 30 — B C6 while Cicolano–Val Malito and Pian di Rascino are mainly cultivated Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1996 Common — A3 uplands. The principal habitats are broadleaved woodlands, rocky Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1996 Common — A3 areas, scrub, grasslands and cultivated land (mainly wheat). Dominant An important breeding site for four of the 10 species of the Eurasian land-uses are agriculture, forestry and hunting. high-montane biome, and for Alectoris graeca as well as various Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest), Scrub raptors, passerines, and Nycticorax nycticorax at Lago di Penne. (20%; scrub), Grassland (20%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; dry siliceous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (5%; standing fresh water), Rocky areas (5%; inland cliff; ■ Protection status caves), Artificial landscape (20%; arable land) National High International None

402 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (25%), Nature conservation/ Tolfa hills B2, B3, C6 111 research (5%), Unknown (40%) Admin region Lazio Coordinates 42°08’N 12°04’E Altitude 10–650 m Area 75,000 ha ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Circus pygargus Montagu’s Harrier B 1990 10 — B B3, C6 Site description Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 2 2 A C6 A hilly area along the Tyrrhenian coast, east of the town of Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1995 15 — B C6 Civitavecchia. Habitats include maquis, broadleaved woodlands of Coturnix coturnix Quail B 1995 45 80 A B2 beech Fagus, and extensive wooded pastures. The main land-use is Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1995 6 7 B C6 cattle- and horse-rearing. Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1990 20 — B C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest; An important breeding site for birds of prey and lowland gamebirds. broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (15%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (15%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (5%; river/stream), Rocky ■ Protection status areas (5%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded grassland; National Partial International None arable land; ruderal land) 12,338 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Terminillo, 12,338 ha). Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (30%), Hunting (60%), Military (5%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Urban/industrial/transport (8%) ■ Conservation issues Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Afforestation (B), Agricultural ■ Birds intensification/expansion (C), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Deforestation (commercial) (A), Disturbance to birds (A), Extraction industry (B), Firewood collection (A), Forest grazing (A), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard B 1995 25 35 A C6 Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1995 20 30 A B2, C6 Recreation/tourism (A) Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1995 4 5 A C6 The main threats are from tourism, urbanization, and unsustainable Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1995 10 15 A B2, C6 exploitation of forest resources. Circus pygargus Montagu’s Harrier B 1995 5 10 A B3, C6 Falco tinnunculus Kestrel R 1995 100 120 A B2 Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew B 1995 2 5 A C6 Athene noctua Little Owl R 1995 100 120 A B2 Lake Bracciano B2, B3, C6 110 Merops apiaster Bee-eater B 1995 200 300 A B2 and surrounding areas Coracias garrulus Roller B 1995 30 40 A B2 Melanocorypha calandra Calandra Lark R 1995 45 55 A C6 Admin region Lazio Calandrella brachydactyla B 1995 30 40 A C6 Coordinates 42°10’N 12°12’E Short-toed Lark Altitude 164–612 m Area 31,300 ha Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1995 50 — C C6 An important breeding site for many SPECs, especially raptors (the ■ Site description best site in Italy for Circaetus gallicus), owls, larks and shrikes. In the The area includes two freshwater lakes of volcanic origin (Bracciano 1970s three pairs of Neophron percnopterus also bred. Species of global and Martignano), located 20 km north-west of , surrounded by conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Falco naumanni extensive tracts of broadleaved woodland (oak Quercus, chestnut (occurs on passage). Castanea) and of arable land. The main land-uses are forestry, hunting and agriculture. ■ Protection status National Low International Partial Habitats Forest and woodland (28%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%; 900 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Monterano, sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (5%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), 900 ha). 1,450 ha of IBA covered by Regional Urban Park Wetland (20%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (Marturanum, 1,450 ha). 8,373 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection (42%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Area (Comprensorio meridionale dei Monti della Tolfa, 8,373 ha). Land-use Agriculture (42%), Fisheries/aquaculture (20%), Forestry (25%), Hunting (75%), Military (5%), Water management (18%) ■ Conservation issues Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Disturbance to birds (C), Firewood collection (C), Forest ■ Birds grazing (C), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1995 5 10 B C6 The main threats are house-building and road-construction in the area. Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1995 8 10 B C6 The site is a proposed Regional Park. A project to study and protect Coturnix coturnix Quail B 1995 100 150 B B2 Milvus milvus is run by LIPU, and individuals have been reintroduced Saxicola torquata Stonechat R 1996 1,000 2,000 — B2 from Spain. Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B 1996 500 1,000 B B3 Parus caeruleus Blue Tit R 1996 800 2,000 B B3 Certhia brachydactyla R 1996 1,000 1,500 B B3 Short-toed Treecreeper Tarquinia saltpans C2 112 Admin region Lazio Fulica atra and grebes also winter in some numbers on the lakes. Coordinates 42°12’N 11°45’E Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Altitude 0–0 m Area 170 ha Aythya nyroca (max. 1, winter).

■ Protection status ■ Site description National None International None Small saltpans on the Tyrrhenian coast, close to the village of Tarquinia. The main vegetation is Salicornia bushes. The main land- ■ Conservation issues use is salt extraction. Tourism, infrastructure development and urbanization are important Habitats Scrub (5%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (95%; sand-dunes/ threats. sand beach; standing brackish and salt water) Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%), Urban/industrial/transport (100%) Deforestation (commercial) (B), Disturbance to birds (C), Filling-in of wetlands (A), Forest grazing (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Intensified forest management (B), ■ Birds Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (B) An important site for wintering waterbirds.

403 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria areas. The main land-uses are nature conservation, cultivation, stock- Larus melanocephalus W 1995 300 1,000 A C2 rearing, and tourism. Mediterranean Gull Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (10%), Grassland (25%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (15%; scree/boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (10%) ■ Protection status Land-use Agriculture (35%), Forestry (7%), Hunting (4%), Nature conservation/ National High International High research (95%), Tourism/recreation (100%) 170 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Salina di Tarquinia, 170 ha). 170 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Riserva Naturale Saline di Tarquinia, 170 ha). ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Conservation issues Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 4 4 A B2, C6 Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel P 1996 — 130 A A1, C1 Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Natural events (C) Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 2 3 A B2, C6 The main threats are intensive aquaculture projects, disturbance to Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 6 10 A C6 birds by unauthorized entry of cars into the site, and dune erosion. Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 200 250 A B2, C6 Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1996 1 2 C C6 Regular ornithological surveys are carried out, of wintering waterbirds 1 Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1996 30 — B C6 and of migrating waders especially. 1. Up to 250–400 in the area. An important site for birds of prey and mountain species. Lucretili mountains C6 113 ■ Protection status Admin region Lazio National High International Low Coordinates 42°06’N 12°52’E 3,550 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Monte Velino, Altitude 300–1,368 m Area 21,000 ha 3,550 ha). 3,900 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Montagne della Duchessa, 3,900 ha). 50,000 ha of IBA covered by ■ Site description Regional Nature Park (Sirente Velino, 50,000 ha). 3,550 ha of IBA A mountain area in central Italy, north of the town of Tivoli, mainly covered by Special Protection Area (Monte Velino, 3,550 ha). covered by broadleaved forest. There are rocky cliffs, alpine grasslands, streams and cultivated areas. The main land-use is agriculture, ■ Conservation issues including stock-rearing. Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Forest grazing (C), Intensified forest management (B), Habitats Forest and woodland (45%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) evergreen forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (14%; scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/ The main threat is uncontrolled touristic development, although garrigue/maquis), Grassland (10%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland; mesophile illegal hunting is also important at Montagne della Duchessa. Some grassland), Wetland (6%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Rocky areas or all of the site is covered by a management plan. Projects by the (5%; inland cliff; caves), Artificial landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded National Forestry Department (CFS), that manages the area, include: grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; other urban/industrial areas; introduction of Gyps fulvus; reintroduction of Corvus corax; studies ruderal land) on raptor populations; reintroduction of red deer Cervus elaphus. Land-use Agriculture (30%), Hunting (25%), Nature conservation/research (85%)

■ Birds Maiella, Pizzi B2, B3, C2, C6 115 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria and Frentani mountains Falco biarmicus Lanner R — — — — C6 Admin region Abruzzo Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R — — — — C6 Coordinates 42°10’N 14°12’E Altitude 40–2,795 m Area 177,500 ha The site is also notable for breeding raptors and passerines (especially warblers), based on a qualitative ornithological survey in the 1991 breeding season. ■ Site description A large, mountainous area in the central Apennines, including Maiella, ■ Protection status Monti Pizzi, Bacino Aventino e medio Sangro, Monti Frentani, Alto National Partial International Partial Vastese and Lago di Serranella. The main habitats are broadleaved 18,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Monti Lucretili, and mixed woodlands (dominated by beech Fagus and oak Quercus), 18,000 ha). 8,750 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Monti very large boulders (especially in Maiella), gorges, scrub, grasslands, Lucretili, 8,750 ha). and cultivated areas, as well as rivers, streams and a small lake. The main land-uses are cultivation, nature conservation, cattle-rearing and ■ Conservation issues tourism. Part of this area was listed as a separate IBA in the previous pan-European IBA inventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989), ‘Mountains Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Disturbance to birds (C), and hills between Capracotta and Rosello’ (former site IT081). Firewood collection (B), Forest grazing (C), Groundwater abstraction (C) Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous The main threat is the abandonment of traditional land management. forest; mixed forest; broadleaved evergreen forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (10%; scrub; Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. heathland), Grassland (15%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (5%; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Rocky areas (10%; scree/boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (10%; highly improved reseeded grassland; forestry Sirente, Velino and A1, B2, C1, C6 114 plantation; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) Duchessa mountains Land-use Agriculture (30%), Forestry (15%), Hunting (10%), Nature conservation/ Admin region Lazio, Abruzzo research (50%), Tourism/recreation (40%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) Coordinates 42°11’N 13°27’E Altitude 500–2,486 m Area 50,000 ha ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Site description Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard B 1996 9 14 B C6 A mountain area in the central Apennines, including Monte Velino, Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1996 10 15 A C6 and Montagne della Duchessa. The main habitats are Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1996 45 55 A C6 extensive broadleaved forests (Fagus), alpine grasslands and rocky

404 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 2 4 A C6 Calonectris diomedea Cory’s Shearwater N 1995 — 1,000 B B1ii, C2 Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 10 15 A B2, C2, C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine B 1996 20 28 A B2, C6 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 100 — C B2, C6 ■ Protection status Dendrocopos medius R 1996 10 — C B3 National Low International Low Middle Spotted Woodpecker 250 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Macchiatonda, Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1996 Common — C6 250 ha). 120 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Bosco di Palo, Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1996 380 506 A B2, C2, C6 120 ha). 37 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Torre Flavia, 37 ha). The site is important for breeding raptors and some species of 96 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Macchiatonda, 96 ha). mountain or forest. 33 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Torre Flavia, 33 ha).

■ Protection status ■ Conservation issues National Partial International Low Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (B), 80,708 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Maiella-Morrone, Dredging/canalization (A), Filling-in of wetlands (C), Groundwater abstraction (A), 80,708 ha). 4,202 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Fara Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (A) S. Martino–Palombaro, 4,202 ha). 1,563 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Feudo Ugni, 1,563 ha). 1,407 ha of IBA covered by The main threats are industrialization, urbanization, building of State Nature Reserve (Lama Bianca di S. Eufemia a Maiella, 1,407 ha). infrastructure, dredging and canalization, disturbance to birds during 1,452 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Monte Rotondo, the breeding season, and touristic development. Three WWF-Italia 1,452 ha). 1,920 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Valle reserves are present. Some or all of the site is covered by a management dell’Orfento, 1,920 ha). 130 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature plan. There are bird-ringing schemes for passerines and waders. Reserve (Bosco di S. Antonio, 130 ha). 1,680 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Maiella Orientale, 1,680 ha). 472 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Valle del Foro, 472 ha). 378 ha Litorale Romano B1i, B2, C3, C6 117 of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Valle dell’Orta, 378 ha). Admin region Lazio 485 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Quarto S. Chiara, 485 ha). Coordinates 41°51’N 12°12’E 200 ha of IBA covered by Private Reserve (Abetina di Rosello, 200 ha). Altitude 0–80 m Area 19,529 ha 9,973 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Maiella, 9,973 ha). 1,452 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Monte Rotondo, 1,452 ha [enlargement ongoing]). ■ Site description An area on the Tyrrhenian coast, south-west of Rome, including open ■ Conservation issues sea, sand-dunes and beaches, and a mosaic of maquis, woodlands, wetlands, urban and cultivated areas. The main land-uses are Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Agricultural intensification/ agriculture, tourism and nature conservation. expansion (B), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Deforestation (commercial) (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Dredging/canalization (C), Extraction industry (C), Filling-in of wetlands (C), Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Firewood collection (B), Forest grazing (C), Groundwater abstraction (C), Industrialization/ forest; broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (15%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/ urbanization (B), Recreation/tourism (A), Selective logging/cutting (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C) maquis), Grassland (steppe/dry calcareous grassland; dry siliceous grassland; mesophile grassland), Wetland (5%; sand-dunes/sand beach; standing fresh water; standing The main threats are posed by the development of touristic resorts, brackish and salt water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Marine areas (5%; open especially for winter sports in the Maiella area. No major threats are sea), Artificial landscape (25%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry present in the Monti Pizzi e Monti Frentani areas. Some or all of the plantation; urban parks/gardens; ruderal land) site is covered by a management plan. Projects of the Maiella National Land-use Agriculture (35%), Hunting (5%), Nature conservation/research (25%), Park include: reintroduction of red deer Cervus elaphus, chamois Tourism/recreation (10%), Urban/industrial/transport (20%) Rupicapra rupicapra and roe deer Capreolus capreolus; studies on Alectoris graeca, Accipiter gentilis, Bubo bubo and Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax; conservation of wolf Canis lupus. Lago di Serranella and ■ Birds Abetina di Rosello are WWF reserves. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1995 1,000 1,500 A B1i, C3 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1995 10 18 A C6 Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1995 25 30 A B2, C6 Coast from Palo B1ii, C2 116 Merops apiaster Bee-eater B 1995 200 230 A B2 to Santa Marinella Coracias garrulus Roller B 1995 5 6 A B2 Admin region Lazio An important breeding site for open-country birds such as Milvus Coordinates 42°00’N 12°00’E migrans and Merops apiaster. Species of global conservation concern Altitude 0–10 m Area 6,300 ha that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (max. 2, winter).

