PRELIMINARY OBSERVATION REGARDING THE AVIFAUNA FROM CORCOVA AREA (MEHEDINȚI COUNTY)

Abstract

Preliminary data on the avifaunal diversity of the Corcova area (Mehedinți County) are presented in this study. Corcova commune, located in a hilly area, on the right bank of Motru River, in the eastern part of the Coșuștei Piedmont, is known as an important wine-growing center; the vineyards of Corcova were recognized in documents since the 15th century. The diversity of natural habitats (deciduous forests, meadows, pastures, hayfields, grassy lands, river courses, wetlands, ponds, riparian zones), which are interwoven with anthropogenic habitats (cultivated fields, access roads, rural perimeters, etc.) existing in the investigated area, represent suitable feeding, roosting and breeding sites for numerous bird species. The preliminary list includes 86 bird species observed in July-October 2023 and 2024. Of the birds highlighted, the species of European conservation concern listed in the Annexes of international legislation (Birds Directive EC /2009, Annex 1) caught our attention: Ciconia ciconia, Egretta garzetta, Pernis apivorus, Falco vespertinus, Alcedo atthis, Coracias garrulus, Picus canus, Dendrocoptes medius (Leiopicus medius), Dendrocopos syriacus, Lanius collurio, Ficedula albicollis, F. parva, Anthus campestris; and in need of conservation measures in order to mitigate the anthropogenic pressures and threats to which they are exposed (agricultural and forestry practices, extension of built-up areas, land use changes, fishing, etc.) and climatic pressures.