ORNITOFAUNA HUTOVOG BLATA – STANJE I PERSPEKTIVE
BIRD FAUNA OF HUTOVO BLATO – STATUS AND PERSPECTIVES

Summary/Abstract: The first data on Hutovo blato ornithofauna date back to the early 19th century; but the first scientifically significant data were obtained by Othmar Reiser in the 1888-1914 period; and Svjetoslav Obratil in the second part of 20th century. The beginning of 21st century was marked by the researches conducted by the members of Ornithological Society „Our Birds“ and EuroNatur. Based on the literature data and the data collected during the authors' research; the historical overview of 259 bird species recorded in Hutovo blato and surrounding area was made. Important breeding species of Hutovo blato are the globally endangered Pygmy Cormorant (Phalacrocorax pygmaeus) and Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca). The results of International Waterbird Census from 2008-2013 show the variability in the abundance of certain species; but also in the number of individuals. The main threats to the Hutovo blato ornithofauna at this time are the illegal hunting; habitat destruction caused by the fires and the problems of hydrological regime control. These reasons have caused Hutovo blato to be listed as the globally threatened IBA by the BirdLife in 2013. On the other hand; the Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus) and Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) were recorded in Hutovo blato and Neretva delta in 2011 and 2013. The Dalmatian Pelican was last registered breeding in Neretva delta in the early 20th century; and the Glossy Ibis was never recorded breeding in Hutovo blato. The occurence of these species indicates that if the previously mentioned problems are solved; the biodiversity of the area might increase; which would enable the development of bird-watching programmes.

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