■ Site description ■ Protection status A coastal area in Lazio, between Palo and Santa Marinella. It includes National Partial International Unknown open sea, wetlands, sand beaches, grasslands, woodlands, urban and IBA contains State Nature Reserve (Litorale Romano, area not cultivated areas. The main land-uses are tourism and agriculture. known). 5,989 ha of IBA covered by Private Reserve (Castelporziano e Capracotta, 5,989 ha). 280 ha of IBA covered by Private Reserve Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved evergreen (Macchiagrande di Focene, 280 ha). Overlaps with SPA. forest), Scrub (25%; scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (10%; steppe/ dry calcareous grassland; mesophile grassland), Wetland (20%; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; ■ Conservation issues sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation), Marine areas (10%; sea inlet/coastal features), Artificial Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Agricultural intensification/ landscape (10%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; urban parks/gardens) expansion (A), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (U), Disturbance to birds (B), Land-use Agriculture (30%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Hunting (30%), Military (5%), Drainage (C), Dredging/canalization (A), Extraction industry (B), Filling-in of wetlands (C), Nature conservation/research (10%), Tourism/recreation, Urban/industrial/transport Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C), Groundwater abstraction (B), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Natural events (U), Recreation/ tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) ■ Birds A notable foraging area for shearwaters and gulls. Species of global Although human impact is already quite strong in the area, the main conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Larus audouinii threats are from further urbanization and industrialization, agricultural (1–30 on passage). intensification, and the building of tourist resorts and associated

405 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

infrastructure. There is a bird-ringing station at Macchiagrande di Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Focene. There is a project to protect the nests of Charadrius Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 4 4 A B2, C6 alexandrinus and Charadrius dubius. Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 1 — A B2 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 7 10 A C6 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 — — — B2 Dendrocopos medius R 1996 5 — C B3 Ernici and Simbruini mountains B2, C6 118 Middle Spotted Woodpecker Admin region Lazio, Abruzzo Dendrocopos leucotos R 1996 230 280 A C2, C6 Coordinates 41°53’N 13°19’E White-backed Woodpecker Altitude 400–2,156 m Area 70,000 ha ■ Protection status ■ Site description National Partial International Partial A mountainous area of limestone karst in the central Apennines, 43,950 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Abruzzo, 43,950 ha). covered mainly by broadleaved forests (especially beech Fagus) and 450 ha of IBA covered by Private Reserve (Gole del Sagittario, 450 ha). extensive rocky pastures. The site is rich in rocky cliffs and caves. The 40,000 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Parco Nazionale main land-use is the rearing of cattle and horses. d’Abruzzo, 40,000 ha).

Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; treeline ecotone), ■ Conservation issues Scrub (5%; scrub; heathland), Grassland (5%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; alpine/ subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (15%; scree/boulders; inland cliff; caves), Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Infrastructure (C), Recreation/tourism (B) Artificial landscape (5%; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation) The main threat is touristic development with its associated activities Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (10%), Nature conservation/research (100%), and infrastructure. Some or all of the site is covered by a management Tourism/recreation (20%) plan. The Park is carrying out research on raptors, brown bear Ursus arctos and wolf Canis lupus. ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R — 3 3 A C6 Lepini mountains B2, C6 120 Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 — 2 A B2, C6 Admin region Lazio Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 8 — B C6 Coordinates 41°36’N 13°05’E Lullula arborea Woodlark B 1995 100 — A C6 Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1995 200 — A B2, C6 Altitude 80–1,536 m Area 49,600 ha Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1995 100 — A C6 An important site for some raptor and passerine species. ■ Site description A mountain complex in central Italy, isolated from the Apennines, ■ Protection status located between the towns of Latina and . The main habitats National Partial International Partial are broadleaved deciduous woodland and agricultural land. The main 1,025 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Zompo lo land-uses are cultivation, stock-rearing, hunting and forestry. Schioppo, 1,025 ha). 29,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved Park (, 29,000 ha). 51,514 ha of IBA covered by evergreen forest), Scrub (10%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (10%; Special Protection Area (Monti Simbruini ed Ernici, 51,514 ha). steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Rocky areas (5%), Artificial landscape (5%) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (30%), Not utilized (50%), ■ Conservation issues Tourism/recreation (5%) Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Afforestation (C), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (A), Deforestation (commercial) (C), ■ Birds Disturbance to birds (B), Firewood collection (B), Forest grazing (A), Industrialization/ urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B), Intensified forest management (B), Other (A), Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B) Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1989 20 20 A B2, C6 Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1989 50 — C C6 Threats include hunting and off-road driving (‘Other’ threat). Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. ■ Protection status National None International Partial 8,514 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Monti Lepini Abruzzo National Park B2, B3, C2, C6 119 centrali, 8,514 ha). Admin region Lazio, Abruzzo, Molise Coordinates 41°45’N 13°51’E ■ Conservation issues Altitude 500–2,249 m Area 110,000 ha Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Infrastructure (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) ■ Site description Road-building and hunting are the main threats. The area is a Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; treeline ecotone), proposed Regional Park. Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (10%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (1%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Rocky areas (10%; scree/boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (9%; arable land) Land-use Agriculture (25%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (2%), Nature conservation/ Circeo National Park A1, B2, C1, C2, C6 121 research (98%), Other (20%), Tourism/recreation (90%) Admin region Lazio Coordinates 41°16’N 13°02’E A large, mountainous area in the central Apennines, including the Altitude 0–540 m Area 8,350 ha National Park and the adjacent Gole del Sagittario. The main habitats are broadleaved and mixed woodlands, scrub, alpine grasslands, streams, rivers and small lakes, cliffs and gorges. The main land-uses ■ Site description are nature conservation, cultivation, stock-farming and tourism. An area on the Tyrrhenian coast, between Roma and Napoli, including four brackish lakes (Laghi Pontini) and surrounding marshes, rocky ■ Birds cliffs, sand-dunes and beaches, broadleaved and seasonally flooded The site is important for breeding raptors, woodpeckers and other woodlands, and maquis. Isola di Zannone, a small island that is species of mountain or forest. part of the Circeo National Park, is included in the ‘Ponziane islands’

406 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

IBA (site 122). The main land-uses are nature conservation, cattle- The site is important for cliff-breeding species and for migrants, raising, tourism, cultivation and fish-farming. especially raptors and passerines. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Acrocephalus paludicola (1–5 Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet forest; on passage). broadleaved evergreen forest), Grassland (10%; humid grassland; mesophile grassland), Wetland (30%; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; water- ■ Protection status fringe vegetation), Rocky areas (5%; sea cliff/rocky shore), Artificial landscape (15%; highly National High International High improved reseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) 110 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Circeo, 8,622 ha). IBA Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (25%), Military (5%), Nature contains State Nature Reserve (Isole di e , area not conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation (40%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) known). IBA contains State Nature Reserve (Isole di e S. Stefano, area not known). IBA contains Marine Nature Reserve ■ Birds (Ventotene e S. Stefano, area not known). 1,130 ha of IBA covered Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria by Special Protection Area (Isole di Ponza, Palmarola, Zannone, Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1986 3 — — C6 Ventotene e S. Stefano, 17,069 ha). 1 Numenius tenuirostris W 1995 1 4 A A1, C1 Slender-billed Curlew ■ Conservation issues Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern W 1995 13 73 A C2 Merops apiaster Bee-eater B 1986 20 300 B B2 Threats Consequences of animal/plant introductions (A), Recreation/tourism (C), Monticola solitarius Blue Rock Thrush R — 100 — C B2 Unsustainable exploitation (A) 1. Two records: 4 from December 1980 to January 1981; 1 in February 1989. The main threats are hunting and illegal bird-trapping during the The site is important for wintering and migrating waterbirds, most spring migration. European mouflon Ovis orientalis musimon has been notably Numenius tenuirostris. introduced on Zannone and is a globally threatened subspecies (Vulnerable), but its overgrazing is affecting the vegetation. The ■ Protection status Instituto Nazionale Fauna Selvatica carries out bird-ringing on National High International High Ventotene. 8,350 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Circeo, 8,622 ha). 8,350 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Parco Nazionale del Circeo, 8,400 ha). 94 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (, Ausoni and Aurunci mountains B2, C6 123 94 ha). 229 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (, Admin region Lazio 229 ha). 395 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Lago di Fogliano, Coordinates 41°22’N 13°30’E 395 ha). 1,474 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Lago di , Altitude 0–1,533 m Area 137,200 ha 1,474 ha).

■ Conservation issues ■ Site description A mountain complex bordering the , north of the towns Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Groundwater abstraction (A), Industrialization/ of and Gaeta. Habitats include maquis, broadleaved urbanization (B), Other (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B) evergreen woodland, garrigue, pastures and rocky cliffs. The main The main threats are water pollution (‘Other’ threat), especially of human activities are agriculture, forestry and hunting. Lago Monaci, tourism, illegal house construction, agricultural Habitats Forest and woodland (25%; broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (35%; intensification, groundwater abstraction, and illegal hunting. Some sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (5%), Rocky areas (5%; inland cliff), or all of the site is covered by a management plan. There are various Artificial landscape (30%) research projects by the National Park in collaboration with Land-use Agriculture (25%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (50%), Tourism/recreation (10%), universities and Ente Nazionale Energie Alternative. Urban/industrial/transport (10%)

■ Birds Ponziane islands B2, C6 122 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Admin region Lazio Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1995 12 — A B2, C6 Coordinates 40°54’N 12°59’E Monticola solitarius Blue Rock Thrush R 1995 300 400 A B2 Altitude 0–280 m Area 1,130 ha Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike B 1995 15 25 A B2 Lanius senator Woodchat Shrike B 1996 300 400 A B2 ■ Site description An archipelago of small islands, islets and rock stacks in the ■ Protection status Tyrrhenian Sea, close to the Lazio coast. It includes Isola di Ponza, National Low International None Isola Palmarola, Isola Ventotene, Isola Zannone, Isola , 1,500 ha of IBA covered by Nature Monument (Sonnino, 1,500 ha). and Isola di . Maquis and garrigue are the dominant habitats. The main land-uses are fishing, tourism, hunting, stock-farming. ■ Conservation issues Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (sclerophyllous Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Burning of vegetation (A), scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (shingle/stony beach), Marine areas, Rocky areas (sea Deforestation (commercial) (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Extraction industry (C), cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets), Artificial landscape (highly improved reseeded Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (B), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable grassland; perennial crops/orchards/groves; urban parks/gardens; ruderal land) exploitation (A) Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting, Nature conservation/research, The main threats are the strong hunting pressure; fires that are illegally Tourism/recreation started every year to burn scrub and create new pasture; and overgrazing.

■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Matese B2, B3, C6 124 Calonectris diomedea R 1986 — — — C6 Admin region Campania, Molise Cory’s Shearwater Coordinates 41°27’N 14°25’E Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1986 — — — C6 Altitude 1,011–2,050 m Area 41,718 ha 1,2 Circus pygargus Montagu’s Harrier P 1997 — 200 C C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 15 20 A B2, C6 Monticola solitarius Blue Rock Thrush R 1996 50 100 C B2 ■ Site description 1. 200 is maximum in a day. A mountain area in the central Apennines, south-east of the town of 2. Non-systematic counts. Isernia. Habitats include extensive broadleaved woodlands (oak

407 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Quercus, beech Fagus), rocky areas, agricultural land, and a karstic Threats Afforestation (C), Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/ lake, Lago del Matese (500 ha). The main land-uses are forestry and fisheries (C), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), Infrastructure (A), agriculture. Intensified forest management (A), Natural events (B), Selective logging/cutting (C) Habitats Forest and woodland (45%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; broadleaved evergreen forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (7%; scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (8%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland; mesophile grassland), Wetland (15%; standing fresh water; river/ Daunia mountains B2, C6 126 stream), Rocky areas (10%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (15%; perennial crops/ Admin region Puglia orchards/groves; urban parks/gardens; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) Coordinates 41°40’N 15°06’E Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (45%), Nature conservation/research (63%), Altitude 200–1,150 m Area 50,000 ha Urban/industrial/transport (10%), Water management (15%) ■ Site description ■ Birds A pre-Apennine mountain area in southern Italy, mainly covered by Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria remnants of broadleaved woodland and extensive cultivated areas. Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard B 1989 3 — — C6 The site also includes an artificial lake (Lago di Occhito). The main Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1993 3 6 A B3, C6 land-uses are agriculture and forestry. Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1990 2 — B C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (30%), Scrub (15%; scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/ Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1995 2 — B C6 Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 1 2 B B2, C6 maquis), Grassland (20%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland; mesophile Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1993 1 2 B C6 grassland), Artificial landscape (35%) Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (30%), Hunting (90%), Tourism/recreation (2%), An important site for breeding birds of prey. Urban/industrial/transport (5%), Water management (10%) ■ Protection status National Partial International None ■ Birds 25,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Park (Matese, 25,000 ha). Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 1,650 ha of IBA covered by Private Reserve (Monte Mutria, 1,650 ha). Falco biarmicus Lanner R — 1 2 A B2, C6 Coracias garrulus Roller B — 3 6 B B2 ■ Conservation issues Important breeding area for raptors. Breeding species of global Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Disturbance to birds (B), conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Falco naumanni. Extraction industry (C), Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C), Industrialization/ urbanization (B), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (B) ■ Protection status The site is threatened mainly by the building of new infrastructure National None International None (roads and a dam) and new tourist resorts, especially for winter sports. There have been studies on shrikes Lanius. ■ Conservation issues Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Afforestation (A), Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Burning of vegetation (A), Construction/impact of dyke/ River Biferno B2, C6 125 dam/barrage (A), Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (B), Dredging/canalization (C), Admin region Molise Filling-in of wetlands (C), Firewood collection (U), Forest grazing (B), Groundwater Coordinates 41°46’N 14°47’E abstraction (U), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (U), Intensified forest Altitude 50–889 m Area 30,000 ha management (U), Natural events (U), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) Hunting, fires and urbanization are the main threats. Within the area ■ Site description the provincial authorities periodically forbid hunting at some sites, A hilly area in central Italy, 15 km north-east of the town of but these are not included on the national list of protected areas Campobasso. Habitats include a stretch of river, a man-made lake, (e.g. the wildlife refuge of Lago di Occhito, of 1,200 ha, in Molise). streams, maquis, broadleaved woodlands, and large tracts of agricultural land. The main land-uses are agriculture, hunting and forestry. Habitats Forest and woodland (25%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%; Tremiti islands A4ii, B1ii, B2, C3, C6 127 sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (10%; standing fresh water; river/ Admin region Puglia stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (60%) Coordinates 42°07’N 15°30’E Land-use Agriculture (50%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (30%), Nature conservation/ Altitude 0–70 m Area 2,116 ha research (6%), Water management (5%) ■ Site description ■ Birds A small archipelago in the southern Adriatic Sea. The main habitats are sea cliffs, islets, rock stacks, maquis and native pinewoods Pinus. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria The main land-uses are tourism, agriculture, fishing and hunting. Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard B 1995 3 — B C6 Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1995 18 22 B B2, C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (native coniferous forest), Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/ Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1995 3 4 A C6 garrigue/maquis), Grassland (steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (shingle/stony Coracias garrulus Roller B 1995 2 — B C6 beach), Marine areas (open sea; sea inlet/coastal features), Rocky areas (sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets; caves), Artificial landscape (highly improved reseeded An important site for breeding raptors. Species of global conservation grassland; arable land; urban parks/gardens) concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex (rare on passage). Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting, Tourism/recreation ■ Protection status National Low International None ■ Birds 140 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Casacalenda, 140 ha). Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 1,700 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Lago di Guardialfiera, 1,700 ha). Calonectris diomedea B 1988 100 150 A B2, C6 Cory’s Shearwater Puffinus yelkouan Yelkouan Shearwater B 1988 250 350 A A4ii, B1ii, C3 ■ Conservation issues The main threat is the building of infrastructure, especially new roads. An important breeding site for Calonectris diomedea and Puffinus Oasi Casacalenda (Wildlife Reserve) is managed by LIPU. yelkouan.

408 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Protection status the area will be produced by LIPU for the as National High International None part of a programme to reintroduce Oxyura leucocephala. 2,116 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Gargano, 133,000 ha [boundaries are under discussion]). 2,116 ha of IBA covered by Marine Reserve (Isole Tremiti, 2,116 ha). Gargano promontory A1, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 129 Admin region Puglia ■ Conservation issues Coordinates 41°50’N 16°01’E Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Burning of Altitude 0–1,055 m Area 240,000 ha vegetation (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Recreation/ tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A) ■ Site description The main threats are tourism and consequent disturbance of breeding A mountainous promontory along the south Adriatic coast. The main birds, burning of vegetation, agricultural intensification, and illegal habitats are broadleaved and coniferous woodlands and agricultural hunting. land, with rocky sea cliffs. The main land-uses are forestry, agriculture and tourism.

Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; Lakes Lesina A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, 128 broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (10%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), and Varano C1, C2, C3, C4 Grassland (10%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (standing fresh water; river/ Admin region Puglia stream), Rocky areas (5%; sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets), Artificial landscape Coordinates 41°52’N 15°24’E (15%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Altitude 0–5 m Area 20,353 ha Land-use Agriculture (15%), Forestry (40%), Military (3%), Nature conservation/ research (100%), Tourism/recreation (25%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) ■ Site description Two large lakes on the southern Adriatic coast, north of the Gargano ■ Birds promontory. They are both connected to the sea and are very close to Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria each other. Lesina is relatively narrow, shallow and parallel to the Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard B 1990 7 19 B C6 coast; large reedbeds fringe it. Varano is deeper, the banks are mostly Neophron percnopterus B 1996 2 2 A B2, C6 artificial and there virtually no reedbeds. The strip of sea in front of Egyptian Vulture the lakes and beach is also important for birds. The main uses of the Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1990 5 9 B B2, C6 area are fisheries, hunting, nature conservation and agriculture, the Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1990 11 18 B B2, C2, C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1990 5 10 C C6 last one to the east of Varano and to the south-west of Lesina. 1 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard R 1996 7 60 B A1, C1, C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (7%; native coniferous forest; broadleaved evergreen Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew B 1990 80 170 B C6 Coracias garrulus Roller B 1990 5 10 C C6 forest), Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (2%; steppe/dry Dendrocopos medius R 1990 30 — C B3, C6 calcareous grassland; dry siliceous grassland), Wetland (69%; mudflat/sandflat; Middle Spotted Woodpecker saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing brackish and salt water; Monticola solitarius Blue Rock Thrush R 1996 200 — B B2 water-fringe vegetation), Marine areas (15%), Artificial landscape (7%; highly improved Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike B 1990 100 — A C2, C6 reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation) 1. 100 in 1980s; 30–60 in 1990; 7–15 in 1996. Land-use Agriculture (30%), Fisheries/aquaculture (50%), Hunting (70%), Nature An important breeding site for raptors and for some open-country conservation/research (80%), Tourism/recreation (25%), Urban/industrial/transport (2%) species. Breeding species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Falco naumanni (1–5 pairs). ■ Birds ■ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Protection status Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1994 4,033 4,033 A B1i, C3 National Partial International Low 1 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 1985 1,000 1,000 A A1, A4i, B1i, C1, C2 120,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Gargano, 133,000 ha 2 Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck W 1983 6,000 6,000 A B1i, C3 [boundaries are under discussion]). 48 ha of IBA covered by State Clangula hyemalis Long-tailed Duck W 1995 206 206 A B1i, C3 Nature Reserve (Falascone, 48 ha). 124 ha of IBA covered by State Mergus serrator W 1995 554 554 A B1i, C3 Nature Reserve (Monte Barone, 124 ha). 56 ha of IBA covered by Red-breasted Merganser Integral Nature Reserve (Sfilzi, 56 ha). 399 ha of IBA covered by Fulica atra Coot W 1995 27,718 27,718 A A4i, B1i, C3 3 Numenius tenuirostris W 1995 2 2 A A1, C1 Biogenetic Reserve (Foresta Umbra, 399 ha). 48 ha of IBA covered Slender-billed Curlew by Special Protection Area (Falascone, 48 ha). 399 ha of IBA covered 1. Winter 1985 only (Lake Lesina). by Special Protection Area (Foresta Umbra, 399 ha). 124 ha of IBA 2. Winter 1983 only. covered by Special Protection Area (Monte Barone, 124 ha). 56 ha of 3. One record, at Lake Lesina in January 1989. IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Sfilzi, 56 ha). A very important site for wintering waterbirds (more than 20,000 occur regularly, mainly Fulica atra), for example a total of 27,424 in January ■ Conservation issues 1994. Threats Afforestation (B), Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Burning of vegetation (U), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (U), ■ Protection status Deforestation (commercial) (U), Disturbance to birds (A), Dredging/canalization (U), Filling-in National Partial International Low of wetlands (B), Firewood collection (B), Forest grazing (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B), 14,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Gargano, 133,000 ha Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A) [boundaries are under discussion]). 930 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Lago di Lesina, 930 ha). 930 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Lago di Lesina, 930 ha). Manfredonia Gulf A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, 130 ■ Conservation issues wetlands B3, C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 Threats Afforestation (C), Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/ Admin region Puglia fisheries (A), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (C), Disturbance to birds (A), Coordinates 41°25’N 15°55’E Drainage (A), Dredging/canalization (A), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Forest grazing (C), Altitude 0–5 m Area 8,000 ha Groundwater abstraction (B), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A) The main threats are water pollution, illegal hunting and agricultural ■ Site description intensification (drainage of wetlands, overgrazing and agricultural A complex of brackish wetlands along the southern Adriatic coast, expansion on steppes and dry grasslands). A management plan for between the town of Manfredonia and the village of Margherita di

409 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Savoia. Carapelle–San Floriano is a complex of small ponds scattered ■ Birds across a drained agricultural area, usually managed as game reserves Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria or fish-farms. Saline di Margherita di Savoia is a large active saltpan. Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit P 1994 20 — C C6 Alma Dannata is a lagoon used for fish-farming. Paludi del Candelaro Ficedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher P 1994 30 — C C6 e Cervaro is the remains of what was formerly the largest wetland, dominated by reedbeds (Daunia Risi) and by Salicornia bushes Important stop-over site for migratory birds, especially passerines. (Frattarolo). The whole complex is surrounded by cultivated land. ■ Protection status Habitats Wetland (40%; saltmarsh; coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; standing National Partial International None brackish and salt water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (60%; IBA contains State Nature Reserve (Isola di Capri, area not known). arable land) Land-use Agriculture (60%), Hunting (70%), Nature conservation/research (57%), ■ Conservation issues Tourism/recreation (5%), Urban/industrial/transport (52%) Threats Burning of vegetation (A), Disturbance to birds (A), Industrialization/ urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A) ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria The main threats are the illegal, large-scale trapping and shooting of Tadorna tadorna Shelduck W 1994 3,873 11,287 A A4i, B1i, C3 birds, and the burning of vegetation. Anas penelope Wigeon W 1994 10,394 15,060 A B1i, C3 1 Anas strepera Gadwall W 1978 — 1,500 A A4i, B1i, C3 1 Anas clypeata Shoveler W 1978 — 5,000 B A4i, B1i, C3 1 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 1978 — 250 A A1, B1i, C1, C2 Serre Persano C6 132 Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1993 304 600 A A4i, B1i, B3, C2 Admin region Campania Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet P 1993 700 10,601 A A4i, B1i, C2 Coordinates 40°30’N 15°05’E Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet W 1995 4,770 4,770 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2 Altitude 49–85 m Area 300 ha Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover B 1993 60 80 A B2 Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover P 1993 160 273 A B1i, C3 ■ Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover W 1995 706 706 A B1i, C3 Site description 2 Numenius tenuirostris N 1996 1 20 A A1, C1, C2 An alluvial plain formed by the Sele river, between Monti Alburni Slender-billed Curlew and Monti Picentini. A dam on the river has created an artificial lake Numenius arquata Curlew W 1994 263 263 A B2 which is fringed by wet riparian woodland. Other habitats include Larus genei Slender-billed Gull B 1993 40 204 A C2, C6 maquis, broadleaved woodland, grassland and arable fields. The main Larus genei Slender-billed Gull W 1995 110 230 A B1i, C2 land-use is nature conservation. Gelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern B 1993 2 24 A B2, C2, C6 Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1993 180 514 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet 1. 1978 only. forest), Grassland (20%; humid grassland), Wetland (50%; standing fresh water; river/ 2. Five records, August–May (including wintering birds), 1988–1995. stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land) Land-use Agriculture (10%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/ A very important site for many wintering and migrating waterbird recreation (50%), Water management (50%) species and for some breeding waders and terns. This is a key site for Numenius tenuirostris on passage and in winter. The total number of waterbirds in January 1993 and 1994 was 26,775 and 33,152. ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Protection status Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1995 2 4 A C6 National Partial International Partial Grus grus Crane P 1995 — 500 A C6 750 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Gargano, 133,000 ha Alcedo atthis Kingfisher R 1995 Common — C6 [boundaries are under discussion]). 257 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Palude di Frattarolo, 257 ha). 3,871 ha of IBA A notable site for breeding and staging waterbirds. Breeding species covered by State Nature Reserve (Salina di Margherita di Savoia, of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya 3,871 ha). 257 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Palude nyroca (6–8 pairs). di Frattarolo, 257 ha). 3,871 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Salina di Margherita di Savoia, 3,871 ha). 3,871 ha of IBA ■ Protection status covered by Ramsar Site (Saline di Margherita di Savoia, 3,871 ha). National High International None 300 ha of IBA covered by Private Reserve (Serre Persano, 300 ha). ■ Conservation issues ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Drainage (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U) Threats Recreation/tourism (C) The main threats are illegal hunting, agricultural intensification, There are no major threats. The site is managed as a reserve by WWF- drainage and filling-in of wetlands. Italia, and is covered by a management plan. There are ongoing projects to reintroduce Aythya nyroca, to conserve Eurasian otter Lutra lutra, and to ring migrating passerines. Capri island C6 131 Admin region Campania Coordinates 40°33’N 14°15’E Picentini mountains C6 133 Altitude 0–589 m Area 1,036 ha Admin region Campania Coordinates 40°30’N 15°00’E Altitude 280–1,809 m Area 64,000 ha ■ Site description A small island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, covered mainly by maquis and rich in rocky cliffs. Tourism is the most important human activity. ■ Site description A mountain area in southern Italy, north-east of the town of Salerno. Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (20%; There are extensive broadleaved woodlands (especially beech Fagus), sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Marine areas, Rocky areas (10%; sea cliff/rocky as well as streams, rivers, grasslands, cultivated areas, and rocky areas shore), Artificial landscape (50%; perennial crops/orchards/groves; urban parks/gardens; of karst. The main land-uses are forestry, cultivation and stock-farming. other urban/industrial areas) This IBA includes ‘Monte Terminio and Monte Polveracchio’, which Land-use Agriculture (20%), Not utilized (30%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Urban/ was listed as a separate IBA (former site IT087) in the previous pan- industrial/transport (30%) European IBA inventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989).

410 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Habitats Forest and woodland (65%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved Murge A1, A3, A4ii, B1iii, B2, C1, C2, C6 135 evergreen forest), Scrub (5%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (5%; Admin region Puglia mesophile grassland), Wetland (5%; river/stream), Artificial landscape (20%; perennial Coordinates 40°53’N 16°24’E crops/orchards/groves; ruderal land) Altitude 340–679 m Area 90,000 ha Land-use Agriculture (15%), Forestry (30%), Tourism/recreation (5%), Water management (5%) ■ Site description A very large area of steppe in southern Italy, including the village of ■ Birds Altamura, with areas of maquis and agricultural land. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Habitats Forest and woodland (12%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1993 5 8 A C6 coniferous forest; wooded steppe), Scrub (5%; scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/ Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1993 3 4 A C6 maquis), Grassland (55%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (1%; standing Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1993 2 — B C6 fresh water; river/stream), Rocky areas (4%; inland cliff; caves), Artificial landscape 1 Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1993 — — — C6 (23%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/ 1. Very few breeding sites in NUTS region. groves; forestry plantation; urban parks/gardens; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) The site is notable for breeding birds of prey and woodpeckers. Land-use Agriculture (75%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (75%), Tourism/recreation (5%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) ■ Protection status National High International None 64,000 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Monti Picentini, ■ Birds 64,000 ha). Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1996 2 5 C C6 Conservation issues Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1997 1,500 1,500 A A1, A4ii, B1iii, Threats Deforestation (commercial) (A), Extraction industry (B), Firewood collection (C), B2, C1, C2, C6 Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1994 3 — A B2, C6 Forest grazing (B), Groundwater abstraction (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew B 1996 — 40 B C6 Infrastructure (A), Intensified forest management (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective Melanocorypha calandra R 1996 500 — C C6 logging/cutting (B) Calandra Lark The site is threatened especially by deforestation and by the building Calandrella brachydactyla B 1996 300 — — B2, C6 of new roads. Restocking of Alectoris graeca occurs. Short-toed Lark Galerida cristata Crested Lark R 1996 1,000 3,000 C B2 Oenanthe hispanica B 1996 100 — C A3 Black-eared Wheatear Alburni mountains B2, C6 134 Sylvia conspicillata Spectacled Warbler B 1996 200 — C A3 Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B 1996 100 — — A3 Admin region Campania Sylvia melanocephala R 1996 1,500 — C A3 Coordinates 40°35’N 15°19’E Sardinian Warbler Altitude 204–1,742 m Area 16,000 ha Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike B 1996 50 — C B2, C2, C6 Lanius senator Woodchat Shrike B 1996 50 — C B2 ■ Site description Emberiza melanocephala B 1996 50 — C A3 Black-headed Bunting A calcareous mountain area in southern Italy, crossed by the rivers Sele and Sanagro. There are broadleaved woodlands, agricultural land, An important area for breeding raptors (especially Falco naumanni) grasslands, and maquis. The main land-uses are agriculture, forestry and for larks and other steppic species, as well as for five of the and tourism. 21 species of the Mediterranean biome. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Tetrax tetrax (rare resident). Habitats Forest and woodland (35%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; broadleaved evergreen forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (20%; sclerophyllous ■ Protection status scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (15%; mesophile grassland), Wetland (5%; river/stream), National None International Unknown Rocky areas (5%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (10%; highly improved reseeded Overlaps with SPA. grassland; arable land; urban parks/gardens; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (15%), Not utilized (42%), Tourism/recreation (15%), ■ Conservation issues Urban/industrial/transport (8%) Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Afforestation (U), Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (U), ■ Birds Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (A), Dredging/canalization (C), Extraction Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria industry (B), Forest grazing (B), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1989 1 — C C6 Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (A) 1 Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1993 Uncommon — C6 Lanius senator Woodchat Shrike B 1997 50 — C B2 Part of the site has been proposed as a National Park. There are censuses and ongoing research on breeding Falco naumanni; 1. Very few breeding sites in NUTS region. research on raptors by LIPU was funded by the LIFE programme of Notable for several open-country species, and rich in woodland species. the EU.

■ Protection status National High International None Mount Cervati B2, C6 136 16,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Cilento e Vallo di Diano, Admin region Campania 227,052 ha). Coordinates 40°17’N 15°26’E Altitude 192–1,899 m Area 44,000 ha ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Deforestation (commercial) (A), Disturbance ■ Site description to birds (B), Extraction industry (B), Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C), Groundwater A karstic mountain area in the southern Apennines. Mount Cervati is abstraction (C), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (A) the highest mountain in the area. The site is mainly covered by The site is threatened by industrial and urban development and by broadleaved woodland, scrub and cultivated land, and is rich in deep the building of new infrastructure. The National Park is not yet fully gorges and karstic land-forms. The main land-uses are traditional operative. forestry, cultivation and cattle-rearing.

