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December 17, 2007
New European protected sites for rare birds
RSPB Scotland today applauded the Scottish Government after it announced the designation of two new Special Protection Areas that will be protected under European law.
Oronsay & South Colonsay and Renfrewshire Heights have been afforded the highest level of protection that can be given to the rare birds that live there.
Hen Harrier © Pete Hadfield, from the surfbirds galleries
Stuart Housden, director of RSPB Scotland, said: 'This is a very welcome addition to the network of internationally protected sites recognised for their rare habitats and the birds and wildlife that they support. It will provide significant extra protection for choughs, corncrakes and Hen Harriers - all of which have suffered long-term population declines and loss of range, not only in the UK but in many parts of western Europe.
'The challenge now is to make sure that land managers get the necessary support to guarantee that the sites are preserved, and this must include assistance for extensive cattle and sheep systems, which work together to provide both food and habitat for these birds.
He added: 'RSPB already manages Oronsay as a nature reserve, where the public can see these species amongst many other thrilling wildlife spectacles.'
Posted by Surfbirds at December 17, 2007 8:42 PM
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