Be part of saving Madeira’s unique species: the Macaronesian Sparrowhawk!
Locally known as Fura-bardos, the Macaronesian Sparrrowhawk is notoriously difficult to spot – making it one of the most fascinating endemic species of the group of archipelagos to which it lends its name. Not much is known about this diurnal raptor that inhabits the island of Madeira and five islands of the archipelago of the Canaries. The island of Madeira boasts the largest and best preserved area of Laurel forest (Laurissilva) in the world, occupying approximately 37,000 acres – which constitutes 20% of the island. However, deforestation comes in many forms and this habitat has been under constant threat. Invasion of alien plants, forest fires and other such hazards are contributing towards the rapid decline of this forest – compromising not only the Sparrowhawk as well as the many other endemic species that live here. Information about the distribution and population trend of this magnificent raptor that colonized the archipelagos much before Humans did is sparse, leaving us lacking in essential information about its ecology. For the same reason, its conservation status is difficult to measure, making the species even more enigmatic. Luckily, in 2013, a corner was turned when SPEA – The Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds <http://www.spea.pt/en/> developed and implemented their “LIFE Macaronesian Sparrowhawk <http://life-furabardos.spea.pt/en/>” project together with their partners. Through the protection and recovery of the Madeira Laurel forest we are able to finally monitor and keep this priority subspecies under a watchful eye – increasing our knowledge about its ecology, population trends and nesting areas. The results are there for all to see. A successful 180 acres of land have been reclaimed from invasive alien plants and a significant area of burnt Laurel forest has been recovered with native vegetation being grown in nurseries. It is safe to say that one of the projects main objectives of setting appropriate conservation measures in the near future, seems within our reach. Throughout the reforestation process, nearly one hundred nests were found, and thanks to the strong public awareness campaigns for the conservation of the laurissilva habitat and species – this distinguished hunter has come out of the dark and in to a well-deserved spotlight. It is important to understand that the recovery of these plant communities and habitats not only benefits the forest, as it does the humans that inhabit its earth. There is no longer one without the other. The preservation of the Laurel’s natural resources will not only promote new uses of natural space in a sustainable way but also have a direct impact on Madeira’s social and economical development. What we have achieved so far is no doubt a victory, but there is still a long way to go. *Unfortunately, this project will end on June 2017 and so far not enough funding has been secured to continue, jeopardizing all past achievements.* The threat of invasive alien plants is real, and the risk that these species may contaminate the newly reforested areas should not be underestimated. To maintain the continuity and sustainability of these conservation measures at least $60,000 are required. *We started this journey in 2013 and now, your help is needed to keep this project alive.* *Objectives and deliverables* - Controlling alien invasive species and restoring laurel forest habitat - Maintaining the restored habitat free from alien invasive species of plants - Production of 10,000 native and endemic plants in the nursery and greenhouse of the project; these plants will be used for the habitat restoration actions as above - Annual monitoring of the Macaronesian Sparrowhawk population and breeding areas - Ensuring the continuation of the school programme on the Macaronesian Sparrowhawk and the habitat of laurel forest for the students of the island of Madeira How many of us are yet to see this magnificent raptor? Until when will it soar above our atlantic skies? We need your help. This is our story. Your story. Together we are Laurissilva. *Please donate and help us extend the positive impact* To reach our goal, we need everyone. Please share this campaign with your friends, family, and networks, and connect with us on social media by using the #HelpFuraBardos hashtag.
