European Bird distribution is “well” represented by Special Protected Areas: Mission accomplished?

摘要: Abstract Based on spatial distribution maps for 495 breeding bird species inhabiting mainland Europe, we examined whether richness is well represented by the protected areas under European Birds and Habitats Directives. The former regulates designation of Special Protected Areas (SPAs) birds, whereas latter focuses habitats through Sites Community Importance (SCI) Conservation (SAC). All together, these conform Natura 2000 network. To achieve our goal, identified high-value assessing geographic all important (IBS, according to Directive) occurring in Union (EU) countries, investigated how were current Our assessments showed little association between patterns cover (PAs) across EU countries. congruence IBS with PAs was moderate, suggesting that different conservation planning targets should be taken into account safeguard IBS, or composition species. results also 16 (3.9%) threatened present gaps PAs. poor relationship pattern found herein may provide evidence establishment SPAs Europe not fully accounting enhance performance