411 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Habitats Forest and woodland (25%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; Manferrara forest B2, C6 138 mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (25%; scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Admin region Basilicata Grassland (5%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (5%; river/stream), Rocky areas Coordinates 40°32’N 16°30’E (5%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (35%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable Altitude 390–475 m Area 500 ha land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation; ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture (15%), Forestry (30%), Nature conservation/research (50%), ■ Site description Urban/industrial/transport (5%) A wooded area (mainly oak Quercus) surrounded by cultivated land, in southern Italy, close to the village of Pomarico. The main land- ■ Birds uses are forestry and agriculture. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest; Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1993 4 7 A C6 broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (10%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1995 3 3 A C6 Artificial landscape (30%; arable land; forestry plantation; ruderal land) Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1993 Uncommon — C6 Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (10%), Nature conservation/ Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1995 9 9 A C6 research (90%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%) Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1995 72 — A C6 Otus scops Scops Owl B 1997 100 — C B2 Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1993 1 2 B C6 ■ Birds Athene noctua Little Owl R 1997 100 — C B2 Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1995 60 60 A B2, C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Milvus migrans Black Kite R 1994 10 12 A B2 The area is rich in breeding birds of prey, with some mountain species. Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1996 3 3 A C6 ■ Protection status An important site for kites Milvus. National High International None 44,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Cilento e Vallo di Diano, ■ Protection status 227,052 ha). National None International None

■ Conservation issues ■ Conservation issues Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Afforestation (C), Agricultural Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Extraction industry (B), Forest grazing (B), intensification/expansion (C), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Deforestation (commercial) (A), Disturbance to birds (C), Firewood collection (B), Forest Unsustainable exploitation (B) grazing (A), Groundwater abstraction (A), Infrastructure (B), Intensified forest Urbanization is the main threat to the area. The area is a proposed management (C), Natural events (B), Selective logging/cutting (A) LIPU reserve. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. The main threat is unsustainable exploitation of forest resources. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. The National Park is not yet fully operative. Gravine A1, A4ii, B1iii, B2, C1, C2, C6 139 Admin region Puglia, Basilicata Coordinates 40°35’N 17°00’E Dolomiti di Pietrapertosa B2, C6 137 Altitude 10–450 m Area 30,000 ha Admin region Basilicata Coordinates 40°30’N 16°03’E ■ Site description Altitude 500–1,350 m Area 2,500 ha An area of steppe and maquis in southern Italy, north-west of the town of Taranto. The site includes the historical town of Matera, and ■ Site description is incised by streams, which have created canyons and gorges. Most A wooded, mountainous area in southern Italy, very rich in rocky of the land is agricultural. cliffs and gorges. Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved Habitats Forest and woodland (75%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous evergreen forest), Scrub (5%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland forest), Rocky areas (15%; inland cliff; caves), Artificial landscape (10%; highly (15%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Rocky areas (5%; scree/boulders; inland cliff; improved reseeded grassland; arable land) caves), Artificial landscape (65%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; Land-use Agriculture (9%), Hunting (20%), Nature conservation/research (71%) perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture (55%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%) ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1995 3 5 A C6 ■ Birds Neophron percnopterus B 1995 1 1 A B2, C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Egyptian Vulture Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1993 1 3 A B2, C6 Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1997 600 600 A A1, A4ii, B1iii, Dryocopus martius R 1996 Frequent — C6 B2, C1, C2, C6 Black Woodpecker Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 2 2 A B2, C6 An important site for breeding raptors. Important numbers of Falco naumanni breed in Matera town.

■ Protection status ■ Protection status National High International Unknown National Partial International Unknown 2,500 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park (Gallipoli– 1,115 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Corno della Strega, Cognato–Piccole Dolomiti Lucane, 2,500 ha). Overlaps with SPA. 1,115 ha). 200 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Gravina di Castellaneta, 200 ha). 800 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve ■ Conservation issues (Gravina di Laterza, 800 ha). 2,380 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Santa Trinità, 2,380 ha). Overlaps with SPA. Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C) ■ Conservation issues There are no major threats. Some or all of the site is covered by a Threats are posed by fires, agricultural intensification and illegal management plan. hunting. The area is a proposed Regional Park.

412 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Birds Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Agricultural intensification/ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria expansion (A), Burning of vegetation (A), Disturbance to birds (A), Forest grazing (C), Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1995 10 — B C6 Industrialization/urbanization (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) Falco biarmicus Lanner R — 1 2 A B2, C6 Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1995 Uncommon — C6 Lullula arborea Woodlark R 1995 300 — B B2, C6 Sylvia hortensis Orphean Warbler B 1996 10 — B B2 Coast between B2, C6 140 Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1996 5 — B C6 Marina di Camerota and Policastro Bussentino ■ Protection status Admin region Campania National High International Low Coordinates 40°00’N 15°18’E 50,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Val d’Agri–Lagonegrese, Altitude 0–1,224 m Area 5,700 ha area not known). 1,650 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Gole del Fiume Calore, 1,650 ha). ■ Site description A stretch of rocky coast along the southern Tyrrhenian Sea. Maquis ■ Conservation issues and rocky cliffs are the main habitats. The main land-uses are Threats Extraction industry (B), Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C), agriculture and tourism. Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous The main threat is intense illegal hunting. forest; mixed forest; broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (20%; sclerophyllous scrub/ garrigue/maquis), Grassland (10%), Wetland (10%), Marine areas (10%), Rocky areas (10%; sea cliff/rocky shore; caves), Artificial landscape (10%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation; urban parks/ Mounts Orsomarso and Verbicaro C6 142 gardens; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) Admin region Calabria Land-use Agriculture (20%), Not utilized (50%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Urban/ Coordinates 39°50’N 15°57’E industrial/transport (10%) Altitude 50–1,987 m Area 48,000 ha

■ Birds ■ Site description Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria A large, mountainous area (both coastal and inland) in the southern Falco tinnunculus Kestrel R 1997 50 — A B2 Apennines, west of Castrovillari, practically uninhabited and mainly Falco eleonorae Eleonora’s Falcon B 1997 5 — C C6 covered by broadleaved woodland and maquis. The main land-use is Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1997 10 — C C6 nature conservation. Monticola solitarius Blue Rock Thrush R 1997 100 200 C B2 Sylvia undata Dartford Warbler B 1997 50 — B C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (65%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Lanius senator Woodchat Shrike B 1997 50 — C B2 forest; mixed forest; broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (30%; sclerophyllous scrub/ garrigue/maquis), Rocky areas (5%; inland cliff) Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation (5%) ■ Protection status National High International None 5,700 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Cilento e Vallo di Diano, ■ Birds 227,052 ha). Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 Uncommon — C6 ■ Conservation issues Lullula arborea Woodlark R 1996 Frequent — C6 Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Burning of vegetation (A), Ficedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher B 1996 3 — B C6 Disturbance to birds (B), Extraction industry (B), Forest grazing (B), Industrialization/ The site is important for breeding raptors of forest, and possibly holds urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) the southernmost breeding Dryocopus martius in Italy. The main threats are tourism, urban development, building of new infrastructure, and burning of vegetation. The National Park is not ■ Protection status yet fully operative. National High International Partial 48,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Pollino, 196,437 ha). 3,980 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Valle del Fiume Argentino, 3,980 ha). 5,533 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve Lagonegrese and gorges B2, C6 141 (Valle del Fiume Lao, 5,533 ha). 3,980 ha of IBA covered by Special of River Calore Protection Area (Valle del Fiume Argentino, 3,980 ha). 5,533 ha of Admin region Campania, Basilicata IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Valle del Fiume Lao, Coordinates 40°08’N 15°55’E 5,533 ha). Altitude 600–2,005 m Area 50,000 ha ■ Conservation issues ■ Site description Threats Burning of vegetation (B), Infrastructure (C), Unsustainable exploitation (A) A mountain complex in southern Italy, including the sites Monte Sirino, Monte Raparo, Monte dell’Agresto, Monte Caldarosa, Monte The main threat is illegal hunting and fires. Fires are started by man, Volturino, and Gole del fiume Calore. The main habitats are mainly by shepherds. There is a project for the conservation of roe broadleaved and mixed woodlands, cliffs and agricultural land, crossed deer Capreolus capreolus. by rivers and streams. Land-uses include forestry, cultivation and cattle-rearing. ‘Gole del Fiume Calore’ was listed as a separate IBA (former site IT089) in the previous pan-European IBA inventory Pollino B2, C6 143 (Grimmett and Jones 1989). Admin region Basilicata, Calabria Habitats Forest and woodland (65%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Coordinates 39°53’N 16°12’E forest; mixed forest), Wetland (5%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Rocky areas Altitude 190–2,267 m Area 115,814 ha (15%; scree/boulders; inland cliff; caves), Artificial landscape (15%; perennial crops/ orchards/groves; forestry plantation; ruderal land) ■ Site description Land-use Agriculture (10%), Hunting (10%), Nature conservation/research (100%), The largest mountain complex in the southern Apennines, with a high Urban/industrial/transport (5%) diversity of habitats including maquis, broadleaved, mixed and

413 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy coniferous woodlands, dry and alpine grasslands, pastures, and Threats Burning of vegetation (B), Industrialization/urbanization (C), Infrastructure (C), cultivated land. The presence and percentage cover of habitats Unsustainable exploitation (B) (listed in the header) refer only to the part of the site within Calabria region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; broadleaved evergreen forest; treeline ecotone), Scrub (scrub; Sant’Andrea island A1, B2, C1, C6 145 sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (25%; steppe/dry calcareous Admin region Puglia grassland; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (river/stream), Rocky areas (10%; Coordinates 40°03’N 17°59’E inland cliff), Artificial landscape (25%; highly improved reseeded grassland; perennial Altitude 0–6 m Area 52 ha crops/orchards/groves; ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture (50%), Hunting (20%), Nature conservation/research (80%), ■ Site description Tourism/recreation, Urban/industrial/transport (10%) A small island not far off the north-west coast of Puglia, close to the town of Gallipoli, and mainly covered by Salicornia bushes. At present ■ Birds the island is not used by man. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Habitats Grassland (90%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (10%; coastal Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1996 10 20 A B2, C6 lagoon) Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1996 10 20 B C6 Land-use Not utilized (100%) Neophron percnopterus B 1996 2 2 B B2, C6 Egyptian Vulture Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 1 2 A C6 ■ Birds Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 2 4 A C6 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 Uncommon — C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1996 1 2 C C6 Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1996 20 30 A A1, B2, C1, C6 Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1996 3 — B C6 Calandrella brachydactyla B 1996 10 15 A C6 The island holds a colony of Larus audouinii. Short-toed Lark Lullula arborea Woodlark R 1996 Abundant — C6 ■ Protection status Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1996 Common — C6 National None International Unknown Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1996 10 — B C6 Overlaps with SPA. An important breeding area for raptors and species of forest, mountain and open country. Ornithological data only refer to the part of Pollino ■ Conservation issues that is in Calabria region. Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Recreation/tourism (A) ■ Protection status The main threat is the disturbance of breeding birds by tourists. There National High International Low is a proposal to declare it a nature reserve. 112,014 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Pollino, 196,437 ha). 1,600 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (Gole del Raganello, 1,600 ha). 1,600 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Gole Le Cesine C7 146 del Raganello, 1,600 ha). Admin region Puglia Coordinates 40°21’N 18°20’E ■ Conservation issues Altitude 0–5 m Area 620 ha Threats Afforestation (B), Extraction industry (A), Forest grazing (B), Industrialization/ urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B) ■ Site description The main threats are urban development and the building of new An area on the Adriatic coast in southern Italy, about 10 km east of infrastructure. the town of Lecce. It is a mosaic of beaches, sand-dunes, maquis, freshwater and brackish pools, olive-groves and arable land. The main land-uses are nature conservation and agriculture. Ferro valley C6 144 Habitats Scrub (5%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (40%; sand-dunes/ Admin region Calabria sand beach; standing fresh water; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe Coordinates 39°59’N 16°32’E vegetation), Artificial landscape (55%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; Altitude 10–666 m Area 8,500 ha perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation) Land-use Agriculture (40%), Nature conservation/research (55%), Tourism/ recreation (5%) ■ Site description A small valley facing the Ionian Sea, north of the village of Amendolara, rich in maquis, garrigue, grasslands and agricultural areas. The main ■ Birds land-use is agriculture. A notable site for migrating and wintering waterbirds. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca Habitats Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland, Rocky areas (scree/ (max. 3, winter). boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Land-use Agriculture, Hunting, Urban/industrial/transport ■ Protection status National Partial International High ■ Birds 348 ha of IBA covered by State Nature Reserve (La Cesine, 348 ha). 620 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Le Cesine, 620 ha). Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 620 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Le Cesine, 620 ha). Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1997 1 — B C6 An important breeding site for raptors, and stop-over site for many ■ Conservation issues migrants. Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Filling-in of wetlands (C), Infrastructure (C), Natural events (A) ■ Protection status National None International None Dune erosion is the main threat. The site is a WWF reserve. Some or all of the site is covered by a management plan. Birds are monitored ■ Conservation issues and ringed. There are wetland-restoration projects, financed by The main threats are illegal hunting, and burning of vegetation. regional and EU funds.

414 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Conservation issues Cape Otranto B1iv, C1, C5 147 Admin region Puglia Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Forest grazing (B), Recreation/ Coordinates 40°08’N 18°35’E tourism (C) Altitude 0–128 m Area 3,100 ha The most important threat is agricultural intensification.

