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Résumé :
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This paper provides a brief overview of the current status of the Corncrake in Hungary based on information received from the national park directorates, members of MME/Birdlife and own experiences of the authors. The size of the breeding population is estimated at 400-1,600 calling males in 2007-2015. Approximately 50 % of the population is found in protected areas (national parks, nature reserves, Natura 2000 sites), and the most important breeding sites are under legal protection. The main threats are mowing during thebreeding season, but overgrowing of habitats and grazing are also important factors. Lowland populations are threatened by aridification and one of the most important populations by flooding. Within protected areas, conservation measures focus on delayed mowing, but both the date of mowing and the area where mowing is delayed are variable. We conclude that mowing after 15th August in at least 2 ha would be recommended for effective conservation. Outside protected areas agri-environment measures may be efficient means of Corncrake conservation, since two-third of the population breeds within High Nature Value Areas with relevant packages to the species. However, further steps are necessary to make these schemes more attractive to farmers and adjust their prescriptions to the requirements of Corncrakes.
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