Surveillance of the presence of two target species using camera traps on dust-bathing areas

After receiving preliminary results on low abundance of two target species (Capercaillie and Hazel grouse) within the LifeKočevsko area, the Slovenia Forest Service set up camera traps on dust bathing areas in the forest. Birds often use dust baths in order to remove parasites from their feathers. In total 13 camera traps were set up – of these 11 in optimal Capercaillie habitat and 2 in optimal Hazel grouse habitat. Camera traps will remain active until the end of August and thus contribute important information on baseline state of the population status of these two species before the start of concrete conservation actions of project LifeKočevsko.