Management Plan for the Conservation and Sustainable
Use of the Natural Values of the Privately Owned
Nature Park “Solana Ulcinj”, Montenegro
Landesmuseum Joanneum
Zoologie
Borut STUMBERGER, Peter SACKL, Darko SAVELJI, Martin SCHNEIDER-JACOBY
Management Plan for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of the
Natural Values of the Privately Owned Nature Park “Solana Ulcinj”,
Montenegro
March 2007
Reprinted from: Joannea-Zoologie 10, 2008
Published by
EuroNatur – Stiftung Europäisches Naturerbe
Steiermärkisches Landesmuseum Joanneum – Zoologie
with support by the MAVA Foundation
Graz, December 2008
Selbstverlag Landesmuseum Joanneum, Zoologie, 8010 Graz, Raubergasse 10.
Druck und Endfertigung: Druckerei Khil, Graz.
Graz, 2008
Photos front cover: Greater Flamingo (M. Tiefenbach), Dalmatian Pelican (L. Khil),
European Bee-eater (P. Sackl) and Solana Ulcinj, Jezero 2 (M. Schneider-Jacoby).
5
Joannea Zool. 10: 5–84 (2008)
Management plan for the conservation and sustainable use of the
natural values of the privately owned Nature Park «Solana Ulcinj»,
Montenegro1
March 2007
Borut STUMBERGER, Peter SACKL, Darko SAVELJI and Martin SCHNEIDER-JACOBY
Contents
Abstract ………………………………………………………………………………………. 7
Sažetak ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 8
Abstrakt ………………………………………………………………………………………. 9
Zusammenfassung …………………………………………………………………………. 10
Glossary ………………………………………………………………………………………. 12
1. Vision and mission ……………………………………………………………………… 14
2. Methods and background ……………………………………………………………… 15
3. Site description ………………………………………………………………………….. 16
3.1 General information …………………………………………………………………… 16
3.1.1 Location ………………………………………………………………………………. 16
3.1.2 History ……………………………………………………………………………….. 18
3.1.3 Climate ……………………………………………………………………………….. 19
3.1.4 Protection status and strategies …………………………………………………. 20
3.2 Salt production ………………………………………………………………………… 22
3.3 The Solana as habitat ………………………………………………………………… 24
3.3.1 General information ………………………………………………………………… 25
3.3.2 Fauna …………………………………………………………………………………. 26
3.3.2.1 Mammals ………………………………………………………………………….. 26
3.3.2.2 Birds ……………………………………………………………………………….. 26
3.3.2.3 Fishes ………………………………………………………………………………. 31
3.3.2.4 Brine shrimps (Anostraca) ……………………………………………………… 32
3.3.2.5 Insects ……………………………………………………………………………… 32
3.3.2.6 Mollusca …………………………………………………………………………… 32
3.3.3 Flora ………………………………………………………………………………….. 33
3.4 International importance …………………………………………………………….. 33
1 This paper was printed with support by the MAVA Foundation and EuroNatur Foundation.
6
4. Management objectivies ……………………………………………………………….. 38
4.1 Main goals ……………………………………………………………………………… 38
4.2 Salt production ………………………………………………………………………… 39
4.2.1 Maintenance of dikes ………………………………………………………………. 39
4.2.2 Water regime ………………………………………………………………………… 42
4.2.3 Vegetation ……………………………………………………………………………. 44
4.2.4 Medicinal use of the salt-pans …………………………………………………… 44
4.3 Rangers …………………………………………………………………………………. 44
4.4 Protected areas ………………………………………………………………………… 46
4.5 Nature tourism and environmental education ……………………………………. 49
4.5.1 Information centre ………………………………………………………………….. 49
4.5.2 Educational trail …………………………………………………………………….. 50
4.5.3 Visitor train ………………………………………………………………………….. 51
4.5.4 Bicycle trail ………………………………………………………………………….. 51
4.5.5 Salt festival ………………………………………………………………………….. 52
4.5.6 Visitor programme “Salt Production” ……………………………………………. 52
4.5.7 Regional programmes ……………………………………………………………… 53
4.6 Management of the Nature Park “Solana Ulcinj” ……………………………….. 53
4.6.1 Management of the privately owned conservation area …………………….. 53
4.6.2 Financing and entrance fees ……………………………………………………… 54
4.6.3 Wise use of the Solana’s natural resources ……………………………………. 55
5. Monitoring ……………………………………………………………………………….. 56
6. Action plan ……………………………………………………………………………….. 58
6.1 Basin 1 (Kneta) ……………………………………………………………………….. 58
6.2 Basins 2–13 (Kneta) …………………………………………………………………. 59
6.3 Stojski 1 & 2 …………………………………………………………………………… 61
6.4 Basins 17–27 ………………………………………………………………………….. 61
6.5 “Meadow” ………………………………………………………………………………. 62
6.6 Basins 28–32 ………………………………………………………………………….. 63
6.7 Jezero 2 …………………………………………………………………………………. 64
6.8 Zoganjski 1 & 2 ……………………………………………………………………….. 65
6.9 Jezero 1 …………………………………………………………………………………. 66
6.10 Evaporation II ………………………………………………………………………… 68
6.11. Evaporation III–IV ………………………………………………………………….. 69
6.12 Crystallisation ………………………………………………………………………… 70
6.13 Reservoirs 1 & 2 …………………………………………………………………….. 70
6.14 Canals …………………………………………………………………………………. 71
Acknowledgments ………………………………………………………………………….. 72
References …………………………………………………………………………………… 73
Appendix 1–5 ……………………………………………………………………………….. 76
7
Abstract: Salinas are important wetland habitats, whose significance for nesting and
migrating waterbirds is based on the process of salt production, i. e. the annual flooding
and drying-out of evaporation basins. With a whole area of 14,9 km2 the salina of Ulcinj
(Solana Ulcinj) belongs to the group of the largest, operative salinas in the Mediterranean
region. The salina is situated in the delta of the Bojana-Buna River at the eastern
coast of the Adriatic Sea in southern Montenegro. Based on regular countings of
resting and wintering waterbirds and breeding bird surveys since April 2003, the present
management plan (MP) was developed by Euronatur Foundation in cooperation
with the Solana Ulcinj.
