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Birds of Danish SPA's

Species accounts, part 2

Black Grouse

Species name
Scientific: Tetrao tetrix
UK: Black Grouse
DK: Urfugl

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Endangered
Europe: Vulnerable, SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I (continental ssp. tetrix only), II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
In Denmark, the species occurred in a mosaic landscape of lowland heaths often near bogs and areas of low-intensity agriculture.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species was a breeding resident.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
In the 19th century, the species was widespread and abundant in Jutland. The species is not indigenous to the Danish isles, though some short-lived introduced populations were present last century.

Habitat destruction and fragmentation through afforestation and agricultural intensification are main threats at a European level. In some areas, eutrophication through airborne nitrogen deposition is also considered a major threat (Tucker and Heath 1994).

In Denmark, the general conversion of heathland to agriculture or forestry and the agricultural intensification during the last 150 years resulted in major declines and the final extinction of the population.

In 1942 the population was estimated at 2400 birds, 1100 in 1966, 420 in 1973, 35 in 1991 and finally in 1997 a mere 3 (three) birds were left (Dybbro 1976, Grell 1998).

The various conservation and recovery measures proposed and implemented failed to save the population, due to lack of in depth knowledge of the problems and because of conflicting interests.

Significance of the Danish population
None.

The total European population is estimated at 678,136-1,878,889 "pairs". The species is declining in most of Europe with the exception of countries such as Sweden, where specialised management is applied. The Danish population belonged to ssp. tetrix of which only small, scattered populations remain (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Within the DSPA network, the species only occurred in the two areas above at designation time. The species had disappeared from other formerly important areas such as SPA no. 50 less than a decade before designation.

The last two areas, which were of importance for the species (Vind Hede and Kongenshus Hede), are not SPAs, but Vind Hede is a proposed SCI (designated for the habitat 4030 European dry heaths).

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Spotted Crake

Species name
Scientific: Porzana porzana
UK: Spotted Crake
DK: Plettet rørvagtel

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Vulnerable
Europe: Secure, SPEC 4
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Occur in swamps and fens and overgrown edges of lakes and rivers (Tucker and Heath 1994). Habitat must include areas of very shallow, not oligotrophic water interspersed with ample stands of low plant cover, rich in invertebrate food (Snow and Perrins 1998). The species has a particular preference for areas dominated by sedges (Grell 1998).

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and a passage visitor probably mainly from Sweden.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The species was considerably more abundant and widespread in Denmark during the 19th century than today. It decreased markedly during the first decades of the 20th century. The population was estimated at 43-115 "pairs" (i.e. singing males) during the years 1960-69. There are considerable year-to-year variations in numbers possibly related to prevailing weather in the spring migration period. During the years 1993-96 the number of singing males recorded per year varied from 22 to 50 possibly 61 (Grell 1998).

Main threats toward the population are habitat destruction and degradation especially through inappropriate water level management, eutrophication and too high vegetation as result of abandonment (Stoltze and Pihl 1998).

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is only a very small part of the European total, which was estimated at 58,786-167,083 pairs by (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Although numbers recorded in the DSPAs are higher in recent years than at designation, this almost certainly reflects better coverage rather than any real population increase.

The coverage is probably above 80% and very few regular breeding sites are not SPAs. The conditions within the SPAs thus are of high importance for the future of the Danish population.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Corncrake

Species name
Scientific: Crex crex
UK: Corncrake
DK: Engsnarre

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Extinct*
Europe: Vulnerable, SPEC 1
World: Vulnerable
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Breeds in extensively used hay meadows, drier parts of fens, clover and rape fields and sometimes bushy forest clearings (Tucker and Heath 1994). In Denmark, the species persisted most recently in meadows in river valleys.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and a passage visitor probably mainly from Sweden.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
Main threats are habitat loss through drainage and agricultural intensification. Both young and adults are also directly killed during harvest (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Thorup (1999) summarises data from several surveys and lists five demands, which have to be met for an area to support breeding Corncrakes:

1. Habitat: Moist hay meadows, not fertilised, fringed by areas with higher vegetation (e.g. reeds, nettles, reed grass, iris)
2. Soil moistness: Moist or wet soil is of impor tance, at least in order to avoid intensification of use and to secure late mowing.
3. Mowing: Mowing after 1 August; trapping birds in the middle of the field should be avoided.
4. Grazing: Breeds mainly in ungrazed meadows. Aftergrazing and low cattle density is tolerated.
5. Other: A social breeder. Corncrake units should consist of 200-400 ha as minimum.

The species was formerly a both abundant and widespread Danish bird. Løppenthin (1967) states that during the 1860s and 1870s it was probably more abundant than Coot (Fulica atra) and Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus). By detailed analysis of land use data and comparison with density data from recent strongholds (Belarus and the Baltic) Thorup (1999) estimates the Danish population 1850-1920 to 10,000-20,000 pairs.

The dramatic decrease of the Danish population probably started during the last part of the 19th century (Grell 1998), though killing during harvest attributed to changes in cropping practice was noted as early as 1852 (Kjærbølling 1852).

Since 1960 only three sites, all river valleys, seems to have been regular breeding localities: the Skjern Å valley, the Varde Å valley and the Ryå valley (Grell 1998). In the last two areas the disappearance of the species is probably related to highly intensified production of grass pellets with large inputs of fertiliser and several croppings a year. These problems are sought remedied by restoration plans (see below).

All the three last strongholds (the Ryå, Skjern and Varde River valleys) are targeted for habitat restoration efforts. The current efforts in the Ryå valley and even the ambitiously named "Project Corncrake" in the Varde Å valley are, though, possibly insufficient to create real "recovery areas" as Thorup (1999) states that four of the "five demands" (see above) are unmet. Some of the remaining problems, though, are expected be solved during the practical implementation of the project (Jørn Jensen, NFNA pers. com.).

In the Skjern Å valley, the project’s eventual impact on Corncrakes is yet unclear.

In the spring 1999, there was a large influx to Denmark and more than a hundred calling males were recorded. Most were recorded in areas where chances of breeding success are very slim.

Significance of Danish population
Presently Denmark is of very limited if any significance for the species. There remains some chance, though, that various habitat restoration efforts notably the large project in the Skjern Å river valley might allow the re-establishment of the species as a regular Danish breeder, or if still that, a substantial increase in the population.

The total European population is estimated at 97,470-196,920 (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The population trend within and outside SPAs have been much the same. The coverage of the small, hypothetical Danish population is probably 0%.

The only SPA with some potential for becoming of importance for the species is probably the former breeding stronghold Varde Å valley in area no. 49. This river is the only larger stream in Western Jutland, which has not been canalised, but the area is presently not managed in a manner compatible with the requirements of breeding Corncrakes.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

(Common) Coot

Species name
Scientific: Fulica atra
UK: (Common) Coot
DK: Blishøne

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Secure, non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: II/1, III/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Coots occur highly gregariously in very shallow fresh or brackish waters (generally, less than 3 metres water depth) along sheltered coast, in lagoons, estuaries and lakes with abundant supply of macrophytes.

