During autumn, Lake Cerknica is an important stopover site for numerous bird species migrating towards their wintering grounds. This is also reflected in the regular year-round bird surveys carried out as part of the LIFE TRŠCA project. In recent weeks, we have already observed the first clear signs of autumn migration, with an increase in the number of several species characteristic of this period. During our latest survey, we recorded a total of 1,678 individual birds belonging to different species.
Common cranes (Grus grus) attracted the most attention, with as many as 725 individuals recorded. Lake Cerknica is a regular stopover site for cranes during their migration. The extensive grasslands and open areas of the intermittent lake provide suitable feeding grounds, while flooded areas offer safe roosting sites. Such stopover sites are essential for migratory birds, allowing them to rest and replenish the energy reserves needed to continue their long journey. The availability of suitable feeding grounds and safe roosting sites therefore has a significant impact on migration success and bird survival.
We were particularly pleased to record Ferruginous ducks (Aythya nyroca), the target species of the LIFE TRŠCA project, with nine individuals observed. The Ferruginous duck is classified as Critically Endangered as a breeding species in Slovenia. It requires shallow, permanent water with abundant aquatic vegetation, particularly stands of common reed and bulrush. Due to its secretive behaviour and preference for dense vegetation, monitoring this species is challenging. As part of the LIFE TRŠCA project, we will therefore use several monitoring methods to assess its population and its response to conservation measures, including reduced or discontinued mowing of reed beds. This will help us better understand the species' ecological requirements and evaluate the effectiveness of measures aimed at improving its habitat.
Another species recorded in relatively high numbers was the Eurasian teal (Anas crecca), the smallest duck species in Europe, with 123 individuals observed. We also recorded 59 Greater white-fronted goose (Anser albifrons), 36 Eurasian wigeons (Anas penelope) and 29 Gadwall (Mareca strepera). Other interesting migratory species included the Hen harrier (Circus cyaneus), Northern lapwing (Vanellus vanellus), Brambling (Fringilla montifringilla) and Redwing (Turdus iliacus). Alongside these migrants, we also observed species regularly present in the area throughout the year, such as Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), Mute swan (Cygnus olor), Grey heron (Ardea cinerea), Common buzzard (Buteo buteo) and Common raven (Corvus corax).
Year-round bird monitoring provides valuable insight into changes in bird populations and their use of habitats, while also serving as an important basis for planning and evaluating conservation measures. Through the LIFE TRŠCA project, we aim to improve the condition of reed beds and other wetland habitats on which the Ferruginous duck and many other species depend. By managing reed beds appropriately, particularly through adapted mowing practices, we aim to create more favourable conditions for breeding, feeding and resting during migration. In this way, we are not only protecting individual species but also contributing to the long-term conservation of biodiversity at Lake Cerknica.
The implementation of extensive nature conservation projects exceeds the financial capacity of the local community, therefore Notranjska Park regularly applies for projects with the possibility of co-financing by the European Union.
The implementation of large-scale conservation projects exceeds the financial capabilities of the local community, therefore Notranjska Park regularly applies for projects with the possibility of co-financing from the European Union.
