Constantine Alexander's blog

Seagrass meadow found to be composed of extremely old, large organisms

Mediterranean seagrass meadows contain genetically identical clones up to 15 kilometers apart, suggesting that these organisms must be thousands to tens of thousands of years old, as reported in the Feb. 1 issue of the online journal PLoS ONE.

The seagrass, Posidonia oceanica, reproduces asexually, which can result in single organisms that are very large and very old. To investigate the P. oceanica meadow, the researchers, led by Sophie Arnaud-Haond of the French Research Institute for Exploration of the Sea (IFREMER) and The University of the Algarve in Portugal and Carlos M. Duarte from the CSIC-IMEDEA in Spain, sampled populations across 3500 kilometers of the Mediterranean. Not all the seagrass they found was genetically identical, but those that were suggest both extreme size and age.

Seagrasses are the basis of essential coastal ecosystems but are waning worldwide, and P. oceanica meadows are declining at an estimated rate of about 5% per year. The results reported in PLoS ONE suggest that clones of that species have adapted to a broad range of environmental conditions, but the unprecedented rate of global climate change, together with the steep decline in seagrasses already observed for the past 20 years, are raising serious concerns about the continued survival of this long-lived species.

Citation: Arnaud-Haond S, Duarte CM, Diaz-Almela E, Marba` N, Sintes T, et al. (2012) Implications of Extreme Life Span in Clonal Organisms: Millenary Clones in Meadows of the Threatened Seagrass Posidonia oceanica. PLoS ONE 7(2): e30454.  doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0030454

This research was supported by the Foundation BBVA (Spain), the European Commission (M&MS EU project; FEDER/POCI 2010, FCT, project NETWORK&DIVSTAB). These funders are national (Portuguese FCT) or European (FP5) agencies funding research projects. T. Sintes acknowledges the Project FIS2007-60327, funded by the Spanish MEC.

Contact: Yael Franco
yfranco@plos.org
415-568-3169
Public Library of Science

Mediterranean Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis desmarestii)

Mediterranean Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis desmarestii). Credit: Constantine Alexander. All rights reserved

The Mediterranean Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis desmarestii) is an endearing but reclusive marine bird that inhabits southern Europe and southwest Asia principally along Mediterranean coasts and, to a lesser extent, the Black Sea coast. It is one of three subspecies of the European Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis) which is noted for being among the deepest divers in the cormorant family capable of reaching depths to 45 metres in search of its preferred fish and other mid-water as well as benthic community prey. The other two subspecies are P. aristotelis aristotelis which inhabits northwest Europe along the Atlantic coast and P. aristotelis riggenbachi which resides along the northwestern African coast.

The Mediterranean Sea, which is situated at the crossroads of Europe, Africa and Asia, has been described in Latin as mare medi terraneum - the “sea in the middle of land”. The sea occupies a 2,509,559 square kilometre surface area with an average depth of 1,460 metres and a maximum depth of 5,267 metres. The sea’s coastline extends 46,000 kilometres through 22 countries. The Mediterranean Sea has a restricted interchange with the Atlantic Ocean through the Strait of Gibraltar on the west and the Black Sea through the Strait of Dardanelles and the Sea of Marmara to the east. Although the Mediterranean Sea covers only 1% of the world’s marine areas, it hosts 6% of the world’s marine species. It is to this region that the Mediterranean Shag is endemic and contributes to the natural beauty, rich biodiversity and remarkable productivity of the region’s extraordinary coastal and marine environment.

Description:

As an excellent swimmer and diver, the Mediterranean Shag is a robust, medium to large size marine bird measuring approximately 70-80 centimetres in length with an expansive 95-110 centimetre wingspan. The streamlined Shag has dark feathers, a long narrow bill, pale coloured cheeks on its face and a long curved neck. Its strong feet are designed to facilitate its propulsion through the water when diving and foraging in coastal waters. The Mediterranean Shag is easily distinguishable by its curved crown tuft of feathers during breeding season.

Distribution:

Mediterranean Shags prefer an undisturbed natural environment along rocky coasts and islands adjacent to clear water inhabited by their preferred prey of fish and other mid-water and benthic marine organisms. Mediterranean Shags are usually never far from land and can be found roosting on isolated rocks and boulders along the shore. The reclusive shags can also be seen swimming and diving along the coast, often alone and away from human activities. These habitats can be found along their geographical distribution range which includes Spain, Gibraltar (UK), France, Italy, Greece, Slovenia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Albania, Ukraine, Turkey, Algeria, Libya, Tunisia, Cyprus and Egypt where the entire global population of the Mediterranean Shag is estimated to be fewer than 10,000 breeding pairs.

Approximately one half of the global population breeds in the European Union (EU), especially along the coasts of Spain, Baleares, Corsica, Sardinia, Tuscany archipelago, Lampedusa as well as Ionian and Aegean sea islands and islets. Countries which have recently had among the highest estimated Mediterranean Shag populations include Croatia, Italy, Turkey, Spain, France and Greece.

There have been very significant fluctuations in breeding numbers from year to year in several Mediterranean colonies which, along with the reclusive behaviour of the bird, have contributed to the difficulty in estimating the population with the desired degree of reasonable accuracy; however, according to the 2002 Mediterranean Shag Species Action Plan for the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats by BirdLife International for the European Commission, the global population was estimated to be fewer than 10,000 pairs shortly after the turn of the century. By 2011, Mediterranean Shag experts were in agreement that the subspecies population had declined largely as a result of human activities that adversely impact their breeding, foraging and roosting behaviour.

At a higher taxonomic level, the International Union for Conservation of Nature acknowledged in its 2009 assessment that the “population trend appears to be decreasing” as well for the European Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis) species to which the Mediterranean Shag subspecies belongs, although the European Shag was not then considered threatened at a global level.

Diet and Foraging:

With its proficiency as a foot-propelled pursuit diver, the Mediterranean Shag forages in mid-water or along the bottom of sandy and rocky sea beds and shows a preference for sheltered fishing grounds such as bays and channels, although it generally avoids estuaries, shallow or muddy inlets and fresh or brackish waters. The Mediterranean Shag usually forages alone when away from nesting colonies and during winter, but a dense shoal of fish may attract a small flock of Mediterranean shags in search of essential nutrition.

The Mediterranean Shag diet consists primarily of coastal fish species and marine benthic organisms. For example, according to one 2011 report of a Mediterranean Shag study conducted off the Croatian coast and in the Gulf of Trieste, post-breeding Mediterranean Shags in the Gulf preyed on fish species largely from the demersal and relatively immobile Goby (Gobiidae) family, such as the dimunitive Black Goby (Gobius niger) that usually reaches 10 centimetres (cm) in length. During the breeding season the Shags exhibited a more varied diet including more mobile benthic-pelagic prey such as the Brown Comer (Serranus hepatus) that usually reaches 15 cm and is found over seagrass, sand, mud and rocks; and the Peacock or Painted Wrasse (Crenilabrus tinca) that averages 25-30 cm in length and lives up to 14 years; and the schooling Big Scale Sand Smelt (Atherina boyeri) that is small, usually 7-10 cm in length. In addition, the Mediterranean Shag diet also includes other species from the Labridae family of wrasses; the Ammodytidae family of sand lances including small sandeels which burrow into the sand; and, to a lesser extent, polychaetes (segmented, or bristled, worms), cephalopods, other molluscs, and small benthic crustaceans.

The Mediterranean Shag can often be seen swimming alone along the coast during the cold months of winter, during which time most tourists and residents are absent from the seashore and refrain from recreational marine activities such as boating. The bird can be distinguished from other cormorant species as it makes a slight upward movement with the upper half of its body allowing it to stretch before it arches its head and neck as a prelude to diving into the water to feed on the fish or other marine prey that can be found midway in shallow coastal water or along the bottom of rocky or sandy sea beds. Ornithologists have always stressed the important contribution of healthy seagrasses to the reproduction and population sustainability of fish and other marine organisms that are a staple food source for the Mediterranean Shag.

Reproduction:

During the winter breeding season, Mediterranean Shags form sparse colonies and nest in rocky crevices, ledges, caves within sea cliffs or in between boulders. Their nesting dates vary from year to year depending on the region and its conditions. The nests, which are constructed of a variety of marine vegetation and other plant materials, are usually situated within a few metres above the high water level, but they have been recorded at altitudes reaching and even exceeding 100 metres.

If the nests remain in good condition, they are often reused during successive seasons. The younger birds of breeding age nest later than the older, mature birds; therefore, the younger birds are left to occupy nest sites that are not as desirable or advantageous as their more mature counterparts. As a result, the younger birds experience a lower rate of breeding success. The egg-laying period frequently varies from year to year depending on the region, but this period usually occurs between December and March. During each breeding season, Mediterranean Shags do not exhibit synchronized breeding dates among the various colonies within their distribution range, or among colonies within a given region or even among individuals within the same colony. This lack of synchronisation is attributed to the different experience levels among the breeding birds, the different geographic locations of the colonies and the variety of weather conditions that pervade the colonies. At egg-laying, the birds usually produce a clutch of 3 eggs which are incubated for 30 days prior to hatching. The post-hatching period during which the chicks develop to a fully grown state lasts approximately 53 days, at which point the offspring are usually ready to fledge.

