Stone-curlew ringing

During regular field monitoring in May and June, RIPARIA recorded nesting of a remarkable five pairs of Stone-curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus) in the protected area “Kanjiški jaraši”. During the following monitoring visit, a juvenile was found at one of the nesting territories.The young bird was ringed and released immediately back into its habitat.

The Stone-curlew is a strictly protected species in Serbia, with an estimated national breeding population of only 10–12 pairs. This makes every confirmed nesting territory extremely important for the conservation of the species. Due to the loss of natural habitats, Stone-curlews increasingly nest on agricultural land, where eggs and chicks can be vulnerable to farming activities. When a nest is found in time, it is possible to mark and protect the area around it in cooperation with local farmers. This is why regular monitoring of breeding territories is essential.