Monitored species: birds of prey and black stork
Period: 2 exits: 15 April-15 May (31 May at an altitude above 1500m) and 1-31 July
Experience level: recognition of birds of prey
Number of people needed for the census: 1 person
Equipment: mobile phone (smartphone type), binocular, telescope (obligatory)
Location: 3 pre-marked observation point
Short description of the methodology
The monitoring base is made up of randomly selected 10×10 km squares in which, depending on spatial conditions, the number of observation points required for complete coverage is selected. From these points, 3 points are randomly selected and repeated each year in the programme.
The duration of the observation is exactly 3 hours, during which time we actively search for birds of prey while at the observation point. In most cases, they are seen flying in the sky in search of food, but often they will be sitting on a higher point. For this reason, it is necessary to carefully scan the landscape several times. Each individual is recorded separately at the location where it was observed. To do this, we use the OpenBioMaps application, where we mark the exact location on the map using a form specifically designed for this study. Observations should be made between 9:00 and 15:00. One point per day, up to a maximum of 2 points per day, can be made only under suitable weather conditions.
The detailed methodology can be found here.
Results
2022 (in Romanian)