During the breeding season, the geographical radius from the colony in which the Mediterranean Shags conduct their foraging and other maintenance activities generally extends to 15 kilometres. At the end of the breeding season, the adults as well as the juveniles disperse over a wide area, which in some cases may reach or even exceed 200 kilometres according to ornithological ring recoveries, whereupon the Mediterranean Shags use more remote foraging grounds. At that time, small feeding and roosting groups are formed.

Threats:

Mediterranean Shags are subject to the same threats to which other marine birds are exposed, the most notable of which are:

• mortality as a result of accidental capture (bycatch) in fishing gear such as gill nets and fish traps, particularly when the gear is permanently located close to the shore;
• the destruction by trawlers of Posidonia seagrass meadows (Posidonia oceanica) and biogenic reefs that facilitate fish reproduction on which the Mediterranean Shags rely;
• the serious depletion of fish stocks through overfishing by Mediterranean fisheries, many of which participate in illegal and, to a very large extent, unreported fishing. This fish stock depletion is especially detrimental to Mediterranean Shags which prey on many fish species that are unsustainably over-harvested by these fisheries;
• Coastal development and coastal recreational activities that result in significant disturbances as well as habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation which adversely impact the birds’ foraging, roosting and breeding behaviour. Among the activities which represent some of the most serious threats to the Mediterranean Shags are tourism; motorised marine recreation including jet skis and speedboats; the construction of ports, marinas and sea walls; coastal commercial and residential development; and sand extraction for beach regeneration which can severely damage Posidonia seagrass beds and other benthic (marine seabed) communities on which the Mediterranean Shags feed and rely for their survival;
• uncontrolled boat anchoring that destroys seafloor habitats, such as seagrass meadows, which facilitate fish reproduction on which the birds rely; and
• toxic marine contaminants, such as organochlorines and mercury, from sources including land runoff, industrial discharges, oil spills and illegal ship tank washing which have permeated the various levels of the marine food chain in the widely contaminated Mediterranean Sea region and result in lethal as well as sub-lethal health consequences to Mediterranean Shag adults, chicks and eggs.

Additional threats to the Mediterranean Shag include:

• direct persecution by fisheries and fish farm operators as the birds are shot, intentionally drowned and poisoned because they are perceived to be a threat to fish stocks;
• illegal shooting of Mediterranean Shag vagrants to Malta from pleasure boats that sail from Malta to the Pelagian Islands of Italy and from Maltese fishing boats that target adults and recently fledged juveniles, according to the July 2002 Species Action Plan for Mediterranean Shags for the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats;
• direct hunting of adults and chicks as well as egg collection for food;
• unlawful beach sand extraction by private contractors for building construction in the Mediterranean region;
• the presence of dogs;
• predation of eggs and nestlings by black rats (Rattus rattus) and Yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) in certain locations such as Aegean Sea islands and islets; and
• livestock grazing and the presence of black rats that reduce vegetation cover which serves to shelter nesting sites, and this, in turn, reduces the availability of suitable breeding habitats.

Mortality from Fisheries:

Independent from fisheries reports, bird ringing recoveries reveal that more than 40% of the recorded mortality of the Mediterranean Shag is associated with fishing activities, including recreational fishing from the coast and the combined deployment of gill nets and trammel nets.

The combined use of gill nets and trammel nets consists of bottom-set gear comprised of 2 parts: the upper part is a standard gill net which is designed to catch fish by their gills and is maintained vertically by floats on the floatline and weights on the ground line, and the lower part of the combination is a trammel net where bottom fish become entangled. The combined fishing gear produces a high rate of accidental capture (bycatch) of diving seabirds, such as Mediterranean Shags, as they become caught at various levels of the water column and are drowned.

Drag Racing with Mediterranean Shags:

“The moral progress of a civilisation can be measured by the way it treats its animals.”

Mohandas Karamchand Ghandi (also known as Mahatma Ghandi, 1869-1948), political and ideological leader of India.

 A unique threat to marine birds with which certain Mediterranean Shag populations are faced is derived from resident speed boats that engage in the recreational pursuit of Mediterranean Shags. Incidents of “drag racing” with Mediterranean Shags have been reported in the Greek Dodecanese islands, despite the legal protection afforded to the species under the European Union Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) which remains largely unenforced in Greek as well as other southern European waters.

One example of such a report was filed on Tilos Island by two visitors from Germany on 8 March 2007 at the Hellenic Port Authority and the office of the 2004-2008 European Union (EU) Tilos Island LIFE Nature Project which was established for the benefit of the Mediterranean Shag and 2 other avian species. According to the reports based on witness and “drag racing” boat participants’ statements, island residents in speed boats chase the birds that fly low over the surface of the water prompting the birds to initiate a myriad of defensive manoeuvres in an effort to escape potential harm from the boats’ rapidly-approaching pursuits. This unlawful activity, for which no action was ever undertaken by the local Hellenic Port Authority in spite of the complaints delivered to the office concerning this unlawful behaviour, causes the progressive weakening and consequential inability of the birds to sustain evasive action. Witnesses to the March 2007 incident reported the fatality of the legally protected Mediterranean Shag, which became exhausted, disappeared below the surface and failed to resurface, simply for the fleeting entertainment of the Tilos Island residents.

In the absence of Hellenic public sector enforcement of the EU Birds Directive provisions, this recreational past-time along with other anthropogenic threats to the species’ conservation status contributes to the continuing Mediterranean Shag population decline in which certain stakeholders regrettably appear to be disinterested and about which experts continue to be justifiably concerned.  

Legal Protection:

Valid concerns about the declining Mediterranean Shag population prompted the inclusion of this European Shag subspecies in various laws and conventions related to its status and protection, including:

• European Union Birds Directive (79/409/EEC), Annex I;
• a listing for the Mediterranean population of the Phalacrocorax aristotelis species in the Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, Appendix II;
• Barcelona Convention Protocol Concerning Specially Protected Areas and Biological Diversity in the Mediterranean, Annex II which provides a List of Endangered or Threatened Species;
• Bulgarian Nature Conservation Act of 1962 and 1986 national legislation (amended in 1997) relating to punitive measures for acts resulting in injuries to or the death of individuals of the species. Also, the Bulgarian Red Data Book, listed under “Threatened Species”;
• Hunting Law of Tunisia;
• Terrestrial Hunting Law of Turkey; and
• Ukrainian Red Data Book, Category II.

Mediterranean Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis desmarestii). Credit: Constantine Alexander. All rights reserved

 Contact: Constantine Alexander

Eleonora’s Falcon (Falco eleonorae)

Falco eleonorae. Credit: Constantine Alexander. All Rights Reserved.

Eleonora’s falcon (Falco eleonorae) is a resplendent migratory raptor named after Eleonora de Arborea from Sardinia [1347-1404], who, as a giudicessa (judge) from 1383 to her death, was a very influential figure in history. She is remembered for her creation of the world’s first legislation for the protection of a bird species which was named after her and became known as Falco eleonorae, the preservation of Sardinia’s independence from the Kingdom of Aragon and the enactment of very progressive laws (Carta de Logu) in 1395 which remained in force for nearly 5 centuries until Italian unification in 1861.

Description:

Eleonora’s falcon (Falco eleonorae) at close range or in flight can be described as a stunning, stream-lined, swift and agile raptor, measuring approximately 36-42 centimetres in length with a 87-104 centimetre wingspan. Its weight ranges between 350-450 grams depending upon the gender with females being slightly larger than males.

Eleonora’s falcons appear in two quite different colour morphs – either a dark form exhibited by one third of the falcons or a light form exhibited by two-thirds of the falcons. The dark falcon is dark brown to slate colour over most of its body with a cream coloured throat, occasionally a reddish tinge on the underparts, and pale gray to buff coloured bars on the tail. By contrast, a light coloured falcon is dark on the back with a white or cream throat and neck, a distinctive dark curved stripe on its face that extends down to its neck, buff coloured underparts (that become more reddish towards its lower body) with dark brown spots or streaks. Its grayish tail may have reddish-brown bars with a dark tip.

The Eleonora’s falcon has long narrow wings which, when folded, extend beyond the tip of its long, relatively rounded tail. In flight, Eleonora’s falcon has dark underwing coverts (small feathers concealing the base of larger flight feathers) which contrast with paler flight feathers. Up close, the males can be distinguished from the females as they have a yellow ring around their eyes while the females have a blue ring. Most of the juveniles resemble the light form of the adult but are more brown and paler with barring on the underwing and more distinct bars on the flight as well as the tail feathers.

Distribution:

Eleonora’s falcons (Falco eleonorae) winter primarily in Madagascar, an island nation and biodiversity hotspot located off the south-eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. Some of the falcons winter to a lesser extent in other parts of eastern Africa, including the archipelago island nation of Comoros which is north-west of Madagascar and the island of Reunion which is one of the Mascarene Islands located east of Madagascar.