Occurrence in Denmark
Birds breeding north and northeast of Denmark are migratory and winter in suitable coastal areas. The Danish breeders are mainly resident or dispersive, though some are displaced during cold winters.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
The northwest European winter population is estimated at 1,500,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997). Up to 163,900 winter in Danish waters with the highest numbers in mild winters and the lowest numbers at the end of a string of cold winters (Jensen 1993). The Danish winter population was slightly decreasing 1978-94 (Asbirk et al. 1997). While it is certain that staging numbers decreased between 1968-73 and 1987-89, it is not known whether this reflects a long-term decline or just fluctuations related to the severity of winters in the respective periods (Laursen et al. 1997).

Despite being gregarious and preferring coastal waters the species is not particularly sensitive to hunting related disturbances. The present level of hunting is probably not influencing population size (Madsen et al. 1996)

Main threat is decreased habitat quality due to eutrophication reducing macrophyte cover.

Significance of the Danish population
163,900 equals 11% of total estimated northwest European winter population.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Most recent counts are lower than at designation time. Most of the observed changes are probably just weather-related fluctuations, but some (notably at SPA no. 43) are the result of decreased habitat quality as eutrophication has caused disappearance of/reduction in bottom macrophyte cover.

The coverage is high, as nearly all important wintering areas as shown in Jensen (1993) or Durinck et al. (1994) are included in the SPA network.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Common Crane

Species name
Scientific: Grus grus
UK: Common Crane
DK: Trane

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Rare
Europe: Vulnerable, SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
In Denmark, breeding occurs in blanket and raised bogs in heathlands and in wetlands in forest. Elsewhere a notable adaptation to man made landscapes has been noted during the last 30 years with breeding in small wetlands in fields and meadows (Tucker and Heath 1994). Breeding in such areas is still the exception in Denmark, though.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and a passage visitor from other parts of Scandinavia.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The original Danish population went extinct around mid 19th century. The first definite breeding record in the 20th century was in 1952 (though breeding probably occurred at the site already in 1938 or 1936 (Løppenthin 1967)). Since then, an increase in the population has occurred to 6-10 pairs in 1993-96 and 11-12 pairs in 1997.

Main threat toward the Danish population is probably disturbance at nest sites.

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is very small compared to the European total of 52,793-77,970 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The above table is not wholly up to date. The SPAs harbour most of the Danish pairs and the coverage probably is in the 80-90% range. The SPAs thus have a high importance for the Danish population.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Eurasian Oystercatcher

Species name
Scientific: Haematopus oestragalus
UK: (Eurasian) Oystercatcher
DK: Strandskade

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Secure, non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Oystercatchers concentrates when foraging on sandy or stony intertidal flats.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a common breeder and an abundant passage and winter visitor.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
The total Westpalaearctic population has increased substantially during this century (Meltofte 1993) and the northwest European winter population is currently estimated at 874,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997). The numbers in the by far most important Danish staging area – the Waddensea – fell during the 1980s because of decreased habitat quality caused by intensive mussel fisheries. Numbers have since at least partly recovered as a result of better regulation of the mussel fishery.

Significance of Danish population
More than 50,000 birds or nearly 6% of population total can occur simultaneously in Denmark.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Staging numbers within Danish SPAs have been mostly stable, though numbers fell in the Waddensea in a period of intensive mussel fishery in the 1980s. All major staging areas are within the SPA network. Coverage is thus high.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Avocet

Species name
Scientific: Recurvirostra avosetta
UK: Avocet
DK: Klyde

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Yellow listed as AT
Europe: Secure (breeding), Localized (winter), SPEC 4 (breeding), SPEC 3 (winter)
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Breeds at coastal sites with intertidal mud- or sandflats.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is mainly a breeding visitor but also occurs as passage visitor from Sweden and Finland. In the moulting period also birds breeding in Northern Germany occur in the Danish part of the Waddensea (Meltofte 1993).

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
Until mid 19th century the species was a common breeding bird in Denmark. During the period 1860-1920 the population decreased dramatically mostly due to hunting. Since total protection in 1922, the population has increased from 700 pairs to around 5,000 pairs. During the 1990s local population decreases have occurred but the overall population increase has continued (Grell 1998).

Significance of the Danish population
Denmark holds an important part of the estimated European total of 27,762-38,436 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997). The 6,000-7,500 birds at moulting aggregations in the Danish part of the Waddensea (Meltofte 1993) are also of high importance.

Main threats at a European level are loss and disturbance of breeding habitat and the deterioration of feeding conditions at breeding and wintering sites (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The trend within the SPAs is almost identical to the overall trend for Denmark as the coverage is high - probably around 95% - and the SPAs are thus of the highest importance for the continued positive development in the Danish population.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Grey Plover

Species name
Scientific: Pluvialis squatarola
UK: Grey Plover
DK: Strandhjejle

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: (Secure), non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Grey Plovers forage on intertidal mud- and sandflats, young birds also to some extent on short grassed meadows (Grell 1998).

Occurrence in Denmark
The species occurs as passage visitor and also in low numbers as winter and non-breeding summer visitor.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
There is no information regarding trends in the East Atlantic winter population, the size is currently estimated at 168,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997). The trend in Denmark is likewise unknown.

Significance of the Danish population
Internationally important numbers in Denmark only occur at few high tide roosts in the Waddensea. Up to 5,000 birds (Asbirk et al. 1997) or 3% of population total can occur simultaneously in Denmark.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Trends within Danish SPAs are not known, but numbers are probably reasonably stable. The two SPAs above are probably the only Danish sites that harbour internationally important concentrations.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

(Common / Northern) Lapwing

Species name
Scientific: Vanellus vanellus
UK: (Common/Northern) Lapwing
DK: Vibe

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Yellow list in category X (breeding)
Europe: (Secure), non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Lapwings occur in a variety of open habitats such as inter tidal flats, saltmarshes, pastures and agricultural fields.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding and passage visitor, some winter in mild winters.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
Breeding populations have decreased recently in several European countries (Snow and Perrins 1998) probably due to changes in land use, but overall trend for European population – estimated at 7,000,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997) - is not clear. Breeding numbers in Denmark are decreasing (Grell 1998) while the trend for staging birds is unclear (Asbirk et al. 1997).

Staging birds will probably be benefited by the creation of the many new hunting and disturbance free core zones as the species responded positively to the experimental reserves (Madsen et al. 1995).