Because the regular flooding of the salt-pans with seawater and saline waters is
essential for preserving the unique wetland habitats of the area, the maintenance of the
Solana Ulcinj is a common aim of both parties involved in the MP. EuroNatur and the
Solana Ulcinj aim to develop and to preserve the natural values of the salina as a managed
protection area based on best practice and international standards of nature conservation.
The shear extent of the salina’s wetland habitats and the high species diversity of
its fauna and flora are unique for the eastern Adriatic region. The Solana Ulcinj is the
most important resting, wintering and breeding site for many species of waterbirds
along the Adriatic Flyway, and according to the presence of 15 species which reach the
1 % threshold of the Ramsar Convention (1971) a wetland of international importance.
Therefore, the joined MP aims to preserve the wetland habitats of the salina, which is
currently frequented by 12.000–32.000 waterbirds during spring and autumn migration,
under the Ramsar Convention, by its formal protection under the laws of the Republic
of Montenegro, and by the development of nature tourism and environmental education.
According to the main objectives outlined in the MP, indicators for a successful implementation
of activities, joined by both parties, are:
 the population numbers of breeding, resting and over-wintering waterbirds,
and the breeding success of colonially nesting shorebirds and other bird species,
nesting in the salina
 the permanent (re)establishment of new breeding species in the Solana Ulcinj,
with the main focus on Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus) and Greater
Flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber roseus)
 the numbers of tourists and other visitors which visit the salt-work and use the
salina’s educational facilities
 the acceptance of the project by local people, national authorities and by the
international conservation community
Beside a short description of techniques used for industrial salt production in the
Solana, a characterization of habitat types, and of the fauna and flora of the area, the
present action plan for the proposed Nature Park “Solana Ulcinj” outlines the main objectives
of the project and includes detailed management planning for different parts,
8
i. e. for dikes, canals and all evaporation basins of the salina. In addition, recommendations
for the establishment of an information centre, the construction of visitor trails
and other facilities for environmental education, are given.
Sažetak: Solane su važna movarna staništa iji se znaaj za gniježenje i vodene ptice
na seobi bazira na procesu proizvodnje soli. Sa površinom koja zahvata 14,9 km2 , Ulcinjska
Solana je jedna od najveih aktivnih solana u regionu Mediterana. Solana se
nalazi u delti rijeke Bojane/Bune, na istonoj obali Jadrana i krajnjem jugoistoku Crne
Gore. Na osnovu redovnih prebrojavanja ptica koje solanu koriste kao odmaralište,
gnjezdilište i ptica selica, a koje se provodi od aprila 2003. godine, napravljen je Plan
upravljanja (MP = Management plan) zajednikim snagama Euronatur Foundation i
Ulcinjske solane.
Prelivanje solanskih bazena morskom i solanskom vodom je od temeljne važnosti
za zaštitu jedinstvenih staništa ove movare. Upravljanje Ulcinjskom solanom je jedinstveni
interes obje strane ukljuene u MP. Euronatur i Solana Ulcinj teže da razvijaju i
zaštite prirodne vrijednosti solane kao zaštienog podruja ije se upravljanje bazira na
najboljoj praksi i meunarodnim standardima zaštite prirode.
Površina pod slanom movarom i visoka raznolikost vrsta flore i faune su jedinstveni
na istonoj obali Jadrana. Solana Ulcinj je najznaajnije odmaralište, zimovalište i
gnjezdilište mnogih vrsta vodenih ptica i šljukarica na Jadranskom seobenom putu
(Adriatic Flyway). U vezi vezi sa tim, na solani je prisutno 15 vrsta ptica ija brojnost
prelazi 1 % svjetske populacije na osnovu standarda Ramsararske konvencije (1971)
koja tretira movare od meunarodnog znaaja. Zajedniki plan upravljanja ima za cilj
da zaštiti movarna staništa solane koja gosti izmeu 12–32.000 vodenih ptica tokom
proljene i jesenje seobe, a na osnovu standarda Ramsarske konvencije i formalne
zaštite kao parka prirode na osnovu Zakona o zaštiti prirode Crne Gore kao podruja za
razvoj eko edukativnog turizma.