The falcons leave their wintering grounds and migrate northwest in late April at which time the falcons travelling between Madagascar and the western Mediterranean engage in long distance journeys that can reach up to 9,000 kilometres with the falcons following an African inland route through the Sahara desert and the equatorial rainforests, according to satellite-tracking data. As weather conditions are paramount in shaping the migratory routes of birds, the falcons’ highly individualised migratory pathways vary due in part to the need to minimise meteorological barriers and benefit from favourable weather conditions such as tail winds blowing in the direction of their preferred travel routes.

During the spring through autumn seasons, the birds reside in the Mediterranean and in Atlantic islands off the northwest coast of Africa.  The falcons’ Atlantic and Mediterranean territory includes the Canary Islands, Balearic Islands, Columbretes islands, Portugal, Spain, Gibralter, Morocco, Algeria, France, Corsica, Malta, Tunisia, Italy, Croatia, Serbia, former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Albania, Egypt, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey and Israel.

According to BirdLife International, the European population of Eleonora’s falcons is estimated to be 5,900 to 6,200 breeding pairs, with the vast majority residing during the late summer and early autumn breeding season in Greece where the populations are widely distributed.

Falco eleonorae. Credit: Constantine Alexander. All Rights Reserved.

Foraging and Habitat:

Upon their annual return to the Mediterranean region in late April through the month of June, Eleonora’s falcons (Falco eleonorae) do not commence breeding preparations immediately, although they regularly visit their breeding sites. During this period, they roam widely over larger islands and mainland territory to satisfy their need for nourishment, fresh water and quiet communal roosting sites usually in trees following the rigorous spring migration and in preparation for their forthcoming breeding season which begins in July.

To forage, the falcons must often travel long distances that can exceed 50 kilometres in search of suitable feeding areas that are rich in insects which are customarily found in agricultural fields, forests and wetlands. The falcons also look for access to sufficient fresh water for drinking and bathing. The falcons often visit more than one location before settling down at their breeding colonies.

Eleonora’s falcons feed primarily on large flying insects such as beetles, butterflies, dragonflies, locusts, moths, cicadas and flying ants which are a crucial food source for them; however, they have been known to prey opportunistically on small birds. The falcons favour this insect diet during 10 months of the year, except in August and September which coincides with the height of the falcons’ reproduction season when they prey on migrating passerines that bolster their fitness following the demands of the breeding season and in preparation for the long return migration to their wintering grounds. As a foraging technique, these falcons catch prey in the air and, in the case of their insect prey, transfer the prey from talons to beak as they are not capable of pursuing their prey on the ground or in vegetation.

In their winter range, Eleonora’s falcons inhabit wetlands, open woodlands, forests, flooded fields of arable land used for growing rice and other semiaquatic crops, and lakes at elevations that in certain locations can reach 2,000 to 3,000 metres.

Breeding:

Eleonora’s falcons (Falco eleonorae) are colonial raptors that are unique among European birds in that they breed in late summer and early autumn. Males and females reach their breeding ages at 3 years and 3-4 years, respectively. Beginning in July, the falcons gather around their breeding sites in order to establish their respective territories and nests.

The falcons build their nests along rocky coasts and on steep cliffs as well as on undisturbed islets which provide sufficient shade, concealment and protection for the eggs and nestlings against excessive sun irradiation, predators and other disturbances including human disturbances. Breeding adults tend to return to the same territory of a colony from year to year. Throughout the range of the falcons’ breeding colonies and depending on the breeding terrain, the nests are constructed at variable altitudes ranging from a low of approximately 5 metres up to 100 metres in cliffs. The falcons customarily lay 1-3 eggs per nest in late July.

Eleonora’s falcon egg losses under natural conditions can reach as high as 43% due to rat predation (25%), infertility (10%) and sun irradiation (8%) while as many as 10% of the chicks may not be expected to survive. In certain breeding locations such as on Aegean islets, black rats (Rattus rattus) prey on unattended falcon eggs as well as nestlings and forage for any food left by the falcons; however, the rats are not a subject of Eleonora falcon prey because the falcons do not feed on ground animals.

Under successful breeding conditions, the chicks usually hatch in late August to early September, and they fledge in October. Most of the young are capable of flying by the end of October. In late November and early December, the falcons then embark upon a long return migration of thousands of kilometres to their Southern Hemispheric wintering grounds.

Studies indicate that juveniles undertake this lengthy migration independently of adults, despite their tender age of just 3-4 months. It is therefore understandable that juveniles take 3 times longer than adults to complete this autumnal migration in which the young falcons follow a more western course through Africa than their more mature counterparts. This longer period is reflected in a two month migration for juveniles - including a lengthy 2 week stopover period that coincides with high insect abundance following peak west African rainfall - compared to a three week autumnal migration period for adults.

The challenges faced by breeding Eleonora’s falcons such as rat predation on eggs and chicks, occasionally severe climate conditions, habitat loss, climate change effects that are impacting water and insect availability as well as disturbances in breeding territories underscore the importance of responsibly managing Special Protection Areas (SPAs) to support the population rehabilitation of Europe’s priority bird species while at the same time balancing the socio-economic needs of local stakeholders which can be achieved under a SPA Management Plan.

Threats:

The distribution of Eleonora’s falcons (Falco eleonorae) overlaps to a great extent with geographically desirable tourist locations and expanding human settlements. As a result, the current conservation status of the falcons is increasingly challenged by various threats that include certain human activities along with wildlife predation and climate change effects that result in habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation as well as significant disturbances to the falcons’ breeding and foraging behaviour.

These threats principally include:

• Predation on eggs and chicks at breeding colonies by black rats (Rattus rattus) which also reduce vegetation cover that is often used to shelter nest sites. Other predators include cats, wild rabbits and occasionally Peregrine falcons;
• use of agricultural pesticides;
• loss of wetlands;
• change of land use, including loss of traditional crop cultivations;
• climate change which is expected to impact insect food and water availability as well as egg losses from enhanced sun irradiation;
• tourism, including recreational sporting activities such as speedboating, jet skiing and hunting conducted in the falcons’ territorial distribution range - the noise of which causes the birds to leave their nests, eggs and young unattended;
• coastal development;
• undisciplined hunting dogs that kill nestlings;
• poachers engaged in illegal trade;
• pollution; and
• the use of sling shots when the birds are roosting in trees because Eleonora’s falcons are not always sufficiently shy of humans.

These threats are becoming more pervasive in the Eleonora falcon territories of the world with resulting impacts on the species’ conservation status. In its assessment of the situation, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has acknowledged that “the [Eleonora’s falcon] population trend appears to be decreasing”.

Legal Protection:

Laws and conventions related to the status and protection of Eleanora’s falcon (Falco eleonorae) include:

• European Union Birds Directive, Annex I (Council Directive 79/409/EEC);
• Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, Appendix II;
• Bonn Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species, Appendix II;
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), Appendix II; and
• African Convention on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (1969) – Class B listing of the Falconiformes not listed in Class A - for total protection, except with authorisation by competent authority.

Contact: Constantine Alexander

The Tilos Park Experience.

Tilos Natural Park Map.  Credit: Constantine Alexander

"I promised the rainbow a better earth, a season full of soil fresh with immaculate chamomile at the bare feet...With pure white birds I filled the wind that will go to the morning inauguration of the sea! And here we are both ready, holding hands...When we blow the veil opens...to beautiful years yet to come...From that point, toil will begin and happiness will enter the crystals we awaited."

From "The Whole World" by Odysseus Elytis, 1979 Nobel laureate 

And so it was on October 5, 2003 that the thirty-three founding members whom I had recruited, representing individuals and organisations from around the world, gathered together on Tilos that day to publicly declare their dedication to the conservation of Tilos and its 14 uninhabited islets through the formation of the Tilos Park Association (TPA), a Greek registered non-profit NGO, that grew into a well-funded organization supported by an international dues-paying membership that included 2/3 of the island residents, island visitors and national government officials including the President of the Hellenic Republic, Karolos Papoulias.

The pristine natural environment of Tilos and its islets radiate the beauty, vitality, and resilience of the indigenous flora and fauna that have evolved for centuries in the southeastern Aegean Sea. The founding members of the TPA were inspired by the irreplaceable value of the island’s unspoiled, interdependent ecosystems that consist of 16 different biotopes fed by underground springs of clean, fresh water that nourish the 63 sq km island.

The documentation of more than 378 botanical species; 162 resident and migratory wild bird species, of which one quarter require protection under the EU Birds Directive 79/409/EEC; the rare Mediterranean monk seal classified by IUCN as "critically endangered"; and a myriad of other terrestrial and marine wildlife species clearly warranted the designation of the island and islets as an EU registered Special Protection Area, a Natura 2000 Network site and a 2004-2007 host to the EU Tilos Life Nature program of which the newly founded TPA became a full partner.