Significance of the Danish population
The 200,000 birds regularly staging in Denmark in autumn equals nearly 3% of European total.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
There is no further information regarding trends in staging numbers in Danish SPAs. Most major sites mapped in Meltofte (1993) are within the SPA network, though a few important ones such as Sjørring Sø are outside. The coverage is thus high.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

(Red) Knot

Species name
Scientific: Calidris canutus
UK: (Red) Knot
DK: Islandsk ryle

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Localized, SPEC 3 (winter)
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Knots occur mostly in large, dense flocks at extensive tidal flats, often predominantly of muddy sands (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Occurrence in Denmark
The species occur as passage and winter visitor.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
Two different populations and subspecies occur in Denmark. The ssp. islandica breeding in Canada and Greenland winter mainly in northwest Europe, while Siberian birds of the nominate subspecies pass through on their way to winter quarters in western and southern Africa.

The northwest European winter population dropped during the 1970s probably because of unfavourable conditions in breeding areas. Despite partial recovery, numbers in early 1990s remain around 40% lower than in early 1970s at 310,000 birds. In the same period a major redistribution of wintering birds from the Waddensea to estuaries in the U.K. took place probably as a result of decreased food supply in the Waddensea following intensification of mussel fisheries (Tucker and Heath 1994). Rose and Scott (1997) gives the population as 345,000 birds while Snow and Perrins (1998) reports that recent information from U.K. and the Waddensea suggests that population is around 500,000. The Danish part of the Waddensea holds up to 50,000 birds from this population, highest numbers occurring in spring. High numbers have only been reported from 1970s and onwards and probably did not occur prior to that time (Meltofte 1993). The present trend in Danish staging numbers is unknown (Asbirk et al. 1997)

The Siberian population of 516,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997) mainly stage in the German part of the Waddensea but up to at least 15,000 birds can occur in the Danish part (Meltofte 1993).

Main threats toward the population(s) on European level are habitat loss through land claims, reduction in food supply due to intensive mussel fisheries and disturbance from overflying aircraft and from recreational activities (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Significance of the Danish population
50,000 birds equal 10-16 of total population of ssp. islandica.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
There is probably little change in the numbers staging within the SPAs.

All major staging sites are SPAs. The coverage is hence high.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Sanderling

Species name
Scientific: Calidris alba
UK: Sanderling
DK: Sandløber

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Secure, non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: None

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Sanderlings forage along sandy beaches and on inter tidal flats.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species occurs as passage and winter visitor.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
Trends are not known, but the total East Atlantic/West and South African winter population is estimated at 123,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997). This "population" involves both Siberian and Greenland breeders (Meltofte 1993). Up to at least 4,500 occur simultaneously in Denmark; the national trend is unknown (Asbirk et al. 1997).

Significance of the Danish population
4,500 birds equal 3-4% of population total.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Trends within SPAs are unknown; there are large local fluctuations related to weather and the amount of beached seaweed especially in winter (Meltofte 1993).

The coverage is high. Internationally important numbers only occur in the Waddensea region, which is well covered though one important roost - at Blåvandshuk at the extreme northern edge of the area – is outside the SPA network.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Dunlin

Species name
Scientific: Calidris alpina
UK: Dunlin
DK: Almindelig ryle

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Rare (the breeders of ssp. schintzii) and Yellow listed as AY (ssp. schintzii) and AT (both subspecies)
Europe: Vulnerable, SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: None

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Dunlins can occur in a variety of habitats, but numbers are highly concentrated at the very best (most productive) inter tidal flats (Meltofte 1993).

Occurrence in Denmark
Ssp. alpina is an abundant passage visitor (smaller numbers winter) and ssp. schintzii is an uncommon and decreasing breeder and a common passage visitor.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
Wintering numbers in western Europe fell markedly 1970-90, despite partial recovery numbers in early 1990s are still below those of early 1970s (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Total European winter population has been given as at least 1,000,000 birds (Tucker and Heath 1994) and total population of ssp. alpina on the Siberia/Europe/West Africa flyway is estimated at 1,373,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997). The Baltic/UK/Ireland population of ssp. schintzii numbers 21,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997).

Trends in Danish staging numbers are unknown. Up 450,000 birds occur simultaneously during passage and 56,600 in winter (Asbirk et al. 1997).

The number of breeding birds in Denmark (ssp. schintzii) has decreased from an estimated 50,000-100,000 pairs 100 years ago to presently approximately 450 pairs. Numbers are still decreasing except where specialised management is applied (Grell 1998).

Threats against habitats for staging birds mentioned on a European scale are habitat destruction as a result of land-claim and spread of the invasive grass Spartina and large scale pollution incidents. Breeding numbers of ssp. schintzii have been reduced as a result of land-use changes, agricultural intensification or abandonment and afforestation of moorland (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Significance of the Danish population
Up to 33% of the total ssp. alpina population on the Siberia/Europe/West Africa flyway can occur simultaneously in Denmark.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Numbers staging within SPAs seem mostly stable. All important staging areas mapped in Meltofte (1993) are SPAs. Coverage is thus high.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Ruff

Species name
Scientific: Philomachus pugnax
UK: Ruff
DK: Brushane

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Vulnerable
Europe: Secure, SPEC 4
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I, II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
In Denmark, the species breed at short-grazed meadows often with brackish water.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and a more numerous passage visitor from the rest of Scandinavia and to a lesser extent Siberia (Meltofte 1993).

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
Main threat toward the population is habitat changes, which include both agricultural intensification and abandonment, as the species seems to have a very narrow habitat preference. Possibly hunting during migration and in wintering areas is also of some significance.

The Danish population has decreased continuously probably since the beginning of the 20th century though population estimates from the beginning of the century do not exist (Grell 1998). The species has disappeared from almost all inland sites and now almost exclusively breeds in saltmarshes and other coastal localities.

The population was estimated at 840-1,104 "pairs" during the period 1960-69, at 500 females in 1980 and at 750 breeding females in the late 1980s. The increase during the 1980s and the possibly almost stable situation at present are exclusively the result of specialised management at the key site Tipperne (SPA no. 43). The population here increased from 120 breeding females in 1980 to about 350 breeding females in the late 1980s. Most recently, though, the numbers have decreased again and were much lower 1995-97 (Laursen 1999). At most other sites, the decrease continues (Grell 1998). The total Danish population was estimated at 500 breeding females by Grell (1998), but if numbers at the key site Tipperne (SPA no. 43) do not recover from the low numbers of 1995-97, the population might be considerably smaller.