■ Site description A rocky area on the coast of south-east Puglia, south of the town of Marchesato B1iii, B2, C2, C6 149 Otranto. Habitats are dominated by pseudo-steppes, garrigue, pastures and cultivated land. Cultivation and stock-rearing are the main and River Neto Admin region Calabria land-uses. Coordinates 39°13’N 16°57’E Habitats Scrub (30%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (30%; steppe/ Altitude 0–562 m Area 44,125 ha dry calcareous grassland), Rocky areas (5%; sea cliff/rocky shore), Artificial landscape (35%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/ ■ Site description groves; forestry plantation; ruderal land) A low, dry area of hills in southern Italy, facing the Ionian Sea, north- Land-use Agriculture (65%), Hunting, Tourism/recreation (10%) west of the town of Crotone and crossed by the Neto river. The site is rich in rocky areas and small villages. The main land-use is agriculture. ■ Birds The site incorporates an IBA that was listed separately in the previous pan-European IBA inventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989), ‘Foce del Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Fiume Neto’ (former site IT106). Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel P 1996 50 — B C1 Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; mixed forest; broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub An important ‘bottleneck’ site for raptors migrating along the Adriatic (20%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (20%; steppe/dry calcareous coast in spring. It is considered that more than 3,000 raptors pass grassland), Wetland (5%; sand-dunes/sand beach; river/stream), Marine areas, Rocky each spring, although there is only incomplete data from one year areas (5%; inland cliff; caves), Artificial landscape (40%; highly improved reseeded (1989), when a total of about 1,500 birds were counted, mainly harriers grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; other urban/industrial areas; Circus and Pernis apivorus. ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture (50%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (50%), Nature conservation/ ■ Protection status research (3%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) National None International None

■ Conservation issues ■ Birds Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Agricultural Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria intensification/expansion (B), Burning of vegetation (A), Industrialization/ Milvus migrans Black Kite B 1996 1 3 B C6 urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable Milvus milvus Red Kite B 1996 3 8 A C6 exploitation (B) Neophron percnopterus B 1996 3 4 A B2, C6 Egyptian Vulture The main threats are fires, illegal hunting, overgrazing and the building Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1996 2 3 A C6 of tourist resorts. Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon P 1996 1,000 — C B1iii Falco biarmicus Lanner B 1996 3 3 B B2, C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine B 1996 1 5 B C6 Grus grus Crane P 1996 1 500 A C6 Sila Grande C6 148 Larus melanocephalus W 1995 300 300 A C2 Admin region Calabria Mediterranean Gull Coordinates 39°21’N 16°32’E Coracias garrulus Roller B 1996 5 10 B B2, C6 Altitude 1,127–1,928 m Area 28,450 ha Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1996 Common — C6 The area inland is important for breeding and migrating raptors while ■ Site description the coastal lagoons support high numbers of non-breeding waterbirds. A mountain area in southern Italy, dominated by extensive woodlands Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: (mainly pine Pinus and beech Fagus), traditionally cultivated land, Falco naumanni (1–10 on passage). pastures, grasslands and artificial lakes. The main land-uses are forestry, agriculture, hunting and tourism. ■ Protection status National Low International None Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous 1,500 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Foce del fiume Neto, forest; mixed forest; treeline ecotone), Grassland (10%; dry siliceous grassland; 1,500 ha). mesophile grassland), Wetland (5%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Artificial landscape (25%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/ ■ Conservation issues orchards/groves; ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture (25%), Forestry (60%), Hunting (60%), Nature conservation/ Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Afforestation (C), Agricultural research (25%), Tourism/recreation (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%), Water intensification/expansion (C), Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (A), Dredging/ management (5%) canalization (A), Extraction industry (A), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) ■ Birds The most important threats are illegal hunting, and disturbance to Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria birds. Dryocopus martius Black Woodpecker R 1996 Frequent — C6 Lullula arborea Woodlark R 1996 Abundant — C6 Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit B 1996 Common — C6 Costa Viola A1, B1iii, B1iv, C1, C5 150 Admin region Calabria A notable breeding site for several woodland species. Coordinates 38°13’N 15°45’E Altitude 0–1,304 m Area 19,750 ha ■ Protection status National Partial International Partial 7,084 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Calabria, 15,894 ha). ■ Site description 7,084 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Parco Nazionale Rocky coast and hills along the Calabrian coast of the Tyrrhenian della Calabria, 15,892 ha). Sea, on the east side of the Messina Strait.

415 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved Eolie islands A4ii, B1iii, B2, C2, C6 152 evergreen forest), Scrub (30%; scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland Admin region Sicilia (5%; sand-dunes/sand beach; shingle/stony beach), Marine areas, Artificial landscape Coordinates 38°30’N 14°50’E (50%; perennial crops/orchards/groves; urban parks/gardens; ruderal land) Altitude 0–962 m Area 11,610 ha Land-use Agriculture (30%), Hunting (100%), Not utilized (20%), Tourism/ recreation (10%), Urban/industrial/transport (20%) ■ Site description An archipelago of small islands and islets, of volcanic origin, in the ■ Birds Tyrrhenian Sea, north of Sicily. The islands are Alicudi, Filicudi, Salina, Lipari, Vulcano, Panarea, Basiluzzo, Lisca Bianca, and Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Stromboli. The main habitats are maquis, rocky areas and garrigue. Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle P 1990 — 2 B A1, C1 The principal land-uses are agriculture and tourism. Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel P 1990 — 30 B A1, C1 Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon P 1990 28 672 B B1iii Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/ garrigue/maquis), Grassland, Marine areas, Rocky areas (sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/ An important ‘bottleneck’ site for soaring birds on passage, with islets), Artificial landscape (highly improved reseeded grassland; perennial crops/orchards/groves) 10,000–20,000 being counted in total each spring. The most common Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting, Tourism/recreation, Urban/industrial/transport species include Pernis apivorus (3,138–14,960 per season), Circus aeruginosus and Falco vespertinus. Counts have been made in 1987, 1990, 1993 and 1994, and the maximum total count (all species ■ Birds combined) for one season is 18,160 in spring 1993. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Protection status Calonectris diomedea R 1996 100 — — C6 Cory’s Shearwater National None International None Falco eleonorae Eleonora’s Falcon B 1994 108 118 A A4ii, B1iii, B2, C2, C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 8 — — C6 ■ Conservation issues An important area for breeding Calonectris diomedea and falcons Falco. Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Natural events (A), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable ■ Protection status exploitation (A) National Partial International Unknown There is massive and intense illegal hunting, which is the main threat 370 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Isola di Alicudi, to the migrating raptors. Counting of migrating raptors/storks and 370 ha). 635 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Isola di anti-poaching activities have been carried out by LIPU every year Filicudi, 635 ha). 1,585 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve since the mid-1980s. (Isola di Lipari, 1,585 ha). 282 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Isola di Panarea e scogli viciniori, 282 ha). 1,053 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Isola di Stromboli e Strombolicchio, 1,053 ha). 1,362 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature B1iv, C5, C6 Aspromonte 151 Reserve (Isola di Vulcano, 1,362 ha). 1,521 ha of IBA covered by Admin region Calabria Regional Nature Reserve (Le Montagne delle Felci e dei Porri, 1,521 ha). Coordinates 38°07’N 16°00’E Overlaps with SPA. Altitude 106–1,955 m Area 35,650 ha ■ Conservation issues ■ Site description Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Recreation/tourism (A) A mountain area, in the southern Apennines, which includes the central area of the Aspromonte complex and two valleys which reach down Touristic development poses the main threat. to the coast. Extensive broadleaved and coniferous woodlands are the dominant habitats. The main land-uses are forestry and cattle- rearing. Peloritani mountains A4iv, B1iv, C5 153 Habitats Forest and woodland (75%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous Admin region Sicilia forest; mixed forest), Scrub (15%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (5%; Coordinates 38°13’N 15°31’E river/stream; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (5%) Altitude 10–1,286 m Area 17,100 ha Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Nature conservation/research ■ Site description ■ Birds A mountain area in north-east Sicily, west of the town of Messina, dominated by maquis, garrigue, broadleaved evergreen woodlands and Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria agricultural land. The main land-uses are cultivation and stock-rearing. 1 Dryocopus martius R 1987 2 — — C6 Black Woodpecker Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved Ficedula albicollis B 1987 20 50 — C6 evergreen forest), Scrub (35%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (river/ Collared Flycatcher stream), Rocky areas (5%), Artificial landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded 1. Breeding not proven. grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Land-use Agriculture (80%), Forestry (20%) An important migratory ‘bottleneck’ site for raptors. A few thousand are thought to pass regularly every spring, mostly Pernis apivorus, with many Milvus migrans and Circus aeruginosus as well, although ■ Birds there have been no systematic counts. A very important ‘bottleneck’ site for migrating raptors, where more than 20,000 pass regularly in spring, especially Pernis apivorus (mean ■ Protection status minimum of 6,032 pass per spring). National Partial International Partial Part of IBA covered by National Park (Aspromonte, 50,000 ha). ■ Protection status National None International Unknown ■ Conservation issues Overlaps with SPA. Threats Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (A), Forest grazing (B), Groundwater ■ Conservation issues abstraction (A), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B) Threats Afforestation (B), Burning of vegetation (A), Disturbance to birds (C), Infrastructure (A) Illegal killing of raptors during migration is a major threat.

416 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

The main threats are fires and illegal hunting. In the past there was ■ Conservation issues intense hunting of migrating raptors, which has now largely decreased. Threats Burning of vegetation (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A) A major threat is the building of forestry roads. There are anti- poaching activities.

Mount Cofano, A3, B2, C6 156 Nebrodi B2, C6 154 Cape San Vito and Admin region Sicilia Mount Sparagio Coordinates 37°56’N 14°42’E Admin region Sicilia Altitude 10–1,847 m Area 85,587 ha Coordinates 38°03’N 12°47’E Altitude 0–1,110 m Area 18,000 ha ■ Site description A large mountain area in northern Sicily, south of the village of ■ Site description S. Agata di Militello. The main habitat is broadleaved woodland A mountain peninsula along the northern coast of Sicily, west of the (beech Fagus, oak Quercus); the area is rich in small freshwater ponds. town of Castellamare del Golfo, and including the following localities: It includes an area that was listed in the previous pan-European IBA Monte Sparagio, Monte Cofano, Monte Inici, Capo Puntazza, Lo inventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989) as ‘Rocche del Castro and Zingaro, Monte Speziale, and S. Vito lo Capo. The main habitats are surrounding valley’ (former site IT129). rocky sea cliffs, stony and sand beaches, maquis, garrigue and cultivated land. The main land-uses are cultivation, stock-rearing and Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved tourism. evergreen forest), Grassland (25%), Wetland (standing fresh water; river/stream; water- fringe vegetation), Rocky areas (15%), Artificial landscape (highly improved reseeded Habitats Forest and woodland (5%), Scrub (65%; scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/ grassland; arable land; ruderal land) garrigue/maquis), Grassland (5%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Rocky areas Land-use Agriculture (30%), Forestry (60%), Nature conservation/research (100%) (15%; sea cliff/rocky shore; caves), Artificial landscape (10%; forestry plantation; ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (25%), Nature conservation/ ■ Birds research (23%), Tourism/recreation (20%) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1989 4 4 — C6 ■ Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 2 — — B2 Birds 1 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 200 — — C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Monticola solitarius Blue Rock Thrush R 1996 50 — — B2 Hieraaetus fasciatus Bonnelli’s Eagle R 1997 4 4 A B2, C6 1. A. g. whitakeri. Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 2 2 A B2 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 11 11 A B2, C6 1 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 40 40 — A3, C6 ■ Protection status Sylvia conspicillata Spectacled Warbler R 1996 Common — A3 National High International Unknown Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B 1996 Abundant — A3 4,396 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Monte Soro, Sylvia melanocephala R 1996 Abundant — A3 4,396 ha). 85,578 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Park Sardinian Warbler Sturnus unicolor Spotless Starling R 1996 Common — A3 (Nebrodi, 85,578 ha). Overlaps with SPA. 1. A. g. whitakeri. ■ Conservation issues An important breeding area for raptors and for five of the 20 species of the Mediterranean biome. Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Burning of vegetation (B), Forest grazing (C), Infrastructure (C) ■ Protection status Inappropriate pastoral practices such as overgrazing and burning of National Partial International Unknown vegetation are the main threats. Research on the mammals, reptiles 537 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Monte Cofano, and amphibians is ongoing, coordinated by the Regional Park. A 537 ha). 1,600 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve project to reintroduce Gyps fulvus, coordinated by LIPU and the (Zingaro, 1,600 ha). Overlaps with SPA. Regional Park, is on the way. ■ Conservation issues Threats Afforestation (A), Burning of vegetation (A), Disturbance to birds (C), Forest Mount Pecoraro and Pizzo Cirina B2, C7 155 grazing (B), Intensified forest management (A), Recreation/tourism (B) Admin region Sicilia The main threats are the burning of vegetation (in 1996 practically all Coordinates 38°09’N 13°07’E of ‘Lo Zingaro’ reserve was burned), and afforestation projects. Altitude 47–964 m Area 12,000 ha

■ Site description Egadi islands B1ii, B2, C2, C6 157 A coastal mountain area in northern Sicily, west of the city of Palermo. Admin region Sicilia The main habitats are garrigue, maquis and broadleaved evergreen Coordinates 37°59’N 12°20’E woodland. Altitude 0–686 m Area 3,700 ha Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (90%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Rocky areas (5%) ■ Site description Land-use Agriculture (50%), Not utilized (50%) A group of islands (Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo) and islets to the west of Sicily. The main habitats are maquis, garrigue and rocky ■ Birds cliffs. The main land-uses are non-intensive agriculture, hunting, Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria tourism and fishing. Monticola solitarius Blue Rock Thrush R — — — — B2 Habitats Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Marine areas, Rocky areas (sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets), Artificial landscape (perennial crops/orchards/groves; urban parks/gardens) ■ Protection status Land-use Agriculture (35%), Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting, Nature conservation/ National None International Unknown research, Tourism/recreation Overlaps with SPA.

417 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Birds The main threats are from illegal hunting and from the water-level management associated with salt-extraction and fishing. Some or all Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria of the site is covered by a management plan. Calonectris diomedea Cory’s Shearwater R 1992 100 — — C6 Hydrobates pelagicus Storm Petrel R 1992 1,000 — B B1ii, B2, C2, C6 Hieraaetus fasciatus Bonnelli’s Eagle R 1992 1 1 A B2 A1, B2, C1, C6 Important breeding site for seabirds, especially Hydrobates pelagicus. Rocca Busambra 159 Admin region Sicilia Coordinates 37°53’N 13°27’E ■ Protection status Altitude 225–1,613 m Area 100,000 ha National Low International None Part of IBA covered by Marine Reserve (Isole Egadi, 35 ha). ■ Site description ■ Conservation issues An area of hills south of the city of Palermo, in north-west Sicily. The area lies between the following localities, Misilmeri, Vicari, Corleone, Threats Afforestation (B), Burning of vegetation (B), Consequences of animal/plant Roccamena and Monte Gradara, and comprises cultivated land, with introductions (A), Disturbance to birds (A), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable patches of maquis, woodland and garrigue. exploitation (A) Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved The main threat is illegal hunting, especially of migrating birds. evergreen forest), Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; urban Stagnone di Marsala A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, 158 parks/gardens; ruderal land) and Trapani saltpans B3, C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Hunting, Water management Admin region Sicilia Coordinates 37°47’N 12°30’E ■ Birds Altitude 0–7 m Area 3,700 ha Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria 1 Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1994 47 — A A1, B2, C1, C6 ■ Site description Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1994 2 4 A B2, C6 A complex of brackish wetlands (Stagnone di Marsala), saltpans Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Chough R 1989 50 — — C6 (Saline di Trapani) and islets (Isole dello Stagnone di Marsala) along 1. Six small colonies. the west coast of Sicily, south of the town of Trapani. The Stagnone di Marsala is one of the last remaining lagoons in Sicily. It measures An important site for breeding raptors, including Falco naumanni. 10 km (north–south) by 3 km. It has an average depth of 1 m (maximum is only 2.5 m). The principal vegetation is bushes of ■ Protection status Salicornia and Salsola, whilst the surrounding areas are largely National Partial International Unknown agricultural. The Saline di Trapani are north of the lagoon and IBA contains Regional Nature Reserve (Bagni di Cefalà Diana e comprise a complex of saltpans at the mouth of the Baiata river. The Chiara Stella, area not known). 7,397 ha of IBA covered by Regional main land-uses are salt extraction and agriculture. Nature Reserve (Bosco della Ficuzza, Rocca Busambra, ecc., 7,397 ha). IBA contains Regional Nature Reserve (Serre della Pizzuta, area not Habitats Grassland (10%; humid grassland), Wetland (80%; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; known). Overlaps with SPA. standing brackish and salt water; river/stream), Artificial landscape (10%; highly improved reseeded grassland) ■ Conservation issues Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Urban/industrial/transport (30%), Nature conservation/research (84%) Threats Unknown

■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Sicani mountains A1, A4ii, B1iii, B2, 160 Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill P 1989 — 200 C A4i, B1i, C2 Admin region Sicilia C1, C2, C6 1 Anas querquedula Garganey P 1989 — 20,000 C A4i, B1i, C3 Coordinates 37°37’N 13°09’E 2 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 1992 10 10 A A1, C1 Himantopus himantopus B 1995 — 75 A C6 Altitude 250–1,180 m Area 18,000 ha Black-winged Stilt Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1996 — 200 A B3, C6 ■ Charadrius alexandrinus B 1995 50 120 C B2 Site description Kentish Plover A hilly area in southern Sicily, north of the coastal village of Sciacca. Charadrius alexandrinus P 1989 — 3,000 C A4i, B1i, C3 The main habitats are rocky cliffs, pastures and arable land. The main Kentish Plover land-use is agriculture. Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1996 6 100 A B2, C2, C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%; 1. Spring total. 2. Single count. sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (25%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (5%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Rocky areas (5%; inland An important site for wintering and migrating waterbirds and for cliff), Artificial landscape (50%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; breeding waders and terns. Over 21,000 waders have been recorded perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation) passing through the area in spring. Land-use Agriculture (25%), Forestry, Hunting ■ Protection status National Partial International Unknown ■ Birds 2,012 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Isole dello Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Stagnone di Marsala, 2,012 ha). 1,100 ha of IBA covered by Regional Neophron percnopterus B 1996 3 7 A B2, C6 Nature Reserve (Saline di Trapani e Paceco, 1,100 ha). Overlaps with Egyptian Vulture SPA. Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1996 50 200 B A1, A4ii, B1iii, B2, C1, C2, C6 ■ Conservation issues Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 5 7 B B2, C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 10 12 A B2, C6 Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), The most important breeding site for Falco naumanni in Sicily, and Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (B), Dredging/canalization (A), Filling-in of also important for other breeding raptors, especially Falco peregrinus wetlands (C), Industrialization/urbanization (C), Unsustainable exploitation (A) and Falco biarmicus.

