romaniadatazone.birdlife.org/userfiles/file/ibas/eucntrypdfs/...483 important bird areas in europe...

481

Important Bird Areas in Europe – Romania

■■■■■ ROMANIADAN MUNTEANU

Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus. (PHOTO: DOMINIQUE ROBERT)

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

Romania is situated in south-east Europe and has an area of237,500 km2. It borders Ukraine to the north, Moldova to the north-east, Bulgaria to the south, Yugoslavia to the south-west andHungary to the west. The human population in 1993 was 22,789,000.Romania is divided into eight historical provinces—Maramureș,Crișana, Transylvania, Banat, Moldavia, Dobrogea (Dobruja),Oltenia and Muntenia (the two latter were once known asWalachia)—and 40 counties.

Romania’s topography is dominated by the CarpathianMountains, and can be divided into three parts: the Eastern, Southernand Western Carpathians. The Eastern Carpathians extend fromthe northern frontier to the Prahova river valley, reaching theirmaximum height in the Rodna mountains. The Southern Carpathians

lie between the Prahova river valley to the east and the Timișand Cerna river valleys to the west. The Western Carpathiansform a discontinuous range between the Danube and Someș rivervalleys.

Lying on the northern edge of the Dobruja region, the Danubedelta covers c.5,054 km2, of which 4,536 km2 are in Romania. It isthe largest European wetland after the Volga delta, and includesone of the most extensive reedbeds (Phragmites) in the world. Sand-dunes, large sandy beaches and several fresh or salt-water lakes arefound along the Black Sea coast.

Forty-four Important Bird Areas (IBAs) have been identified inRomania (Table 1), covering a total area of 6,557 km2, or 3% ofthe country’s land area. The sites are not uniformly distributed(Map 1)—most are wetlands found along the Danube and other mainriver corridors. The previous international IBA inventory identified

Table 1. Summary of Important Bird Areas in Romania. 44 IBAs covering 6,557 km2

IBA 1989code code International name National name Administrative region Area (ha) Criteria (see p. 11)

001 RO001, Danube delta and Razelm–Sinoe complex Delta Dunãrii ºi complexul lagunar Tulcea 442,000 A1, A4i, A4ii, A4iii, B1i,RO001.1– Razelm–Sinoe B1iii, B2, B3RO001.6

002 — Parcheº–Somova wetland Ghiolurile Parcheº–Somova Tulcea 3,100 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3

003 — Lake Beibugeac Lacul Beibugeac Tulcea 180 A1, B1i, B3004 RO002 Niculiþel and Babadag forest Pãdurea Babadag–Niculiþel Tulcea 10,000 A1, B2

005 — Black Sea coast–Chituc Litoralul Mãrii Negre–Chituc Constanþa 5,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3006 RO003 Lake Taºaul Lacul Taºaul Constanþa 1,830 B1i

007 RO004 Lake Siutghiol Lacul Siutghiol Constanþa 2,000 A1, A4i, B1i008 RO005 Lake Techirghiol Lacul Techirghiol Constanþa 1,170 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3

009 RO006 Hagieni forest Pãdurea Hagieni Constanþa 600 B2, B3010 — Vãdeni–Maþa–Cârja–Rãdeanu wetlands Bãlþile Vãdeni–Maþa–Cârja–Rãdeanu Galaþi, Vaslui 380 A1

011 — Odobeºti hill Mãgura Odobeºtilor Vrancea 12,000 B2012 — Bârnova–Repedea woodland Pãdurile Bârnova–Repedea Iaºi 15,000 B2

013 RO011 Bicaz gorge and Lake Roºu Cheile Bicazului ºi Lacu Roºu Neamþ, Harghita 2,200 B2

482


Map 1. Location, area andcriteria category of ImportantBird Areas in Romania.

Table 1 ... continued. Summary of Important Bird Areas in Romania. 44 IBAs covering 6,557 km2

IBA 1989code code International name National name Administrative region Area (ha) Criteria (see p.11)

014 — Vlãdeni fish-ponds Eleºteele Vlãdeni Iaºi 1,200 A1, B1i, B2015 — Stânca–ªtefãneºti reservoir Acumularea Stânca–ªtefãneºti Botoºani 7,000 B1i, B2

016 — Slãtioara forest Codrul Secular Slãtioara Suceava 397 B2017 RO013 Pietrosul Rodnei mountain Muntele Pietrosul Rodnei Maramureº 3,300 B2

018 — Dobron forest Pãdurea Dobron Mureº 220 B2, B3019 — Zau de Câmpie–Tãureni fish-ponds Eleºteele Zau de Câmpie–Tãureni Mureº 520 B2

020 — Fizeº valley Valea Fizeºului Cluj 450 B2021 — Vlãdeasa mountain Masivul Vlãdeasa Cluj, Bihor 14,000 B2

022 RO016 Întregalde and Râmeþi gorges Cheile Întregalde ºi Cheile Râmeþilor Alba 4,000 B2, B3023 — Rotbav fish-ponds Eleºteele Rotbav Braºov 180 B2

024 RO021 Retezat National Park Parcul National Reþezat Hunedoara 54,400 B2, B3025 RO018 Cefa fish-ponds and Rãdvani wood Eleºteele Cefa–Pãdurea Rãdvani Bihor 1,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2

026 — Lunca wood Pãdurea Lunca Arad 174 B2027 — Socodor wood Pãdurea Socodor Arad 500 B2

028 RO019 Mureº river flood-plain: Arad–Pecica–Cenad Lunca Mureºului: Arad–Pecica–Cenad Arad 12,000 B1i, B2, B3029 RO020 Satchinez marsh Mlaºtina Satchinez Timiº 236 A1, B2

030 — Murani lake and Piºchia forest Lacul Murani ºi Pãdurea Piºchia Timiº 1,500 A1, B2031 RO022 Domogled mountain Muntele Domogled Caraº-Severin 2,382 A1, B2

032 — Porþile de Fier reservoir Lacul de acumulare Porþile de Fier Caraº-Severin, Mehedinþi 32,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i033 — Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Izvoarele Eleºteele Mehedinþi–Izvoarele Mehedinþi 210 A1

034 — Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Gruia Eleºteele Mehedinþi–Gruia Mehedinþi 200 B2035 — Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Gârla Mare Eleºteele Mehedinþi–Gârla Mare Mehedinþi 140 A1, B2

036 — Lake Dunãreni–Bistreþ Lacul Dunãreni–Bistreþ Dolj 1,936 A1, A4i, B1i, B2037 — Strejeºti reservoir Acumularea Strejeºti Valcea 2,000 A1, B1i

038 — Lake Comana Lacul Comana Gorj 800 A1, B2, B3039 — Ciocãneºti fish-farm Ferma piscicolã Ciocãneºti Cãlãraºi 300 A1, A4i, B1i, B2

040 — Lake Strachina Lacul Strachina Ialomiþa 1,050 A1, B2041 — Lake Fundata Lacul Fundata Ialomiþa 510 B1i

042 — Lake Tãtaru Lacul Tãtaru Brãila 120 A1, B2043 — The Little Island of Brãila Insula Micã a Brãilei Brãila 14,862 A1, A4i, B1i, B2

044 RO009 Balta Albã, Amara and Jirlãu lakes Balta Albã, Lacul Amara ºi Lacul Jirlãu Brãila, Buzãu 2,680 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2

Sites identified in the previous inventory of IBAs in Europe (Grimmett and Jones 1989) but no longer considered to be IBAsRO007 Canaraua Fetii; RO008 Lacul Dunãreni; RO010 Eleºteele Sînpaul (Sînpaul Ponds); RO012 Lacul Bicaz (Izvoru Muntelui); RO014 Fãrãgãu–Glodeni Fish-ponds; RO015 CheileTurzii (Turda Gorge); RO017 Iezerele Cindrelului (Cindrel Lakes); RO023 Zona Mostiºtea (Mostiºtea wetlands); RO024 Lacul Snagov.

15

14

12

16

27

2126

29

28

24

25

30

32

3435

33

31

36

37

38

42

2 3

7398

5

143

4

6

9

4041

10

23

11

44

18 13

17

19

20

22

U K R A I N E

H U N G A R YM O L D O V A

B U L G A R I A

Y U G O S L A V I A

B L A C KS E A

Area of IBA (ha)

A (24 IBAs)

B (20 IBAs)

Highest category ofcriteria met by IBA

120 to 396

397 to 1,499

1,500 to 4,999

5,000 to 442,000

0 200100

km

483


24 IBAs (Grimmett and Jones 1989). Of these, nine have beendropped (Table 1), either because of (adverse) changes to the habitatspresent at the site, or because they do not meet the revised IBAcriteria. Twenty-nine new sites have been identified between 1994and 1997.

A further six areas are subject to monitoring in order todetermine whether they meet IBA criteria: Herghelia Marsh(Dobruja), Lake Bugeac (Dobruja), Lake Brateș (Moldavia), LakeGalbeni (Moldavia), Lower valley of the Tur river (Transylvania)and Reservoirs of the Argeș river (Muntenia).

ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE

There are 144 species of European conservation concern (SPECs)breeding regularly in Romania. Of these, seven are globally

Species Season IBA code

Podiceps grisegena Red-necked Grebe B 001Podiceps nigricollis B 001, 008

Black-necked Grebe W 005Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant B 001, 002

N 036Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 001, 002, 043

W 008N 036

Pelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican B 001Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 001

P 044N 036, 039

Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 001Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 001, 036Egretta alba Great White Egret B 001

N 025Ardea cinerea Grey Heron B 001Ciconia nigra Black Stork P 001Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 001, 043, 044

P 014, 025Cygnus olor Mute Swan B 001Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 001, 003, 005Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 001, 002, 003, 008, 014, 028, 037

P 025, 036, 039Anser anser Greylag Goose B 043

W 003P 015, 025

Branta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 001, 002, 008Anas penelope Wigeon P 001Anas strepera Gadwall B 001

Table 3. Important Bird Areas in Romania that support important numbers of one or more congregatory species (i.e. meeting criteria A4and/or B1). IBAs meeting both criteria A4 and B1 for the species are shown in bold. IBAs meeting only criterion B1 for the speciesconcerned, and not A4, are shown in normal type. For key to ‘Season’, see p. 7.

Species Season IBA code

Anas crecca Teal P 001Anas platyrhynchos Mallard B 001, 044Anas clypeata Shoveler P 044Netta rufina Red-crested Pochard B 001Aythya ferina Pochard B 001

W 005, 032P 006

Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 001P 032, 044

Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck W 001, 005Aythya marila Scaup W 005Bucephala clangula Goldeneye W 001, 005Mergus albellus Smew W 001, 005Mergus merganser Goosander W 001Oxyura leucocephala W 008

White-headed DuckFalco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon B 001Gallinula chloropus Moorhen B 001Fulica atra Coot B 001Grus grus Crane P 001, 025Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 001Larus minutus Little Gull P 007, 008Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull R 006Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 001Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 001Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 001, 002

P 041Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 001Chlidonias leucopterus B 001

White-winged Black Tern

Table 2. Important Bird Areas in Romania that are important forspecies of global conservation concern (meeting criterion A1).

Species IBA code

Phalacrocorax pygmeus Pygmy Cormorant 001, 002, 005, 007, 008, 032, 035, 036,037, 039, 042, 043

Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican 001, 036, 039, 044Anser erythropus 014

Lesser White-fronted GooseBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose 001, 002, 003, 008Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck 001, 010, 025, 029, 030, 032, 033, 038,

040, 043, 044Oxyura leucocephala White-headed Duck 001, 008Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier 001Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle 001Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle 001, 004, 031Crex crex Corncrake 001, 038, 043Glareola nordmanni 001

Black-winged Pratincole

threatened (Pelecanus crispus, Aythya nyroca, Aquila clanga, A.heliaca, Falco naumanni, Crex crex and Otis tarda) and 75 have anunfavourable conservation status in Europe (Tucker and Heath1994). Twenty-one SPECs regularly occur on passage or overwinter,and include the globally threatened Pelecanus crispus, Branta ruficollisand Aythya nyroca, and the near-threatened Phalacrocorax pygmeus.

Twenty-four IBAs hold internationally important numbers ofat least one species of global conservation concern and thereforemeet the A1 criterion (Table 2). Two endemic subspecies occur inRomania—Tetrao urogallus rudolfi and Parus montanustransylvanicus—but no restricted-range species.