Significance of the Danish population
In pure numbers, the Danish population is only of minor importance. Eventual disappearance of this and other declining populations in the southern part of the species range will, though, signify a continuation of the already marked range contraction (Tucker and Heath 1994). Total European breeding population is estimated at 1,105,655-10,139,209 of which 1,000,000-10,000,000 million are in Russia (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

In Denmark passage visitors occur in much higher numbers than the breeders do. As total flyway population is believed to be very large, though, no Danish site satisfies the 1% criterion though aggregations of up to 14,000 have been recorded occasionally (Meltofte 1993).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Apart from the positive situation at SPA no. 43 (though large year-to-year fluctuations occur) the species has decreased at almost all sites and disappeared as a breeding bird from several. The situation outside SPAs is even worse and the coverage is now probably near 100%. The management of SPAs is thus of crucial importance for the future of the Danish breeding population. The main aggregations of passage visitors also occur within SPAs.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Bar-tailed Godwit

Species name
Scientific: Limosa lapponica
UK: Bar-tailed Godwit
DK: Lille kobbersneppe

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Localized, SPEC 3 (winter)
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I, II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Bar-tailed Godwits prefers sheltered bays and estuaries with sand or muddy inter tidal flats.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a passage visitor and in lower numbers a winter visitor.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
Two populations are involved both belonging to the nominate subspecies. Birds from northern Scandinavia and western parts of Russia winter in Europe, while birds from further east pass through on their way to wintering grounds in Africa.

The Westpalaearctic winter population fluctuated 1970-90 (Tucker and Heath). This population numbers 115,000 birds while the birds on the Siberian/west African flyway number 700,000 (Scott and Rose 1997).

Up 75,000 to birds occur simultaneously in Denmark during peak of spring passage, trends are unknown (Asbirk et al. 1997).

Main threats towards the population(s) at the European level are land-claim, pollution reducing habitat quality and human disturbance (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Significance of the Danish population
The 75,000 birds occurring simultaneously equal more than 9% of the combined total for the involved populations.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Numbers staging within Danish SPAs seem to be reasonably stable. All major staging areas as mapped in Meltofte (1993) are SPAs. Coverage is hence high.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Curlew

Species name
Scientific: Numenius arquata
UK: Curlew
DK: Stor regnspove

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Rare (breeding)
Europe: Declining, SPEC 3 (winter)
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Curlews occur mainly on intertidal flats and in saltmarshes. In lower numbers also in other, open habitats. The small Danish breeding population occur mainly in heathlands and saltmarshes.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a scarce breeding visitor and a more numerous passage visitor. A few thousand birds winter, mainly in the Wadden Sea (Meltofte 1993).

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
The total European population (equivalent to the entire population of ssp. arquata) is estimated at 348,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997). The population is declining (Tucker and Heath 1994, Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

The decline in the European population is probably mainly a result of habitat loss or degradation in breeding areas because of agricultural intensification and afforestation. During migration, the species is threatened by building development and disturbance at high-tide roosts, locally by chemical pollution and hunting (Tucker and Heath 1994). Intensive mussel fisheries can also be detrimental to the species as it often feeds on polychaete worms associated with the mussel banks.

Staging Curlews are very vulnerable to disturbance (Grell 1998, Christensen et al. 1999)

Significance of the Danish population
Normally the total number of birds simultaneously staging in Denmark does not exceed 10,000 (Meltofte 1993). In the most important Danish staging area, the Wadden Sea, numbers of staging Numenius spp. have increased 1990-95, probably as result of lower pressure from hunting and other disturbances (Laursen and Frikke 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Only in the Wadden Sea (SPA no. 57) do concentrations of international importance occur in Denmark. Coverage is thus high.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Spotted Redshank

Species name
Scientific: Tringa erythropus
UK: Spotted Redshank
DK: Sortklire

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Secure, non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Spotted Redshanks occur at sheltered sites with soft substrates by the coast and in lower numbers also at inland sites.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a passage visitor to Denmark.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
The birds occurring in Denmark breed in Norway, Sweden, Finland and northwest Russia and winter mostly in west Africa, though some stay in west Europe and the Mediterranean. No overall trend is known for this population, though the substantial Finnish part is believed to have decreased (Snow and Perrins 1998). The population total is estimated at 75,000-150,000 (Rose and Scott 19979.

Significance of the Danish population
The majority of the birds pass through Denmark quickly and internationally important numbers therefore rarely occur. A few more sites might qualify if turnover rates were known. Up to 2,500 birds equalling 2–3% of population total can stage simultaneously in Denmark (Asbirk et al. 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Trends within SPAs are not known. Only in the artificial lagoon "Saltvandssøen" in SPA no. 60 numbers do totals reach internationally important levels. Also most sites of secondary importance are SPAs and coverage is thus high.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Redshank

Species name
Scientific: Tringa totanus
UK: Redshank
DK: Rødben

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Declining, SPEC 2
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Redshanks mainly occur at muddy inter tidal flats. The birds of the Icelandic ssp. robusta, though, prefer more sandy or stony sites (Meltofte 1993).

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor, passage visitor and (mainly Icelandic. ssp. robusta) winter visitor.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
The breeding population of the nominate subspecies has declined in several European countries. Midwinter counts, though, show stable numbers (Tucker and Heath 1994). The total number of ssp. totanus on the Eastern Atlantic flyway is estimated at 177,000 (Rose and Scott 1997). Southern breeders of this population mainly winter in the west Mediterranean though some remain in northwest Europe while most of the northern breeders winter in west Africa (Meltofte 1993). Icelandic birds – numbering 109,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997) - winter in northwest Europe mainly in the UK.

Up to 15,000 birds occur simultaneously during passage and up to 2,000 winter, trends in staging numbers are unknown (Asbirk et al. 1997). Breeding numbers have declined almost constantly this century, with the exception of a few sites where specialised management has been shown effective in reversing trends. The breeding population is believed to be 10,000-15,000 pairs (Grell 1998).

Threats affecting staging areas are habitat destruction and deterioration as a result of land-claim, industrial development, dredging, pollution, human disturbance and spread of Spartina on inter tidal flats (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Significance of Danish population
15,000 birds equal 5% of the total for both involved populations. Undoubtedly a much higher percentage utilises Danish areas within a year.

Population trend within Danish SPAs, SPA coverage and significance of SPAs
The material is too small to judge possible trends in staging numbers within SPAs. The coverage and significance are both high though as all major sites mapped in Meltofte (1993) are SPAs.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Greenshank

Species name
Scientific: Tringa nebularia
UK: Greenshank
DK: Hvidklire

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Secure, non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: II/2

General ecology and habitat requirements
Staging Greenshanks mainly occur at mud-, sandflats, and coastal lagoons and in smaller numbers also at inland sites.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a passage visitor to Denmark.

Trends for relevant population(s) overall and in Denmark
The European population apparently fluctuates and overall trend is not clear (Snow and Perrins 1998). The total size of the population on the Europe/West Africa flyway is only known within broad limits: 100,000-1,000,000 birds (Rose and Scott 1997). The total number of birds staging simultaneously is up to 6,400 (Asbirk et al. 1997).

Significance of the Danish population
The only count of numbers of international significance was in the Waddensea (SPA no. 57) in 1990 with 3,400 individuals (Meltofte 1993). As the birds pass through quickly the number of birds utilizing a given site during a season is significantly higher than the max. counts.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
As birds usually only stage for a short time there are large random fluctuations in numbers counted. Most important staging sites are SPAs and the coverage is thus high.

