The objective of the project was to support the increase of the European pond turtle, smooth snake and fire-bellied toad populations in Latvia and to ensure their sustainable existence with combination of methods of in-situ, ex -situ conservation and a of protection by the law. Within the project, it was intended to create a new Natura 2000 site in Demene Parish for the protection of the Latvia’s largest population of fire-bellied toads, as well as to develop the management plan for the smooth snake species and management plans of all the three habitats of rare species. According to these plans, measures were taken to create new habitats for the needs of each species. The fire-bellied toads and the European pond terrapins are raised in captivity and released in order to increase the number of the fire-bellied toads and the European pond terrapins living in nature. The project will facilitate the involvement of landowners and operators in the Natura 2000 site management and will enhance public awareness of the rare amphibian and reptile species. Teaching materials will be created and other educational activities will be implemented.
Project implementation: year 2010 – 2014
Contact information:
Project manager: Dr.biol. Mihails Pupiņš
Project coordinator: Valdis Pilāts
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +371 29198590
www.daugavpils.lv