As a result of its location towards the east of the Europeancontinent, Romania supports many breeding species either at thewestern or northern limits of their ranges. Most are waterbirds (forexample, Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Bubulcus ibis, Plegadis falcinellus,Tadorna ferruginea and Chlidonias leucopterus) or species of drygrassland/steppe (for example, Circus macrourus, Accipiter brevipes,Apus melba, Hirundo daurica, Cercotrichas galactotes, Oenantheisabellina, O. pleschanka, O. hispanica, Acrocephalus agricola, Paruslugubris, Emberiza cirlus and E. melanocephala). Romania is alsoon the migration route of many northern breeders—especially ducks(for example, Anas penelope, A. acuta and A. clypeata) and waders(for example, Calidris spp., Philomachus pugnax, Gallinago spp.,Limosa limosa, Tringa erythropus, T. nebularia, T. ochropus andT. glareola), and provides wintering quarters for some species(Cygnus cygnus, Anser albifrons, Branta ruficollis, Anas crecca,Aythya fuligula, Bucephala clangula, Mergus spp., Circus cyaneus,Buteo lagopus, Larus fuscus, Turdus pilaris, Lanius excubitor,Fringilla montifringilla and Carduelis flammea).

The Danube delta (IBA 001) supports a variety of species, with320 having been recorded, some in very large numbers (for example,Phalacrocorax carbo, Pelecanus onocrotalus, Ixobrychus minutus,Nycticorax nycticorax, Egretta garzetta, Anser anser, Anasplatyrhynchos, Aythya ferina, Aythya nyroca, Falco subbuteo,Porzana spp., Vanellus vanellus, Larus ridibundus, Chlidonias spp.,Locustella spp., Acrocephalus spp. and Panurus biarmicus). Alongwith other wetlands in Moldavia and Dobruja, the delta acts as a

484


Figure 2. Land-uses at Important Bird Areas in Romania(see Appendix 3 for definitions of land-uses).

stop-over site for migrants passing north–south along the westerncoast of the Black Sea. Several of these wetlands have been identifiedas IBAs (001, 002, 005, 006, 007, 008, 010, 014, and 015), forming alinear network of great importance to wildfowl and waders. A totalof eleven IBAs support more than 1% of the biogeographicpopulations of those congregatory species listed in Table 3, andtherefore meet the A4i criterion.

Key migration routes also run in a north-west–south-eastdiagonal over the middle of Transylvania (IBAs 019, 020 and 023)and eastern Muntenia (IBAs 039, 040, 041, 042 and 043), and in a

Table 4. Species of European conservation concern withsignificant breeding populations at Important Bird Areas inRomania (meeting any IBA criteria).

Minimum Proportion (%) of national breeding national population

population breeding at all IBAsSpecies 1 (pairs) 2 in Romania

Phalacrocorax pygmeus Pygmy Cormorant 6,000 1003

Pelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican 3,000 100Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican 200 100Botaurus stellaris Bittern 500 1003

Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern 10,000 53Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron 5,000 1003

Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron 3,500 95Ardea purpurea Purple Heron 800 68Ciconia nigra Black Stork 40 8Ciconia ciconia White Stork 4,000 2Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis 3,600 1Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill 650 41Anas strepera Gadwall 4,500 89Netta rufina Red-crested Pochard 1,000 30Aythya ferina Pochard 20,000 1003

Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck 8,000 40Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle 30 20Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle 100 21Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle 10 40Falco tinnunculus Kestrel 3,000 12Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon 500 1003

Porzana porzana Spotted Crake 5,000 82Porzana parva Little Crake 3,000 35Crex crex Corncrake 20,000 1Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet 200 1003

Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew 300 60Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole 200 24Sterna albifrons Little Tern 400 75Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern 12,000 89Chlidonias niger Black Tern 7,000 86Otus scops Scops Owl 1,000 1Bubo bubo Eagle Owl 200 25Strix aluco Tawny Owl 3,000 2Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar 2,000 7Alcedo atthis Kingfisher 2,000 4Merops apiaster Bee-eater 10,000 2Coracias garrulus Roller 3,000 2Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker 20,000 1Dendrocopos medius Middle Spotted Woodpecker 3,000 8Picoides tridactylus Three-toed Woodpecker 2,000 7Lullula arborea Woodlark 30,000 <1Riparia riparia Sand Martin 30,000 2Parus lugubris Sombre Tit 1,000 2Parus cristatus Crested Tit 100,000 1Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike 600,000 <1Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike 30,000 <1Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting 10,000 11

1. Only those species of European conservation concern (see Box 1, p. 12) that meet IBA criteria inRomania are listed.

2. Data are taken from the BirdLife/EBCC European Bird Database 1998 (Heath and Borggreve 2000).3. The percentage of the national population in IBAs exceeds 100%. Usually this is because

the national population estimate has not been updated recently whilst the IBA populationestimate has been recently updated with new data as a result of comprehensive surveys ofIBAs themselves. Also, the individual site count for a species may be the maximum oraverage over recent years, and summing these may record more birds than are presentnationally in any single year.

Figure 1. Habitats at Important Bird Areas in Romania(see Appendix 3 for definitions of habitats).

north-north-east–south-south-west direction over Crișana andBanat in western Romania (IBAs 025, 028, 029 and 030)—asecondary route links to the Danube valley (IBAs 032, 033, 034,035 and 036).

Thirty-seven IBAs support important breeding populations ofSPECs (meeting criteria B2 and B3)—the entire national breedingpopulations of seven waterbirds and one raptor are found withinIBAs (Table 4).

Species with a dispersed distribution (for example, Circaetusgallicus, Aquila heliaca, A. chrysaetos, Falco tinnunculus and F.vespertinus) or those with restricted local distributions (for example,Tetrao tetrix, Otis tarda, Monticola saxatilis, Emberiza cia and E.hortulana) are not adequately covered by the IBA inventory.

HABITATS

Between the Black Sea coast and the Carpathian peaks (2,543 mabove sea-level) there are a wide range of vegetation-types and plantassociations. Forests cover about 27% of the land area—Quercuspredominates up to c.800 m, with Fagus between 800 and 1,400 m,Picea between 1,400 and 1,800 m and dwarf Pinus above the treeline.At the highest altitudes, subalpine and alpine grasslands occur.Cultivation has, to a large degree, replaced natural vegetation inthe foothills and plain regions. Approximately 45% of Romania’sland area is under agriculture, including arable land, pasture andhay-meadows, and perennial crops (orchards and vineyards).Plantations comprise mainly Picea, Pinus, Populus and Robinia.

Wetland habitats, in the form of natural wetlands, fish-pondsand reservoirs, are present at 30 IBAs (68%), with cover exceeding50% at 26 of these (Figure 1). On the lower Danube alone, wetlandstotal approximately half a million hectares. Key breeding speciesin wetland habitats include Pelecanus onocrotalus, Pelecanus crispus,

Scrub

Forest and woodland

Artificial landscape

Wetland

Grassland

100 3020 605040 70Percentage of IBAs (100% = 44 sites)

1. percentage of area of individual IBA covered by habitat

Marine areas

Rocky areas³ 50% cover¹

5%–49% cover¹

< 5% or unknown¹

0 10 20 30 5040Percentage of IBAs (100% = 44 sites)

Not utilized

Other

Urban/industrial/transport

Fisheries/aquaculture

Tourism/recreation

Hunting

Water management

Forestry

Nature conservation/research

Agriculture

1. percentage of area of individual IBA covered by land-use

60

³ 50% cover¹

5%–49% cover¹

< 5% or unknown¹

485


Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Plegadis falcinellus, Nycticorax nycticorax,Ardeola ralloides, Ardea purpurea, Aythya nyroca, Recurvirostraavosetta, Himantopus himantopus, Glareola pratincola, Chlidoniashybridus, C. niger and C. leucopterus.

There are fewer IBAs covering forest and/or mountainoushabitats (Figure 1). Those that have been identified are neverthelessrepresentative of the extensive forests found on the Carpathians(IBAs 013, 016, 017, 021, 022, 024 and 031). These coniferous forestssupport boreal species (for example, Tetrao urogallus, Glaucidiumpasserinum, Strix uralensis, Aegolius funereus, Picoides tridactylusand Nucifraga caryocatactes); the alpine grasslands at higheraltitudes support tundra species (for example, Charadriusmorinellus).

Artificial landscapes occur at 21 IBAs (48%), and take the formof agricultural land (including perennial crops), secondary pasture(used for grazing or hay production), tree plantations and humansettlements.

IMPACTS ON IBAs – LAND-USE AND THREATS

The dominant land-use at Romanian IBAs is fisheries/aquaculture(59% of IBAs) (Figure 2), reflecting the predominance of wetlandhabitats referred to in the previous section. Several types of threatare associated with this land-use—over-fishing causes seriousreductions in fish populations, and the burning and cutting ofreedbeds reduces the amount of breeding habitat available towaterbirds. The destruction of the nests of piscivorous species (forexample, Phalacrocorax spp., Ardea cinerea and gulls (Laridae))by fishermen is also encountered (Figure 3).

Agriculture is widespread, occuring at 21 IBAs (48%). Duringthe post-war period the Romanian state took action to extend theland area under agriculture, mainly by draining wetlands andturning natural grasslands over to cultivation. As a result the areaof natural wetland and grassland has decreased, although losses ofthe former have been partly compensated for by the creation ofmany large reservoirs and fish-ponds. These changes have had adirect impact on the diversity and abundance of birds—waterbirdsand grassland species (for example, Tetrax tetrax and Otis tarda)have declined. The present move towards diversification ofagricultural practices, as a consequence of land privatization duringthe 1990s, is likely to be beneficial for birds such as Perdix perdix,warblers, shrikes and buntings. Less intensive agriculturalproduction should be accompanied by declines in the useof expensive fertilizers and pesticides. Agricultural intensificationand expansion does however remain as a threat to 11 IBAs (25%)(Figure 3).

Hunting takes place at 18 IBAs (41%) (Figure 2), and thepressure on ducks and geese (Anatidae) can be intense, especiallyat the beginning of the hunting season or during cold spells. Thehunting season is long—from 15 August to 15 March for ducks,for example. It should be noted that the number of Romanianhunters is relatively small (about 65,000 people—0.3% of the totalpopulation), and that the fines and punishment handed down topoachers can be very severe. There is some illegal trade in songbirds(for example, Carduelis chloris, C. carduelis and C. spinus) caughtin the wild.

Tourism/recreational activities are reasonably well developed,especially in the vicinity of large towns, in the mountains and onthe coast. The overall impact of such activities is relatively low(Figure 3), although in recent years the increasing popularityof angling has resulted in greater levels of disturbance to waterbirds.

The most threatened IBAs are wetlands, especially those thatare the subject of intensive exploitation or those that sufferpollution. Despite being protected, the Danube delta (IBA 001)receives pollutants in the form of chemicals transported downriver for great distances, as well as from industrial dischargesfrom plants in Tulcea. Many dykes and canals built in the past arestill causing perturbations to the hydrological regime in the deltaregion.

PROTECTION STATUS

Table 5 and Figures 4 and 5 summarize the national andinternational protection status of all Romanian IBAs.

■■■■■ National protectionThe protected-area system is under the control of the Ministry ofWaters, Forests and Environment Protection, which cooperateswith the Commission of Natural Monuments (Romanian Academy)and with local authorities.

1. National ParksComprise natural geomorphological units that support extensiveecosystems subject to minimal human pressure. Public access andany other human interference are banned in limited scientific areas(core zones)—only scientific research is permitted.

2. Nature ReservesA network exists, comprising various types: botanical, zoological,ornithological, mixed, palaeontological, geological or speleological.All are state-owned. In addition to the reserves at the national levelthere are local reserves that are created by local authorities.

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

Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage

400 10 20 30

Extraction industry

Consequences of animal/plant introductions

Agricultural intensification/expansion

Selective logging/cutting

Unsustainable exploitation

Industrialization/urbanization

Intensified forest management

Abandonment/reduction of land management

Deforestation (commercial)

Filling-in of wetlands

Firewood collection

Aquaculture/fisheries

Forest grazing

Other

Afforestation

Recreation/tourism

Drainage

Infrastructure

Natural events

Burning of vegetation

Disturbance to birds

Percentage of IBAs (100% = 44 sites)

Dredging/canalization

5 15 25 35 45

High impact

Medium to low impact

Unknown impact

486


IBA Internationalcode name

001 Danube delta and Razelm–Sinoe complex ✔ ✔ ✔

002 Parcheº–Somova wetland ✔

003 Lake Beibugeac004 Niculiþel and Babadag forest ✔

005 Black Sea coast–Chituc ✔

006 Lake Taºaul

007 Lake Siutghiol008 Lake Techirghiol009 Hagieni forest ✔

010 Vãdeni–Maþa–Cârja–Rãdeanu wetlands011 Odobeºti hill

012 Bârnova–Repedea woodland013 Bicaz gorge and Lake Roºu ✔

014 Vlãdeni fish-ponds015 Stânca–ªtefãneºti reservoir

016 Slãtioara forest ✔

017 Pietrosul Rodnei mountain ✔ ✔

018 Dobron forest ✔

019 Zau de Câmpie–Tãureni fish-ponds

020 Fizeº valley021 Vlãdeasa mountain

022 Întregalde and Râmeþi gorges ✔

Subtotal of IBAs 0 6 1 0 1 1 4

GlobalBiodiversity Convention ✔Ramsar Convention ✔Bonn Convention ✔World Heritage Convention ✔MAB Programme ✔

Pan-EuropeanBern Convention ✔

✔ Convention ratified/initiative supported(✔) Convention signed

Box 1. International legislationand initiatives that arerelevant to site conservation inRomania (see Appendix 1 fora general description of theseagreements).