Wood Sandpiper

Species name
Scientific: Tringa glareola
UK: Wood Sandpiper
DK: Tinksmed

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Vulnerable
Europe: Declining, SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
The species breeds in bogs and other wetlands in heathlands preferably far from trees.

Occurrence in Denmark
In Denmark the species is breeding visitor and a more numerous passage visitor from the large populations in the rest of Scandinavia (Meltofte 1993).

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
Until the beginning of the 20th century the species was a reasonably common and widespread breeder in heathlands in Jutland (Grell 1998), while the species has most probably never been a regular breeder in the Danish Isles (Løppenthin 1967).

Following large scale conversion of heathlands and bogs to other types of landscapes the species decreased rapidly and the first detailed inventory of the species, which took place during the 1950s, yielded an estimate of 200-300 pairs at 44 sites. Later inventories recorded 100-150 pairs at 59 sites (1960-69), 88-112 pairs at 53 sites (1978-81) and 53-64 pairs at only 20 sites (1982-84). The 1982-84 survey furthermore showed that there were large year-to-year fluctuations in breeding numbers. Only 9 sites were occupied in all three years (Grell 1998).

The population during the years 1993-96 was estimated at 63-82 pairs at 12-13 sites. The population, thus, seems to have stabilised or maybe even recovered slightly, though the apparently positive tendencies might only be a result of better coverage of the key sites in Northwest Jutland (Grell 1998).

The main threat at a European level is destruction of breeding habitat through drainage followed by afforestation or conversion to agriculture and extraction of peat for fuel or for soil improvement in gardens (Tucker and Heath 1994). In Denmark, disappearance from some former breeding sites has been attributed to disturbance caused by recreational activities (Jensen 1995).

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is very small in comparison with the European total of 398,842-1,412,474 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997). Eventual disappearance of the Danish and the other small remnant, populations in the South part of the species breeding range will nevertheless mean a marked range contraction.

Most passage visitors occur in the Danish isles (Meltofte (1993), but due to the total population being very large and the fact that that most visitors only stay for shorter periods, no Danish locality ever approaches internationally important numbers.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Probably the apparent increase in numbers in Danish SPAs since designation is mostly an artefact due to better data quality in recent years. There might be some real increase in a few core areas, though, but the species has disappeared from a number of smaller localities. The SPA coverage is high, probably above 90%, and the management of SPAs, especially the few key sites harbouring the majority of the population, are thus of crucial importance for the Danish population.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Gull-billed Tern

Species name
Scientific: Gelochelidon nilotica
UK: Gull-billed Tern
DK: Sandterne

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Endangered
Europe: (Endangered), SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
In Denmark the species breeds on small, sparsely vegetated islands and islets near suitable foraging areas such as tidal flats or saltmarshes (Grell 1998). Grell (1998) also states that formerly also large, open dry heathlands were important foraging areas, but this is no longer the case. The species still utilise the coastal heath - dune area south of Lakolk (SPA no. 66) for foraging, though.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor in Denmark.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
Main threats toward the species in Europe include loss and degradation of foraging habitats through agricultural intensification including drainage and use of pesticides both decreasing prey levels and directly killing birds. Inappropriate water level management allowing easier access for various mammalian predators or flooding, egg-collecting for consumption and human disturbance are other detrimental factors (Tucker and Heath 1994).

From mid 19th century until around 1950 the Danish population fluctuated between 150 and 500 pairs, since then an almost constant population decline and range contraction have occurred to only 13-16 pairs in 1993-96 (Grell 1998). The breeding success has in recent years been very low and the species probably only survives as a Danish breeder because of immigration from the more successful German population (Rasmussen and Fischer 1997).

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is only a very small part of the European total of 4,922-8,551 (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997). Eventual loss of this and the likewise small (50-60 pairs, Tucker and Heath 1994) German population will, though, mean a marked contraction of the species European range.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Until the mid-1980s, the Danish colonies were situated more northerly in Jutland. Deteriorated habitat quality at some important foraging areas and (in SPA no.38) immigration of Fox (Vulpes vulpes) to an important breeding island at that time caused a shift of breeding sites to the Waddensea area (Grell 1998). The coverage is 100%. Probably the total population also bred in SPAs before the shift to the Waddensea region. The management of the few SPAs still holding this species is of paramount importance for the Danish population.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Sandwich Tern

Species name
Scientific: Sterna sandvicensis
UK: Sandwich Tern
DK: Splitterne

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Declining, SPEC 2
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Breeds on small sparsely vegetated island and islets mainly by the coast and almost always in conjunction with colonies of Black-headed Gull (Larus ridibundus).

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and in smaller numbers a passage visitor from the small populations in the rest of Scandinavia. Probably birds from Northern Germany are also part of the flocks of moulting birds of up 5,000 occurring at Blåvandshuk (SPA no. 50) (Grell 1998).

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The country probably held a population of 7,000-8,000 pairs until around 1950. A marked decline occurred from then until the early 1970s, where the population was approximately halved. The reduction was caused mainly by egg collecting for consumption and other disturbance, the increase in the Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) population. Possibly decreased prey availability as result of intensive fishery on sandeels (Ammodytidae) was also partly responsible for the observed decline (Ferdinand 1980). After some recovery in the 1980s, a decrease in the main colony at Hirsholmene (SPA no. 11) occurred for reasons unknown and in 1993-96, the total Danish population was estimated at 4,500 pairs (Grell 1998). Main threats toward the Danish population are disturbance, invasion of predators including the alien Brown Rat (Rattus norvegicus) and American Mink (Mustela vison) on formerly predator-free islands and possibly the decrease in the Danish population of Black-headed Gull (Grell 1998).

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population amounts to 3-4% of the European total of 119,561-141,784 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Overall the population within SPAs has been almost stable, but much change in numbers has occurred within the specific areas. For instance the important colony at Hirsholmene (SPA no. 11) held 1400 pairs at designation, 3,000 pairs in 1988 and 1356 pairs in 1994. Around 1940 the colony held no less than 4,000 pairs. The other main colony at Langli in SPA no. 55 has increased rapidly in recent years (Laursen 1999) and held as many as 1,600-1,800 pairs in 1999 (Thor Bue Hansen pers. com).

The coverage is high, nearly 95%, and proper management of SPAs, especially regarding protection from human disturbance is therefore of utmost importance for the Danish population of the species.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Common Tern

Species name
Scientific: Sterna hirundo
UK: Common Tern
DK: Fjordterne

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Secure, non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
The species breeds both at coastal localities, on islands and islets and by freshwater lakes.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and an abundant passage visitor from the large populations in Norway, Sweden and Finland.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The trend in the Danish population before the 1960s is not well known as many observers were unable to tell the present species from Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea), but the population is believed to have decreased since the 1940s. The population was estimated at 600-800 pairs in the period 1970-76, at 1,500 pairs in 1988 and at 1,000 pairs in 1993-96. The species fluctuates markedly from year to year, but the increase (recovery) during the 1980s was apparently the result of the creation of numerous island reserves with entry prohibited during the breeding season. The reasons for the renewed decrease are unclear, possibly there are some longer term fluctuations involved (Grell 1998).