Yet awareness by the TPA founding members of growing societal pressures, imposed by economic as well as recreational interests that threatened the survival of the island's natural environment, inspired the TPA to devote its efforts to the conservation of the island SPA and the ecologically sensitive development of the islanders' socio-economic needs. This partnership of equally respected endeavours was manifested in the aims of the organisation and, more importantly, in the actions of the TPA.

The TPA welcomed members from around the world who generously contributed their time, effort and creative ideas which represented the organisation's most valuable asset. Within the first 3 years of the TPA’s existence, these ideas were transformed into actions that included (i) the successful lobbying of the Hellenic government at national, regional and local levels for the approval of the Tilos Natural Park establishment which was officially granted in 2006, (ii) securing the 100% EU funding approval of a wetlands development project incorporating interdependent bio-systems and a discreet visitor observation centre following the loss of the natural island wetlands due to construction development, (iii) actively working with local residents in their establishment of long term ecotourism businesses that showcase the island's natural beauty, (iv) inviting and cooperating with renewable energy experts in keeping with the Kyoto Protocol, (v) coordinating the implementation of the entire EU Tilos Life Nature program, (vi) extending invitations to and organising excursions for non-resident student science groups to study the island ecology for academic credit, (vii) the development of ecological maps and guides for visitors, (viii) local high school presentations and weekly visitor discussion groups to heighten public awareness about the island's natural resources, (ix) the establishment of an Avian Recovery Centre to care for injured birds and other wildlife species; (x) the creation of a library containing visitor guides in 7 languages along with island botanical, geological and marine as well as terrestrial biological information; and (xi) island tours covering the history, ecology and culture of the island. These actions reflect the energy, enthusiasm and goal orientation of the TPA staff, volunteers and membership whose commitment deepened with each accomplishment that could not be achieved without a collaborative effort.

This team effort was best exemplified by the September 2004 Avian Recovery Centre [ARC] establishment as a facility to house, feed and care for birds found on the island suffering from injury, migratory exhaustion and/or trauma. In the first 24 months of operation, the ARC received 26 birds representing 16 resident and migratory avian species including Eleonora’s Falcon, Long Legged Buzzard, Gray Heron, Kingfisher, Little Bittern, Kestrel, Song Thrush, Scops Owl and Moorhen. The interior landscape design of the large outdoor cages featured bay trees, berry vines, rosemary, thyme, marjoram and lemon verbena as well as water pools to offer shelter, shade, wind protection and a natural habitat for the birds. Without any avian or veterinary professionals on the island, we were fortunate to have located non-resident volunteer experts who informed us about the proper care and feeding of each species. Island residents and the TPA volunteer staff provided the birds’ necessities from their own personal resources during the ARC’s daily operation.

Many of these birds recovered and were released; unfortunately, some did not survive as their injuries were too severe. Regardless of the outcome, however, each shared with us its own characteristic behaviour, unique personality and struggle to survive. And just as important, each individual enriched our knowledge about those with whom we shared this beautiful island SPA.

The Tilos Park Journal was published by the Tilos Park Association. The purpose of the Journal was to acquaint the public with then-current island news having international relevance. The articles reported on such topics as island renewable energy development; the island challenges associated with endangered marine turtle species conservation; island wildlife conservation actions in compliance with mandatory EU Directives; comparisons and contrasts among Tilos, European and north African EU Life Nature program experiences; wetlands restoration; ecotourism developments; the significance, restoration and sustainable uses of historical sites; Tilos botanical history, mythology, ancient trading products and existing rare species; and more.

As of winter 2008, the Journal was electronically distributed to more than 6,250 international subscribers including European Commission and European Parliament Members, Hellenic government officials and Hellenic Parliament Members, international NGO's, European multi-national industry executives, private individuals and TPA members from Canada, South Africa, Europe, Algeria, Morocco, Turkey and the US.

Our TPA experience filled with socio-economic and environmental conservation progress, sustainable development programs, volunteer support from island residents as well as visitors, and, most important of all, memorable group collaborations can be replicated in any community around the world when the strength of shared values succeeds in breaking the burdensome chains made of individual differences.   

Constantine Alexander

Δημόσια Διαβούλευση για το Σχέδιο ΠΔ «Χαρακτηρισμός χερσαίων και υδάτινων εκτάσεων της περιοχής νήσου Τήλου ως Φυσικό Περιφερειακό Πάρκο και ορισμός Φορέα Διαχείρισής του»

The Tilos Park Journal:

• Download TPA Journal EN 1
• Download TPA Journal EN 2
• Download TPA Journal EN 3
• Download TPA Journal EN 4
• Download TPA Journal EN 5
• Download TPA Journal EN 6
• Download TPA Journal EN 7

References:

• Download The Tilos Park Experience
• Download TILOS LIFE PROJECT
  
• Download TILOS LIFE PROJECT Final Report
• Download TILOS AFTER LIFE CONSERVATION PLAN
• Download Brochure EN
• Download Brochure GR
  

Tilos Natural Park:

• Download Presidential Decree
• Download Tilos Park Presidential Decree Draft
  
• Download Governor's Council Park Approval
• Download Ministry of Agriculture Approval
• Download Ministry of Development
• Download ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY APPROVAL
• Download Map Tilos Park
• Download Natural Park of Tilos Ministry of Environment
  

Press Articles:

• Download ELEFTHEROS TYPOS 03-08-2007
• Download ELEFTHEROS TYPOS 25-08-2007
• Download KATHIMERINI 01-27-2007
• Download Liberation
• Download OON Austria
• Download Freiheit fur Tiere
• Download On BLUE
• Download Holiday Express
• Download PASSPORT MAGAZINE
• Download GEOTROPIO
• Download GNOMI Nespaper December 10 2007
• Download RODIAKI 2 NOVEMBER 2008
  

The Tilos Park receives the 2009 EURONATUR AWARD

Στις 7/10/09 στην λίμνη της Κωνστάντζας στη Γερμανία και στο νησί Μαϊνάου απενεμήθη το βραβείο «Εuronatur Award 2009» στην Τήλο για την «προστασία της πολύτιμης φύσης της Τήλου γενικά και ειδικά για την απαγόρευση του κυνηγιού».

Το ίδιο βραβείο έχει απονεμηθεί τα προηγούμενα έτη στους : Μιχαήλ Γκορμπατσώφ, Νέλσον Μαντέλα, Καρλ Λούντβιχ κ.α.

ΟΙ ΟΜΙΛΙΕΣ ΤΗΣ ΒΡΑΒΕΥΣΗΣ

Ομιλία επαίνου  από τον Mario F. Broggi 

  
Κύριε Πρόεδρε,

αξιότιμοι εκπρόσωποι του βραβευόμενου,

κυρίες και κύριοι,

συνάδελφοι.  

Η πρώτη μου επίσκεψη στην Τήλο ανάγεται στον Οκτώβριο του 2004 όταν έκανα μία προκαταρτική αναγνώριση νατουραλιστικής εκδρομής για την επόμενη άνοιξη, για την άνοιξη του 2005. 

Δεν ήξερα τι να πρωτοθαυμάσω:

• Στην πανσιόν που είχα επιλέξει βρήκα πληροφορίες σχετικά με τις επικρατούσες συνθήκες των φυσικών αξιών, μάλιστα και ένα λεπτομερή κατάλογο των ειδών των πτηνών που είχαν παρατηρηθεί μέχρι τότε.
• Πληροφορήθηκα για ένα σωματείο του Πάρκου Τήλος που είχε ιδρυθεί πρόσφατα και σύντομα επρόκειτο να αποκτήσει δικό του γραφείο πληροφοριών. Περίπου το ένα τρίτο των κατοίκων ήταν μέλη.
• Διάφανη ήταν η θέληση δημιουργικότητας της διοίκησης της νήσου με την εκμετάλλευση δικού της σκάφους – το Star Τήλος – προς και από τη Ρόδο, είδα ένα καινούργιο δημοτικό λεωφορείο, λιμενικές εγκαταστάσεις που είχαν εκσυγχρονιστεί, υπήρχε μία τακτική διάθεση αποβλήτων και πάνω απ’ όλα δεν υπήρχαν πουθενά αντιαισθητικά θεάματα  και πολεοδομική αναρχία.
• Στις οδοιπορίες του νησιού συναντήσαμε παλαιά λιθόστρωτα μονοπάτια.
• Περίπου 200 εκκλησίες και εξωκλήσια στρογγυλεύουν την πολιτιστική εικόνα.
• Πριν από περίπου 3.500 με 4.000 χρόνια και βάσει των οστών που βρέθηκαν, πρέπει να είχαν ζήσει στο Χαρκάδιο Σπήλαιο ελέφαντες νάνοι στο μέγεθος ενός σκύλου του Αγίου Βερνάρδου.

 

Τέλος, ποτέ μου δεν  είχα δει  τόσα πολλά γεράκια της Ελεονόρας, δηλαδή 70 στο σύνολο σε μια κοιλάδα πάνω στο κυνήγι τους – αργότερα πληροφορηθήκαμε ότι ο αριθμός αυτός είναι ένα σημαντικό μέρος του παγκόσμιου πληθυσμού.   
  