Na osnovu glavnih ciljeva koji proistiu iz plana upravljanja, indikatori uspješnosti
njegove implementacije obje zainteresovane strane su:
 brojnost populacija gnjezdarica, zimovalica i ptica na odmoru (vodenih i ptica
šljukarica), uspješnost gniježenja kolonijalnih gnjezdarica na solani
 stalno održavanje postojeih i pravljenje uslova za gniježenje novih gnjezdarica,
u prvom redu kudravog pelikana (Pelecanus crispus) I flamingosa/plamenca
(Phoenicopterus ruber roseus)
 broj turista koji e posjeivati solanu i koristiti edukativne potencijale koje ona
ima
 prihvatanje projekta od strane lokalne zajednice, državnih institucija i
meunarodne zajednice koja se bavi zašitom prirode
Pored kratkog opisa naina proizvodnje soli na solani, karakteristika staništa, registrovanih
pripadnika flore i faune na predmetnom podruju, ovaj prijedlog mjera za
ustanovljavanje Parka prirode Ulcinjska Solana daje smjernice projekta i ukljuuje de9
taljno planiranje upravljanja razliitim oblastima, kao što su, na primjer, nasipi, kanali
i svi bazeni posebno na cijelom podruju solane. Dodatno, plan daje preporuke za ustanovljavanje
informativnog centra, izrade staza za posjetioce i drugih dodatnih
mogunosti, kao što su ekološka edukacija za lokalnu zajednicu, škole i turiste.
Abstrakt: Kriporet janë habitate të rëndësishme si zona të lagështa, rëndësia e të cilave
për folezimin dhe migrimin e shpendëve të ujit është e bazuar në procesin e prodhimit
te kripës. Me nje sipërfaqe totale prej 14,9 km2 Kriporja e Ulqinit – është një nga kriporet
më të mëdha vepruese në rajonin e Masdheut. Kriporja gjendet në Deltën e lumit
Buna/Bojana, ne bregun lindor te detit Adriatik, në jug të Malit te Zi. Bazuar në numërimet
e rregullta të shpendëve ujorë dimërues dhe vëzhgimet e shumimit të shpendëve
që në Prill 2003, u krijua plani aktual i menaxhimit (PM) nga Euronatur Foundation në
bashkëpunim me Kriporen e Ulqinit.
Për arsye se përmbytja e rregullt në kripore me ujërat e detit dhe ato të kripores
është esenciale për ruajtjen e habitateve unike të zonës, mirëmbajtja e Kripores së Ulqinit
është një qëllim i përbashkët i të dy palëve të përfshirë në këtë PM. Euronatur-a
dhe Kriporja e Ulqinit kanë për qëllim të zhvillojnë dhe të ruajnë vlerat natyrore të kripores
si një zonë e mbrojtur e menaxhuar bazuar në praktikën më të mirë dhe standartet
ndërkombëtare të ruajtjes se natyrës.
Përmasat e habitateve te kripores dhe diversiteti i lartë i specieve të faunës dhe
florës së saj janë unike për rajonin e Adriatikut lindor. Kriporja e Ulqinit është vendi më
i rëndësishëm për qëndrimin, dimërimin dhe shumimin e shumë specieve të shpendëve
ujorë dhe të brigjeve ujore përgjatë Adriatikut, dhe persa i përket prezencës së 15 specieve
që arrijnë pragun 1 % të Konventës së Ramsarit (1971) – një zonë e lagësht me
rëndësi ndërkombëtare. Prandaj, PM i përbashkët ka për qëllim të ruajë habitatet e kripores,
e cila aktualisht frekuentohet nga 12–32.000 shpendë ujorë gjatë migrimit të
pranverës dhe vjeshtës nën Konventën e Ramsarit, nga mbrojtja e saj formale si një
park natyror nën ligjet e Republikës së Malit të Zi, si dhe nga zhvillimi i turizmit natyror
dhe edukimit mjedisor në zonë.
