Arkadiusz Sikora, Grzegorz Neubauer, Andrzej Sulej
Ornis Polonica 2016, 57: 12–28
https://doi.org/10.12657/ornis.2016.1.1
Abstract: Several breeding bird populations were investigated in the Borecka Forest (190 km2, north-eastern Poland) in 2011. The size of breeding populations was estimated with the use of censuses or survey sampling methodology. Woodpeckers, including White-backed Dendrocopos leucotos (12–18 pairs; 1.3% of national population, np hereafter), Three-toed Picoides tridactylus (1–5 pairs) and Middle Spotted D. medius (230–310 pairs; 1.3% of np) are among the most valuable species along with raptors, like Osprey Pandion haliaetus (2 pairs; 6% np), Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus (30–40 pairs) and Lesser Spotted Eagle Clanga pomarina (20–23 pairs). Relatively large populations of Black Stork Ciconia nigra (10–13 pairs), Hazel Grouse Tetrastes bonasia (490–750 males; 3.5% np), Crane Grus grus (150–160 pairs) and Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus (160–280 pairs; 1.3% np) inhabit the Borecka Forest as well. The Little Crake Porzana parva population was estimated at 25–30 pairs (1.6% np). Some passerines, like Collared Flycatcher Ficedula albicollis (150–170 pairs) or Red-breasted Flycatcher F. parva (250–500 pairs), were also numerous. The Borecka Forest is the most valuable forest complex in the Warmia and Masuria region, important for breeding bird populations. Despite its small area, it is among the five most important forest SPAs on Polish lowlands. The proper forest management is the key prerequisite for successful species protection there.
Keywords: Borecka Forest, breeding birds, north-eastern Poland, Special Protection Area