418 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Protection status Simeto mouth A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, 163 National Partial International Unknown and Biviere di Lentini C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 2,553 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Monte Admin region Sicilia Genuardo e Santa Maria del Bosco, 2,553 ha). Overlaps with SPA. Coordinates 37°24’N 15°06’E Altitude 0–100 m Area 1,500 ha ■ Conservation issues Threats Afforestation (A), Disturbance to birds (A), Extraction industry (A), Forest grazing (C), ■ Site description Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A), Other (A) A complex of wetlands along the south-east coast of Sicily, around the Important threats are: afforestation by the Regional Forestry town of Catania, and including the following sites: Biviere di Lentini, a Department (Corpo Forestale Regionale) of natural prairies where freshwater reservoir; Foce del Simeto, a river-mouth; Traversa di Ponte raptors, especially Falco naumanni, feed; disturbance to breeding raptors Barca, a stretch of the Simeto river. There are large reedbeds at Biviere (and cases of illegal hunting and poisoning); the presence and activity di Lentini. The main land-uses are water-resource management at Biviere of numerous quarries; heavy and uncontrolled hunting pressure. di Lentini (for domestic water-supply), and nature conservation at Foce del Simeto. The surrounding areas are largely agricultural.

Habitats Wetland (100%; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing Castelluzzo A1, B2, C1, C2 161 fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation) Admin region Sicilia Land-use Hunting (7%), Nature conservation/research (26%), Water management (67%) Coordinates 37°42’N 14°44’E Altitude 260–742 m Area 7,500 ha ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Site description Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1996 500 4,000 A B1i, C3 A hilly, inland area in eastern Sicily, covered mainly by pastures and Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1998 80 100 B B2, C2, C6 arable land. Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1997 50 50 B C6 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1992 10 15 A C2, C6 Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved deciduous forest; broadleaved evergreen Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1997 15 20 A B2, C6 forest), Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland, Rocky areas (inland Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis P 1997 200 300 A A4i, B1i, C2 cliff), Artificial landscape (arable land; other urban/industrial areas) Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill P 1997 100 350 A A4i, B1i, C2 Land-use Agriculture (90%), Hunting (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%) Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1997 15 20 A A1, C1 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck W 1995 67 67 A A1, C1 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1998 280 280 A A1, B1i, C1, C2 ■ Birds Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover B 1997 13 18 A B2 1 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Numenius tenuirostris P 1997 1 1 A A1, C1 Slender-billed Curlew Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1996 20 32 A A1, B2, C1, C2 Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern P 1997 100 100 A C2 An important breeding area for raptors, especially Falco naumanni. Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1997 50 50 A B2, C2, C6 Chlidonias niger Black Tern P 1997 700 700 A B1i, C2 Acrocephalus paludicola Aquatic Warbler P 1997 2 3 A A1, C1 ■ Protection status 1. One record, at Biviere di Lentini in March 1996. National None International Unknown Overlaps with SPA. A very important site for waterbirds while breeding (especially Aythya nyroca and herons), migrating (e.g. Plegadis falcinellus, Platalea ■ Conservation issues leucorodia) and wintering. The site holds more than 20,000 waterbirds on a regular basis, with Larus ridibundus especially common in winter. Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A) ■ Protection status National Partial International Unknown 400 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Oasi del Simeto, Cape Feto C7 162 1,859 ha). Overlaps with SPA. Admin region Sicilia Coordinates 37°40’N 12°31’E ■ Conservation issues Altitude 0–5 m Area 150 ha Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Infrastructure (B), Other (A), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A) ■ Site description Wetlands with sand-dunes and small marshes, along the south-west Water management at Biviere di Lentini is the main threat (‘Other’ coast of Sicily, 5 km west of the town of Mazara del Vallo. The main threat). The aqueduct for filling the reservoir has never been built, land-use is agriculture. but its completion remains a possibility, and would destroy the wetland complex at this site. Some or all of the site is covered by a management Habitats Wetland (70%; sand-dunes/sand beach; standing brackish and salt water), plan. Artificial landscape (30%; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Land-use Agriculture (30%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/ recreation (5%) Madonie A1, C1, C6 164 Admin region Sicilia ■ Birds Coordinates 37°50’N 14°00’E A notable stop-over site for migrating waterbirds. Altitude 10–1,979 m Area 39,941 ha ■ Protection status National None International High ■ Site description 150 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Capo Feto, 150 ha). A coastal mountain complex in the north of Sicily, south of the town of Cefalù. There is a very varied mosaic of habitats, including ■ Conservation issues broadleaved woodlands, pastures and rocky areas. Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Drainage (C), Filling-in of Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest; wetlands (A), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Recreation/tourism (C) broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland, Wetland (river/stream), Rocky areas (inland cliff; caves), Artificial landscape The main threats are filling-in of wetlands and agricultural Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Nature conservation/research (100%) intensification.

419 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Birds submerged waterweed (Potamogeton, Ceratophyllum). The main land- Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria uses are grazing, water management and nature conservation. Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1989 4 6 — C6 Habitats Scrub (30%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (40%; sand-dunes/ Neophron percnopterus Egyptian Vulture B 1989 3 3 — C6 sand beach; standing brackish and salt water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1989 3 3 — C6 landscape (30%; highly improved reseeded grassland; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Hieraaetus fasciatus Bonnelli’s Eagle R 1989 2 2 — C6 Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1994 23 — A A1, C1 Land-use Agriculture (50%), Nature conservation/research (50%), Water management (50%) Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1989 8 8 — C6 1 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 200 — — C6 ■ Birds 1. A. g. whitakeri. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria An important breeding site for raptors. Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1986 — 1,500 A A1, B1i, C1, C2 1 Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole B 1997 150 150 A C6 ■ Protection status 1. Piana del Signore. National High International Unknown 2,949 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Faggeta The site is important for migrating waterbirds, especially Aythya Madonia, 2,949 ha). 2,010 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature nyroca (also breeds, min. 3 pairs), herons, Plegadis falcinellus, Platalea Reserve (Monte Quacella, 2,010 ha). 39,941 ha of IBA covered by leucorodia, and waders. Regional Nature Park (Madonie, 39,941 ha). Overlaps with SPA. ■ Protection status ■ Conservation issues National Partial International Partial IBA contains Regional Nature Reserve (Biviere di Gela, area not Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Burning of vegetation (B), Forest known). 256 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Biviere di Gela, grazing (C), Infrastructure (C) 256 ha). Overlaps with SPA. There is a project to reintroduce Gyps fulvus, coordinated by LIPU and the Regional Nature Park. ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B), Other (A) Anapo gorges A3, B2, B3, C6 165 The main threats are the infilling of wetlands, the unsuitable water Admin region Sicilia management at Biviere di Gela (‘Other’ threat), and industrialization Coordinates 37°07’N 14°59’E and infrastructure development at Piana del Signore. Altitude 425–697 m Area 3,712 ha

■ Site description Pantani di Capo Passero A4i, A4iii, B1i, 167 Rocky gorges created by the Anapo river between the villages of Admin region Sicilia B2, C2, C3, C4, C6 Palazzolo Acreide and Sortino, in eastern Sicily. Habitats include Coordinates 36°44’N 15°03’E maquis, grasslands and cultivated land. Altitude 0–1 m Area 3,000 ha Habitats Forest and woodland (10%), Scrub (50%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/ maquis), Rocky areas (5%; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (35%) ■ Site description Land-use Agriculture (85%), Tourism/recreation A complex of brackish coastal wetlands, in the south-east corner of Sicily, around the village of Pachino. It includes two groups of lakes: ■ Birds Vendicari (Pantano Piccolo, Pantano Grande, Pantano Roveto), south Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria of the town of Noto, and Pachino (Pantano Morghello, Salina di Falco biarmicus Lanner R 1996 2 — — B2 Marzameni, Pantano Pontenio, Pantano Baronello, Pantano Auruca, 1 Alectoris graeca Rock Partridge R 1996 50 — C A3, C6 Pantano Cannone, Pantano Cuba, Pantano Longarini, Pantano Monticola solitarius Blue Rock Thrush B 1996 50 — C B2 Bruno, Pantano Arezzi). Sylvia conspicillata Spectacled Warbler R 1996 Common — A3 Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B 1996 Abundant — A3 Habitats Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (50%; saltmarsh; sand- Sylvia melanocephala Sardinian Warbler R 1996 Abundant — A3 dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe Sturnus unicolor Spotless Starling R — — — — A3, B3 vegetation), Artificial landscape (50%) 1. A. g. whitakeri. Land-use Agriculture (50%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Other (5%), Tourism/ recreation (10%) An important breeding site for raptors and for five of the 20 species of the Mediterranean biome. ■ Birds ■ Protection status Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria National High International None Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis P 1990 250 — — A4i, B1i, C2 3,712 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Pantalica, Valle Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill P 1990 250 — — A4i, B1i, C2 dell’Anapo e Torrente Cava Grande, 3,712 ha). Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover B 1990 100 — — B2 Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover P 1990 — 1,000 — A4i, B1i, C3 ■ Conservation issues Calidris minuta Little Stint P 1990 — 6,000 — A4i, B1i, C3 Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper P 1990 — 4,500 — A4i, B1i, C3 Threats Afforestation (B), Recreation/tourism (B) Philomachus pugnax Ruff P 1990 — 8,000 — C6 The main threat is the destruction of garrigue for reforestation projects. Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper P 1990 — 3,000 — C6 Larus genei Slender-billed Gull P 1990 700 1,400 — A4i, B1i, C2 Sterna caspia Caspian Tern P 1990 — 150 — A4i, B1i, C2 Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1990 10 25 — B2, C2, C6 Biviere and Plain of Gela A1, B1i, 166 Chlidonias niger Black Tern P 1990 2,500 — — A4i, B1i, C2 Admin region Sicilia C1, C2, C6 A very important site for migrating waterbirds (regularly more than Coordinates 37°01’N 14°20’E 20,000 present in total), including large numbers of waders. Species of Altitude 0–5 m Area 500 ha global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (max. 10, winter), Larus audouinii (max. 25 non-breeding birds). ■ Site description A complex of coastal brackish lakes, in the south of Sicily, separated ■ Protection status from the sea by sand-dunes. There are large reedbeds and beds of National High International Partial

420 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

1,512 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature Reserve (Oasi Faunistica ■ Protection status di Vendicari, 1,512 ha). 1,385 ha of IBA covered by Regional Nature National None International None Reserve (Pantani Sicilia S. O., 1,385 ha). 1,450 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Pantani di Vendicari, 1,450 ha). 1,450 ha of ■ Conservation issues IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Vendicari, 1,450 ha). Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (A) ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Industrialization/urbanization (A) Maddalena archipelago A1, B1i, B2, B3, 170 Admin region Sardegna C1, C2, C6 Coordinates 41°16’N 9°22’E Altitude 0–212 m Area 800 ha Pantelleria A4ii, B1ii, B1iii, B2, B3, 168 and Isole Pelagie C2, C6 ■ Site description Admin region Sicilia An archipelago of 15 islands and islets along the north-eastern coast Coordinates 36°45’N 12°00’E of Sardinia. They are mainly covered by maquis, with some coniferous Altitude 0–835 m Area 2,445 ha plantations, and there are many rocky cliffs. Tourism is the most important land-use. ■ Site description Habitats Scrub (40%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Marine areas (40%), Rocky An archipelago of small islands between Sicily and Tunisia. The main areas (10%; sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets), Artificial landscape (10%; perennial habitats are rocky islets and cliffs, maquis, garrigue and cultivated crops/orchards/groves; other urban/industrial areas) land. Land-use Hunting, Military, Nature conservation/research, Tourism/recreation Habitats Scrub (80%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Marine areas (sea cliff/ rocky shore; rock stacks/islets), Artificial landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded ■ Birds grassland; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Land-use Agriculture (15%), Hunting (40%), Nature conservation/research, Tourism/ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria recreation (100%) Calonectris diomedea B 1995 — 100 B C6 Cory’s Shearwater Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1995 — 350 A B1i, B3, C2, C6 ■ Birds Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1995 20 40 A A1, B2, C1 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1995 20 30 A C6 1 Calonectris diomedea R 1989 10,000 — B A4ii, B1ii, B2, C2, C6 Cory’s Shearwater An important breeding site for seabirds, including Larus audouinii, Hydrobates pelagicus Storm Petrel R 1990 100 — B B1ii, B2, C2, C6 shearwaters and Hydrobates pelagicus. 2 Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1992 30 — B C2, C6 Falco eleonorae Eleonora’s Falcon B 1994 35 40 A B1iii, B2, C2, C6 ■ Protection status Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler R — — — — B3 National High International None 1. Isola di Linosa. 800 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Maddalena, area not known). 2. Isola di Lampedusa. The most important breeding site in Italy for Calonectris diomedea. ■ Conservation issues Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Recreation/tourism (B) ■ Protection status National None International Unknown Tourism is the most important threat. Overlaps with SPA.

■ Conservation issues Asinara island and A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3, 171 Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Recreation/ Stintino peninsula cliffs C1, C2, C6 tourism (A) Admin region Sardegna Coordinates 41°01’N 8°12’E Altitude 0–408 m Area 4,900 ha

Coast from Coghinas A1, B1i, C1, C2 169 ■ Site description river mouth to Cape Testa Isola Asinara is a small island off the north-western corner of Sardinia. Admin region Sardegna Its shore is partly sandy and partly rocky. Maquis and broadleaved Coordinates 41°14’N 9°10’E evergreen woodland are the main habitats. The site also includes the Altitude 0–130 m Area 300 ha western rocky coast of Penisola di Stintino, a small peninsula close to Isola Asinara. Some small islets are also present. ■ Site description Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (sclerophyllous A coastal area in the north-west corner of Sardinia, between the mouth scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), of the Coghinas river and Cape Testa. Habitats include areas of maquis Wetland (sand-dunes/sand beach), Marine areas, Rocky areas (sea cliff/rocky shore; rock and sandy and rocky coast. stacks/islets) Habitats Scrub (10%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (10%; sand- Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Military (95%), Nature conservation/ dunes/sand beach), Marine areas (20%; sea inlet/coastal features), Rocky areas (60%; research (5%) sea cliff/rocky shore) Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture, Forestry, Hunting, Tourism/recreation ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ ■ Birds Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1996 50 220 B B1i, B3, C2 Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1997 30 — C B2 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1996 145 203 A A1, A4i, B1i, B2, Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1995 80 — A B1i, C2 C1, C2, C6 Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1995 25 — A A1, C1 Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler R — — — — B3 Important site for breeding Larus audouinii. An important breeding site for seabirds.

