EDP Baixo Sabor: Construction and Reservoir Filling Phases – Cliff-nesting birds, prioritary conservation species: fixed observation points [2010-2014]

Study Extent

The data were collected within a 5-km buffer around the margins of the lower valley of river Sabor and its main tributaries, up to 42 km from the mouth, in the municipalities of Torre de Moncorvo, Alfândega da Fé, Mogadouro e Macedo de Cavaleiros.

Sampling

The dataset includes systematic observations using binoculars and telescope made from vantage fixed points scattered throughout the study area in favourable habitats to detect the target species and other cliff-nesting bird species. A single observation session took place per site in each season (spring, summer, autumn and winter) from 2010 to 2014. A total of 16 sampling points was established in dominant features near areas with suitable habitats for cliff-nesting birds of prey. At each point, one observer spent 1 hour recording all contacts with the target species. All sessions were performed at the hottest hours of the day to maximize the probability of contacts with the target species, and they occurred only in favorable weather conditions of wind and rainfall. All identifications were made "in loco" by experienced observers, with the support of adequate field guides.

Quality Control

All individual identifications were performed by qualified technicians

Method steps

1. To be completed

The taxonomic coverage of this dataset spans 1 class, 3 orders, 3 families, 5 genera and 6 species.

1. Aves
   rank: class
2. Accipitriformes
   rank: order
3. Ciconiiformes
   rank: order
4. Falconiformes
   rank: order
5. Accipitridae
   rank: family
6. Falconidae
   rank: family
7. Ciconiidae
   rank: family

Data were collected in a 5-km buffer around the lower Sabor river and its main tributaries, from the river mouth up to 42 km upstream, in the municipalities of Torre de Moncorvo, Alfândega da Fé, Mogadouro and Macedo de Cavaleiros.