Bazuar në objektivat kryesore të nënvizuara në PM, indikatorët për një implementim
të suksesshëm të aktiviteteve të përbashkëta janë:
 numri i popullatave të shpendëve ujore dhe këmbëgjatëve që qëndrojnë, folezojnë
dhe dimërojnë, dhe suksesi i shtimit të kolonisë së shpendëve ujorë dhe
bregujorë në kripore
 (ri)stabilizimi i specieve të reja në Kriporen e Ulqinit, me fokus kryesor Pelikanin
Kaçurrel (Pelecanus crispus) dhe Flamingot (Phoenicopterus ruber roseus)
 numri i turistëve të cilët vizitojnë kriporen dhe përdorin lehtësirat edukative të
saja
 pranimi i projektit nga banorët lokal, autoritetet kombëtare dhe nga komuniteti
ndërkombëtar për ruajtjen
10
Përveç një përshkrimi të shkurtër të teknikave të përdorura për prodhimin tregtar
të kripës në Kripore, dhe një përshkrim i tipeve të habitateve, dhe të faunës dhe florës
të gjetur në zonë, drafti aktual i planit te veprimit për “Parkun Natyror te Kripores se
Ulqinit” të propozuar nënvizon objektivat kryesore të projektit dhe përfshin planifikimin
e detajuar të menaxhimit për pjesë të ndryshme, p.sh. për digat, kanalet dhe kriporet e
vogla. Gjithashtu janë dhënë rekomandime për ngritjen e një qendre informacioni, ndërtimin
e rrugëve për vizitorët dhe lehtësira të tjera për edukimin mjedisor për banorët lokal,
shkollat dhe turistët.
Zusammenfassung: Trotz deren wirtschaftlicher Nutzung beherbergen Küsten- oder
Meeressalinen viele, ökologisch wertvolle Lebensräume. Besonders die jährliche Überflutung
und das anschließende, langsame Trockenfallen der Verdunstungsbecken schafft
günstige Brut-, Rast- und Überwinterungsbedingungen für eine Reihe von Wasser- und
Watvögeln. Mit 14,9 km2 gehört die Saline von Ulcinj (Solana Ulcinj) im Süden Montenegros
zu den größten Salinen des Mittelmeerraumes. Im Gegensatz zu vielen Küstensalinen
im ehemaligen Jugoslawien ist die Saline Ulcinj weiterhin in Betrieb und bildet,
neben dem Tourismus, die wichtigste wirtschaftliche Grundlage der Region um die Bezirkshauptstadt
Ulcinj/Ulqini (Opstina Ulcinj). Die Saline wurde in den 1930er Jahren
im Schwemmland des Bojana-Buna Deltas, wenige Hundert Meter von der Küste der
Adria, in einer großen Inlandlagune (Zoganjsko Jezero), die durch einen schmalen, natürlichen
Kanal (Porta Milena) mit dem Meer verbunden ist, errichtet. In der ehemaligen
Lagune bestand bis in die erste Hälfte des 20. Jahrhunderts eine Brutkolonie des
Krauskopfpelikans (Pelecanus crispus).
Der vorliegende Managementplan (MP) hat den dauerhaften Schutz der Saline als
wichtigstes Brut- und Rastgebiet für viele Wasser- und Watvögel an der östlichen Adria
durch eine nachhaltige, wirtschaftliche Nutzung und touristische Erschließung zum
Ziel. Er wurde in Zusammenarbeit mit der Saline Ulcinj von der Stiftung Europäisches
Naturerbe (EuroNatur) an Hand der Ergebnisse von Wasservogelzählungen (IWC) und
von Erhebungen der Brutbestände in der Saline brütender Wasser- und Watvögel erstellt.
Voraussetzung für die langfristige Erhaltung der Salzwiesen und anderer Feuchtlebensräume
in der Saline ist die regelmäßige Flutung der Verdunstungsbecken. Daher ist
die dauerhafte Sicherung und Wirtschaftlichkeit der Salzproduktion in der Saline ein erklärtes
Ziel beider an diesem MP beteiligten Organisationen. Dies, sowie der Schutz der
Feuchtlebensräume in der Saline mit ihrer Fauna und Flora soll durch den formellen
Schutz des Gebietes, durch ein entsprechendes Habitatmanagement und begleitende
Schutzmaßnahmen nach internationalen Naturschutzstandards durch die Zusammenarbeit
von EuroNatur mit der Solana Ulcinj erreicht werden.
Aufgrund der Größe der vorhandenen Feuchtlebensräume und der hohen Artendiversität
von Pflanzen und Tieren zählt die Saline in Ulcinj zu den bedeutendsten Feuchtgebieten
an der östlichen Adria zwischen Norditalien und Albanien. Die Saline Ulcinj ist
11
das wichtigste Rast-, Überwinterungs- und Brutgebiet für viele Wasser- und Watvögel
an der östlichen Adriaküste. Weiterhin liegt sie, nahe der Straße von Otranto, für viele
Wasservögel an einem strategisch wichtigen Punkt entlang der Zentraleuropäischen
Zugstrasse (Central European Flyway). Die Bestände von 15 Wasser- und Watvogelarten,
die wir seit 2003 festgestellt haben, überschreiten die in der Ramsar Konvention
(1971) festgelegte 1 %-Grenze ihrer globalen Populationen. Die Saline ist somit ein
Feuchtgebiet von internationaler Bedeutung. Der vorliegende MP hat den Schutz der
Saline, die z. Z. am Herbst- und Frühjahrszug von 12.000–32.000 Wasser- und Watvögeln
genutzt wird, als Feuchtgebiet internationaler Bedeutung nach der Ramsar Konvention,
durch die Erklärung zu einem Schutzgebiet seitens der Republik Montenegro
und durch eine nachhaltige, touristische Erschließung zum Ziel.
