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| Aims: Dupont´s lark is an endangered species due to different pressure factors, mainly linked to changes
in the composition and structure of steppe landscapes due to agriculture activities. The multiple aim is (1)
to census the population of dupont’s lark in a Natura Network area, (2) to develop spatial models to assess
the driving factors of their spatial pattern and take into account the spatial fragmentation of their habitat
patches, and (3) to develop a map of the probability presence of dupont’s lark in order to support conservation
strategies.
Location: Nature Network area in northern Spain (Ebro Basin).
Methods: Census mapping using GPS; Generalised Additive Models, GAM, as non-parametric regression
tool inserted in a GIS framework.
Results and Conclusions: Density is around 0.40 - 0.51 per 10 ha. Dupont’s lark shows a high habitat
preference related to sparse steppe areas, flat areas and scarcely fragmented landscapes. Incorrect interpretations
of Community Agrarian Policy (CAP) are over-exploiting steppe areas and putting in danger
the viability of this species in this area. Modelling approaches to evaluate the spatial pattern of endangered
species and GIS tools could support management decisions in Nature Networks areas. | |
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