Probably the main threat toward the Danish population still is disturbance at breeding sites. Too high vegetation on breeding sites as result of abandonment and reduced food availability as a result of over-exploitation of fish stocks and eutrophication of lakes and coastal waters might also play some role.

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish breeding population is only a small part of the European total of 225,105-287,250 (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The apparent increase in numbers within SPAs is probably partly a result of better coverage. Several colonies were at designation just registered as P for present in the new data these colonies appear with exact numbers. Some larger colonies are known to have become established or to have increased during the period, though. Some local disappearances or decreases have also been noted. The population within SPAs is probably much the same or slightly higher than at designation.

Though many breeding sites are outside SPAs (Grell 1998), these typically harbour single pairs or small colonies and the coverage is probably not below 90%, and proper management of SPAs is therefore of crucial importance for the Danish population.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Arctic Tern

Species name
Scientific: Sterna paradisaea
UK: Arctic Tern
DK: Havterne

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Secure, non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
The species breeds on sparsely vegetated islands and islets along coast and to a lesser extent similar areas on the coast.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and a passage visitor from the large populations in the other Nordic countries, the passage visitors mainly just pass through without staging for extended periods (Grell 1998).

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The trends before 1970 are not known because of the species habit of moving colonies frequently and for the reason mentioned under Common Tern (Sterna hirundo). The first national inventory of the species yielded an estimate of 5,500-6,000 pairs in 1973. After the census in 1978-81 the population was estimated at 6,000-8,000 pairs and in 1993-96, the country was believed to hold 8,000-9,000 pairs (Grell 1998).

Main threats in Denmark are disturbance at breeding sites and predation especially caused by American Mink (Mustela vison) (Grell 1998).

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population makes up1-2% of the estimated total European population of 438,092-696,896 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The population within SPAs appears to be stable, despite the general increase in Denmark. However, the map of breeding sites in Grell (1998) shows that nearly all large colonies are within SPAs. Presumably, the total number of breeding pairs within SPAs is somewhat underestimated in the table. So probably, the trend has been much the same within and outside SPAs.

The coverage is probably in the 80-90% range and proper management of SPAs, especially regarding protection from disturbance during breeding, is therefore essential for the continued positive development in the Danish population.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Little Tern

Species name
Scientific: Sterna albifrons
UK: Little Tern
DK: Dværgterne

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Rare
Europe: Declining, SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
In Denmark the species breeds mainly along the coast at sandy beaches and more rarely than other Sterna spp. on islands and islets. Only a very small part of the Danish population breeds at freshwater sites.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and a passage visitor from Sweden.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
Formerly the species was much more common than presently, but trends before 1960 are not known in details. The population was estimated at 600-900 pairs in 1960-69, at 600-800 pairs in 1971-74, at 420-450 pairs in 1987-88 and 400-600 pairs in 1993-96 (Dybbro 1976, Grell 1998).

The observed decline is mainly a result of increased disturbance from recreational activities.

The apparent stabilisation and possibly partial recovery is solely the result of better protection against disturbance at the keysites Rømø (SPA no. 65) and Fanø (SPA no. 53), in the rest of the country the decrease apparently continues.

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population amounts to 1-2 % of the European total of 25,643-31,799 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The table does not tell the full story. Probably some of the areas where occurrence was only noted as P in 1983 held several pairs. On the other hand the figures for present numbers at SPAs no. 53 and 65 are probably too low as Grell (1998) notes these two areas combined held 217 pairs in 1996. Probably the total population in the SPAs has been mostly stable since designation, though several local populations have decreased or vanished.

The coverage is probably at least 90% as all major sites are SPAs, and appropriate management of SPAs, especially regarding protection from disturbance, is therefore of crucial importance for the future of the Danish population.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Black Tern

Species name
Scientific: Chlidonias niger
UK: Black Tern
DK: Sortterne

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Endangered
Europe: Declining, SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Breeds by shallow fresh or brackish water, in flooded grasslands and similar surroundings. Prefer clear watered water bodies with floating or emergent vegetation and is dependent on good availability of larger aquatic and terrestrial insects during breeding season.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and passage visitor from the more numerous populations in the Baltic countries and other parts of northeastern Europe.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
In the beginning of the 19th century the species was regarded as "very common" in Denmark (Løppenthin 1967) and even in the late part of that century the Danish population was probably several thousand pairs (Flensted in Grell 1998). Since then, the Danish population has declined to 700 pairs in 1950, 400 pairs in 1963-65, and 200 pairs in 1971-74 and 100 pairs in 1993-96 mainly as a result of habitat destruction and deterioration. The population seems to have stabilised at the present low level in the late 1980s, probably as result of better management of especially water level at the few remaining regular breeding sites. However, the breeding success at most Danish breeding sites has been very low in recent years (Grell 1998). Some change for the better was noted, though, in Vejlerne (SPAs no. 13 and 20) in 1996 and 1997 following improved water level management (Laursen 1999).

Significance of the Danish population
The present Danish population is only a small part of the estimated European total of 61,884-81,075 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997). Main threat toward the European population is habitat destruction and deterioration as a result of drainage, canalization of rivers, abandonment and eutrophication. In addition, disturbance as a result of recreational activities is a threat at least locally (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The trend in the SPAs is similar to the overall trend, as nearly all breeding sites are SPAs. Only one regular breeding site (Nørresø-Husby Sø with 15-25 pairs in most years, but only 8 1998, Laursen 1999) is outside the SPA network. The coverage is thus around 80%. Appropriate management of SPAs, especially concerning water levels and grazing, is accordingly of vital importance for the future of the Danish population. In 1998 the species only bred at Husby Sø, Vejlerne (SPAs no. 13 and 20) and at Ramsø Mose (SPA no. 104). The population in Southern Jutland moved to a nearby site in Germany following a restoration project there (Laursen 1999).

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Eagle Owl

Species name
Scientific: Bubo bubo
UK: Eagle Owl
DK: Stor hornugle

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Rare
Europe: Vulnerable, SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
The Danish breeders, descending from birds released in a German re-introduction project, utilise a wide variety of habitats. Most pairs, though, breed in gravel pits near forest or plantations (Grell 1998)

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding resident.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The indigenous Danish population was persecuted to extinction in the 19th century. The last documented breeding was in 1884 though rumours of breeding pairs continued into the following decades (Løppenthin 1967). The present Danish population was founded by birds released as part of a re-introduction project in northern Germany. The first breeding pair was found in 1984. During the 1980s and 90s the population increased rapidly and was estimated at up to 30-35 pairs in 1993-96 (Grell 1998). Most recently there are signs that the population is now stabilising or even has decreased slightly (M. Grell pers. com.) All pairs are in Jutland; the Danish isles have yet to be re-colonised.