Figure 4. The national protection status of Important Bird Areasin Romania.

% of area ofindividualIBA overlapswith nationalprotected areas:High >90%Partial 10–90%Low <10%None

Total area of overlap between IBA network in Romania and national protected-area system(see Table 5 for categories) = 4,653–4,665 km2 (71% of total IBA area).

3. Bird SanctuariesSmall areas that support large numbers of breeding, wintering orpassage birds.

4. Forestry areasLocal forestry authorities protect large areas of woodland fromexploitation.

Of great importance for bird conservation is the Law on Huntingand Game Protection (1996), which relates to 200 bird species(including raptors and passerines) and takes into considerationalmost all stipulations of the Bern Convention. As there is noeffective bird-protection law, this is the only piece of nationallegislation to provide protection for wild birds.

The Environment Protection Law was adopted in 1995, and itis expected that a more definitive law will be adopted concerningprotected areas. Additional tools for environmental protectioninclude the 1996 Forestry Code and the Law of Waters (also 1996).

Table 5. Protection status of Important Bird Areas in Romania.A tick (✔) indicates that an IBA overlaps with a protected area (to any extent).

Partial10 IBAs (23%)

High8 IBAs (18%)

None23 IBAs (52%)

Low3 IBAs (7%)

High5 IBAs (11%)

None39 IBAs (89%)

Figure 5. The international protection status of Important BirdAreas in Romania.

% of area ofindividualIBA overlapswith internationalprotected areas:High >90%Partial 10–90%Low <10%None

Total area of overlap between IBA network in Romania and international protected-area system (see Table 5 for categories) = 5,026 km2 (77% of total IBA area).

IBA Internationalcode name

023 Rotbav fish-ponds024 Retezat National Park ✔ ✔

025 Cefa fish-ponds and Rãdvani wood ✔

026 Lunca wood ✔

027 Socodor wood ✔

028 Mureº river flood-plain: Arad–Pecica–Cenad ✔

029 Satchinez marsh ✔

030 Murani lake and Piºchia forest ✔

031 Domogled mountain ✔

032 Porþile de Fier reservoir

033 Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Izvoarele034 Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Gruia

035 Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Gârla Mare036 Lake Dunãreni–Bistreþ037 Strejeºti reservoir038 Lake Comana ✔

039 Ciocãneºti fish-farm040 Lake Strachina

041 Lake Fundata042 Lake Tãtaru

043 The Little Island of Brãila ✔

044 Balta Albã, Amara and Jirlãu lakes ✔

Total number of IBAs 1 13 3 1 1 1 5

Natio

nal P

ark

Natu

re R

eser

ve

Fore

stry

area

Bird

San

ctuar

y

Ram

sar S

ite

Wor

ld H

erita

ge S

ite

Bios

pher

e Re

serv

e

National International National International

■■■■■ International protectionBox 1 lists those international conventions and initiatives ratifiedby Romania. Full implementation of Romania’s obligations underthese has not, however, been achieved.

The Danube delta is designated as a World Heritage Site andBiosphere Reserve, and is the only Ramsar Site in Romania. It ismanaged by the Authority of the Danube Delta Reserve. The

Natio

nal P

ark

Natu

re R

eser

ve

Fore

stry

area

Bird

San

ctuar

y

Ram

sar S

ite

Wor

ld H

erita

ge S

ite

Bios

pher

e Re

serv

e

487


responsible authorities for other international reserves are thereserve administration (if any), the forestry service or localadministrative bodies. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)are involved in the protection of several national and localreserves.

CONSERVATION

• The institutional framework for environmental protection at thenational level is inadequate—too few institutions exist and thereis a lack of human, financial and capital resources. Consequently,the majority of ‘less important’ reserves have been abandonedby the authorities and are now threatened with alteration ordestruction.

• Once the law on protected areas is passed, the RomanianOrnithological Society (ROS) will try to obtain Nature Reservedesignation for as many IBAs as possible.

• The Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve (IBAs 001, 002 and 005)has a management plan issued under the auspices of the Ministryof Waters, Forests and Environment Protection. Other sites havemanagement plans performed by their owners or administrators(for example, fish-farms, the local forestry service or reserveadministrations).

• Between 1995 and 1999 the Danube Delta Biosphere Reservewas subject to a conservation management programme financedby the Global Environment Facility. Public awareness(education and training) and bird monitoring were the primaryaims. BirdLife International supported this programme bothdirectly and through the work of ROS. ROS now has a localoffice in Tulcea and works with local authorities to promoteBirdLife policies in the Danube delta.

• The Ministry of Waters, Forest and Environment Protection,together with other institutions (including ROS), have publisheda ‘National Strategy for biodiversity conservation’ (Anon. 1996),but there is a long way to go before implementation is complete.

• The biological research institutes, museums of natural sciencesand university biology departments undertake research onbiodiversity.

• NGOs are taking more of a role in the process of studying andconserving nature.

ANALYTICAL METHODS

• The midwinter wildfowl count (Wetlands Internationalprogramme) began in 1988 and takes place annually. Since 1991it has been included in the activities of ROS, and is run incooperation with the Danube Delta Biosphere ReserveAdministration, several institutions and a large number ofvolunteers. BirdLife International and ROS are also involvedin monitoring numbers of breeding birds.

• Data concerning Romanian IBAs were updated during theperiod 1992–1999. Bird counts were undertaken by individualresearchers and, at the national level, by ROS. Nevertheless thelevel of bird monitoring currently undertaken is insufficient anddata are therefore incomplete for some sites. This is due mainly

■ SITE ACCOUNTS

to the small numbers of ornithologists in large parts of thecountry.

• Species that do not necessarily meet IBA criteria—due, forexample, to dispersed distributions—were also monitored,including Ciconia ciconia, diurnal raptors, Tetrao tetrix, Tetraourogallus, Perdix perdix, Charadrius morinellus, Ripariariparia and Hirundo rustica. Special attention was paid to thosespecies whose main distributions lie to the north (in mostcases) (for example, Tetrao tetrix and Turdus pilaris) or southof Romania (for example, Apus melba, Passer hispaniolensis,Sturnus roseus, Oenanthe isabellina, Hirundo rupestris andH. daurica).

• Wintering and passage bird figures are minimum/maximumdaily counts.

• Bird count averages have usually been calculated over a numberof years. The year given in the species tables is the last year ofthe count period.

• Numbers of breeding birds are given as pairs.

• The following sites of national importance were proposed asIBAs but did not meet the current criteria: Braniște Reserve,Nucet fish-farm, Mândra fish-ponds, Jijila lake, Buceceareservoir, Vermeș marsh, Goșmanu mountain, Livada fish-farm,Drocea mountain, Bucegi mountains, Lakes Ianca and Plopu,Pârâul de Câmpie valley, and Lake Sărături–Murighiol.

• It is possible that in the southern part of the country, especiallyin the Danube valley, areas exist that might meet IBA criteria.Their identification will be one of the key tasks in the futureactivities of ROS, with an immediate goal being the publicationof a national IBA inventory.

GLOSSARY

ROS Romanian Ornithological Society (Societatea Ornitologică Romănă,the BirdLife International Partner in Romania).

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The IBA programme started in Romania in 1987 following discussionsbetween Richard Grimmett (International Council for Bird Preservation)and Dan Munteanu. After the foundation of the Romanian OrnithologicalSociety in 1990, the IBA programme became a priority in ROS activities.The IBA Officer between 1996 and 1998 was Sorin Dîrjan, who was helpedin his work by the following people who provided valuable information:Adrian Andrei, Libus András, Gabriel Bănică, Hodor Călin, MarcelCiobanu, József Béres, Carmen Gache, Mirela Gheorghe, Iordache Ion,Dan Traian Ionescu, Ladislau Kalabér, Andrei Kiss, János Botond Kiss,Ștefan Kohl, Mihai Marinov, Dan Munteanu, Nicolae Onea, Péter LászlóPapp, Aurel Papadopol, Petre Teodor, Angela Petrescu, Raluca Rășinariu,Rozalia Poliă, Attila D. Sándor, Imre Simó, József Szabó, József Szabójun., Nicolae Toniuc and Peter Weber. The programme was financedbetween 1992 and 1996 by BirdLife International and then by the RoyalSociety for the Protection of Birds (BirdLife International Partner in theUK). The national coordinator thanks all financial supporters and allvolunteers who have given their best efforts (and continue to do so) to thedevelopment of the Romanian IBA programme.

‘plauri’. Two forests, Letea and Caraorman, cover 22,700 ha, and Salixis widespread. Also present are sand-dunes and beaches, wet and drygrassland, salt vegetation (in the south), agricultural lands (someabandoned), fish-ponds and human settlements. The Razim–Sinoelagoon complex is situated to the south of the delta. Formally brackish,the lagoons have become fresh following the closure of the link to thesea. Reed-harvesting takes place (‘Other’ land-use).

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (70%; mudflat/sandflat;saltmarsh; coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Marineareas (5%), Artificial landscape (18%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (12%), Fisheries/aquaculture (57%), Forestry (8%), Hunting (10%),Not utilized (23%), Other

Danube delta and A1, A4i, A4ii, A4iii, 001Razelm–Sinoe complex B1i, B1iii, B2, B3Admin region TulceaCoordinates 44°56’N 29°12’EAltitude 0–12 m Area 442,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe most extensive wetland in Europe after the Volga delta, comprisingthree arms of the Danube (Chilia, Sulina and Sf. Gheorghe)interspersed with marine and river sandbanks, fields, marshes, lakesand canals. Reedbeds (Phragmites) cover large areas (totalling160,000 ha), and include a type of floating reed habitat known as

488


■■■■■ Birds

This is one of Europe’s most important sites for breeding, passageand wintering waterbirds, particularly wintering Anatidae. It is alsoan important site for breeding and passage raptors and passerines.The site regularly holds more than 20,000 waterbirds breeding, onpassage and in winter. Species of global conservation concern that donot meet IBA criteria: Anser erythropus (wintering), Haliaeetus albicilla(breeding), Falco naumanni (passage), Gallinago media (passage) andAcrocephalus paludicola (passage).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International HighIBA overlaps with 16 strictly protected (or core) areas (totalling50,600 ha). 442,000 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (DanubeDelta, 580,000 ha). IBA overlaps with Ramsar Site (Danube Delta).IBA overlaps with World Heritage Site (Danube Delta).

