Conservationists kick-start project in Hungary for otters and birds

An international group of otter enthusiasts and scientists have been taking part in a practical programme of conservation in Hungary. The group, led by Dr Paul Yoxon from the International Otter Survival Fund, is assisting with a project of habitat enhancement for otters and birds with the Somogy Provincial Association for Nature Conservation. This is part of the programme entitled “Reconstruction of a network of feeding ponds for birds and otters in inner Somogy and the rehabilitation of the nearby woody pasture lands”, which is funded by the European Regional Development Fund. The purpose of this is to develop wetlands and establish new feeding grounds at five locations in the ecological network situated between Nagyberek and the Drava River for the strictly protected Eurasian otter, black stork and white-tailed eagles.

The group have been involved in renovating one of the otter enclosures and habitat enrichment for the rescued otters. They have also been clearing and carrying out maintenance on an important nesting island built to attract terns and plovers. Invasive species are a major problem in the area and the volunteers have made a start on tackling this.

One of the volunteers, Ania Campbell from Yorkshire, said “It’s wonderful to be part of a team making a positive contribution towards the conservation of this wonderful area of Somogy province”.

More information on this project at the IOSF website IOSF website

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Images available at IOSF album http://tinyurl.com/nmc8ajq
or upon request.