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is only a very small part of the estimated European total of 12,353-32,926 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997). Main threat at a European level is probably disturbance at nest sites. Additional threats are direct persecution, collision with or electrocution by power-lines and killing on roads (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
As exact breeding sites of most pairs are kept secret, no table can be given here. According to data from "Fuglenes Danmark" – the BirdLife Denmark Atlas and bird locality registration project 1993-96 – 5-7 pairs breed in SPAs and a further 3-5 breed near SPAs and probably utilise the areas for foraging. 1-3 further pairs breed in proposed SCIs. The coverage is around 20%.

Short-eared Owl

Species name
Scientific: Asio flammeus
UK: Short-eared Owl
DK: Mosehornugle

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Endangered
Europe: (Vulnerable), SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (Least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Breeds in a variety of open habitats such as marshes, bogs, meadows and sand dunes. Most Danish pairs are now in saltmarshes, river valleys and on islands (Grell 1998).

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a scarce breeding visitor and a more common winter and passage visitor. In addition to long-term trends the species fluctuates strongly connected to prey abundance both within the country and in the recruitment areas in the other Nordic countries and possibly Russia.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The Danish population of the species has undergone a large decline, which was first noted 1971-74 by Dybbro (1976), though it probably started much earlier. In 1971-74, the population was estimated at up to 50 pairs in top years (high numbers of small rodents), in 1978-81 it was estimated at 24-41 pairs and only 5-10 pairs were believed to breed in 1996 (rodent peak year). It is now judged that the species no longer breeds in the country at all when rodent populations are low (Grell 1998).

In 1999, high rodent densities have resulted in breeding at numerous localities including many SPAs. There is no clear picture yet for all areas, but as an example it can be mentioned that as many as 8 pairs bred at SPA no.22.

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is only an insignificant part of the estimated European total of 23,376-126,265 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997). The main threat toward the European population is habitat destruction and deterioration as a result of drainage, cultivation and afforestation of marshes and heathlands (Tucker and Heath 1994). At least locally, disturbance as result of recreational activities might also be a problem.

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The trend within SPAs is almost identical to the overall trend as the coverage is near 100% at least during population lows. In peak years (rodents and owls), more pairs can be found outside SPAs. Proper management of SPAs is thus of vital importance for the Danish population of the species.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Tengmalm’s Owl

Species name
Scientific: Aegolius funereus
UK: Tengmalm´s Owl
DK: Perleugle

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Endangered
Europe: (Secure), non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Breeds in conifer and mixed forests.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a scarce breeder (probably resident) in the island of Bornholm, elsewhere a winter visitor from Northern Scandinavia, though breeding has been suspected occasionally.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The species was first proved breeding 1979 and only in a few further instances are breeding definitely proven. In some years up to 8 singing males can be heard and the species probably breeds with 1-5 pairs every year, though (Grell 1998).

Main threat toward the population is removal of trees with old holes of Black Woodpecker (Dryocopus martius) or other potential nest sites.

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is only a tiny part of the estimated European total of 46,814-170,855 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
Almindingen (SPA no. 80) is the most constant Danish breeding site and the coverage is at least in some years 100%.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Nightjar

Species name
Scientific: Caprimulgus europaeus
UK: Nightjar
DK: Natravn

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: (Declining), SPEC 2
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
In Denmark mainly breeds in open pine plantations with open areas such as smaller heathlands etc. inside the forest, also to a lesser extent occur in partly overgrown heathlands.

Threats
Main threats at the European level are habitat destruction and degradation through agricultural intensification or abandonment and decreased food availability as a result of insecticide use. Disturbances as result of recreational activities and killing on roads may also contribute to the negative trend seen over much of Europe (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is breeding visitor and also a passage visitor probably mainly from the other Nordic countries.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
In the 19th century the species was described as abundant in the extensive heathlands of Jutland (Grell 1998). Since then it has decreased substantially and the population was estimated at 500-600 pairs (Jensen and Jacobsen 1996, Grell 1998). Based on the inventory of the species 1992-95 Jensen and Jacobsen (1996) concludes that the Danish population has been stable during the last 25 years. There has, though, been a large decrease in the Danish isles and Eastern Jutland, this seems to have been compensated by an increase in Northwest Jutland. This might be an overly optimistic view, though, as the apparent local increase might well be an artefact caused by insufficient data on former abundance in North-west Jutland (Grell 1998).

Significance of the Danish population
The present Danish population is only a very small part of the European total of 333,921-764,419 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The population in the SPAs has decreased since designation, but the coverage has always been very low. Based on the data given here it is presently <2%. However, comparison of the above table with the map in Grell (1998), suggests that probably it is somewhat higher, maybe up to 10%. Some further breeding sites are designated SCIs and several more are government property.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Kingfisher

Species name
Scientific: Alcedo atthis
UK: Kingfisher
DK: Isfugl

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Rare
Europe: Declining, SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Breeds along unpolluted rivers and streams and less frequently at lakes.

Threats
Habitat destruction and degradation through pollution, drainage, canalization of rivers and clearance of emergent vegetation are main threats (Tucker and Heath 1994). Direct persecution at fish farms is also a problem at least locally. In addition, increased disturbance as a result of recreational activities such as canoing can be a problem at least locally (Grell 1998).

Occurrence in Denmark
The Danish breeders are mostly resident (Olsen 1992), the species also occur as winter and passage visitor from Sweden.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The species probably colonised Denmark during the second half of the 19th century, though first definite breeding record is from 1910 (Løppenthin 1967). The species has since increased, though the population decreases sharply after hard winters as in the rest of the northern part of the species European range (Tucker and Heath 1994, Grell 1998). The Danish population during the years 1993-96 was estimated at an all time high of 300 pairs (Grell 1998).

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is only a very small part of the estimated European total of 57,302-166,752 pairs (Tucker and Heath 1994)

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The trend within the SPAs is probably similar to the overall picture. The coverage is low, on the data presented here less than 6%, though in reality a few more pairs probably occur within areas, so SPAs are only of minor importance for the Danish population. Some further breeding sites in the most important river system Gudenåen and also elsewhere are designated SCIs.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Black Woodpecker

Species name
Scientific: Dryocopus martius
UK: Black Woodpecker
DK: Sortspætte

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe: Secure, non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Breeds in conifer and mixed forest, though actual nestsite in Denmark is most often in Beech (Fagus) as conifers normally are harvested before reaching sufficient size.

