Extensification and improvement of a mountain farm in Davos

The landowners wanted to achieve a general extensification of land use and an increase in structural diversity by adjusting their lease contract with the support of the Swiss Ornithological Institute. The Whinchat is well suited as an umbrella species for promoting biodiversity in grassland at higher altitudes. As an insectivore, it benefits from flower meadows, and as a visual hunter, from the numerous perches that come with greater structural diversity.

In addition to a general extensification of the management of the green spaces, phased mowing is being introduced and strips of grass left standing with each cut. In addition, patches of old grass and wild shrub will be created, and new wooden fences will be set up in the traditional style. These structures provide perches from which birds such as the Whinchat can hunt. In addition to providing expert advice during the planning phase, the Swiss Ornithological Institute is also supporting the project financially with the supplies for and the maintenance of the new structures.

In addition to the Whinchat, other bird species in need of conservation measures will also benefit from the project. For example, the Common Redstart, the Eurasian Wryneck and the Common Kestrel also need meadows managed in a variety of ways and that are rich in structures and insects for use as hunting and nesting grounds.

Le nouveau bail, qui régit la gestion des espaces verts, est en application depuis février 2023. L’état initial des oiseaux nicheurs dans le périmètre du projet a été étudié au printemps 2022. Le projet est accompagné d’un programme de suivi.

• Christine and Kai Huovinen