Die Umsetzung und der Erfolg der im MP im Detail dargestellten Schutzziele und
vorgeschlagenen Maßnahmen sollen im Rahmen eines integrierten Vogel- und Habitatmonitorings
überprüft werden. Indikatoren für eine erfolgreiche Umsetzung des MP
sind:
 die Populationsgrößen der in der Saline brütenden, rastenden und überwinternden
Wasservögel und Limikolen, sowie der Bruterfolg von insbesondere,
koloniebrütenden Wasser- und Watvögeln
 die dauerhafte Etablierung neuer Brutkolonien ehemaliger oder neuer Brutvogelarten,
insbesondere von Krauskopfpelikan und Rosaflamingo (Phoenicopterus
ruber roseus)
 die Zahl der Besucher, die die Beobachtungs- und Informationseinrichtungen
in der Saline nutzen
 die Akzeptanz des Projektes durch die lokale Bevölkerung, die montenegrinischen
Behörden und durch internationale Naturschutzexperten
Neben einer Beschreibung der industriellen Salzgewinnung in der Saline, einer
Kurzcharakteristik der Habitattypen, sowie der Fauna und Flora des Gebietes, enthält
der vorliegende MP eine umfassende Darstellung der Maßnahmen, die in verschiedenen
Teilen der Saline umzusetzen sind (Aktionsplan). Weiterhin werden Vorschläge
für die Errichtung eines Informations- und Besucherzentrums, eines Besucherleitsystems,
von Beobachtungsständen und anderen Erziehungs- und Informationseinrichtungen
für Schulklassen, Vogelbeobachter und Touristen vorgestellt.
Key words: management plan, waterbirds, waders, colonial waterbirds, International
Waterbird Count, IWC, salina, Solana Ulcinj, Montenegro, Ramsar site, Dalmatian Pelican,
Pelecanus crispus, Important Bird Area, IBA Ulcinj saltpans, Nature Park, action
plan.
12
Glossary
Be° B°, Bé°, Baume or degrees Baumé is a measure for the density of various
liquids developed by French pharmacist Antoine BAUMÉ in 1768. Originally
Baumé degrees (heavy) represented the percent by mass of sodium chloride
in water at 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15,5 °C) and was later calibrated
to 0° Bé (light) being the density of 10 % NaCl in water by mass and
10° Bé (light) set to the density of water (WIKIPEDIA).
bp. breeding pair(s)
brackish water water which contains 0,5–30 grams/litre of salt (NaCl), but not as much as
seawater
brine concentrated solution of inorganic salts, formed by the partial evaporation
of saline waters; brine contains > 50 grams of salt per litre
cyst dormant stage in the life cycle of some invertebrates which is protected by
a thick membrane (e.g. the eggs of brine shrimp, Artemia sp.)
CZIP Centre for the Protection and Research of Birds, Podgorica (Montenegro)
EuroNatur short for: Euronatur Foundation, Germany
euryhaline organisms, e. g. plants or arthropods, which tolerate a wide range of degrees
of salinity
fresh water water containing < 0,5 gram of dissolved salt per litre
halophyte terrestrial plant that is morphologically and/or physiologically adapted to
grow in salt-rich soils and salt-laden air
IBA Important Bird Area
intertidal (zone) area between the highest and lowest tide mark
IWC International Waterbird Count(s), organized by Wetlands International, Wageningen,
The Netherlands
IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Recources, with
headquarters in Switzerland
MP management plan
NGO non-governmental organisation
Ramsar Convention intergovernmental convention which regulates the protection of wetlands of
international importance; signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971
roost resting or sleeping place of birds, often used in large numbers (communal
roost)
salina a wetland which has been transformed for economic reasons, normally for
the production of salt; many synonymously used terms, like man-made salterns,
salt ponds, solar salt-works, salt-pans etc. are used in English to describe
salinas
13
saline water water that contains a significant concentration of 30–50 grams/litre of dissolved
salts
salinity proportion of salt (sodium chloride) present in a given amount of water or
soil
salt-pan, pan a shallow basin which is used for the concentration of dissolved salts of sea
water, and the precipitation and crystallisation of salts on its bottom
Solana short for: Solana Ulcinj
wader(s) wading birds of the order Charadriiformes
WPE3 short for: Waterbirds Population Estimates. 3rd Edition, Wetlands International
Global Ser. 12, Wetlands International, Wageningen, The Netherlands,
2002
WPE4 short for: Waterbirds Population Estimates. 4th Edition
(www.wtlands.org/getfilefromdb.aspx?ID=832cc151-2de7-4f2e-9a05-
41de0aec8594)
Water salinity based on dissolved salts in grams per litre
Fresh water brackish water sea water saline water brine
< 0.5 0.5–30 ca. 30 30–50 > 50
14
1. Vision and mission
The Solana Ulcinj is situated at the south-eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea and covers
large areas of a former inland lagoon, which is locally known as “Zoganjsko Jezero”2.
