The Rohanschanze in the Bündner Herrschaft region is a historic fortification dating back to the Thirty Years’ War, whose mounds and ditches are still clearly visible today. These structures are now overgrown with dry meadows and sparse oak stands and form an ecologically valuable island in the middle of a valley floor otherwise used for arable farming. The aim of this project is to increase biodiversity and create habitats for rare bird species such as the Hoopoe and the Wryneck.
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© Patrick Marti
As part of a course, trainee foresters are cutting back one of the tree hedges to create a species-rich shrub hedge, all while preserving older trees with habitat quality.
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© Patrick Marti
The hedge submitted to maintenance last autumn in spring; the structural diversity and the older trees with habitat quality are clearly visible.
©
© Patrick Marti
The fenced-off fringing strips serve as a refuge for insects during and after cultivation.
©
© Patrick Marti
In addition to sheep and cattle, some horses are now grazing between the oaks of the Rohanschanze. This increases the diversity of the vegetation.
©
© Patrick Marti
©
© Patrick Marti
©
© Patrick Marti
©
© Patrick Marti
As part of a course, trainee foresters are cutting back one of the tree hedges to create a species-rich shrub hedge, all while preserving older trees with habitat quality.
The hedge submitted to maintenance last autumn in spring; the structural diversity and the older trees with habitat quality are clearly visible.
The fenced-off fringing strips serve as a refuge for insects during and after cultivation.
In addition to sheep and cattle, some horses are now grazing between the oaks of the Rohanschanze. This increases the diversity of the vegetation.
Valorisation of the Rohanschanze, Malans GR
Ecological enhancement of a historic fortification
Domain
Conservation
Unit
Upswing for Birds
Topics
Habitat Promotion
Habitat
semi-open farmland, meadows and pastures
Project start
2023
Project completion
2034
Project status
ongoing
Project management
Petra Horch
Project region
Grisons
Details
Project objectives
Although the Rohanschanze, with its species-rich hedges, dry meadows and semi-open oak stands, is already an area of ecological value, some typical bird species of this habitat such as hoopoe and wryneck are missing. As previous studies suggest, the absence of these species is probably related to (too) low insect populations. On the one hand, the project aims to increase insect diversity, which serves as a food source for birds. On the other hand, new and existing hedges and old trees should increase the supply of attractive nesting sites.
Methodology
Existing hedges are maintained and new ones planted on the Rohanschanze and surrounding areas to provide hiding places and nesting sites for birds. Fenced hems around the hedges and copses serve as refuge areas for insects, and targeted grazing encourages flower-rich vegetation. Piles of stones, branches and dead wood as well as a pond create habitats for insects and other small animals. Information panels inform visitors about the measures, target species and rules of behaviour.
Significance
A large number of bird species can be found in richly structured cultural landscapes. In addition to an increased supply of breeding sites, they all particularly benefit from a high supply of insects, which they need as food, especially when caring for their chicks. The project will also contribute to raising the local population’s ecological awareness and will offer exciting observation opportunities in the future. The Rohanschanze remains an attractive local recreation area and will continue to be used for agricultural purposes. Conserving, using and experiencing nature all go hand in hand.
Project partner(s)
Financial support
Employees
Coordinator of the regional office Grisons
Patrick Marti
+41 81 250 63 66
patrick.marti@vogelwarte.ch
Species concerned
Unit
Upswing for Birds
Together with partners, we carry out projects to enhance and secure habitats throughout Switzerland in the long term.