■■■■■ Conservation issues

Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Burning of vegetation (C), Consequences ofanimal/plant introductions (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (B), Dredging/canalization (B), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Firewood collection (B), Other (B),Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria

Podiceps grisegena Red-necked Grebe B 1996 2,000 — — A4i, B1iPodiceps nigricollis B 1996 2,000 — — A4i, B1i

Black-necked GrebePhalacrocorax carbo Cormorant B 1998 13,500 — A A4i, B1iPhalacrocorax pygmeus B 1998 6,400 — A A1, A4i, B1i, B2

Pygmy CormorantPelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican B 1998 3,000 — A A4i, B1i, B2Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1998 200 — A A1, A4i, B1i, B2Botaurus stellaris Bittern B 1996 1,500 — C B2Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1996 5,000 — B B2Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1998 4,400 — A A4i, B1i, B2Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1998 3,200 — A A4i, B1i, B2Egretta alba Great White Egret B 1998 360 — A A4i, B1iArdea cinerea Grey Heron B 1996 1,600 — B A4i, B1iArdea purpurea Purple Heron B 1998 500 — A B2Ciconia nigra Black Stork P 1996 300 — C A4i, B1iPlatalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1996 216 — B A4i, B1i, B2Cygnus olor Mute Swan B 1996 1,200 — B A4i, B1iCygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1996 1,755 — B A4i, B1i, B3Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1996 100,000 300,000 A A4i, B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 1996 20,000 55,000 A A1, A4i, B1iAnas penelope Wigeon P 1996 6,000 — A B1iAnas strepera Gadwall B 1996 4,000 — B A4i, B1i, B2Anas crecca Teal P 1996 10,000 — B B1iAnas platyrhynchos Mallard B 1998 30,000 80,000 A A4i, B1iNetta rufina Red-crested Pochard B 1996 300 — B A4i, B1iAythya ferina Pochard B 1996 55,000 — B A4i, B1i, B3Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 3,000 — B A1, A4i, B1i, B2Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck W 1994 10,000 — B B1iBucephala clangula Goldeneye W 1994 3,000 — B B1iMergus albellus Smew W 1994 1,500 — B A4i, B1iMergus merganser Goosander W 1994 200 — B B1iOxyura leucocephala W 1994 10 — C A1

White-headed DuckCircus macrourus Pallid Harrier P 1996 100 — B A1Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle P 1996 20 — B A1Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle P 1996 80 — B A1Falco tinnunculus Kestrel B 1996 300 — B B2Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon B 1996 600 — B A4ii, B1iii, B2Porzana porzana Spotted Crake B 1996 4,000 — B B3Porzana parva Little Crake B 1996 1,000 — B B3Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 60 — B A1, B2Gallinula chloropus Moorhen B 1996 10,000 — B A4i, B1iFulica atra Coot B 1996 50,000 100,000 B A4i, B1iGrus grus Crane P 1996 1,000 — C B1iRecurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1996 150 — B B1iBurhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew B 1996 180 — B B2Glareola nordmanni U 1996 10 — C A1

Black-winged PratincoleSterna hirundo Common Tern B 1996 15,000 — B A4i, B1iSterna albifrons Little Tern B 1996 300 — B A4i, B1i, B2Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1996 10,000 — B A4i, B1i, B2Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1996 6,000 40,000 A A4i, B1i, B2Chlidonias leucopterus B 1996 2,000 — B A4i, B1i

White-winged Black Tern


Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant B 1993 1,400 — — A4i, B1iPhalacrocorax pygmeus B 1999 80 — A A1, A4i, B1i, B2

Pygmy CormorantCygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1993 60 120 — B3Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1996 2,000 — — B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 1996 1,000 — — A1, A4i, B1iChlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1999 300 — — B1i, B2


Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1997 — 280 A B1i, B3

The main threats are from drainage, canalization and dredging,wetland infilling and pollution (‘Other’ threat). Additional threatsinclude overfishing, disturbance from boat traffic, reedbed fires,grazing and other agricultural practices. Hunting is permitted in severalareas, including buffer zones. The Danube Delta Biosphere ReserveAuthority (DDBRA) is responsible for conservation and protectionprojects, and the Danube Delta Institute undertakes research andmanagement work. The DDBRA management plan covers biodiversityconservation, bird monitoring and public awareness. The recentrestoration of 3,680 ha of former agricultural land has beensuccessfully completed.

Parcheº–Somova wetland A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 002Admin region TulceaCoordinates 45°12’N 28°38’EAltitude 2–3 m Area 3,100 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of lakes and reedbeds (Phragmites) bordered by the Danubeand situated upstream from Tulcea. Reedbeds cover approximately65% of the site; a few Salix trees and Populus plantations occur alongthe Danube. Human activities include fishing and reed-harvesting bylocal people (‘Other’ land-use).

Habitats Wetland (100%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Nature conservation/research (90%), Other


The site is important for breeding and passage waterbirds, with abird fauna similar to that of the Danube delta. Species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Pelecanus crispus(20 passage birds) and Aythya nyroca (18 breeding pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High3,100 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Danube Delta,580,000 ha).


Threats Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B)

The dyke constructed along the Danube hinders water inflow to theIBA. A management plan exists for the site.

Lake Beibugeac A1, B1i, B3 003Admin region TulceaCoordinates 45°02’N 29°06’EAltitude 8–8 m Area 180 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA shallow brackish lake with a maximum depth of 1.5 m. The water-level and lake area varies considerably depending upon the amountof rainfall. Along the western shore there is a narrow fringe of reedPhragmites. Natural grassland, agricultural land and humansettlements surround the IBA.

Habitats Wetland (98%; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Not utilized (98%)


489


Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria

Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1997 — 2,000 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose W 1997 — 200 A B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 1997 — 600 A A1

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaAquila heliaca Imperial Eagle P 1992 10 — B A1Bubo bubo Eagle Owl B 1992 16 20 A B2Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1992 100 200 A B2Coracias garrulus Roller B 1992 60 100 A B2Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1992 1,000 2,000 A B2


Podiceps nigricollis W 1998 200 1,200 A A4i, B1iBlack-necked Grebe

Phalacrocorax pygmeus W 1998 10 30 A A1Pygmy Cormorant

Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1998 30 230 A B1i, B3Aythya ferina Pochard W 1998 2,000 40,000 A A4i, B1iAythya fuligula Tufted Duck W 1998 5,000 80,000 A A4i, B1iAythya marila Scaup W 1998 400 4,000 A A4i, B1i, B2Bucephala clangula Goldeneye W 1998 300 1,200 A B1iMergus albellus Smew W 1998 200 1,100 A A4i, B1i


Aythya ferina Pochard P 1996 50 10,000 B B1iLarus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull R 1996 20 1,000 A B1i

This is an important wintering site for Anatidae and is also a breedingsite for waders including Himantopus himantopus and Recurvirostraavosetta. Passage species of global conservation concern that do notmeet IBA criteria: Pelecanus crispus and Aythya nyroca.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational None International None


Threats Disturbance to birds (C)

There is limited human disturbance of birds; grazing animals maydisturb nests around the edge of the lake. Managed by ROS.

Niculiþel and A1, B2 004Babadag forestAdmin region TulceaCoordinates 45°00’N 28°25’EAltitude 20–300 m Area 10,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of forest found on the Niculiţel and Babadag hills. The forestis dominated by Quercus but includes Tilia, Ulmus, Populus, and Acer,with forest composition primarily dependent upon the slope aspect.The valleys contain grasslands and areas under agriculture.

Habitats Forest and woodland (95%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%)Land-use Forestry (40%), Hunting (30%), Tourism/recreation (30%)


The site is particularly important for breeding raptors and forwoodland species in general. Raptors also occur in large numbers onpassage. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBAcriteria: Falco naumanni (2–4 breeding pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None11 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Valea Fagilor, 11 ha).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (C), Forest grazing (B), Intensified forestmanagement (B)

The main threats are from overgrazing in the forest, which preventsregeneration, and intensive forest management and exploitation. Aproject is underway to establish a Nature Park in the Macin mountains,which will include part of the IBA.

Black Sea coast–Chituc A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 005Admin region ConstanþaCoordinates 44°30’N 28°52’EAltitude 0–0 m Area 5,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site includes the narrow sand beach of Chituc and associatedcoastal waters; there is very little tidal fluctuation. There are only twotemporary fishing settlements along a 22 km stretch of coastline.

Habitats Wetland (sand-dunes/sand beach), Marine areas (sea inlet/coastal features)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Nature conservation/research (100%)


An important area for wintering wildfowl, holding 20,000 or more ona regular basis. Wintering species of global conservation concern thatdo not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca, Oxyura leucocephala andHaliaeetus albicilla.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International HighIBA overlaps with Biosphere Reserve (Danube Delta).


Threats Other (B)

The main threat is pollution, which is reducing the food resourceavailable to birds (‘Other’ threat, above). The Danube Delta Researchand Management Institute study the reserve as a whole; ROS studythe bird fauna. A management plan exists for the site.

Lake Taºaul B1i 006Admin region ConstanþaCoordinates 44°21’N 28°34’EAltitude 1–10 m Area 1,830 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA coastal lake at the end of the Casimcea valley with a steep limestoneshoreline, except on the eastern side where it is separated from the seaby a sandbank. The lake reaches a depth of 5.6 m and has two islands.Sparse reedbeds (Phragmites) are found in the north-west of the lake.

Habitats Wetland (88%; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; water-fringevegetation), Artificial landscape (8%)Land-use Agriculture (8%), Fisheries/aquaculture (80%), Urban/industrial/transport (8%)


This is an important site for passage and wintering waterbirds.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbanceto birds (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B)

The main threats are from intensive agricultural practices in the lakesurrounds, and disturbance, particularly along the eastern shore, fromsheep-grazing, fishing, a factory and quarry. Air pollution from theNavodari oil refinery is an occasional problem.

Lake Siutghiol A1, A4i, B1i 007Admin region ConstanþaCoordinates 44°16’N 28°36’EAltitude 0–10 m Area 2,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site is a former marine inlet now separated from the sea by anarrow sand-spit. The lake is predominantly freshwater with a

490



Phalacrocorax pygmeus P 1996 10 100 B A1Pygmy Cormorant

Larus minutus Little Gull P 1996 20 2,000 A A4i, B1i

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaCircaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1992 2 4 B B2Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1995 20 30 B B2Dendrocopos medius R 1995 10 30 A B3

Middle Spotted Woodpecker1 Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1990 100 250 B B21 Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike B 1990 24 50 B B2

1. Threshold not met but population size significant at European level.


Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 19 40 B A1

maximum depth of 18 m. The western shore is formed by a steeplimestone promontory, and narrow reedbeds (Phragmites) occur. Inwinter up to 90% of the lake area may freeze.

Habitats Wetland (94%; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (60%), Tourism/recreation (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (20%)


This is an important site for passage waterbirds, particularly Anatidaeand Laridae; the surrounds are a stop-over site for migratingpasserines. Species of global conservation concern that do not meetIBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (2–40 passage birds).



Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Recreation/tourism (A)

The tourist towns of Constanţa, Mamaia and Ovidiu surround thelake. Disturbance of birds during the summer is high.

Lake Techirghiol A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 008Admin region ConstanþaCoordinates 44°01’N 28°28’EAltitude 0–6 m Area 1,170 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThis predominantly saltwater lake lies 18 km from Constanţa; it isseparated from the Black Sea by a 200 m sand-spit. The high saltconcentrations in the south-eastern part of the lake prevent it fromfreezing during winter. Narrow reedbeds (Phragmites) are found inthe western part of the lake. Surrounding slopes support fragmentedsteppic vegetation and arable land.

Habitats Wetland (93%; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; water-fringevegetation), Artificial landscape (5%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (5%), Hunting (30%), Tourism/recreation (10%)


This is a very important site for wintering and passage waterbirds—sometimes holding more than 20,000 wintering individuals. Speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Ansererythropus (2–10 wintering birds) and Circus macrourus (passage).



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Infrastructure (C), Natural events (A),Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

The main threat is posed by decreasing salt-levels in the lake due tothe irrigation of surrounding agricultural land and inflow from

freshwater springs. In the western third of the lake two dams havebeen built to prevent the invasion of freshwater. Ducks and geese arehunted in winter.

Hagieni forest B2, B3 009Admin region ConstanþaCoordinates 43°48’N 28°27’EAltitude 60–80 m Area 600 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn isolated area of forest in a steppe zone, dominated by Quercus.The forest contains many small clearings with wetlands and patchesof grassland.

Habitats Forest and woodland (65%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (10%),Artificial landscape (15%; forestry plantation)Land-use Forestry (20%), Hunting (10%), Nature conservation/research (70%)


This is an important site for breeding forest species and migratingpasserines. Species of global conservation concern that do not meetIBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (4–8 passage birds).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None393 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Hagieni, 393 ha).


Threats Afforestation (C), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C)

The most important threat is from afforestation with Pinus—fewerspecies have been recorded in plantations compared with naturalforest.

Vãdeni–Maþa–Cârja– A1 010Rãdeanu wetlandsAdmin region Galaþi, VasluiCoordinates 46°04’N 28°07’EAltitude 40–50 m Area 380 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of wetland with numerous pools and fish-ponds close to theRiver Prut. Aquatic vegetation is well developed and includes reedbeds(Phragmites); there are also areas of Salix and Populus.

Habitats Wetland (95%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (40%), Not utilized (60%)


This is an important breeding, wintering and stop-over site forwaterbirds. Seventy-four species have been recorded. Species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Phalacrocoraxpygmeus (2–20 non-breeding birds).



Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Burning of vegetation (C)

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaPodiceps nigricollis B 1996 100 2,000 A A4i, B1i

Black-necked Grebe1 Phalacrocorax pygmeus W 1995 25 800 A A1, A4i, B1i

Pygmy CormorantCygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1996 2 40 A B3Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1996 100 20,000 A A4i, B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 1996 — 7,000 A A1, A4i, B1iAythya ferina Pochard R 1996 20 3,000 A B3Oxyura leucocephala W 1998 — 800 A A1, A4i, B1i

White-headed DuckLarus minutus Little Gull P 1996 100 5,200 A A4i, B1iRiparia riparia Sand Martin B 1996 200 1,000 C B2

1. Large increase over last 20 years.

491



Ciconia nigra Black Stork B 1998 1 2 — B2


Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1993 8 — C B2


Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1994 8 12 A B2

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaBotaurus stellaris Bittern B 1996 10 20 A B2Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 40 40 A B2Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1996 40 50 A B2Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill P 1996 50 92 A B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1994 2,000 2,200 B B1iAnser erythropus P 1996 30 46 A A1

Lesser White-fronted Goose

The main threats are disturbance from fish-farming activities andreedbed burning. Access to the site is partly restricted due to its positionon the state boundary—a situation beneficial to nature conservationinterests.