The salina represents an integrated element within the network of interconnected alluvial
and coastal wetland habitats (beta diversity) of the Bojana-Buna Delta. Following
rules of the Bird Directive of the European Union, GRIMMETT & JONES (1989) and Bird-
Life International (HEATH & EVANS 2000) have identified the Solana as an Important
Bird Area (IBA “Ulcinj saltpans – Ulcinjska solane”, 1.350 ha). The significance and
international importance of the area’s ecological values is formally recognised by the
Solana’s management and EuroNatur, which forms the basis for their cooperation and
joined efforts outlined in the MP.
The significance of the Solana Ulcinj for breeding and migrating birds is based on
the process of salt production (SADUL et al. 1998). Therefore the maintenance of the
Solana is a common aim of both parties. The aim of the Solana Ulcinj and EuroNatur
is to develop and to preserve the unique habitats, and the fauna and flora of the salina
as a managed protection area, based on best practice and international standards of
nature conservation (PERENNOU et al. 1996).
Because the site fulfills criteria of the Ramsar Convention (1971) it will be nominated
as a wetland of international importance, and both parties agree to lobby for the
inclusion of the area into the list of Ramsar sites and to take legal steps for its protracted
preservation by the Republic of Montenegro. EuroNatur has completed the
Ramsar Information Sheet (RIS) in 2006, and has forwarded it to the Ministry for Tourism
and Environment of the Republic of Montenegro.
The joined project, outlined by the MP, further aims to establish infrastructure for
promoting environmental education in the region, which will enable local people, tourists
and bird watchers to observe birds and other wildlife in the salina.
All measures aim to preserve and to support the populations of breeding birds, resting
and wintering migrants, and to create international awareness for the area as a
prime destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts. In the same way, all measures are
based on the long-term goal of the Republic of Montenegro to develop the country as a
“Ecological State”. Both parties agree to stop illegal hunting, bird shooting, and other
human disturbances in the salina which are incompatible with conservation.
Indicators for a successful implementation of joined activities are:
 the population numbers of breeding, wintering and resting waterbirds during
migration, and the breeding success of bird species nesting in the salina
 the permanent (re-)establishment of new breeding birds, like Greater Flamingo
and Dalmatian Pelican3
 the numbers of tourists which visit the salina and use the Solana’s observation
and education facilities
 the image and acceptance of the project by local people, national authorities
and by the international conservation community
2 The first part of the name originates from Albanian language (zog = bird), the second from Montenegrin
(jezero = lake). According to REISER & VON FÜHRER (1896) Dalmatian Pelicans have bred
in the lagoon till the beginning of the last century.
3 For German and scientific names of birds mentioned in text see Appendix 1 (p. 76–77)
15
2. Methods and background
This MP is based on numerous visits of the Solana by the authors, a monitoring programme
for documenting the population numbers of waterbirds and of other bird species
which was launched by Darko SAVELJI in 2000, and which is continued with the
help of EuroNatur since 2003. During most visits by a team of conservation experts and
ornithologists, coordinated by EuroNatur, the Solana’s management was contacted for
information, for planning and discussing activities.
Between 31 October and 2 November 2003, EuroNatur organized a first work
shop, concerning the ecological value of the Bojana-Buna Delta, during which a number
of materials on the biodiversity of the area were collected from a number of experts
(SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b).
In 2004, Snezana VUKSANOVI from the Museum of Natural History of Montenegro
in Podgorica, and Danka PETROVI of the University of Podgorica have mapped the plant
communities in the salina (VUKSANOVI & PETROVI 2004).
A geographical information system (GIS) for the Bojana-Buna Delta was created
by Ulrich SCHWARZ (Fluvius). It provided us with an excellent data base, which was used
by Borut STUMBERGER to produce the maps, included in the MP, and for calculating surface
areas as well as the total length of levees and canals.
In 2005 EuroNatur organized first conservation activities which demonstrated the
potential of the Solana for colonially nesting waterbirds, but at the same time indicated
that the urgently needed reconstruction of some basins, in particular of Jezero 2, may
destroy many currently important nest sites.
Consequently, two workshops were held in the Solana to discuss management planning:
In the first workshop from 14–15 April 2004, Danka PETROVI (University of Podgorica),
Vaso RADOVI (Solana Ulcinj), Mio RADULOVI (Solana Ulcinj), Peter SACKL (Landesmuseum
Joanneum, Graz), Darko SAVELJI (Institute for Nature Protection, Podgorica),
Martin SCHNEIDER-JACOBY (EuroNatur), Borut STUMBERGER (EuroNatur) and Snezana
VUKSANOVI (Museum of Natural History of Montenegro, Podgorica) participated.
The second workshop on 11 May 2005, was visited by Jelena ALEKSI (Solana Ulcinj),
Vaso RADOVI (Solana Ulcinj), Peter SACKL (Landesmuseum Joanneum, Graz), Darko
SAVELJI (Institute for Nature Protection, Podgorica), Martin SCHNEIDER-JACOBY (Euro-
Natur) and Borut STUMBERGER (EuroNatur). In addition, the workshop was visited by
Lazar BAN, who is responsible for the Porta Milena Revitalization Project in Ulcinj.
