New birding hide constructed at Tovačov gravel pit in the Czech Republic
The wooden construction has been opened just in time, as late autumn and winter are the best times to watch migratory waterfowl at the Tovačov Lakes, cluster of gravel pits operated by Českomoravský štěrk (HeidelbergCement in CZ).
“We are glad that we can follow the example of West European countries, where almost every single pool has a birding hide," said Zdeněk Vermouzek, Director of CSO. “This birding hide will attract new birdwatchers and will contribute to overall expansion of this noble activity.”
Central Europe has lost nearly all natural wetlands and floodplains to infrastructure and flood protection measures. With this many important habitats, biodiversity and ecosystem services have been lost. Nowadays every natural or semi-natural wetland deserves protection and habitat restoration projects are very much needed to maintain local and migrating birds and other threatened species.
At least 70 bird species rely on the Tovačov lakes mainly as a stopover site. The lakes are also used for drinking water which requires careful control of their hydrologic and ecologic conditions.
“Construction of birding hide is just one of many activities that we are working on together with Czech Society for Ornithology and Moravian Ornithological Society,” said Karel Lorek, General Director of Českomoravský štěrk a.s.. “We have common interest – nature protection in the surroundings of our quarries, as well as making quarries available to the public.”
More information about the project: “Restoration of floodplain habitats and construction of a birdwatching tower at the Tovačov Lakes - Czech Republic” (project Factsheet)
About Czech Society for Ornithology: CSO is a non-governmental organisation uniting birdwatchers, nature lovers, amateurs and professionals interested in the research and protection of birds. CSO is the Czech national Partner of BirdLife International.
More information about Birding hide at Tovačov gravel pit on eco-restore blog.