Και όλα αυτά σε ένα  μικρό ελληνικό νησί που βρίσκεται πριν την Ανατολία με έκταση 64 km2 με 350 κατοίκους περίπου. Εκεί αισθάνθηκα αμέσως άνετα, επιβεβραδυμένος και θυμήθηκα το απόσπασμα του ινδιάνου προφήτη Σμοχάλλα: «Άνθρωποι που μόνον εργάζονται, δεν έχουν χρόνο για όνειρα . Μόνον όποιος ονειρεύεται καταλήγει στη σοφία». 

Με χαρά ξαναγύρισα στην Τήλο μαζί με τους συνεκδομείς  μου τον επόμενο χρόνο.  Χαρτογραφήσαμε μεταξύ άλλων την τοπική ανοιξιάτικη  χλωρίδα και ασχοληθήκαμε με τον  κόσμο των ζώων. Πάλι ξανασυναντήσαμε  το πολυάσχολο διευθυντή ενός Κονστέρν τον Κωνσταντίνο Μεντζελόπουλο του Σωματείου Tilos Park Association, που μας έκανε γνωστούς με τον Δήμαρχο της νήσου Αναστάσιο Αλιφέρη. Από αυτόν πληροφορηθήκαμε ότι από το 1993 και ύστερα στο νησί δεν επιτρέπεται το κυνήγι. Και πραγματικά πουθενά στην Ελλάδα δεν είχαμε δει τόσες πολλές νησιώτικες πέρδικες, μια μεσογειακή πετροπέρδικα. Μας είπαν ότι υπάρχουν περίπου 700 ζευγάρια αναπαραγωγής στο νησί.  

 

• Ακούσαμε επίσης ότι ο δήμαρχος υπηρέτησε τη στρατιωτική  του θητεία στο νησί ως γιατρός  και στο τέλος παρέμεινε εδώ.
• Ακούσαμε ότι η διοίκηση του νησιού εν όψει της απαγόρευσης θήρας και του σχεδιασμού του Πάρκου Τήλος βρέθηκε υπό πίεση δεδομένου ότι η λόμπι των κυνηγών έξω από το νησί ήταν πολύ ισχυρή. 
• Ακούσαμε δε και για απόπειρες εμπρησμού στο νησί προκειμένου να αυξηθεί πίεση στην διοίκηση του νησιού. Με δεξιοτεχνία ο δήμαρχος και από μία διεθνή προοπτική μπόρεσε να υπερασπίσει αυτή την «σημαντική περιοχή των πτηνών (Important Bird Area - IBA)» με την ένταξη σε τόπο Natura 2000 καθώς και μέσω ενός έργου της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης EU-Life.

 

Εν ολίγοις, εκείνη την εποχή κάναμε το 33^ο ταξίδι μας σε ελληνικά νησιά και η γνωριμία πολλών ελληνικών νησιών μας είχε εντυπωσιάσει βαθιά.   

• Συναντήσαμε μια  ελκυστική και συνοπτική φύση με βουνά και λόφους, πλούσια σε φυσικές και πολιτιστικές αξίες.
• Εξοπλισμένη με πολυάριθμες ιστορικές μαρτυρίες και υποδείξεις παλαιών μεγάλων αποικισμών στο εγκαταλελειμμένο χωριό φάντασμα, το Μικροχώρι.  
• Είδαμε γόνιμες δενδρόφυτες πεδιάδες με γεωργικές καλλιέργειες, πανέμορφους δρόμους πεζοπορίας-περιοδίας.
• Τέλος συναντήσαμε μια καλή γαστρονομία και κατάλληλα καταλύματα και ακούσαμε τις πρώτες προσπάθειες αξιοποίησης της τοπικής γεωργίας για τον τουρισμό.

  

Και τελικά από την  Τήλο διαχύεται αυτό το συγκεκριμένο Κάτι με τη δημιουργικότητα της βραδύτητας, αποσπασμένη από το Πολυτάραχο της καθημερινότητας. Κι όλα αυτά αξίζουν τον κόπο του μακρινού ταξιδιού. Βιώσαμε ένα επίπεδο αξιοπιστίας δράσης, με τη διατήρηση της προσωπικής ταυτότητας, αυτό που διαφέρει από κάθε άλλο προορισμό. Αυτή η συνειδητοποίηση κορυφώθηκε για μένα σε μια ρήση ενός νησιώτη. Τον  συναντήσαμε σαν βοηθό σερβιτόρου και μετά σαν καρβουνιάρη όπου μας κάλεσε να φαμε πρόβατο σε ανοικτή φωτιά:  „ I love this life, I come form the island“.  

Το πλαίσιο για  ένα προσαρμοσμένο φυσικό και  πολιτιστικό τουρισμό νομίζω ότι  για την Τήλο είναι προκαθορισμένο. Σε μας δεν υπάρχουν συχνά παραδείγματα προβολής, πρότυπα  ή πιλοτικά έργα, αυτά που στα νέα γερμανικά τα λέμε „good ή best practice“. Ο στόχος που αποσκοπείται και η αναγνώριση υπογραμμίζουν αυτή τη πρόθεση. Στη βόρεια περιοχή της Τήλου υπάρχει στο μεταξύ ένα νομικά εδραιωμένο Καταφύγιο Άγριας Ζωής (Wildlife Refuge). 

Ο Οργανισμός Πάρκο  Τήλος που ιδρύθηκε το 2003 από τον k. Κωνσταντίνο Μεντζελόπουλο έχει εκπονήσει στο μεταξύ ένα παραδειγματικό σχέδιο. Η στήριξη από τους τοπικούς του νησιού είναι δεδομένη. Βεβαίως υπήρχε στο νησί αντίσταση εναντίον των σχεδίων. Ωστόσο κερδίζει κανείς όλο και περισσότερο την εντύπωση ότι όλοι μαζί τραβούν στο ίδιο σκοινί. Είναι επιτακτικό ότι το Πάρκου Τήλος υποστηρίζεται από τον τοπικό πληθυσμό και ότι η αλυσίδα της άντλησης αξιών αποβαίνει προς όφελος των νησιωτών. Το Σωματείο του Πάρκου Τήλος πρέπει να συνεχίσει να διαδραματίζει σημαντικό ρόλο.

Βασικά, υφίσταται  εξ άλλου και ευρωπαϊκό ενδιαφέρον για ένα προσαρμοσμένο νατουραλιστικό τουρισμό και περίπου 30-40% του πληθυσμού της κεντρικής Ευρώπης είναι ευαισθητοποιημένοι όσον αφορά τον οικοτουρισμό και είναι πρόθυμοι να πληρώνουν παραπάνω όταν πρόκειται για  περιβαλλοντικά και κοινωνικά υπεύθυνες τουριστικές μονάδες. 

Η ουσία του θέματος είναι  αν η κρίσιμη μάζα των πρωτοβουλιών των νησιωτών παραμείνει ώστε να συνεχιστεί η περαιτέρω ανάπτυξη των υφισταμένων προσεγγίσεων με κατάλληλο επιχειρηματικό πνεύμα.  Εμείς από τις Άλπεις κάναμε την εμπειρία ότι μικρές  μονάδες αντιμετωπίζουν αμυντικές κοινωνικές δυσκαμψίες. Γνωρίζουμε ότι εκεί υπάρχουν οικογενειακές κυριαρχίες στο είδος του καθεστώτος αρχηγίας που δεν επιτρέπουν μεγάλες καινοτομίες. Μας εξέπληξε ως εκ τούτου όταν διαπιστώσαμε ότι τόσο ο δήμαρχος της Τήλου όσο και ο διαχειριστής του Πάρκου, k. Κωνσταντίνος Μεντζελόπουλος, δεν προέρχονται από το νησί.   

 

Απαραίτητο για  μια επιτυχή προσαρμογή του τουρισμού  είναι η δημιουργία γέφυρας ανάμεσα  στο νησί και στους καλλιεργημένους αστούς της κεντρικής και βορείου Ευρώπης ως πιθανή πελατεία. Βαθύτατα εντυπωσιασμένος από τα βιώματα, ο νους μου γύρισε στα έργα της Euronatur στο Δέλτα του Νέστου και στα έργα ενός φυσικού θαλασσίου πάρκου στις Βόρειες Σποράδες. Ένας μέλος της εκδρομής μας ήταν εκπρόσωπος ενός ιδρύματος από το Λιχτενστάϊν. Με την βοήθεια και συμπαράστασή του προέκυψε μια  γόνιμη συνεργασία με την Euronatur. Και επί της ευκαιρίας θέλω να σημειώσω ότι από το  Λιχτενστάϊν δεν έρχονται μόνον αρνητικά στοιχεία.  