Methods used for preparing the MP are based on the following documents:
 the Management Planning Toolkit of EUROSITE (1999)
 the training module of MedWet & Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat “A
Management Plan for a Mediterranean Wetland” (PERENNOU et al. 1996)
 the “New Guidelines for Management Planning for Ramsar Sites and Other
Wetlands” of the RAMSAR CONVENTION OF WETLANDS (2002)
The Solana Ulcinj and the EuroNatur team with their local partner organisation,
CZIP, will continue to evaluate actions and the updating of the MP. The basis for this
process is the continuous monitoring of activities and population numbers of birds, outlined
in chapter 5, and regular meetings of all parties.
16
3. Site description
3.1. General information
The Solana Ulcinj is situated in the southernmost part of the Republic of Montenegro
(13.812 km2), close to the border to Albania at the south-eastern coast of the Adriatc
Sea (Fig. 1a). Its nearest distance to the city of Ulcinj and to the borderline to Albania
is 1 km, to the regional center Bar 23 km, and 62 km to the country’s capital of Podgorica.
The Community of Ulcinj (Opstina Ulcinj/Ulqini) is inhabitated by 24.217 people,
with some 13.500 of them living within the city limits of Ulcinj (MONSTAT 2005).
According to Montenegrin law, below the central government, opstina is the highest administrative
level.
Fig. 1a: Location of the Solana Ulcinj, Montenegro, in the eastern Mediterranean region. The full
circle indicates the location of the salina.
3.1.1. Location
The Solana is situated in the inland lagoon and marshlands of the former Zoganjsko Jezero
in the 225 km2 large delta of the Bojana-Buna River (Fig. 1b). The salina is separated
from the Adriatic Sea by a barrier island, called Velika Plaža, and from the Bojana-
Buna River by a natural levee which was formed by the river. For flood prevention
17
the latter was partly replaced by an artificial dike. The area’s soils consist mainly of fine
riverine deposits, like mud (organic) and sand (anorganic). According to the influence
of the nearby sea and of recent salt production, the salina is dominated by alkaline soils.
Below the mudflats of the salt-pans huge layers of shells of marine mollusks are present.
The Solana is a significant and integrated element of the approximately 1.000 km2
large “Lake Skadar-Bojana/Buna River” ecosystem of interconnected wetlands.
Fig. 1b: Location of the Solana Ulcinj at the east coast of the Adriatic Sea.
Size: 1.492 ha; surface area of basins 1.383 ha or 92,2 %; of dams, levees, canals
and the salina’s surrounding outer drainage canal 109 ha or 7,8 % of the Solana’s
whole area. Together dams and levees amount to a total length of 130 km.
Boundaries of the site: Of the salina’s perimeter of 18,7 km, 16,6 km follow the surrounding
outer canal and 2,1 km, close to the administration and processing buildings,
the northern bank of Porta Milena, i.e. the naturally formed inlet of the former inland
lagoon. Thus, the delimitation of the salina follows mainly artificial structures. The site
includes the whole area of the Solana, but excludes Porta Milena, the isthmus which
connects the salina with the Adriatic Sea.
Coordinates: 19°18’05,71’’ East
41°55’25,14’’ North
Altitude: 0–5 m
For a map of the proposed Ramsar site see Fig. 2.
18
Fig. 2: Delimitation of the proposed Ramsar site “Solana Ulcinj”.
3.1.2. History
According to the development of continuously elaborated techniques for industrial salt
production, SADUL et al. (1998) have distinguished primitive, rudimentary, traditional,
and modern salinas. The salina in Ulcinj belongs to the later, most modern type. The
history of the transformation of the former Zoganjsko Jezero and adjoining marshlands,
and of the construction of the Solana Ulcinj is summarized as follows (for details cf.
RADOVI 2008):
1920–1926 In 1920 the Monopoly Management (monopolska uprava) of former Yugoslavia
invited Antun KOLUDROVI and Guido GRISOGONA to select lands, which will be
suitable for industrial salt production, along the coast of the Adriatic Sea from Ankaran
in Slovenia south to Ulcinj in Montenegro. As the most suitable site both experts designated
Zoganjsko Jezero in Ulcinjsko Polje, near Ulcinj.
1926–1934 Construction of the first salt-pans and other indispensable infrastructure,
like buildings, reservoirs, evaporation basins (8,6 km2) and transportation equipment.
1935 First harvest of industrially produced salt (approximately 6.000 tons).
1952 Record harvest of 41.882 tons of salt (Fig. 3).
1959 Reconstruction works and expansion of the salt-pans (9,3 km2).
1979 On 15 April a earthquake heavily damaged the salt-pans and the Solana’s other
infrastructur.
1980 Reconstruction of evaporation basins which had been damaged by the earthquake
and expansion of the salina by including adjoining marshlands, called Kneta
(14,5 km2).