Odobeºti hill B2 011Admin region VranceaCoordinates 45°50’N 26°55’EAltitude 240–999 m Area 12,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA hilly area covered with a mosaic of deciduous woodland, scrub,grassland, orchards, vineyards and arable land. Human activitiesinclude arable agriculture and livestock-grazing.

Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (20%), Grassland(30%), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves)Land-use Agriculture (6%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (30%)


The site is important as a staging post for migratory species. Speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquilaclanga (passage) and Crex crex (breeding). A total of 143 species havebeen recorded.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Deforestation (commercial) (C),Firewood collection (C)

Agricultural expansion and deforestation are low-level threats.

Bârnova–Repedea woodland B2 012Admin region IaºiCoordinates 47°03’N 27°30’EAltitude 120–407 m Area 15,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of low hills on the Central Moldavian Plateau. The area ispredominantly covered by deciduous forests with Fagus dominant athigher altitudes and Quercus on lower slopes. There are also patchesof grassland, agricultural fields, and a few orchards and vineyards.

Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (6%),Artificial landscape (10%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (50%), Not utilized (40%), Tourism/recreation


This is an important site for migratory species, particularly raptorssuch as Pernis apivorus, Milvus milvus and Aquila pomarina. Speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Circusmacrourus (passage). A total of 210 species have been recorded.



Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Firewood collection (B), Forest grazing (C),Recreation/tourism (B)

The main threats include tree-cutting for firewood, local deforestationand pressure from tourism on weekends. A management plan existsfor the area.

Bicaz gorge and Lake Roºu B2 013Admin region Neamþ, HarghitaCoordinates 46°48’N 25°51’EAltitude 700–1,100 m Area 2,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe 8 km long Bicaz gorge lies in the eastern Carpathians. Thedominant vegetation is Abies forest with traditionally grazed alpinegrassland also present. Lake Roșu is naturally dammed by landslidedebris and occupies 12.6 ha. The area is crossed by a major highway;human activities include rock-climbing.

Habitats Forest and woodland (83%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest),Grassland (5%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (7%; scree/boulders)Land-use Forestry (79%), Nature conservation/research (10%), Tourism/recreation (19%)


This is an important site for species of upland conifer forests and openalpine habitats. Species of global conservation concern that do notmeet IBA criteria: Falco naumanni (breeding).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None2,128 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Cheile Bicazului–LacuRoșu, 2,128 ha).


Threats Extraction industry (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (C)

The main threat is from the development of tourism and its associatedinfrastructure. Stone extraction is a threat in peripheral areas. Amanagement plan exists for the site.

Vlãdeni fish-ponds A1, B1i, B2 014Admin region IaºiCoordinates 47°28’N 27°20’EAltitude 42–60 m Area 1,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site includes a series of fish-ponds associated with the rivers Jijiaand Miletin and a reservoir used for irrigation. The northern andeastern shores of the reservoir are reinforced with concrete; thesouthern shore supports cereal cultivation. The western shore ismarshy, with c.450 ha of reedbed (Phragmites). The Jijia plain is subjectto flooding; grassland and agricultural land comprise the surrounds.The site also includes the Borsa and Catachi forests.

Habitats Grassland (10%), Wetland (87%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (70%), Hunting (10%), Water management (20%)


The site is particularly important for breeding waterbirds, winteringand passage Anatidae; waders occur in large numbers on passage.Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:Phalacrocorax pygmeus (passage), Aythya nyroca (8 breedingpairs), Haliaeetus albicilla (passage), Aquila heliaca (passage), Crexcrex (8–10 breeding pairs) and Gallinago media (passage). A total of190 species have been recorded.


492



Ciconia ciconia White Stork B 1996 7 50 B B2Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 50 1,200 B B1i


Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1996 2 3 A B2Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1996 4 6 B B2


Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1996 4 6 C B2Picoides tridactylus R 1995 10 20 A B2

Three-toed Woodpecker


Bubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1992 5 8 A B2Strix aluco Tawny Owl R 1992 40 80 A B3


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbanceto birds (B), Other (U), Recreation/tourism (C)

The main threats are destruction of nests of piscivorous birds(‘Other’ threat), hunting, and degradation of wet meadows caused bygrazing.

Stânca–ªtefãneºti B1i, B2 015reservoirAdmin region BotoºaniCoordinates 47°57’N 27°10’EAltitude 61–92 m Area 7,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large reservoir situated in the valley of the River Prut, on the borderwith Moldova. One side of the river has slopes dominated by arablecrops and small patches of grassland. The old river valley containsriverine forest dominated by Salix, Fagus, Quercus and Ulmus. Thereis also a Populus plantation.

Habitats Forest and woodland (23%), Scrub (12%), Wetland (38%; standing freshwater), Artificial landscape (27%; arable land; forestry plantation)Land-use Agriculture (20%), Fisheries/aquaculture (34%), Tourism/recreation (10%),Water management (34%)


This is an important stop-over site for passage waterbirds due to itslocation on a migration route for birds moving to the Danube deltaand the Black Sea. 124 species have been recorded in the IBA. Passagespecies of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:Aythya nyroca, Aquila heliaca and Crex crex.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Aquaculture/fisheries (A), Dredging/canalization (C)

No serious threats are known at the site, which is to be proposed as aprotected area. Hunting is not permitted due to the IBA’s proximityto an international border. The Biology Faculty from Iasi isresearching the flora and fauna of the Prut catchment.

Slãtioara forest B2 016Admin region SuceavaCoordinates 47°27’N 25°27’EAltitude 800–1,320 m Area 397 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionSituated on the eastern side of the Rarău mountains in the EastCarpathians, this is thought to be one of the oldest natural coniferforests in Europe (some trees are up to 350 years old).

Habitats Forest and woodland (82%; native coniferous forest), Scrub (8%), Rockyareas (2%)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


This is an important site for breeding raptors, particularly owls.128 species have been recorded. Species of global conservation concernthat do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex (non-breeding).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None397 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Slătioara, 854 ha).

■■■■■ Conservation issuesNo serious threats are known at the site.

Pietrosul Rodnei mountain B2 017Admin region MaramureºCoordinates 47°35’N 24°37’EAltitude 700–2,303 m Area 3,300 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionPietrosul mountain lies in the northern part of the Rodna mountains.Four vegetation belts occur: Fagus forest up to 1,000 m; Abies forestup to 1,700 m; dwarf Pinus shrubs at the treeline; and alpine grasslandsand rocky areas above that.

Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; treeline ecotone), Grassland (25%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rockyareas (14%)Land-use Nature conservation/research (50%), Tourism/recreation (50%)


This is an important site for species characteristic of upland deciduousforests, montane conifer forests and open, rocky alpine habitats.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High3,068 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Pietrosul Mare, 3,068 ha).3,068 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Pietrosul Mare NatureReserve, 3,068 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (B)

The main threats are from tourism, selective logging, livestock-grazingand disturbance as a result of chamois Rupicapra rupicapra hunting.A management plan exists for the site. The Biology Institute fromCluj, sponsored by the Environment Ministry, has carried out researchin the Nature Reserve.

Dobron forest B2, B3 018Admin region MureºCoordinates 46°46’N 24°40’EAltitude 390–440 m Area 220 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA forest predominantly composed of Quercus, Carpinus, Populus, Tiliaand Acer. Most trees are 30–80 years old. There is a well-developedshrub layer. Grasslands, agricultural fields and orchards surround theforest.

Habitats Forest and woodland (75%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%),Artificial landscape (16%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves)Land-use Forestry (30%), Hunting (50%), Tourism/recreation (20%)


This is an important site for breeding and passage raptors. Species ofglobal conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquilaheliaca (passage) and Crex crex (4–6 breeding pairs).

493



Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 130 320 A B2Falco tinnunculus Kestrel B 1996 20 42 A B2Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1996 14 48 A B2Otus scops Scops Owl B 1996 7 10 A B2

1 Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike B 1996 10 45 A B2



Botaurus stellaris Bittern B 1995 5 — B B2

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International NoneProtected by the local forestry authority (functional category no.1).


Threats Recreation/tourism (B)

The main threat is from recreational activities although the occasionalfelling of old trees, hunting and grazing also occur in the forest.

Zau de Câmpie– B2 019Tãureni fish-pondsAdmin region MureºCoordinates 46°38’N 24°09’EAltitude 282–300 m Area 520 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe Zau de Campie–Taureni are situated on the Transylvanian Plainalong a tributary of the Mureș river. There are three large lakes andseveral smaller ponds with about 50 ha of reedbed (Phragmites). Thereis also a Pinus nigra plantation which supports a mixed heron colony.The main use of the ponds is fish production, with some angling.

Habitats Wetland (91%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificiallandscape (9%; forestry plantation)Land-use Agriculture (5%), Fisheries/aquaculture (91%), Hunting (10%)


This is an important site for passage waterbirds and breeding herons.Breeding species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBAcriteria: Aythya nyroca (1–4 pairs) and Crex crex (3–4 pairs).



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbanceto birds (B), Other (B), Recreation/tourism (B)

The main threats are from recreation (particularly disturbance causedby angling), disturbance as a result of maintenance work around theponds and reed-cutting during the autumn (‘Other’ threat, above), andthe destruction of heron nests. A management plan exists for the site.

Fizeº valley B2 020Admin region ClujCoordinates 46°53’N 24°06’EAltitude 280–300 m Area 450 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site comprises nine large fish-ponds in the Fizeș valley, created inareas of old marsh. Some ponds support reedbeds (Phragmites). Thesurrounding hills have grassland, arable fields and small woodlands.Human activities include angling and traditional grazing.

Habitats Scrub (5%), Grassland (5%), Wetland (80%; standing fresh water; water-fringevegetation), Artificial landscape (10%)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (80%), Hunting (20%)


This is an important site for breeding and passage waterbirds. Wildfowluse the ponds for roosting. There are few wintering birds as the lakesusually freeze over. Species of global conservation concern that donot meet IBA criteria: Branta ruficollis (4 wintering birds), Aythyanyroca (10–36 passage birds).



Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Recreation/tourism (C)

Vlãdeasa mountain B2 021Admin region Cluj, BihorCoordinates 46°47’N 22°45’EAltitude 400–1,836 m Area 14,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site is situated in the northern part of the Apuseni mountains.Forest predominates, with deciduous forest composed mainly ofQuercus and Carpinus, mixed forest of Fagus and Abies, and coniferousforest of Abies and Juniperus. Grasslands and small agricultural fieldsare also present, and a large reservoir is situated on the westernboundary. The area is well populated and is a popular touristdestination.

Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; mixed forest), Scrub (6%), Grassland (10%), Rocky areas (10%)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (15%), Tourism/recreation (5%)


This site is important for species of montane Abies and Fagus forest,and as a staging site for migrants crossing the Carpathians. Species ofglobal conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex(5–8 breeding pairs).



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Deforestation (commercial) (B),Recreation/tourism (C)

The main threats are from deforestation and pressure from tourism—there are many access roads and marked trails.

Întregalde and B2, B3 022Râmeþi gorgesAdmin region AlbaCoordinates 46°15’N 23°24’EAltitude 550–900 m Area 4,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionTwo limestone gorges in the Trascău mountains. The steep slopes arepartially covered by herbs, bushes and Pinus trees. Quercus, Fagusand Carpinus dominated woodlands, grasslands and hay-meadows alsooccur. The surrounds are used for agriculture and cattle-grazing, withtourism in the gorges.

Habitats Forest and woodland (31%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest), Grassland (35%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Rocky areas (14%; scree/boulders; inland cliff), Artificial landscape (20%)Land-use Agriculture (65%), Fisheries/aquaculture (25%), Forestry (20%), Hunting,Nature conservation/research

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1996 50 100 B B2Picoides tridactylus R 1996 20 80 A B2

Three-toed Woodpecker


494



Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1996 2 4 B B2Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1996 6 15 B B2

1 Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1996 25 50 B B2Lullula arborea Woodlark B 1996 100 400 B B2Parus lugubris Sombre Tit R 1996 20 30 B B3

1 Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1996 300 500 B B2



Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1998 10 20 B B2


Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1984 6 — C B2Parus cristatus Crested Tit R 1985 1,000 4,000 B B3


This is an important area for breeding raptors, forest species and birdsassociated with rocky habitats.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None355 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Întregalde, 355 ha). 200 haof IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Râmeţi, 200 ha).