Η προσαρμογή των αναγκαίων  προϊόντων τουρισμού θα μπορούσε να συνεχιστεί. Με χαρά διαπιστώνω ότι  υλοποιήθηκε μία συνεργασία με την διοίκηση της νήσου για έναν ενημερωτικό χάρτη της Τήλου με πολλαπλές πληροφορίες όσον αφορά την Euronatur. Σύντομα θα ακολουθήσει ένας χάρτης οδοιποριών στη γερμανική γλώσσα.  Για την προετοιμασία της σημερινής μου ομιλίας επαίνου μπήκα την ιστοσελίδα της νήσου  όπου βρήκα μια σαφή δέσμευση προσαρμοσμένου τουρισμού. Ο κατάλογος που είχαμε εκπονήσει σχετικά με τη χλωρίδα έχει δημοσιευθεί και αργότερα εικονογραφήθηκε από ένα  βέλγο φυσιολάτρη με πολύ ωραίες φωτογραφίες. Επίσης και αναζητήσεις στο Google αποκαλύπτουν ότι το νησί Τήλος στο μεταξύ έχει δημιουργήσει το διακριτικό της εμπορικό σήμα, όπως λ. χ. υπό την διεύθυνση agrotravel.gr – the official gate to Greek rural tourisme (η επίσημη πύλη για αγροτουρισμό).  

Τέλος, στη Wikipedia συναντά κανείς το Πάρκο Τήλος.  Ελπίζουμε τώρα, παρά την αποχώρηση του Κωνσταντίνου Μεντζελόπουλου, ο οποίος διεθνώς ήταν ισχυρά δικτυωμένος, ότι για αυτόν θα βρεθεί μια αντίστοιχη αντικατάσταση. Η μέχρι στιγμής άριστη έκδοση της αγγλόφωνου περιοδικής έκδοσης „Tilos Park Journal“ πρέπει να συνεχιστεί. Ευελπιστούμε κατά μέγιστο τρόπο ότι η νομική προστασία του καταλλήλου καθεστώτος για το Πάρκο Τήλος καθώς και η  μόνιμη απαγόρευση του κυνηγίου θα μπορέσουν να υλοποιηθούν. Επίσης από την νέα ελληνική κυβέρνηση ας αναμένουμε ότι θα εκπληρώσει τις υποσχέσεις της σχετικά με το περιβάλλον.  
 

Κυρίες και κύριοι, 

Η προστασία της  φύσης και ο τουρισμός είναι  δύο λέξεις που συχνά αλληλοσυγκρούονται. Ένα ταξίδι  με υπευθυνότητα προστατεύει το περιβάλλον και εξασφαλίζει την ευημερία του τοπικού πληθυσμού. Οι κάτοικοι της Τήλου πήραν την μοίρα στους στα χέρια τους. Εύχομαι ότι δεν θα επαληθευθεί ποτέ η ρήση του Νίτσε:

"Έμπειροι  άνθρωποι διστάζουν  να επιστρέψουν σε περιοχές που κάποτε αγαπούσαν πολύ." 

Συγχαίρω το δήμαρχο Αναστάσιο Αλιφέρη αντιπροσωπευτικά για τους κατοίκους της νήσου προκειμένου να περιληφθούν στο κύκλο των επιφανών νικητών των βραβείων. Και μόνον η τότε επιτυχή τους αίτηση για την απαγόρευση κυνηγιού στην νήσο κάνει το νησί άξιο βράβευσης. Ας ευχηθούμε ότι το εγχείρημά τους, που ίσως  μόνον σαν σταγόνα στο ωκεανό, με την λαμπρότητά του να παραμείνει ένα επιτυχές μοντέλο. Ας ευχηθούμε το νησί να διατηρήσει την αποδεδειγμένη του αξιοπιστία  και την ταυτότητά του σε κάθε απόφαση που μελλοντικά χρειασθεί να ληφθεί. 

Συγχαίρω την Euronatur για την επιλογή του 21ου νικητή, τη κοινωνία της νήσου Τήλος.

Ευχαριστώ την Euronatur, ιδιαίτερα τον Γαβριήλ Schwaderer και την Annette Spangenberg, για την αφοσίωσή τους στην Τήλο και συνεπώς για την αύξηση των ευκαιριών ενός προσαρμοσμένου τουρισμού, από άποψης φύσης και πολιτισμού. 

Και τελευταία παρατήρηση:

Αγαπητό ακροατήριο, αν θέλετε να ξεφύγετε, τότε ας πάτε στην Τήλο. Θα επιστρέψετε με καλές ιδέες. Ευχαριστώ  
 

Mario F. Broggi, Triesen (FL), οργανώνεται κάθε χρόνο από το 1972 φυσιολατρικές εκδρομές, που πραγματοποιούνται από τα μέλη της Βοτανικής-Ζωολογικής Εταιρείας Λίχτενσταϊν-Sargans-Werdenberg σε ελληνικά νησιά. Σπούδασε δασοκομία στο ETH Zurich, έλαβε το διδακτορικό του από το Γεωπονικό Πανεπιστήμιο της Βιέννης, λέκτορας στο Πανεπιστήμιο της Βιέννης και υπήρξε καθηγητής στα πανεπιστήμια της Βασιλείας και της Βιέννης. Διετέλεσε διευθυντής του Ελβετικού Ομοσπονδιακού Ινστιτούτου για Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL), Birmensdorf (ZH) και σήμερα συμμετέχει σε ιδρύματα προστασίας φύσης.

Press Release  

Tilos on Freiheit fur Tierre

The Berlin Magazine “Freiheit fur Tierre” published an interview that they conducted with me on Tilos and which can be found at: http://www.abschaffung-der-jagd.at/alternative-tilos.htm This is the transcript of my 2005 interview in English. 

What kind of wild animals are typical of the fauna of Tilos? 

Tilos is very fortunate to have a rich variety of fauna that thrive in our island environment consisting of 16 different biotopes that are fed by underground fresh water springs throughout the island. 

Our most visible and graceful wildlife includes more than one hundred twelve different resident and migratory bird species, of which more than one third are classified by the EU as endangered, vulnerable or rare. The extraordinary range of rainbow colors that glisten in the sunshine, especially during migratory season, is illustrated on the feathers of our kingfishers, rollers, hoopoes, purple heron, glossy ibis, Audouin’s gulls, European and blue-cheeked bee-eaters, little ringed plovers, white tailed eagles and many others, including a plumed white reef egret that has been known to stray from the Sinai peninsula to visit our island.  

The threat of extinction of some of these species prompted the EU to establish a “Priority of Funding” Life Nature Program on the island primarily for the population rehabilitation of three particular bird species: Bonelli’s eagle, Eleonora falcon and the Mediterranean shag. However, in addition to our winged wildlife that grace the island skies, we also have ingratiating terrestrial wildlife that includes rabbits, hedgehogs, reptiles, wild goats, and even a non-indigenous turtle whose origin is unknown to visiting scientists yet who made our water reservoir its home. Our endangered marine wildlife includes the lithe Mediterranean seals that live in our sheltered coves and share our local waters with lively whales, dolphins and tuna that are frequently seen from shore.  

And which animals were usually hunted before the ban? 

Prior to the hunting ban, the most hunted animal was the chukar partridge bird species which happens to be the primary food source throughout the year for our many raptors, which include the endangered Bonelli’s Eagle, the Booted Eagle, the honey buzzard, the Goshawk and the long legged buzzard. During the first three months of hunting season, our Eleonora falcons change their diet from large insects to small birds. The reason the falcons change their diet is that they breed and reproduce from August through November before their long migration to Madagascar, so it is imperative that the adults as well as the newborn birds take in enough nourishment for added body weight in order for them to survive the long journey. The importance of our Eleonora falcon species is that Tilos is home to 10% of the entire world population of this endangered falcon which, according to the Hellenic Ornithological Society, makes Tilos one of the three most important sites in all of Europe for this falcon. Unfortunately, Tilos does not have a sufficient food supply of small birds to satisfy the nutritional needs of our endangered raptors and recreational hunters as well. 

Tilos is very mountainous with rocky hillsides and, as a result, our endangered raptors have a difficult time in seizing their prey because of the numerous rocky outcrops and crevices that serve as shelter in which these small birds hide. A sufficient undisturbed food supply for the raptors and the prevention of loss of this supply to recreational hunters are vital to the rehabilitation of our endangered raptor population. The prospective success of the €824.212 EU Life Nature program was analyzed by the EU authorities who approved the investment on the basis of the existing undisturbed environment which provides sufficient food and habitat for the raptor species to breed and reproduce. According to European Union ornithologists, any loss of food supply for these raptors will likely result in a corresponding loss of nourishment, vulnerability to disease, reduced breeding and reproduction as well as premature death. This scientific fact is one of the reasons why the islanders support a hunting ban on Tilos in order to give the wildlife on Tilos the freedom, in which they were born, to live a natural life which is already fraught with risks of early mortality. The islanders recognize and respect the wisdom of nature manifested in its interdependent and continuing cycles of life.    

How long has there been no hunting on the island? 

As a result of a succession of temporary Administrative Decrees since 1992, the latest of which is scheduled to expire on August 22, 2006, under Aegean Periphery Document No. 4978, hunting has been banned on Tilos for the last 13 years. 

