It is a real event for the Pyrénées-Orientales region, the Thékla Cochevis, a bird which had not been observed for twenty years has reappeared, recalling the importance of conservation efforts for endangered species.
Thékla cochevis, a small bird threatened with extinction, is back
Galerida theklae from its scientific name, Thékla Cochevis is a small bird which measures on average 15 centimeters long, whose wingspan does not exceed 40 cm. This passerine bird is easily recognizable by its elegant crest.
It was long present in several regions of Europe and North Africa, but due to the abandonment of agricultural land, which deprived the species of its natural habitat, it gradually disappeared. According to observations dating from 2016, it would be classified on the IUCN red list as being of least concern, its demographic trend would be decreasing.
Thus the return of this bird to the Tourèze site, classified Natura 2000 (a network which brings together protected areas created by the Member States of the European Union on the basis of a list of habitats and threatened species) , is excellent news for local wildlife.
Restoration of ecosystems for the return of the Thékla Cochevis
Since 2020, several measures have been taken to restore the ecosystems of the Tourèze massif, over an area of 232 hectares. The meadows, long invaded by bush, have been reopened to nature with the aim of bringing back local fauna.
Another initiative was taken, the introduction of a flock of sheep to allow the maintenance of these spaces and thus encourage the return of the Cochevis de Thékla.
This reopening of closed environments, although necessary for the survival of many species, reminds us of the importance of local actions in favor of biodiversity.
An environmental project that gives hope
This return did not happen without assistance. This is the result of a major environmental project carried out by the Conservatory of Natural Spaces of Occitanie (CEN) in partnership with the renewable energy producer Valeco and several other local players, such as the municipality of Latour-de-France. , the Regional Natural Park and the Pyrénées-Orientales hunting federation.
The operational director of Valeco, Sébastien Appy, clarified to the media Actu, that “this success is the result of close collaboration with the municipality and other local partners”.
As a reminder, these efforts were first intended to protect the Bonelli's Eagle, another threatened bird, but they made it possible to find the Thékla's Cochevis.
Sources : News, L'indépendant, Oiseaux.net, IUCN
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