Threats
Main threat is probably forestry intensification with removal of dead wood and old nest trees. Large forest areas are devoid of trees large enough for nesting.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding resident.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The first proven Danish breeding was in 1961, though the species might have bred as early as the 1930s or 40s (Løppenthin 1967). The species became established in northeastern Zealand and on Bornholm in the early years after colonisation, while the spread in Jutland has happened during the 1980s and 90s. The population has increased constantly since becoming established. Some local decreases occurred, though, in northeastern Zealand during the 1980s and the population was recently estimated at 200-250 pairs (Grell 1998).

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is still a very small part of the European total of at 310,119-1,265,642 pairs, large parts of western Europe has been re-colonized as a result of reforestation efforts (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The trend within SPAs closely mirrors the overall trend of expansion and population growth, mainly in Jutland and local decrease in Northeast Zealand. The coverage based on the above figures is in the 15-30% range, but probably a bit underestimated. The management of SPAs thus is of some importance for the species, though, general forest management practices are of much higher significance for the future development in the Danish population.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Woodlark

Species name
Scientific: Lullula arborea
UK: Woodlark
DK: Hedelærke

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Rare
Europe: Vulnerable, SPEC 2
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Breeds on heathlands with some trees and on larger clearings in conifer plantations on sandy soil (Grell 1998).

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and a passage visitor from the other Nordic countries.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The large changes in the Danish landscapes in the last 200 years with establishment of large areas of conifer plantations are thought to have been initially beneficial for the species (Løppenthin 1967, Dybbro 1976). The population has been decreasing since the 1950s as plantations have closed open areas, though. The decline might now have stopped and the population stabilised. It is presently estimated at 300 pairs or more (Grell 1998).

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is only a very small part of the estimated European total of 1,060,376-2,339,048 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997). Habitat destruction by agricultural intensification or abandonment and afforestation are main threats towards the European population (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
There is no information on population trends within SPAs for the species. It probably occurs in several more SPAs than indicated here, though coverage is low and the Danish SPAs are only of minor importance for Woodlark. General regulation and guidelines for management of heathlands and plantations are of much higher significance.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Tawny Pipit

Species name
Scientific: Anthus campestris
UK: Tawny Pipit
DK: Markpiber

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Endangered
Europe: Vulnerable, SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
In Denmark, the species breeds in coastal dunes and heathlands.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and a passage visitor to Denmark.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The Danish population has never been very large; it was estimated at approximately 50 pairs during the 1950s (Løppenthin 1967). The population has decreased and many breeding localities have been abandoned during the period 1981-1996, the decrease possibly started somewhat earlier. The main reason for the decline is believed to be disturbances as a result of recreational activities (beach life). The local populations in areas with few people have declined less than at popular beach sites (Grell 1998). The Danish population was estimated at 20-25 pairs 1993-96 and almost the entire population is now concentrated in just two main areas: the Skagen peninsula and Anholt Island (Grell 1998).

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is very small compared to the estimated European total of 531,417-864,801 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997). The total European population is declining, mainly as a result of habitat loss (Tucker and Heath 1994).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage and significance of SPAs
The population trend within the SPAs is very similar to the general trend. The population within SPA no. 5 has decreased since designation and the small populations probably occurring at designation time in SPAs no. 10 and 102 have disappeared. Of the currently most important breeding site – Anholt Island – only a very small part is included in SPA no. 32, but all areas of importance for Tawny Pipit here are included in a proposed SCI (designated for various dune habitat types: 2120, 2130, 2140, 2170, 2250).

The coverage is in the 25-40% range.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Bluethroat

Species name
Scientific: Luscinia svecica
UK: Bluethroat
DK: Blåhals

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Rare
Europe: Secure, non-SPEC
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
The few Danish breeders of the race Luscinia svecica cyanecula breed in reclaimed areas with well-vegetated canals and in river valleys. Passage visitors from the other Nordic countries of the race Luscinia svecica svecica mainly stage in areas of bushy growth often near water.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor (ssp. cyanecula) and passage visitor (ssp. svecica).

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
Denmark probably held a breeding population in the second half of the 19th century, but it became extinct for unknown reasons around the turn of the century (Løppenthin 1967).

The species has recently re-colonized the country, with the first definite breeding record this century in 1992. The total population is still very small, 1-3 pairs in the period 1993-96 (Grell 1998). In 1998, the species expanded its Danish range northwards and in 1999, the number of singing males is the highest recorded yet so probably the population will continue to increase.

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is insignificant compared to the European total of at least 645,176-2,376,505 pairs of which 60,000 are ssp. cyanecula (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The coverage is probably 100% and appropriate management of the SPAs is therefore of vital importance for the Danish population.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

Red-backed Shrike

Species name
Scientific: Lanius collurio
UK: Red-backed Shrike
DK: Rødrygget Tornskade

Red-list and SPEC status DK/Europe/World
DK: Not listed
Europe:(Declining), SPEC 3
World: Lower Risk (least concern)
Annexes: I

General ecology and habitat requirements
Breeds in bushy growth or hedgerows in grasslands and in forest clearings.

Occurrence in Denmark
The species is a breeding visitor and a passage visitor from the other Nordic countries.

Trends in Danish population - long-term and 1983-1998
The Danish population of the species has experienced a large decline this century, the decrease was first noticed by Westerskov in the 1930s (Westerskov 1941 in Dybbro 1976), but probably started some decades earlier. In 1971-74 the Danish population was estimated at 1500-3000 pairs (Dybbro 1976) and Grell (1998) judged from 1993-96 data that this estimate is still valid. Between 1971-74 and 1993-96 the total population has thus remained constant, but large local changes has occurred. The population in the Danish isles decreased almost dramatically in the period, while the species expanded its range and the population increased in Jutland, the reasons for this pattern are unknown (Grell 1998).

The threats towards the species habitat in Denmark - as in the rest of Europe (Tucker and Heath 1994) - are mainly caused by agricultural intensification or abandonment. Current forest practices with large clear-cut areas yield suitable habitats for at least a minor part of the cycle. Changes in forest practices that for other ecological reasons are desirable such as selective logging as opposed to clear cutting might well be detrimental to the species. The current restoration of smaller areas of pastoral woodlands on the other hand will probably be beneficial.

Significance of the Danish population
The Danish population is only a small part of the estimated European total of 2,710,076-4,684,956 pairs (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997).

Population trend within Danish SPAs and SPA coverage
The estimated population within SPAs is somewhat higher than at designation, this is most probably an artefact, though, caused by better coverage in the new data. Actually, the reverse is possibly true, as population has decreased at keysites such as SPA no. 4 and (dramatically) no. 108. The coverage is quite low, almost certainly below 10% as can be expected with a species with dispersed breeding. The management of SPAs is thus of minor importance compared to general land use regulations and incentives. Some SPAs (e.g. no 4, 37 and 90), though, are prime habitats for the species and only few areas outside the SPA network support similar densities.

Occurrence in Danish SPAs

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