Eurasian goshawk and marsh warbler: what rare birds can be seen in Moscow parks?
The discovery of rare and vulnerable bird species within the city limits highlights the importance of preserving and developing natural areas.
Researchers from the A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of the Russian Academy of Sciences (IEE RAS), commissioned by the Moscow Department of Nature Management and Environmental Protection, conducted a survey of three specially protected areas in the capital. These are the Pokrovskoye-Streshnevo, Tsaritsyno, and Kuskovo parks, which are under the jurisdiction of the Moscow Department of Culture.
The scientists recorded 83 bird species, 28 of which are listed in the Moscow Red Data Book. The study was part of a comprehensive environmental survey of the capital's green areas. Its results identified key areas for preserving avifauna species diversity.
The largest number of endangered species - 27 - were recorded in Tsaritsyno Park. These included the Eurasian goshawk, Eurasian sparrowhawk, common wood pigeon, long-tailed tit, and others. Of the birds found in this green area, four are considered endangered, and the same number are considered recovered.
In Pokrovskoye-Streshnevo Park, specialists identified 17 rare species, including the common buzzard, grey heron, Eurasian wryneck, common sandpiper, and red-backed shrike. Two species in this area are considered endangered, and four are considered recovered.
Six rare bird species have been discovered in Kuskovo Park. These include the white-backed woodpecker, willow tit, and the black-headed gull. Five of these are considered rare or endangered species with declining populations. One species has been classified as recovered.
"The avian diversity of Moscow's green spaces is a true treasure, which we carefully study through regular surveys. The results demonstrate a link between the size of green spaces and the richness of the bird population: larger spaces facilitate the formation of more resilient bird communities. Furthermore, the discovery of rare and vulnerable species within the city limits underscores the importance of preserving and developing natural areas," noted Sergei Volkov, PhD in Biology and Senior Researcher at IEE RAS.
When visiting Moscow's natural areas, it's important to follow a few simple rules. Walk only on designated trails, and avoid making noise or playing loud music to avoid disturbing the birds. Also, take your trash home with you to prevent it from harming the birds. Don't disturb baby birds or chicks - their parents are nearby and continue to care for their young.
Source: mos.ru