In October 2005, the Tilos Park Association, a non-profit association, prepared a white paper based on European Union Directives mandatory for all Member States and European Court of Justice (ECJ) cases stating that (1) hunting on Tilos, a registered Special Protection Area with its existing circumstances, is a violation of EU law and ECJ rulings; and (2) the Hellenic government use of these temporary decrees to ban hunting that may be terminated at any time also violates EU law according to the ECJ. 

The recent public declaration by Minister of the Aegean Aristotelis Pavlides that hunting will definitely be introduced on Tilos, a declaration for which his constituents continue to hold him responsible, is a certainty unless the Tilos Natural Park is approved by the Hellenic government without further delay. 

Based upon the Greek scientific feasibility study of the Tilos aviary species and habitat  that was accepted by the Hellenic Ministry of the Environment and that served as the basis for the registration of Tilos as a Special Protection Area (SPA) and a Natura 2000 site, the Hellenic government prepared a written proposal for the establishment of the Tilos Natural Park. In this Park proposal, there is a provision that prohibits hunting on the entire island of Tilos and its fourteen uninhabited islets which collectively constitute the SPA. As of October 31, 2005, the approval for the establishment of this Tilos Natural Park has been delayed for three years since 2002 and is currently awaiting approval by the Deputy Minister of the Environment. 

Long awaited approval of the Tilos Natural Park by the Hellenic government would resolve the current hunting issue in a manner that conforms to all of the relevant European Union Directives and decisions of the European Court of Justice.  

Why was hunting stopped? 

Approximately 15 years ago, the Municipality of Tilos responded to two very important factors. The first factor was the existence of a rich variety of wildlife on Tilos that the EU classifies as endangered. The second factor was the recognition by islanders of important socio-economic needs to make a living, to retain the Greek village way of life as a repudiation of globalization and culture loss, and to enjoy a natural, unspoiled countryside during their leisure time. The economy of Tilos consists of agriculture and tourism. In order to develop a sustainable form of tourism that is enjoyed by visitors to Tilos and, most importantly, creates long term jobs for the residents of the Municipality, ecotourism was the natural choice to pursue. 

The Municipality then focused its efforts in pursuit of registration of Tilos and its 14 uninhabited islets as a Special Protection Area by the EU in accordance with the provisions of the Habitats Directive [92/43/EEC]. Banning hunting that depletes island flora and fauna resources was the next logical step in order to protect the ecotourism that islanders wanted to develop. In addition, banning hunting on Tilos that has three endangered bird species (being rehabilitated by the Life Nature program) that breed and reproduce during the entire hunting season conforms to the mandatory legal requirements of the Birds and Habitats Directives. Allowing hunting on Tilos will actually violate the Directives as they apply to this island. 

The islanders with occupations in the tourism industry have increasingly noticed that most of their visitors come to get close to nature by enjoying our 67 km of walking paths, photographing nature, painting the island wildlife and bird watching up close. Some guests have openly acknowledged that they would not come to Tilos if the island allowed hunting. Naturally the restaurant owners and hotel owners respond to these comments by working hard to give the visitors what they enjoy. This explains why hunting was banned and is economically damaging to the island residents.

Are the animals multiplying out of control, because they are not hunted? Or does the population always remain approximately the same? 

The population of huntable as well as non-huntable species will naturally vary from year to year due to a variety of factors including: the amount of rainfall which affects the growth of habitat for food, shelter and nesting material; the available fresh water from the springs; the range of temperature throughout the year which may include exceptional cold or heat which in turn will affect the survival rate of the species; the occurrence of natural disasters such as unusual flooding or bird flu; the occurrence of unnatural disasters such as arson fire which the island has unfortunately experienced from those opposed to the protection of the environment; etc.   

So far, the Tilos Park Association is aware of only two fauna species that are multiplying faster than the ecosystem can accommodate. The first is the hooded crow population, which contributes to the destruction of other bird species’ eggs as well as agricultural production. The second is the domestic goat population, which destroys the natural habitat on the island including rare orchids because these goats live freely in the countryside without restraints such as fences. The hooded crow population problem is currently being addressed by the ornithologists participating in the Life Nature program to devise the least invasive and most humane method to stem the excessive population growth (killing them is not a consideration). The domestic “wild” goat population has been addressed by Dr. Mario Broggi from the ETH Council in Switzerland who explained to the satisfaction of the European Union that goat subsidies are counterproductive in certain cases such as Tilos. As an alternative, he recommended a short term compensation package for goat farmers who reduce their goat population to improve the environment throughout the European Union where the goat population has been excessive and destructive. 

There are no other known problems of excessive species population on the island. On the contrary, the remaining animal species encounter numerous hardships, including risk of danger from predators on a daily basis which threaten their survival. 

Is there crop damage because of wild animals? 

Crop damage from animals certainly exists, but it may be helpful to define crop damage as significant or insignificant in relation to the annual quantities of island agricultural production. 

To begin with, the major offenders on the island are hooded crows, rabbits and wild goats which are known to damage crops. However, the damage does not represent a significant economic loss according to agricultural production information from the agricultural community. The reasons for this are as follows: hooded crows are “omnivores, rob other birds’ nests, take refuse and carrion, insects and other invertebrates on fields and seashores, including small fish, mussels, etc., berries, seeds, etc.” [Birds of Europe, Mullarney, Svensson, Zetterstrom and Grant]. Therefore, when the farmers engage in practices that discourage the birds’ from picking their crops, the birds have a range of other diet options on the island to which they routinely turn for sustenance. The farmers’ tactics include draping fishing nets over their crops, attaching strips of cloth to wooden poles on their fields that blow in the wind and, of course, the presence of human activity on the farm causes the birds to flee. The birds are, however, a nuisance to farmers who devote time and effort to scaring them away from their fields. 

The wild goats primarily live away from the cultivated farms and, therefore, do not comprise a significant incursion into cultivated areas of the island. The rabbits exist, but their population is controlled by the farmers.    

Do the wild animals eat young reforested trees? 

The free roaming goats are prevented from eating reforested trees by the fencing that is placed around the trees when they are young. We do, however, have a serious problem with goats destroying the young unprotected trees on the island. Wherever possible, and as the goat population slowly declines on the island, reforestation takes place in areas of low risk of loss and where watering of new trees can be ensured. 

Is the growth of the forest endangered? 

The most serious threats to our forests are from arson or intentional destruction by those who are angry at the conservation efforts of the island municipality. Goats can be prevented from harming new trees and the municipality uses water trucks to water new trees as indicated above in the previous answer. So, while threats to our trees do exist, we do our best to keep a watchful eye at all times throughout the year to safeguard them from unnatural harm. 

Can you confirm from your own experience that animals and nature maintain a natural balance, without interference of man? 

Yes, and Tilos is an example of this scientifically proven theory. With only 300 permanent island residents, most of the island is undeveloped and exists in a natural state. In the event that one species multiplies faster than the limited island food source can accommodate, nature eventually restores this balance through a lack of available food supply resulting in premature deaths and reduced breeding until nature’s balance is restored.  But let us illustrate what can happen in a similar situation in which man’s intervention also causes a reduced species population but to the irreversible detriment of society. 

We have four pairs of Bonelli’s eagles distributed throughout our 63 sq km island. This species is classified by the EU as endangered and vulnerable to extinction. The situation is sufficiently serious to the EU that it identified Tilos as warranting a “Top Priority of Funding” to rehabilitate the population of this eagle and two other seriously endangered bird species: Eleonorae falcon and the Mediterranean shag. Each pair of Bonelli’s eagles normally requires approximately 11.9 km. between nests and they are very territorial according to the European Species Action Plan for this bird. These eagles are known to travel up to 200 miles a day searching for food, which usually consists of smaller birds and animals, and only one in five arduous attempts is successful. If human activities such as extensive building construction or hunting are introduced to Tilos thereby depleting the bird species that serve as food for these eagles and our other endangered island raptors, the endangered raptors will have a reduced food supply and the same result will occur. Premature deaths of existing endangered eagles and reduced breeding due to an inadequate food supply caused by hunting island chukhar or loss of habitat for the chukhar if there is excessive building construction. Therefore, man’s intervention without thoughtful reflection of its consequences does not appear to serve the best interests of nature of which humanity is only a part.       

Is the animals' behaviour different on Tilos than on other Greek islands, for example, do they approach man in a more trusting way? 