Threats Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

The main threat is from increasing and currently uncontrolled tourism.Unregulated climbing threatens breeding species such as Aquilachrysaetos. Poaching of game species occurs.

Rotbav fish-ponds B2 023Admin region BraºovCoordinates 45°30’N 25°33’EAltitude 486–487 m Area 180 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA fish-farm situated on the flood-plain of the River Olt. There arefive large ponds and 9–10 smaller ones. The ponds have an extensivecovering of reed Phragmites, bulrush Scirpus and other aquatic plants.Cultivated fields and patches of Salix scrub surround the ponds.

Habitats Wetland (90%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificiallandscape (10%; arable land)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (100%)


The site is important for breeding and passage waterbirds, particularlyherons, ducks and waders. Species of global conservation concern thatdo not meet IBA criteria: Phalacrocorax pygmeus (non-breeding) andAythya nyroca (passage).



Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Burning of vegetation (U), Dredging/canalization (B)

The main threats are fluctuations in water-level and the cutting andburning of reed.

Retezat National Park B2, B3 024Admin region HunedoaraCoordinates 45°22’N 22°40’EAltitude 700–2,482 m Area 54,400 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA mountainous area in the south-eastern Carpathians supporting adiversity of habitat-types. Fagus and Abies forests predominate withdwarf Pinus scrub at the treeline and alpine pastures above that.

Habitats Forest and woodland (78%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest;treeline ecotone), Grassland (9%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rocky areas (10%)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Nature conservation/research (95%), Tourism/recreation (5%)


This is an important site for species associated with open alpinehabitats and extensive montane Fagus and coniferous forests.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High54,400 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Retezat, 54,400 ha).54,400 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Retezat NationalPark, 54,400 ha).


Threats Forest grazing (C), Recreation/tourism (C)

No serious threats are known at the site. The World Bank (GEF)began sponsoring a programme of research and management in 1999;a management plan exists for the site.

Cefa fish-ponds A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 025and Rãdvani woodAdmin region BihorCoordinates 46°55’N 21°41’EAltitude 96–108 m Area 1,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site consists of a fish-pond complex in an area of old marsh, fedby the Crisul Negru river and surrounded by the Corhana canal.Reedbeds (Phragmites) grow along the dykes and edges of the fish-ponds. The site also includes agricultural fields, grasslands and haymeadows and to the south the Rădvani forest which is dominated byQuercus and Ulmus.

Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%),Grassland (5%; humid grassland), Wetland (60%; standing fresh water; river/stream;water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (70%), Hunting (10%), Natureconservation/research (5%), Tourism/recreation (5%)


This is a very important site for breeding and passage waterbirds. Thesite holds 20,000 or more waterbirds on passage on a regular basis(includes 7,000 Anser albifrons, 2,500 Anas crecca, 1,160 Anasplatyrhynchos, 2,000 Calidris alpina). Rădvani wood holds a heronry.Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:Phalacrocorax pygmeus (passage), Branta ruficollis (wintering) andHaliaeetus albicilla (wintering).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None3 ha of IBA covered by Bird Sanctuary (Rădvani Wood Mixed HeronColony, 3 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Dredging/canalization (B),Recreation/tourism (C), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Phalacrocorax carbo and game species (geese and ducks) are hunted. Amanagement plan exists for the site, which is a proposed Ramsar Site.


Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 30 160 A B2Egretta alba Great White Egret N 1996 — 174 A A4i, B1iPlatalea leucorodia Spoonbill P 1996 — 53 B B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 — 7,000 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 — 230 — B1i

1 Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 2 20 A A1Grus grus Crane P 1996 9 325 A B1i

1 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1996 40 150 A B2Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1996 2 37 B B2

1. Also occurs on passage.

495



Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 200 250 A B2


Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 120 180 A B2

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaBotaurus stellaris Bittern B 1994 4 10 B B2Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1994 2,000 3,000 A B1iAquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1999 3 6 A B2Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon B 1999 5 10 A B2Strix aluco Tawny Owl B 1994 20 40 B B3Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar B 1994 20 30 B B2Alcedo atthis Kingfisher B 1996 20 30 B B2Merops apiaster Bee-eater B 1994 100 120 B B2

1 Picus canus Grey-headed Woodpecker R 1994 40 60 B B2Dendrocopos medius R 1998 200 300 B B3

Middle Spotted WoodpeckerRiparia riparia Sand Martin B 1999 500 1,000 A B2

1 Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1999 200 300 A B2



Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 10 120 A B2Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1996 2 25 A B2Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 40 50 A A1

Lunca wood B2 026Admin region AradCoordinates 46°38’N 21°35’EAltitude 95–95 m Area 174 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA Quercus–Fraxinus woodland in an agricultural landscape,approximately 1 km north of the village of Misca. Wet meadows arepresent along the River Teuz.

Habitats Forest and woodland (98%; broadleaved deciduous forest)Land-use Forestry (10%)


The site holds an important breeding colony of Nycticorax nycticorax,Egretta garzetta and Ardea cinerea, which covers c.4 ha.



Threats Forest grazing (C)

No serious threats are known at the site. Local people are allowed tocut wood from dead trees for their own purposes but there is nocommercial forestry. A management plan exists for the site.

Socodor wood B2 027Admin region AradCoordinates 46°33’N 21°26’EAltitude 90–90 m Area 500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA wood on the flood-plain of the Crisul Alb river, dominated by Quercus.In places Robinia plantations have replaced native species. Salix scrubgrows along the banks of the river. Hunting is of mammals only.

Habitats Forest and woodland (85%; alluvial/very wet forest; broadleaved deciduousforest), Scrub (10%), Grassland (5%)Land-use Forestry (10%), Hunting (80%)


The site is important for a stable, mixed breeding colony of Nycticoraxnycticorax, Egretta garzetta and Ardea cinerea.



Threats Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C)

No serious threats are known at the site, for which a managementplan exists.

Mureº river flood-plain: B1i, B2, B3 028Arad–Pecica–CenadAdmin region AradCoordinates 46°09’N 21°05’EAltitude 90–95 m Area 12,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA mixture of meadows and almost unbroken woodland situated along

the Mureș river between Arad and the Hungarian border. In wetterareas Salix and Populus dominate with Quercus, Ulmus and Fraxinuson drier sites. Only 14% of the remaining woods are natural, mosthaving been replaced by plantations. The woods are interspersed withclearings, pastures and permanent small marshes and lakes. Floodingoccurs each spring.

Habitats Forest and woodland (52%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wetforest), Grassland (7%; humid grassland), Wetland (5%; river/stream), Artificiallandscape (30%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (30%), Forestry (52%), Not utilized (18%)


This is an important site for breeding, passage and wintering waterbirdsand raptors. Species of global conservation concern that do not meetIBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (10 breeding pairs), Haliaeetus albicilla(3–4 wintering birds) and Crex crex (breeding).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None25 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Bezdin Lake, 25 ha). 17 haof IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Prundul Mare Island), 17 ha).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (A), Dredging/canalization (B), Unsustainableexploitation (B)

The main threats are from deforestation, dyke construction andhunting. The area has been proposed as a transboundary reserve.

Satchinez marsh A1, B2 029Admin region TimiºCoordinates 45°58’N 21°04’EAltitude 90–92 m Area 236 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA remnant wetland associated with the Ier river. Extensive areas ofreedbed (Phragmites) are interspersed with open water; wet meadowsoccur in the surrounds. Salix trees and bushes provide breeding sitesfor herons.

Habitats Wetland (93%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


An important site for breeding and passage waterbirds, particularlyherons and ducks. There are 69–75 breeding species and a further 79species have been recorded on passage. Species of global conservationconcern that do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex (5–15 breeding pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None236 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Satchinez Bird Reserve,236 ha).

496



Botaurus stellaris Bittern R 1997 4 6 A B2Ciconia nigra Black Stork B 1997 2 3 A B2Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1997 6 41 A A1Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1997 2 3 B B2


Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle B 1996 2 3 B B2Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1992 2 2 B B2Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle R 1995 2 4 B A1, B2


Phalacrocorax pygmeus P 1996 12 36 B A1Pygmy Cormorant

Aythya ferina Pochard W 1996 26 26,500 A A4i, B1iAythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1996 2 850 A A1, A4i, B1i


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Burning of vegetation (B),Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (A), Drainage (A)

As a result of agricultural intensification, dyke construction anddrainage around the IBA, the wetland is drying out as water-levelsdrop and organic matter builds up. The wetland is also being grazedand is subject to fires. A warden is responsible for the site, for which amanagement plan exists. Between 1996 and 1997 research on theavifauna was carried out, particularly on a mixed colony of herons.

Murani lake A1, B2 030and Piºchia forestAdmin region TimiºCoordinates 45°55’N 21°20’EAltitude 50–135 m Area 1,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site includes a lake, deciduous forest and both wet and drygrassland. At the end of the lake is a 1–2 ha area of reed Phragmitesand Salix scrub. The shores of the lake are dominated by grasslandand Prunus spinosa scrub.

Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (5%),Grassland (40%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (15%;standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Forestry (30%), Hunting(50%)


This is an important passage site for waterbirds and raptors. Speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:Phalacrocorax pygmeus (10–11 passage birds), Anser erythropus(passage), Haliaeetus albicilla (2–11 wintering birds), Aquila heliaca(passage) and Crex crex (passage). A total of 189 species have beenrecorded.

■■■■■ Protection status200 ha of IBA covered by Nature/Ornithological Reserve (MlastinileMurani, 200 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Dredging/canalization (A),Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

The main threats are posed by high hunting pressure, angling, woodcutting, and drying of the surrounding marsh as a result of dredgingand canalization. A proposal has existed for many years for the wholearea to be declared a reserve.

Domogled mountain A1, B2 031Admin region Caraº-SeverinCoordinates 44°52’N 22°26’EAltitude 190–1,105 m Area 2,382 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of limestone valleys with vegetation reflecting both centralEuropean and Mediterranean influences. Woodland comprisesconifers such as Pinus nigra, as well as areas dominated by deciduousFagus, Fraxinus and Carpinus. Steep limestone slopes, clearings andgrasslands are also present.

Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest), Scrub (10%), Rocky areas (70%), Artificial landscape (5%)Land-use Nature conservation/research (90%), Tourism/recreation (10%)


An important site for breeding raptors and other species associatedwith upland rocky habitats and forest. The area is also used by migrants.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International NoneIBA overlaps with Nature Reserve (Domogled Mountain, 2,382 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Firewood collection (C),Forest grazing (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Selective logging/cutting (C)

The main threat is from tourism and recreational activities. Plansexist for the creation of Cerna Gorge–Domogled National Park—adesignation that would be beneficial for the purposes of natureconservation.

Porþile de Fier reservoir A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i 032Admin region Caraº-Severin, MehedinþiCoordinates 44°34’N 22°12’EAltitude 60–70 m Area 32,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large reservoir created on the Danube, on the Romanian/Yugoslavianborder (adjacent to Ðerdap gorge, Yugoslavian site 034). The shoresare steep and predominantly rocky; deciduous scrub and small areas ofgrassland dominate the slopes. Reedbeds (Phragmites) are present inthe upper part of the reservoir.

Habitats Wetland (98%; standing fresh water)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Hunting (5%), Nature conservation/research (5%)


The IBA lies on an important flyway between the Pannonian plainand the Balkan peninsula, and is an important staging post formigrating waterbirds. The site holds 20,000 or more winteringwaterbirds on a regular basis.



Threats Other (C)

Ship traffic poses a threat (‘Other’ threat). Fishing and huntingactivities have minimal impact on birds due to the large area of thereservoir. A management plan exists for the area.

Mehedinþi fish-ponds– A1 033IzvoareleAdmin region MehedinþiCoordinates 44°21’N 22°40’EAltitude 55–55 m Area 210 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA natural wetland which has partially been converted into over 20fish-ponds. Aquatic vegetation, including reedbeds (Phragmites), isabundant and covers approximately 60% of the site. Surrounding theponds are sand-hills, uncultivated areas, a Robinia plantation andgrassland.

497



Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 20 — B A1


Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1996 60 — B B2


Phalacrocorax pygmeus P 1996 60 — B A1Pygmy Cormorant

Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1996 60 — B B2


Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant N 1997 100 1,500 A B1iPhalacrocorax pygmeus N 1997 200 1,000 A A1, A4i, B1i

Pygmy CormorantPelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican N 1997 10 25 A A1, A4i, B1iBotaurus stellaris Bittern B 1997 10 20 B B2Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1997 11 50 A B1i, B2Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1997 2 16 A B2Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1997 500 2,000 A B1i

Habitats Scrub (5%), Grassland (5%), Wetland (90%; standing fresh water; water-fringevegetation)Land-use Agriculture (5%), Fisheries/aquaculture (70%)


This is an important site for breeding wetland species. Species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Phalacrocoraxpygmeus (passage).