421 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Protection status ■ Conservation issues National High International None Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) 4,900 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Asinara, area not known). The main threat is agricultural intensification. ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (U), Aquaculture/fisheries (U), Burning of vegetation (U) Tavolara island A1, A4ii, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3, 174 Admin region Sardegna C1, C2, C3, C6 Threats include fires, overgrazing, and overfishing. The island is a Coordinates 41°00’N 9°39’E proposed Regional Nature Reserve. Altitude 0–565 m Area 3,000 ha

■ Site description Pilo and Casaraccio pools B2 172 A small archipelago of three islands—Tavolara (the largest), Molara Admin region Sardegna and Molarotto—off the north-east coast of Sardinia. Vegetation is Coordinates 40°51’N 8°17’E mainly maquis. Tourism is the main land-use. Altitude 0–1 m Area 500 ha Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Marine areas, Rocky areas (sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/ ■ Site description islets) Two pools to the west of the village of , at the north- Land-use Military, Nature conservation/research, Tourism/recreation western corner of Sardinia. Pilo pool is separated from the sea by sand-dunes and is fringed by a belt of reeds Phragmites. Casaraccio pool is the remnant of a large wetland. The site also includes a small ■ Birds salina (Saline di Stintino). The main activity is fishing. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Habitats Wetland (100%; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; standing Puffinus yelkouan Yelkouan Shearwater R 1995 6,000 9,000 B A4ii, B1ii, B3, C3 fresh water; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation) Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1995 200 300 A B1i, B3, C2, C6 Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (100%) Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1995 100 — B A1, B2, C1, C6 An important breeding site for seabirds. ■ Birds ■ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Protection status National Partial International None Porphyrio porphyrio Purple Gallinule R 1997 5 — B B2 IBA contains Marine Nature Reserve (Tavolara–Punta Coda Cavallo, A wintering site for waterbirds (including Phoenicopterus ruber). area not known). Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (max. 8, winter). ■ Conservation issues Threats Burning of vegetation (U), Disturbance to birds (U), Recreation/tourism (U), ■ Protection status Unsustainable exploitation (U) National Partial International None 383 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Stagno di Pilo, 383 ha). Tourism is the main threat, along with fires, and disturbance to birds by military activities. The site is a proposed Regional Nature ■ Conservation issues Reserve. Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Recreation/tourism (A) The main threat is the building of tourist resorts in the area of A1, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3, Casaraccio. Cape Caccia 175 Admin region Sardegna C1, C2, C6 Coordinates 40°34’N 8°11’E Altitude 0–361 m Area 35,000 ha Campo d’Ozieri B2, B3, C6 173 Admin region Sardegna ■ Site description Coordinates 40°45’N 8°50’E A rocky area along the west coast of Sardinia, covered by maquis. Altitude — Area 20,000 ha The main land-use is tourism. It includes Capo Caccia, Punta Cristallo and Isola Foradada. ■ Site description Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; wooded steppe), Scrub (40%; sclerophyllous scrub/ A large, steppic area in central Sardinia, including the villages of garrigue/maquis), Wetland (5%; sand-dunes/sand beach; shingle/stony beach), Marine Ozieri and Oschiri. Some of the land is used for agriculture and cattle- areas (10%), Rocky areas (20%; sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets; caves), Artificial rearing. landscape (15%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; wooded steppe), Scrub (20%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/ Land-use Agriculture (5%), Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting (30%), Military (5%), Nature maquis), Grassland (50%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Artificial landscape (20%; arable land; conservation/research (30%), Tourism/recreation (40%) ruderal land) Land-use Agriculture (30%), Forestry, Hunting (80%), Not utilized (20%), Water management (5%) ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Birds Calonectris diomedea B 1995 800 1,000 B B1ii, B2, C2, C6 Cory’s Shearwater Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Hydrobates pelagicus Storm Petrel B 1994 400 500 A B1ii, B2, C2, C6 Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1996 Abundant — B2 Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1994 400 550 B B1i, B3, C2, C6 1 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard R 1997 80 100 A C6 Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1997 30 — C B2 Sturnus unicolor Spotless Starling R 1997 500 — C B3 Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1996 20 25 A A1, B2, C1 1. Individuals. Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler B 1997 50 — C B3 Important breeding site for several open-country species. ■ Protection status ■ Protection status National Low International None National None International None 1,701 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Tramariglio, 1,701 ha).

422 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status National None International None Threats Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Intensified forest management (B), Recreation/tourism (A) ■ Conservation issues The main threat is posed by tourism. Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (B), Infrastructure (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B) The main threats are the drainage of the small wetlands, the building Coast between Bosa B2, B3, C6 176 of new power lines, and the lack of legal site-protection. and Alghero Admin region Sardegna Coordinates 40°21’N 8°27’E Altitude 0–802 m Area 20,000 ha Central Campidano B2, C6 178 Admin region Sardegna Coordinates 39°40’N 8°38’E ■ Site description Altitude 0–274 m Area 20,000 ha A rocky, coastal area of western Sardinia, between the towns of Alghero and Bosa. The main land-uses are stock-rearing, forestry and hunting. ■ Site description The central area of the largest lowland in Sardinia, including the Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; mixed forest), Scrub (50%; sclerophyllous scrub/ villages of Sanluri, Sardana and Uras. The site is dominated by steppe- garrigue/maquis), Marine areas (10%), Rocky areas (30%; sea cliff/rocky shore) grassland on basalt bedrock, crossed by numerous streams. The main Land-use Agriculture (60%), Forestry (30%), Hunting (50%) land-uses are agriculture and hunting.

Habitats Grassland (steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (river/stream), Artificial ■ Birds landscape (highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria groves; forestry plantation; urban parks/gardens; other urban/industrial areas) 1 Gyps fulvus Griffon Vulture R 1994 30 30 A C6 Land-use Agriculture, Hunting, Urban/industrial/transport, Water management Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1995 7 11 B C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1994 10 — — B2, C6 ■ Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler R 1997 50 — C B3 Birds 1. Colony is periodically ‘restocked’ by LIPU. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1996 Common — B2 The site is important for breeding raptors, especially for the largest 1 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard R 1996 20 40 — B2, C6 Gyps fulvus Italian colony of . Breeding species of global conservation Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew R 1996 20 40 — C6 concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Larus audouinii (frequent). Calandrella brachydactyla B 1996 150 — C B2, C6 Short-toed Lark ■ Protection status 1. Males. National None International None An important breeding site for Tetrax tetrax. ■ Conservation issues ■ Protection status Threats Burning of vegetation (B), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (B), National None International None Unsustainable exploitation (B) The main threats are a new power line which is planned in front of the ■ Conservation issues Gyps fulvus colony, touristic development projects along the coast, Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (U), Burning of vegetation (U), Consequences and fires. LIPU runs a project to conserve and restock the population of animal/plant introductions (U), Disturbance to birds (U), Dredging/canalization (U), of Gyps fulvus. The area is a proposed Regional Nature Reserve. Industrialization/urbanization (U), Infrastructure (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U) The main threats are fires started for stubble-burning, water pollution, building of new roads, and urbanization. Altopiano di Campeda A1, B2, C1, C2, C6 177 Admin region Sardegna Coordinates 40°18’N 8°47’E Altitude 425–845 m Area 19,500 ha Altopiano di Abbasanta A1, B2, C1, C2, C6 179 and Lake Omodeo Admin region Sardegna ■ Site description Coordinates 40°10’N 8°50’E An area of grassland, with patches of cork oak Altitude 101–364 m Area 20,000 ha woodland, located north of the village of Macomer. The area is rich in small, temporary pools, and there are also rocky areas and rivers. The main land-use is agriculture. ■ Site description A steppe area in central Sardinia, between the villages of Abbasanta Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; wooded steppe), Scrub (20%; sclerophyllous scrub/ and Macomer, crossed by numerous streams and rich in small, garrigue/maquis), Grassland (40%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Artificial landscape temporary wetlands. The site also includes the upper valley of the (30%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves) Tirso river and Lago Omodeo, an artificial lake that is temporarily Land-use Agriculture (40%), Forestry, Hunting (70%), Not utilized (20%) dry. The main land-use is grazing.

Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved evergreen forest; wooded steppe), Scrub ■ Birds (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Wetland (standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial Milvus milvus Red Kite R 1996 2 6 B C6 landscape (highly improved reseeded grassland; perennial crops/orchards/groves; other Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1995 100 — C B2, C2, C6 urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard R 1995 80 100 B A1, B2, C1, C6 Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew R 1996 20 30 B C6 Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Hunting, Military, Urban/industrial/transport Melanocorypha calandra Calandra Lark R 1996 100 — B C6 An important breeding site for Tetrax tetrax and other open-country ■ Birds species. Breeding species of global conservation concern that do not An important site for breeding Tetrax tetrax and for wintering meet IBA criteria: Falco naumanni. Burhinus oedicnemus.

423 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Birds Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1994 100 — C B2, C2, C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard R 1994 100 — C A1, B2, C1, C6 Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1995 200 300 — B1i, B3, C2, C6 Melanocorypha calandra Calandra Lark R 1994 100 — — C6 Accipiter gentilis Goshawk R 1995 10 — B C6 Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1995 — 10 C C6 Hieraaetus fasciatus Bonnelli’s Eagle R 1995 — — A B2, C6 ■ Protection status Falco eleonorae Eleonora’s Falcon B 1995 140 — A A3, A4ii, B1iii, National None International None B2, C2, C6 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1995 20 — C B2 ■ Conservation issues Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1997 30 — C B2 Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1995 20 40 C A1, C1 Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Agricultural intensification/ Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler R 1997 50 — C A3, B3 expansion (U), Burning of vegetation (U), Deforestation (commercial) (U), Firewood Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B 1995 — — — A3 collection (U), Infrastructure (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U) Sylvia melanocephala R 1995 — — — A3 The main threats are the burning of vegetation by farmers and Sardinian Warbler Sturnus unicolor Spotless Starling R 1995 — — — A3 shepherds, illegal hunting, and the opening of new roads. An important breeding site for raptors and for five of the 21 species of the Mediterranean biome. Cuglieri coast B1i, B2, C2, C6 180 ■ Protection status Admin region Sardegna National High International None Coordinates 40°11’N 8°25’E 59,102 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Gennargentu, Golfo di Altitude 0–131 m Area 2,800 ha Orosei, area not known).

■ Site description ■ Conservation issues A rocky coastal area, rich in sea cliffs and islets. The principal Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Afforestation (U), Agricultural vegetation is maquis. The main land-use is agriculture. intensification/expansion (U), Burning of vegetation (U), Deforestation (commercial) (U), Habitats Scrub (70%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (river/stream), Disturbance to birds (U), Forest grazing (U), Infrastructure (U), Intensified forest Rocky areas (30%; sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets) management (U), Recreation/tourism (U) Land-use Agriculture, Hunting, Tourism/recreation Tourism along the coast, fires, new roads, and deforestation are the main threats. ■ Birds

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1995 50 — — B1i, C2 Oristano wetlands A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, 182 Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1995 6 8 — C6 Admin region Sardegna C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1997 30 50 C B2 Coordinates 39°52’N 8°29’E Altitude 0–53 m Area 7,780 ha An important breeding site for several species. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Larus audouinii (resident). ■ Site description A complex of wetlands along the west-central coast of Sardinia, ■ Protection status surrounding the town of Oristano, and divided into the following main National None International None subsites: Mistras, Cabras, Mar’e Pauli, Santa Giusta, S’Ena Arrubia, Pauli Maiori, Pauli Menta, San Giovanni, Marceddì, Corru s’Ittiri, ■ Conservation issues Putzu Idu, Is Benas, Sa Salina Manna and Sale Porcus. These areas include freshwater and brackish lagoons, ponds, large reedbeds Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (U), Burning of vegetation (U), (especially at Santa Giusta) and saltpans, as well as sand-dunes, rocky Recreation/tourism (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U) coasts (between Cuccuru Mannu and Su Tingiosu and at Capo The main threats are fires and the building of new tourist resorts along Mannu), and adjacent agricultural land. The main activities are the beaches. The site is a proposed Regional Nature Reserve. fisheries and aquaculture.

Habitats Wetland (80%; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; shingle/stony beach; coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation), Orosei Gulf and A1, A3, A4ii, B1i, B1iii, 181 Rocky areas (2%; sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets), Artificial landscape (18%; Gennargentu B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 arable land; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) mountains Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting, Nature conservation/research, Admin region Sardegna Tourism/recreation, Urban/industrial/transport Coordinates 40°10’N 9°24’E Altitude 0–1,829 m Area 59,102 ha ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ ■ Site description Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1995 8,000 8,000 A A4i, B1i, C3 A large area of east-central Sardinia that includes coastal and Egretta garzetta Little Egret W 1994 743 907 A B1i, C2 mountain habitats. Vegetation is dominated by maquis along the coast Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1995 20 — — C6 (Orosei Gulf) and by broadleaved evergreen woodlands, pastures, Phoenicopterus ruber W 1994 1,835 2,548 A A4i, B1i, C2 gorges and rocky cliffs in the mountains inland (Gennargentu Greater Flamingo mountains). The main land-use is stock-rearing. Aythya ferina Pochard W 1995 13,472 13,472 A A4i, B1i, C3 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1995 — 210 A A1, B1i, C1, C2 Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (sclerophyllous Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1995 — 10 — A1, C1, C2 scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (sand- Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1995 Common — B2 Porphyrio porphyrio Purple Gallinule R 1995 195 260 A B2, C2, C6 dunes/sand beach; river/stream), Rocky areas (sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets; Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet W 1995 — 800 A B1i, B2, C2 inland cliff; caves), Artificial landscape (perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry Glareola pratincola B 1995 40 — A B1i, C2, C6 plantation; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) Collared Pratincole Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Hunting, Nature conservation/research, Tourism/ Charadrius alexandrinus W 1995 442 442 A B1i, C3 recreation, Urban/industrial/transport Kentish Plover

424 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Protection status Larus genei Slender-billed Gull R 1995 — 500 — C2, C6 National None International None Larus genei Slender-billed Gull W 1995 55 146 A C2 ■ Gelochelidon nilotica B 1995 100 — B A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 Conservation issues Gull-billed Tern Threats Disturbance to birds (U), Firewood collection (U) Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern W 1995 6 140 A C2 Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1995 — 150 — B1i, B2, C2, C6 General threats to site are burning of vegetation, overgrazing and development. A very important site for wintering waterbirds (up to 50,000 or more), especially wildfowl and Phoenicopterus ruber, as well as for migrating Aythya nyroca and for several breeding waterbirds. The total number Cape San Marco A1, B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 184 of waterbirds in January 1993 was 35,775, with 58,367 in January Admin region Sardegna 1994. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA Coordinates 39°51’N 8°25’E criteria: Aythya nyroca (1–3 pairs breed, max. 13 birds in winter), Altitude 0–56 m Area 200 ha Tetrax tetrax (resident), Larus audouinii (non-breeding visitor).