In my experience, there is a significant difference between animal behavior on islands with and without hunting. Let me give you two examples. According to information from The Complete Guide to the Birds of Europe by Mullarney, Svensson, Zetterstrom and Grant as well as RSPB Complete Birds of Britain and Europe by Rob Hume, two bird species identified as Hoopoes [Upupa epops]and Scops owls [Otus scops]have uncharacteristically devoted a great deal of time on my patio at home. Hoopoes are “Wary, keep a certain distance from man” and Scops owls are “practically impossible to track down to a visible roost” and “daytime views [of scops owls] are much more difficult to get”. I have attached a photograph of one of the Scops owls that lived with its two babies this summer in a sparrow’s nesting box on my patio next to our kitchen to illustrate my point. One of the branches of my grapevine on the patio was a favorite resting spot for island hoopoes this year. Daily garden watering and laundry drying in the proximity of these extended family members of ours didn’t discourage them at all. These human-shy birds would be more wary of my family or friends who visit the house if human activity on the island of Tilos were threatening or disturbing as with hunting. Instead Tilians are compatible with or, at the very least, indifferent to, the birds’ presence. People I know on other islands that permit hunting have never had the experiences I have had. This is why our island ecotourism is growing every year. Visitors have an opportunity to get very close to our wildlife because there is no threatening activity such as hunting to make the animals afraid of man.   

Do you think that the project of your island can be applied also in other parts of the earth? 

Absolutely. Our Tilos Park Association model can be adapted to any place in the world that permits the legal operation of a non-profit NGO. The reason that this organizational model is easy to adapt internationally is simple: There are many people in every country who share the same dream of preserving the natural environment while at the same time respecting the needs of people to make a living. This achievable goal is already demonstrated in industry by companies such as Boutari Vineyards in Greece and Volkswagen in Germany. The people who join our Tilos Park Association share the same aspirations and understand that they are actually the ones who guide the activities and efforts of the organization. We are fortunate to have dues paying members who actively participate when they vote, express their views, come to our office to talk to us or send us e-mails with their ideas and opinions. Therefore, our members know that their voice is heard, respected and acted upon because we respond to every e-mail, talk with everyone who comes to our office and report our activities to the entire membership through our electronic Tilos Park News that has a subscription list of over 2,300 people. The European Court of Justice once noted that protection of the environment is a transfrontier issue which is at the same time compatible with the rights of every individual to make a living. Our TPA model of being financially independent of government assistance ensures our sustainability and accomplishment of purpose to support the islanders in their efforts to make a living and allow the natural environment to thrive for the pleasure of all. 

Do you also have projects to restore the vegetation to its natural state, for example establishing biotopes (stone-biotopes for reptiles and rodents, wetlands for amphibians and birds, hedges for birds and insects and small animals)? 

Yes, we have several exciting projects designed to restore our indigenous flora and fauna to a favorable conservation status. We recently began an annual plantation of cereals that used to be widely cultivated on the island before the last world war. Funding for this plantation is provided by the EU Life Nature Program for Tilos. These crops are not for human consumption, but rather provide food and nesting material for the resident and migratory bird species as well as undisturbed habitat for other small animals. We are restoring the areas around the natural springs that provide fresh water for our wildlife and are anticipating a funding approval for a new wetlands project. This wetlands project will create a two tiered water reservoir system in which underground water is first directed to an upper level pool of water to be filled with water plants and trees. Water from this pool will be channeled into an existing, lower elevation reservoir which will be filled with water plants to facilitate the activity of life which preserves the natural state of fresh water. This wetlands project includes the construction of an observatory site for visitors to enjoy the birds that frequent our water reservoir such as purple heron, falcon eleonora, white reef egret, Audouin’s seagulls and more. We are also restoring 67 kilometers of walking paths on the island to protect the flora through which these paths meander, including the fragrant and medicinal wild herbs on the island that Tilos, the son of Apollo, once collected to cure his mother’s illness according to legend. 

Has the rhythm and the way of life changed in Tilos, since there is no longer hunting? 

The rhythm and way of life on Tilos is best expressed in socio-economic terms. Put simply, what do people usually do here? For centuries, islanders have been and continue to be farmers and traders. As traders, they have brought goods and supplies from outside the island and demonstrated the Greek tradition of filoxenia, or hospitality, to strangers which evolved into modern day tourism. The absence of hunting was actually the desire of the islanders who felt that island hunting was hurting tourism and, thus, their ability to make a living through the ancient tradition of filoxenia. Tilos does not have Greek tourist attractions such as ancient temples or statues for visitors. Tilos offers something special that other locations usually do not have: beautiful, relaxing beaches and a rich array of unspoiled natural wildlife living in harmony with traditional Greek village life. Tilians learned long ago that hunting actually depletes the island resources whereas ecotourism preserves the natural resources and wildlife that visitors come to enjoy because it is notably absent from their urban life at home. So, as you can see, the rhythm and traditional Greek way of life remain unchanged notwithstanding the absence of hunting. 

Do you think that hunting is cruel? 

The method and purpose of hunting serve as two possible discussion points to your question. 

As to methodology, non-selective and/or indiscriminate targeting of any life by any method, including shooting or with arrows, which results or is likely to result in injury, suffering, maiming or killing is or should be insupportable by any international standard. 

As to the issue of purpose, we know from our history lessons in school that in the beginning man was a hunter-gatherer. Hunting provided food, clothing and, in many cases, shelter for human beings. Hunting was, therefore, necessary for human survival. Today hunting provides food for some people that, in most European cases, represents an infrequent substitute method for food purchases at the grocery store. I believe that the issue of hunting for non-essential purposes such as trophy hunting or hunting beyond the hunter’s need of food should be reserved for the thoughtful reflection of your readers. 

Is there a growing number or lobby of people in Tilos and in all of Greece who are against hunting? 

In my experience, there is a growing Greek as well as international awareness that hunting is a legitimate, recreational activity for areas that do not contain a disproportionately high number of endangered species relative to a small land area such as Tilos. Tilians believe in equal rights for all. That is to say, Tilians understand that hunters should have the right to practice their activity without prejudice and, at the same time, people who want to get close to nature as well as the endangered wildlife itself should also have equal rights to their needs without prejudice. These rights are compatible as long as areas are designated for each to enjoy. A simple analogy is reflected in Greek urban life. People have the right to the quiet enjoyment of their home while at the same time industry has the right to exist to provide employment. Peaceful residential neighborhoods can co-exist with business districts thereby creating equal rights and socio-economic harmony for everyone without discriminating against anyone. 

It is important to understand that Tilos is only 63 sq km in size which represents a mere 0.0005% of the entire territory of Greece which contains 131,944 sq km according to Michelin. Hunters have alternative available locations within the Hellenic territory. Equally, however, the European Union and the Hellenic government have the right to contribute to the protection of our endangered Aegean species on Tilos with an investment in the Tilos Life Nature Program, the ecotourists who return again and again to Tilos have a right to enjoy the undisturbed wildlife on the island and the islanders have the right to make a living which, in addition to farming, is primarily through ecotourism. By permitting these freedoms, the rights of everyone are met and satisfied. 

Dear Editor: 

I am very appreciative of the opportunity that you have given to me to share our island philosophy with you and your readers. It is my sincere belief that in order to truly understand and be in harmony with nature, one must truly understand and be at peace with oneself. Once learned, this wisdom is a worthwhile legacy to pass on to future generations. It is my fervent hope that we can successfully teach our children that we must treat our natural environment with the same delicate care with which we treat ourselves, for one simple reason … the natural and eternal beauty that surrounds us also lives deep within us and this is surely worth preserving. 

Thank you once again. 

Constantine Alexander (a.k.a. Konstantinos Alexandros Mentzelopoulos)

Constantine Alexander (a.k.a. Konstantinos Alexandros Mentzelopoulos)

April 6, 2007, SKAI NEWS interview of Konstantinos Alexandros Mentzelopoulos (a.k.a. Constantine Alexander) on Tilos Island, Dodecanese, Greece. The interview took place at the Exhibition Center of the Tilos LIFE Nature Project at the Offices of the Tilos Park in Livadia, Tilos. 

Constantine Alexander's professional experience includes having served as a Merrill Lynch Financial Consultant and Managing Director for H. J. Meyers investment banks in California; a consultant to the Commission of the European Union in Brussels, Belgium; a professional consultant to members of the French dairy and European olive oil industries and the Hellenic Municipalities of Tilos and Andros; and the Project Coordinator of the EU LIFE-Nature Project on Tilos. His civic activities include community service as the President of the California Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce; Founder and Director of the California Council of European-American Chambers of Commerce; Board of Directors Member of the Axios Foundation and the Los Angeles Rainbow PUSH Coalition; Member of the American Civil Liberties Union, Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, Sierra Club, Audubon Society; and Founder, Vice President and Director of the Tilos Park Association. Mr. Alexander’s articles and photographs have been published by newspapers and magazines in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Turkey, the U.K. and U.S., and he has been interviewed by television and radio journalists from Belgium, Greece, Japan, Spain, Turkey and the U.S.. He has contributed as a speaker to conferences organized by the European Commission, the United Nations Environment Program, Mugla University and the Mugla Chamber of Commerce in Turkey, Washington State University and the National Institute of Public Administration in Greece. In 2007, Constantine was appointed as an Ambassador of the EU Natura 2000 Networking Program for exemplary environmental management of an EU Special Protection Area (SPA). He is currently working for the establishment of a management plan for the Andros Island EU SPAs and a Northern Cycladic marine protected area. Constantine Alexander (a.k.a. Konstantinos Alexandros Mentzelopoulos) is a citizen of the United States and Greece.