Threats Burning of vegetation (A), Natural events (U)

The main threat to birds is posed by reedbed burning. In recent yearsthe reed has begun to encroach on areas of open water and muddyshore, reducing the overall area of these habitats. A management planexists for the site.

Mehedinþi fish-ponds–Gruia B2 034Admin region MehedinþiCoordinates 44°16’N 22°41’EAltitude 55–55 m Area 200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe fish-farm consists of one large and six small fish-ponds withshallow water, situated in a previously natural wetland. Aquaticvegetation is generally poorly-developed although in the largest pondthere are abundant submerged plants.

Habitats Grassland (10%), Wetland (80%; standing fresh water), Artificial landscape (10%)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (80%), Hunting (20%)


The site is of importance chiefly for passage waterbirds. Species ofglobal conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:Phalacrocorax pygmeus (passage).



Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance to birds (B)

The main threats are from human disturbance and fish-farmingactivities.

Mehedinþi fish-ponds– A1, B2 035Gârla MareAdmin region MehedinþiCoordinates 44°12’N 22°48’EAltitude 65–66 m Area 140 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA is situated on a low-lying terrace of the Danube river. Thesite includes natural wetland in the east, a shallow lake with reedbeds(Phragmites), and small pools for fish breeding. There are Salix treesand Populus plantations in the south.

Habitats Grassland (10%), Wetland (70%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation),Artificial landscape (20%; forestry plantation)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (70%), Hunting (10%), Watermanagement (10%)


This is an important site for passage and breeding waterbirds. Passagespecies of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:Aythya nyroca and Haliaeetus albicilla.



Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance to birds (B)

It is important to conserve the areas of natural wetland and reedbed(Phragmites) that remain.

Lake Dunãreni–Bistreþ A1, A4i, B1i, B2 036Admin region DoljCoordinates 43°51’N 23°36’EAltitude 8–8 m Area 1,936 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA natural lake situated near to the Danube river, and supplied by theDesnatui and Baboia rivers. There is limited aquatic vegetation;mudflats occur in neighbouring marshy areas. The lake is managedfor pisciculture.

Habitats Grassland (15%), Wetland (85%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Agriculture (15%), Fisheries/aquaculture (85%)


This is an important breeding and stop-over site for large numbers ofwaterbirds; also utilized by non-breeding waterbirds as a feeding area.Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:Branta ruficollis (2–20 wintering birds), Aythya nyroca (10–15 passagebirds) and Haliaeetus albicilla (1–2 passage birds).



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Hunting is encouraged, particularly of piscivorous birds.

Strejeºti reservoir A1, B1i 037Admin region ValceaCoordinates 44°35’N 24°19’EAltitude 140–140 m Area 2,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOne of a series of reservoirs created by damming the Olt river. Smallislands and aquatic vegetation are present due to a build-up of silt.

Habitats Grassland (5%), Wetland (90%; standing fresh water), Artificial landscape (5%)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture, Urban/industrial/transport, Water management (100%)

■■■■■ BirdsThis is an important site for wintering waterbirds. Species of global

498



Phalacrocorax pygmeus P 1996 50 60 A A1Pygmy Cormorant

Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose W 1996 1,000 — B B1i


Botaurus stellaris Bittern B 1993 4 6 A B2Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern B 1993 120 160 A B2Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1993 100 200 A B2Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1993 20 30 A B2Ardea purpurea Purple Heron B 1996 10 12 B B2Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1993 20 30 A A1Porzana porzana Spotted Crake B 1993 60 80 B B3Porzana parva Little Crake B 1993 40 60 B B3Crex crex Corncrake B 1993 16 20 A A1, B2Alcedo atthis Kingfisher B 1993 16 20 B B2

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaPhalacrocorax pygmeus N 1997 10 40 A A1

Pygmy CormorantPelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican N 1993 10 30 A A1, A4i, B1iNycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1993 40 — B B2Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1993 — 1,000 B B1i


Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1993 20 — A A1Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole B 1993 40 — B B2

the ponds; the total area of open water is 220 ha. Pasture, arable fieldsand Populus plantations form the surrounds.

Habitats Grassland (5%), Wetland (93%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (93%)


This is an important feeding area for waterbirds breeding at Srebernareserve (Bulgaria), in riverine forest along the Danube and at otherwetland sites. It is also an important stop-over site during spring andautumn migration. Passage species of global conservation concernthat do not meet IBA criteria: Branta ruficollis, Aythya nyroca,Haliaeetus albicilla and Gallinago media.



Threats Disturbance to birds (A)

Piscivorous birds, particularly Phalacrocorax carbo, are driven awaywith gunshots and are sometimes killed. In late autumn the water isdrained from the majority of the ponds until early spring—it is not asuitable site for wintering waterbirds. A management plan exists forthe site.

Lake Strachina A1, B2 040Admin region IalomiþaCoordinates 44°40’N 27°36’EAltitude 18–22 m Area 1,050 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large brackish lake on the Romanian plain, fed by fresh water fromthe Ialomita river. There are small areas of aquatic vegetation,primarily along the western shore. Agricultural lands and fish-pondsform the surrounds.

Habitats Wetland (95%; standing brackish and salt water), Artificial landscape (5%)Land-use Agriculture (5%), Not utilized (95%)


This is an important breeding site for waterbirds, particularly ducks,and also passage and wintering waterbirds.



Lake Fundata B1i 041Admin region IalomiþaCoordinates 44°37’N 27°10’EAltitude 35–40 m Area 510 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionLake Fundata lies in the Reviga valley. The southern part of the lakeis brackish whereas the northern part is fresh and holds most of theaquatic vegetation; few fish species are present. Water depth reaches5 m and the shores are generally steep. The lake is surrounded byarable land with a village to the east.

conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca(2 breeding pairs).



Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (U), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B),Extraction industry (U)

Sand extraction poses a major threat to Riparia riparia colonies. Over-fishing of the waters surrounding the islands causes disturbance tobreeding birds. A management plan exists for the site.

Lake Comana A1, B2, B3 038Admin region GorjCoordinates 44°10’N 26°06’EAltitude 55–60 m Area 800 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site includes the largest natural lake on the Romanian plain,associated with the Neajlov river. Approximately 75% of its surface iscovered by reedbeds (Phragmites). The shallow waters increase in depthduring periods of flood; intense silting is taking place. An area offorest lies to the south of the lake.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%), Wetland (90%; standing fresh water; water-fringevegetation)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (35%), Hunting (35%), Tourism/recreation (30%)


This is an important site for breeding and passage waterbirds. 212species have been recorded from the lake and forest. Passage speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Pelecanus crispus and Gallinago media.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None80 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Grădinari Wood, 245 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Natural events (B), Recreation/tourism (B)

The main threats are from fishing and recreational activities. The reedis encroaching on areas of open water, reducing the overall area ofthis habitat. A management plan exists for the site.

Ciocãneºti fish-farm A1, A4i, B1i, B2 039Admin region CãlãraºiCoordinates 44°11’N 27°02’EAltitude 10–14 m Area 300 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA fish-farm that comprises c.12 ponds surrounded by dykes and canals,situated in the Danube valley. Narrow reedbeds (Phragmites) fringe

499



Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern P 1993 800 — B B1i


Phalacrocorax pygmeus N — — 180 — A1Pygmy Cormorant

Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole B 1995 8 12 B B2


Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 1993 100 — A A1, A4i, B1i, B2Pygmy Cormorant

Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1993 40 50 B B2Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1993 40 45 B B2Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1993 52 60 A B2Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1993 28 30 A B1i, B2Anser anser Greylag Goose B 1993 80 100 A B1iAythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1993 46 50 A A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 10 20 — A1, B2Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1993 150 180 B B2Alcedo atthis Kingfisher R 1993 18 30 C B2


Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican P 1995 — 40 B A1, A4i, B1iPlatalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1995 25 40 A B1i, B2Anas platyrhynchos Mallard B 1995 40 8,000 A B1iAnas clypeata Shoveler P 1995 — 5,000 B A4i, B1iAythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1995 — 1,000 B A1, A4i, B1i

Habitats Wetland (90%; standing fresh water; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (40%)


This is an important site for roosting, wintering and passagewaterbirds. Species of global conservation concern that do not meetIBA criteria: Phalacrocorax pygmeus (passage), Branta ruficollis(wintering) and Aythya nyroca (non-breeding).



Lake Tãtaru A1, B2 042Admin region BrãilaCoordinates 44°48’N 27°25’EAltitude 16–20 m Area 120 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThis brackish lake reaches a maximum depth of 12 m. The shores area mixture of mud and sand covered with halophytic vegetation.

Habitats Grassland (humid grassland), Wetland (80%; standing brackish and salt water),Artificial landscape (20%)Land-use Agriculture (20%), Fisheries/aquaculture (10%)


This is an important site for breeding and passage wildfowl, wadersand gulls (Laridae). Ducks use the site for moulting. Species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca(8 breeding pairs).


■■■■■ Conservation issuesNo serious threats are known at the lake, which has no economic ortouristic value.

The Little Island of Brãila A1, A4i, B1i, B2 043Admin region BrãilaCoordinates 44°55’N 27°55’EAltitude 2–8 m Area 14,862 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA wetland complex of many lakes linked by canals and marshes,situated in the Danube valley. There are open grassy areas with linesof Salix trees and also areas of riverine forest. The water-level variesaccording to the Danube’s level and spring floods are common. Theisland also has agricultural crops, meadows and pasture. There areonly a few small human settlements.

Habitats Forest and woodland (30%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (10%; humidgrassland), Wetland (60%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (50%), Hunting (10%), Natureconservation/research (30%)

■■■■■ BirdsThis is an important area for breeding, passage and wintering

waterbirds and breeding wetland passerines. Species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Branta ruficollis(wintering).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None5,336 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Little Island of Brăila,5,336 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Consequences of animal/plant introductions (C),Deforestation (commercial) (C), Forest grazing (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

The main threats are from deforestation, overgrazing and hunting. Alocal NGO undertakes conservation work.

Balta Albã, Amara A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 044and Jirlãu lakesAdmin region Brãila, BuzãuCoordinates 45°15’N 27°15’EAltitude 40–40 m Area 2,680 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site has three lakes associated with the River Buzău. Balta Albăis a salt lake (max. depth 4 m) and does not freeze in winter. Amara isbrackish and supports areas of reedbed (Phragmites). Jirlău is freshand has extensive reedbeds. The lakes are surrounded by agriculturalfields and both wet and dry meadows. Reed is harvested at Jirlău(‘Other’ land-use).

Habitats Grassland (10%), Wetland (90%; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringevegetation)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Not utilized (60%), Other


This is an important site for breeding and passage waterbirds,particularly grebes, ducks and herons. The site holds 20,000 or morepassage waterbirds on a regular basis (including 8,000 Anas crecca, 5,000Anas clypeata, and 8,000 Aythya ferina). Species of global conservationconcern that do not meet IBA criteria: Crex crex (breeding).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None400 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (Vișani Bird Sanctuary(Lake Jirlău), 400 ha). 600 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (LakeBalta Albă, 600 ha). 900 ha of IBA covered by Nature Reserve (LakeAmara, 900 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B),Disturbance to birds (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

The main threats are from angling, tourism and hunting. Amanagement plan exists for the site.

500


REFERENCES

ANDONE, G., ALMĂȘAN, H., RADU, D., ANDONE, L., CHIRIAC, E. AND

SCĂRLĂTESCU, G. (1969) Cercetări asupra faunei ihtiofage din DeltaDunării. Pp. 133–183 in Studii și cercetări ICSPS vol. 27, caiet 1(Vânătoare). Bucharest.

ANON. (1960) Monografia geografică a R.P.R. I Geografia fizică. Bucharest:Ed. Academiei R.P.R.

ANON. (1995) Management objectives for biodiversity conservation andsustainable development in the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, Romania(draft). Tulcea, Romania: Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Authority.

ANON. (1996) National Strategy for biodiversity conservation. Bucharest:Ministry of Waters, Forest and Environment Protection.

BADEA, L. ET AL. (1981) Valea Cernei. Bucharest: Ed. Academiei R.S.R.

BALLON, E., KISS, J. B., CONDAK, M. AND MIHĂLCIOIU, S. (1996) Citevaobservaţii privind iernarea în Delta Dunării în 1995–1996. Pp. 141–153 inEcosistemul Dunărea și conservarea biodiversităţii europene. Brăila,Romania: Ed. Sapiens.