■ Protection status ■ Site description National Low International High A rocky coastal area in west-central Sardinia, which includes the small IBA contains Marine Nature Reserve (Penisola del Sinis–Isola di Mal island Isola di , the islet Scoglio del Catalano, and the di Ventre, area not known). 3,575 ha of IBA covered by Special capes Turr’e Seu and Capo San Marco. The main habitats are rocky Protection Area (Stagno di Cabras, 3,575 ha). 2,610 ha of IBA covered cliffs and shores, maquis and garrigue. The main land-use is tourism. by Special Protection Area (Stagno di Corru s’Ittiri, 2,610 ha). 680 ha Habitats Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (steppe/dry calcareous of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Stagno di Mistras, 680 ha). grassland), Marine areas (open sea; sea inlet/coastal features), Rocky areas (sea cliff/ 287 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Stagno di Pauli rocky shore; rock stacks/islets) Maiori, 287 ha). 300 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting, Military, Nature conservation/research, (Stagno di S’Ena Arrubia, 300 ha). 330 ha of IBA covered by Special Tourism/recreation Protection Area (Stagno di Sale Porcus, 330 ha). 2,610 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Stagno di Corru S’Ittiri, Stagni di San Giovanni e, 2,610 ha). 3,575 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Stagno ■ Birds di C bras, 3,575 ha). 680 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Stagno Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria di Mistras, 680 ha). 287 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Stagno di Pauli Maiori, 287 ha). 300 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Stagno Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1996 30 40 A C2 Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1996 Common — B2 di S’Ena Arrubia, 300 ha). 324 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1996 100 — B A1, B2, C1, C6 (Stagno di Sale Porcus, 324 ha). Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler R 1996 Common — B3 Sylvia undata Dartford Warbler R 1996 Common — B2 ■ Conservation issues Important breeding site for seabirds, including Larus audouinii. Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (U), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Burning of Breeding species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA vegetation (U), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (U), Disturbance to birds (U), criteria: Falco naumanni (4 pairs). Drainage (U), Industrialization/urbanization (U), Infrastructure (U), Recreation/ tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (U) ■ Protection status The main threats are the burning of vegetation, illegal hunting, and National Partial International None water pollution due to untreated urban and industrial sewage. Over- 111 ha of IBA covered by Private Reserve (Seu, 111 ha). fishing and agricultural intensification in the surrounding areas are important potential threats to the site. Shooting of Phalacrocorax ■ Conservation issues carbo was authorized in 1994, 1995 and 1996 by the regional authority Threats Disturbance to birds (U), Recreation/tourism (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U) and the Instituto Nazionale Fauna Selvatica, as the birds were thought to be reducing fish populations in the lagoons. A Regional Nature The main threat is tourism. The area is a proposed Regional Park, Park has been proposed for the area of Sinis, and a Regional Nature ‘Parco Regionale del Sinis-Montiferru’. Reserve for Corru s’Ittiri. Sale Porcus is managed by LIPU.

Flumendosa and A1, B2, C1 185 Mount Ferru of Tertenia A1, B2, B3, C1, C6 183 Colostrai pools Admin region Sardegna Admin region Sardegna Coordinates 39°45’N 9°37’E Coordinates 39°21’N 9°35’E Altitude 0–875 m Area 1,000 ha Altitude 0–104 m Area 3,400 ha

■ Site description ■ Site description A coastal area in south-east Sardinia, with sea cliffs, maquis and dry A complex of brackish wetlands on the south-east Sardinian coast, grasslands. close to the village of Muravera. There are sand-dunes and beaches.

Habitats Scrub (scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Marine areas, Rocky areas Habitats Wetland (saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; river/stream), (sea cliff/rocky shore) Marine areas Land-use Agriculture, Hunting Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting, Tourism/recreation, Urban/ industrial/transport ■ Birds ■ Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Birds 1 Accipiter gentilis Goshawk R 1995 Uncommon — C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1995 30 — C B2 Porphyrio porphyrio Purple Gallinule R 1995 — 6 — B2 Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull N 1995 20 40 B A1, C1 Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1995 15 25 — A1, C1 Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler R 1995 50 — C B3 1. A. g. arrigonii. The site is important for breeding Larus audouinii. Breeding species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Falco A site for non-breeding Larus audouinii. naumanni (min. 2 pairs).

425 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Protection status ■ Protection status National None International None National None International None

■ Conservation issues ■ Conservation issues Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (U), Aquaculture/fisheries (U), Threats Disturbance to birds (U), Drainage (U), Filling-in of wetlands (U), Disturbance to birds (U), Drainage (U), Dredging/canalization (U), Industrialization/ Industrialization/urbanization (U), Infrastructure (U), Recreation/tourism (U), urbanization (U), Infrastructure (U), Recreation/tourism (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U) Unsustainable exploitation (U) The main threats are wetland drainage, water pollution by untreated domestic sewage, and the building of new infrastructure (new roads to tourist resorts). The area has been proposed as a Regional Nature Cagliari wetlands A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3, 188 Reserve (Stagno di Colostrai). Admin region Sardegna C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 Coordinates 39°11’N 9°09’E Altitude 0–14 m Area 5,600 ha Mount Sette Fratelli B2, B3, C6 186 and Sarrabus ■ Site description Admin region Sardegna A complex of brackish coastal wetlands and saltpans around Cagliari Coordinates 39°17’N 9°27’E in south Sardinia. It includes the following sites: Stagno di Cagliari, Altitude 0–1,067 m Area 50,000 ha Saline di Quartu, Saline di Macchiareddu, Laguna di Santa Gilla, and Stagno di Molentargius. The main activities are salt-extraction ■ Site description and fishing. A mountainous area in the south-east corner of Sardinia, north- Habitats Wetland (100%; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; standing east of the town of Cagliari. The main habitats are broadleaved brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation) evergreen forest, maquis, grasslands, streams, rivers and cultivated Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture, Nature conservation/research, Urban/industrial/ land. transport, Water management Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland, Wetland (river/stream), Artificial landscape (highly ■ Birds improved reseeded grassland; arable land) Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Hunting, Tourism/recreation Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Podiceps nigricollis W 1995 238 3,400 A A4i, B1i, C3 ■ Black-necked Grebe Birds Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 — 780 A A4i, B1i, C2, C6 Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Phoenicopterus ruber R 1995 1,000 1,400 A A4i, B1i, B2, C2 Greater Flamingo 1 Accipiter gentilis Goshawk R 1997 2 4 A C6 Phoenicopterus ruber W 1995 2,500 5,043 A A4i, B1i, C2 Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1997 3 5 A C6 Greater Flamingo Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1997 30 — C B2 Phoenicopterus ruber N 1995 — 11,500 A A4i, B1i, C2 Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler R 1997 50 — C B3 Greater Flamingo 1. A. g. arrigonii. Anas clypeata Shoveler W 1995 2,494 8,995 A A4i, B1i, C3 Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1995 — — — B2 An important site for breeding raptors and species of rocky shrubland. Porphyrio porphyrio Purple Gallinule R 1995 100 140 A B2, C2, C6 Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet R 1995 500 — B A4i, B1i, B3, C2, C6 ■ ■ Protection status Glareola pratincola B 1995 7 10 A C6 National None International None Collared Pratincole Charadrius alexandrinus W 1995 902 902 A B1i, C3 ■ Conservation issues Kentish Plover Larus genei Slender-billed Gull R 1995 3,000 — B A4i, B1i, C2, C6 Threats Burning of vegetation (U), Agricultural intensification/expansion (U) Larus genei Slender-billed Gull W 1995 642 642 A B1i, C2 1 Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull W 1995 24 24 A A1, C1 Gelochelidon nilotica R 1995 — 150 B A4i, B1i, B2, C2, C6 Gull-billed Tern Coast between Cape Boi A1, C1 187 1. Also non-breeding visitor. and Cape Ferrato An important site for a wide variety of wintering waterbirds (30,443 Admin region Sardegna on January 1993; 42,216 on January 1994) and for breeding herons, Coordinates 39°06’N 9°33’E Phoenicopterus ruber, gulls and terns. Species of global conservation Altitude 0–270 m Area 200 ha concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (max. 12, winter), Larus audouinii (non-breeding visitor). ■ Site description A rocky coast in the south-east corner of Sardinia, between Capo Boi ■ Protection status and Capo Ferrato. Habitats include maquis, some islets, and small National None International Partial temporary wetlands on the coast. The main land-uses are agriculture 3,466 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Stagno di and tourism. Cagliari, 3,466 ha). 1,400 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Stagno di Molentargius, 1,400 ha). 3,466 ha of IBA covered by Habitats Scrub (60%; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Grassland (steppe/dry Ramsar Site (Stagno di Cagliari, 3,466 ha). 1,401 ha of IBA covered calcareous grassland), Wetland (10%; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand by Ramsar Site (Stagno di Molentargius, 1,401 ha). beach; shingle/stony beach; standing brackish and salt water), Rocky areas (20%; sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets), Artificial landscape (10%) ■ Conservation issues Land-use Agriculture, Hunting, Tourism/recreation, Urban/industrial/transport Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (U), Disturbance to birds (U), Drainage (U), Dredging/ canalization (U), Filling-in of wetlands (U), Industrialization/urbanization (U), ■ Birds Infrastructure (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U) Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria The main threats are: water pollution by urban sewage and by Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1996 50 100 A A1, C1 industrial and harbour discharges; illegal hunting; building of illegal An important site for breeding Larus audouinii, also notable for tourist resorts and associated infrastructure; drainage of wetlands. migrants and holding 5,000–7,000 waterbirds in winter. The site is a proposed Regional Nature Reserve.

426 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

The main threat is from the building of intensive aquaculture plants, Mount Arcosu B2, C6 189 and of a thermal spa and other tourist resorts and associated Admin region Sardegna infrastructure. One of the wetlands, Stagno di Is Prunis, is polluted Coordinates 39°09’N 8°52’E by industrial discharges. Altitude 100–948 m Area 4,500 ha

■ Site description San Pietro and A1, A3, A4ii, B1ii, B1iii, 191 A mountain area in southern Sardinia, 15 km south-west of the town Sant’Antioco islands B2, B3, C1, C2, C6 of Cagliari. The largest evergreen broadleaved woodland of the region. Admin region Sardegna Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved evergreen forest), Scrub, Wetland (river/stream) Coordinates 39°07’N 8°12’E Land-use Nature conservation/research, Tourism/recreation Altitude 0–271 m Area 6,000 ha

■ Birds ■ Site description Small islands, of volcanic origin, off the south-west corner of Sardinia. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria The site also includes the islets Isola del Toro and Isola della Vacca. 1 Accipiter gentilis Goshawk R 1995 2 3 — C6 Rocky cliffs, maquis and saltpans are the main habitats. Hieraaetus fasciatus Bonnelli’s Eagle R 1995 1 2 A B2, C6 1. A. g. arrigonii. Habitats Forest and woodland, Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; standing brackish and salt water; river/stream), An important breeding site for raptors. Marine areas, Rocky areas (sea cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets), Artificial landscape (arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; other urban/industrial areas; ruderal land) ■ Protection status Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting, Military, Nature conservation/ National Partial International Partial research, Tourism/recreation, Urban/industrial/transport 3,205 ha of IBA covered by Private Reserve (Monte Arcosu, 3,205 ha). 3,205 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Monte Arcosu, 3,205 ha). ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria ■ Conservation issues Calonectris diomedea R 1995 500 700 — B1ii, B2, C2, C6 Threats Burning of vegetation (U), Disturbance to birds (U), Natural events (U), Cory’s Shearwater Recreation/tourism (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U) Hydrobates pelagicus Storm Petrel R 1995 2 10 A B2, C6 Falco eleonorae Eleonora’s Falcon B 1995 — 185 A A3, A4ii, B1iii, The main threats are illegal hunting and the burning of vegetation. B2, C2, C6 The area is a proposed Regional Nature Park. The area is owned and Alectoris barbara Barbary Partridge R 1997 50 — C B2 managed by WWF. Some or all of the site is covered by a management Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1995 36 56 B A1, C1 plan. Sylvia sarda Marmora’s Warbler R 1997 100 — C A3, B3, C6 Sylvia conspicillata Spectacled Warbler R 1986 — — — A3 Sylvia cantillans Subalpine Warbler B — — — — A3 Sylvia melanocephala Sardinian Warbler R 1986 — — — A3 Palmas Gulf wetlands A4i, B1i, B2, B3, 190 An important breeding site for seabirds and for five of the 21 species Admin region Sardegna C2, C3, C6 of the Mediterranean biome. Coordinates 39°05’N 8°56’E Altitude 0–4 m Area 4,000 ha ■ Protection status National Low International None ■ Site description 124 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Reserve (Carloforte, 124 ha). A complex of coastal pools, lagoons and saltpans in the south-west corner of Sardinia. The site includes Stagno di Santa Caterina, Stagno ■ Conservation issues di Porto Botte, Stagno Baiocco, Saline di Sant’Antioco, Stagno di Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Agricultural intensification/ Mulargia, and Laguna di Sant’Antioco. The main activities are fishing expansion (U), Burning of vegetation (U), Disturbance to birds (U), Infrastructure (U), and salt extraction. Natural events (U), Recreation/tourism (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U) Habitats Wetland (mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; The main threats are tourism and burning of vegetation. There is a standing brackish and salt water), Marine areas, Artificial landscape) LIPU reserve (Carloforte) at Isola San Pietro to protect the colony of Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (62%), Hunting, Urban/industrial/transport (42%) Falco eleonorae. The area is a proposed Regional Nature Reserve, ‘Isola di S. Pietro e Isole Piana, dei ratti, del Corno’. ■ Birds Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant W 1996 — 1,000 A B1i, C3 Coast between A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3, 192 Phoenicopterus ruber W 1996 — 2,000 B A4i, B1i, C2 Cape Teulada and Pula C1, C2, C6 Greater Flamingo Admin region Sardegna Porphyrio porphyrio Purple Gallinule R 1996 — 25 A B2, C6 Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet R 1996 — 200 A B3, C6 Coordinates 38°50’N 8°49’E Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover W 1996 800 1,000 B A4i, B1i, C3 Altitude 0–230 m Area 500 ha Larus genei Slender-billed Gull W 1995 280 560 A B1i, C2 An important wintering and breeding site for waders. Species of global ■ Site description conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Tetrax tetrax A rocky coastal area in the south-west corner of Sardinia, between (resident). Pula and Capo Teulada, including many small rocky islets and some small wetlands. ■ Protection status Habitats Scrub (sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (mudflat/sandflat; National None International None saltmarsh; sand-dunes/sand beach; shingle/stony beach; standing brackish and salt water; river/stream), Marine areas (open sea; sea inlet/coastal features), Rocky areas (sea ■ Conservation issues cliff/rocky shore; rock stacks/islets), Artificial landscape (perennial crops/orchards/ Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance groves; forestry plantation) to birds (C), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting, Military, Tourism/recreation, Unsustainable exploitation (B) Urban/industrial/transport

427 Important Bird Areas in Europe – Italy

■ Birds ■ Protection status National None International None Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag R 1995 50 200 A B1i, B3, C2 ■ Conservation issues 1 Larus audouinii Audouin’s Gull R 1995 100 150 — A1, A4i, B1i, B2, C1, C2, C6 Threats Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (U), Disturbance to birds (U), 1. Up to 112 in winter. Drainage (U), Filling-in of wetlands (U), Recreation/tourism (U) Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: As a military area, a large part of the site receives some informal Aythya nyroca (rare on passage). protection.

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