Sydsten AB

Objective

The endangered and eagle owl, Bubo bubo, prefers rock walls for nesting. Quarries with undisturbed rock ledges constitute a perfect habitat for this red-listed bird species.

Context

The quarry of Hardeberga is active and produces crushed rocks. During 1993 a pair of eagle owls was discovered and since that they have returned annually and raised 2-4 broods. The eagle owl was on the verge of extinction in Sweden due to pollutants and ruthless egg collectors. In 1950, the eagle owl was nationally protected and soon a rescue project released the first birds in mid-Sweden. In the 1960-s a national large-scale breeding project was initiated and during the survey in 1998-99 the number of occupied nesting habitats totalled 610. Unfortunately, the phenomenon of brood and egg plundering still exists as there is an illegal market trading with endangered species.

Solution

As soon as the information on the nesting of the endangered owl reached the company Sydsten, fences were put up to protect the rock ledges from visitors. From information meetings with the local bird watching society and the municipality the company learned how to continue producing crushed rocks and still take responsibility for the nesting success of the eagle owl.

Result

Two observation points for the general public have been put up. The quarry is a popular day trip site during spring and early summer. From the observation points you can both see and hear the eagle owls.

Partners

The company runs a joint conservation project involving the local bird watching society www.skof.se.