BĂNICĂ, G. (1996) Contribuţii la studiul avifaunei lacului Techirghiol. Pp.376–379 in Lucrările celei de—a treia Conferinţe Naţionale pentru ProtecţiaMediului prin Metode și Mijloace Bilogice și Biotehnice. Brașov, Romania:Ed. Universittea “Tranșilvania” din Brașov.

BREHME, S., MÜLLER, T. AND REDLICH, J. (1992) Bird observations in theDanube Delta and in the Dobrogea (Romania). Zeist, Netherlands:Foundation International Working Group Wader and Waterfowl Research(WIWO) (Rep. No. 43).

BUJOREANU, G. AND POPESCU, P. C. (1996) Rezervaţia naturală Domogled.Ocrot. nat. med. înconj. 10(1): 5–30.

CĂTUNEANU, I. AND MIHALCIUC, M. (1987) Contribuţii la cunoaștereaornitofaunei Măgura. Pp. 267–285 in Odobești Vrancea Studii și Comunicări5–6. Focșani, Romania.

COLDEA, G. (1990) Munţii Rodnei, studiu geobotanic. Bucharest: Ed. AcademieiRomâne.

DOMBROWSKI, R. (1946) Păsările României. Bucharest.DRAGOMIR, N. AND STARAȘ, M. (1992) Dinamica unor efective de păsări de

importanţa faunistica din Delta Dunării și impactul biologic asupraproducţiei piscicole în perioda 1945–1989. Ocrot. nat. med. înconj. 36(2):97–104.

FILIPAȘCU, A. (1969) Fauna ornitologică a lacurilor de la Geaca după 100 ani.Ocrotirea naturii 12(1): 21–41.

GÂȘTESCU, P. (1971) Lacurile din România. Bucharest: Ed. Academiei Române.GRIMMETT, R. F. A. AND JONES T. A. (1989) Important Bird Areas in

Europe. Cambridge, UK: International Council for Bird Preservation (Tech.Publ. 9).

HEATH, M. F. AND BORGGREVE, C. (2000) BirdLife International/EBCCEuropean Bird Database 1998. Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International.

VAN IMPE, J. (1969) Concentration enorme de Podiceps nigricollis Brehm. enDobroudja—Romania. Alauda 37(1): 77–78.

VAN IMPE, J. (1970) Migration d’automne de laro-limicoles en Dobrudjamaritime du sud (Roumanie). Gerfaut 60: 3–4.

IONESCU, D. (1996) Colonia de pescăruși de la Rotbav. Bul. S.O.R.: 4.

IORDACHE, I. AND GACHE, C. (1995) Aspecte avifaunistice din “Codrul secularSlătioara”. Anal. Bucovinei: 2.

IORDACHE, I. AND GACHE, C. (1993) Observations sur la dispersion zonale del’avifaune du basin de la riviére Prut. Anal. Șt. Univ. Iași 38–39: 163–166.

KALABÉR, L. (1980) Rapitoarele din regiunea Reghin. Vân. si Pesc. Sportiv. 2: 2.

KALABÉR, L. (1982) La situation des oiseaux rapaces diurnes et le probléme deleur protection en Roumanie. Pp. 557–568 in Studii și Comunicări SSBReghin.

KISS, A. (1999) Avifauna din zonele umede ale Banatului. Timișoara, Romania:Editura Mirton.

KISS, J. B. (1997) Cartea Deltei. Aves. Odorhei, Romania.

KLEMM, W. AND KOHL, S. (1988) Die Ornis Siebenbürgens. Köln, Germany:Böhlau Verlag.

LINŢIA, D. (1954/1955) Păsările din R.P.R., Vol. I–II. Bucharest: Ed. AcademieiR.P.R.

MARINOV, M. (1995) Tendinţe recente in evoluţia avifaunei în RezervaţiaBiosferei Delta Dunării. An. șt. Inst. Delta Dunării 4(1): 119–122.

MARINOV, M. AND HULEA, D. (1995) Dinamica coloniilor mixte de cormoranisi stârci din Delta Dunării, între 1959–1995. An. șt. Inst. Delta Dunării 5:211–226.

MARINOV, M., HULEA, D. AND CONDAC, M. (1996) Dinamica avifaunei dinR.B.D.D. in corelatie cu principalii factori de mediu. An. șt. Inst. DeltaDunării 6: 25–28.

MOHAN, G., ARDELEAN, A. AND GEORGESCU, M. (1993) Pp. 46–48 in Rezervaţiisi monumente naturale din Romania. Bucharest: Editura Scaiul.

MUNTEANU, D. (1960) La situation actuélle de l’avifaune dans le Delta duDanube. Nos Oiseaux 269: 209–223.

MUNTEANU, D. (1974) Analiza zoogeografică a avifaunei României. Nymphaea2: 27–69.

MUNTEANU, D. (1980) Abundenţa si biomasa populaţiilor de păsări din MasivulVlădeasa. Studii cercet. biol., s. biol. anim. 32(2): 185–190.

MUNTEANU, D. (1982) Avifauna Masivului Vlădeasa. Nymphaea 10: 269–281.MUNTEANU, D. (1983) Caracterizarea ornitologică a văii Cernei. An. Banatului,

Șt. nat. 1: 217–225.

MUNTEANU, D. (1985) Zoogeographical connections of the Romanianavifauna. Rev. Rom. Biol., Geophys., Geogr., Geographie 29: 27–32.

MUNTEANU, D. (1985) Răspândirea altitudinală a avifaunei pe valea Zlătuii(Parcul Naţional Retezat). Ocrot. nat. med. înconj. 29(1): 32–36.

MUNTEANU, D. (1986) Studii asupra populaţiilor de păsări (Aves) din MunţiiRetezat (I). Studii cercet. biol., s. biol. anim. 38(2): 87–90 .

MUNTEANU, D. (1986) Studii asupra populaţiilor de păsări (Aves) din MunţiiRetezat (II). Studii cercet. biol., s. biol. anim. 39(2): 171–174.

MUNTEANU, D. (1998) Romania. Pp. 201–217 in Managing Nature in theCEEC: strategy for development and supporting nature conservationmanagement in Central and Eastern European countries, Vol. 2, CountryReports. Wimereax, France: Eurosite.

MUNTEANU, D. (1998) Status of birds in Romania. Cluj, Romania: RomanianOrnithological Society.

MUNTEANU, D. AND MĂTIEȘ, M. (1969) Aperçu sur l’avifaune des étanges deGeaca. Lucr. Staţ. biol. geol., geogr. Stejarul 2: 185–200.

MUNTEANU, D., PAPADOPOL, A. AND WEBER, P., EDS. (1999) Atlasul provizoriual păsărilor din Romănia. Second edition. Cluj, Romania: RomanianOrnithological Society.

MUNTEANU, D. AND TONIUC, N. (1992) The present and the future state ofthe Danube Delta. Pp. 43–46 in Managing Mediterranean wetlands andtheir birds. Proc. IWRB International Symp., Grado, Italy, 1991. Slimbridge,UK: International Waterfowl and Wetland Research Bureau (Spec. Publ.No. 20).

PAPADOPOL, A. (1963) Cercetări asupra păsărilor de pe litoralul Mării Negreși a lacurilor litorale—Dobrogea. Pp. 159–181 in Comunicări de Zoologie,Vol. II. Bucharest: Ed. Acadedmiei R.P.R.

PAPADOPOL, A. (1971) Recherches ornithologiques dans la zone de lacs salésdu Nord-Est de la Plaine Roumaine (I). Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr.Antipa București 11: 363–392.

PAPADOPOL, A. (1972) Recherches ornithologiques dans la zone de lacs salésdu Nord-Est de la Plaine Roumaine (II).—Les bassins inférieurs des riviéresBuzău, Călmăţui et Ialomoiţa. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. AntipaBucurești 12: 320–341.

PAPADOPOL, A. (1973) Recherches ornithologiques dans le Nord-Est de laPlaine Roumaine (III). Considération aviphénologiques, sur l’importancebiologique et éconimique des oiseaux dans le sector situé entre les riviéresBuzău et Ialomiţa. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București 13:346–368.

PAPADOPOL, A. (1974) Recherches ornithologiques dans le Nord-Est dela Plaine Roumaine (IV). La zone des étangs situés dans la partiecentrale de la Plaine du Bărăgan, entre les cours inférieurs des riviéresCălmăţui et Ialomiţa. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București14: 360–383.

PAPADOPOL, A. (1974) Quelques considerations sur l’importance des eauxstagnantes et courantes du Nord-Est de la Plaine Roumanie, pour ladynamique des oiseaux (V). Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. AntipaBucurești 15: 332–344.

PAPADOPOL, A. (1976) Contributions a la connaissance de la faune du Nord-Est de la Plaine Roumaine, entre Siret, Le Danube et la Ialomiţa. Travauxdu Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București 17: 185–193.

PAPADOPOL, A. (1989) L’avifaune de la zone des cours inférieures des rivieresArgeș, Dâmboviţa, Neajlov et leurs affluents (Roumanie); dynamiquesaisonniére et aspecte écologiques. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. AntipaBucurești 30: 317–334.

PAPADOPOL, A. (1989) L’avifaune de la zone des cours inférieurs des riviéresArgeș, Dîmboviţa, Neajlov et leurs affluents (Roumanie); dynamiquesaisonniére et aspects écologiques. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. AntipaBucurești 30: 317–334.

PAPADOPOL, A. AND PETRESCU, A. (1995) Lacustrine and forest complexComana (Romania), a very important area in the avifaunadynamics. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București 35:609–626.

PAPADOPOL, A. AND CODREANU, A. (1996) Données de syntyhése surl’avufaune existant entre les zones inférieures des riviéres Siret et Prutet les lacs du Nord du Bărăgan et de la Dobrogea (Roumanie). Travauxdu Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București 36: 349–360.

PAPADOPOL, A. AND TĂLPEANU, M. (1979) Considération phénologiques etécologiques sur les oiseaux du départment d’Ilfov (Roumanie). Travauxdu Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București 20: 423–440.

501


PASPALEVA, M., KISS, J. B. AND TĂLPEANU, M. (1984) Sur la dynamique dequelques espéces d’oiseaux dominants dans le Delta du Danube. Travauxdu Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București 25: 313–329.

PASPALEVA, M., KISS, J. B. AND TĂLPEANU, M. (1985) Oiseaux coloniaux dansle Delta du Danube. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. Antipa București27: 289–304.

PETRESCU, A. AND BÉRES, I (1997) Ornithological remarks in the basins of Izaand Săpânta and the Biosphere Reserve Pietrosul Rodnei, Maramureș(Romania), in 1995–1996. Travaux du Mus. d’Hist. Nat. Gr. AntipaBucurești 39: 379–400.

POLIȘ, R. (1973) Colonii de Ardeidae din nord—vestul României. Nymphaea:41–69.

POLIȘ, R. (1976) Observatii asupra avifaunei de la Cefa (judeţul Bihor).Nymphaea: 195–225 .

POP, E. AND SĂLĂGEAN, N. (1969) Monumente ale naturii din România.Bucharest: Ed. Meridiane.

POPOVICI, I., ED. (1983) Parcul Naţional Retezat. Studii Ecologice. Brașov,Romania: Ed. West Side Computers.

PUȘCARIU, V. (1967) La situation de la protection des zones humides enRoumanie. Compte rendu. Pp. 104–109 in Deuxiéme reunion europeennesur la conservation de la sauvagine. Noordwijk aan Zee, Pays Bas, 9–141966. Netherlands: Salverda.

RADU, D. (1979) Păsările din Delta Dunării. Bucharest: Ed. Academiei R.S.R.SEGHEDIN, T. AND RĂDUCU A. (1969) Rezervaţiile naturale din ţinuturile

Sucevei. Suceava: Cons. jud. ptr. ocrot. nat.

TĂLPEANU, M. AND PASPALEVA, M. (1973) Aripi asupra Deltei. Bucharest: Edit.Știinţifică.

TONIUC, N. AND OLTEAN, M. (1992) List of protected areas in Romania (1932–1991). Ocrot. nat. med. înconj.

TUCKER, G. M. AND HEATH, M. F. (1994) Birds in Europe: their conservationstatus. Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International (BirdLife ConservationSeries no. 3).

TUSCHERER, K. AND FÖRSTER, D. (1965) Ornitologische Beobachtungen inder Umgebung von Constanţa. Der Falke 12(7): 236–241.

502


romaniadatazone.birdlife.org/userfiles/file/ibas/eucntrypdfs/...483 important bird areas in europe...

Documents