2003 The Solana Ulcinj starts to cooperate with EuroNatur aiming to protect the unique
ecosystem of the salina and for developing the area for touristic purposes.
2005 Privatisation of the Solana, with major stake-holders holding more than two
thirds of shares.
19
Fig. 3: Salt harvest in the Solana. 13 August 2004, Ulcinj, Montenegro (Photo: O. Vizi).
Since the first half of the 20th century the salina has a significant impact on the
economy and cultural identity of the Municipality of Ulcinj. Till today the salina is a
symbol for prosperity and wealth in the region (RADOVI 2008). Since 2005 the salina
is owned by a private company. According to impacts of the last Balkan War and the
embargo of former Yugoslavia by the international community on the economy of Montenegro,
the Solana is in urgent need of renovation and reconstruction (REPUBLIKA CRNA
GORA 2005).
3.1.3. Climate
With most rainfall during winter and early spring (Fig. 4), the long-term annual mean
of precipitation in Ulcinj amounts to 1.231 mm. Annual mean of air temperature averages
to 19,9 °C, with annual means of minimum and maximum temperatures varying
between 12,2 °C and 32,3 °C, respectively. Strong southerly winds, locally known as
jugo, and inland winds (bura) occur mainly during winter. Across the year annual means
of sunshine per month average to 2.567 hours, which is the highest value in Montenegro
(HIDROMETEOROLOSKI ZAVOD CRNE GORE 2003).
Regional climates throughout the Bojana-Buna River’s catchment area differ widely.
While along the coast of the Adriatic Sea a typical Mediterranean climate with hot
and dry summers till September/October prevails, the climate in the mountainous hinterlands
of the delta is of the Continental-Mediterranean type. The latter is characterized
by hot summers and cold winters with heavy snowfall. According to topography,
distance from sea and altitude, annual means of rainfall vary between 2.500–3.000 mm
in the mountains of the Dinaric Karst, 1.600–2.000 mm in the basin of Lake Skadar
and 1.200–1.300 mm in the Bojana-Buna Delta (NIKOLI 1999, HIDROMETEOROLOSKI ZAVOD
CRNE GORE 2003). Some 75 % of all precipitation is falling during the period bet20
ween October–May. The mean of air temperature around Lake Skadar amounts to
15 °C, along the coast of the Adriatic Sea to 16 °C, and in the mountains of the Bojana-
Buna River’s catchment area to 2–10 °C (cf. KARAMAN & BEETON 1981; www.britannica.
com/ebi/article-229097; www.discover-montenegro.com/Climate).
A weather station of the Hydro-Meteorological Institute of Montenegro (HIDROMETEOROLOSKI
ZAVOD CRNE GORE 2003), which is incorporated in the international network
of meteorological stations, is situated within the Solana Ulcinj (see www.meteo.cg.yu,
www.westwind.ch and www.wunderground.com/cgi-bin/findweather/getForecast?query=ulcinj).
The station, whose data are updated in one-hour intervals, is placed between the factory
buildings and Porta Milena.
Fig. 4: Long-term means of
precipitation per month (mm) in
the Solana Ulcinj, Montenegro
(HIDROMETEOROLOSKI ZAVOD CRNE
GORE 2003).
3.1.4. Protection status and strategies4
The Solana Ulcinj is a private property. According to the reorganisation plan for the salina,
prepared by the Republic of Montenegro in 2005, the area is formally protected
as a Nature Park (REPUBLIKA CRNA GORA 2005). Although several species of plants and
their habitats which occur in the salina, are strictly protected under the Nature Act
(2008) of the country, under the same act the salina per se, has no legal protection status.
In 2007 Velika Plaža and the Solana Ulcinj (2839,46 ha) have been designated
as Emerald Site 11 “Velika Plaža with Solana Ulcinj” by the joint meeting of the Ecological
Networks Committee of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg (EMERALD 2007). Based
on the habitat types described by SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. (2006b) the whole area
of the Solana was included into the site as well as some important coastal habitats
along Velika Plaža and in the surroundings of the salina. Based on criteria of the Natura
2000 Network and of the Berne Convention the final report lists, (1) mud flats, sand
flats, lagoons (including the salina’s evaporation basins) and (2) salt marshes, salt pastures
and salt steppes as the most important habitat types of the salina (EMERALD 2007).
4 For including current decisions concerning the legal status of the Solana this chapter was updated
till late September 2008.
21
For protecting the country’s environment and natural heritage the Ministry for Economic
Development and the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Protection of the
GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MONTENEGRO (2007), have agreed to follow the „Activities
and Deadlines” of the Strategy for Integrated Coastal Area Management in 2007 as
follows:
“1.1.1 Drafting of feasibility studies for putting under protection new protected
areas at the coast (priorities: a. Marine areas: Platamuni, island Old Ulcinj and islands
Kati; b. Continental areas: Tivatska solila, Solana, Šasko Lake, Knete and
Ada Bojana, Buljarica, part of Velika Plaža towards Ada Bojana, Luštica) (2008–
2009).”
According to the currently approbated Nature Act of the Republic of Montenegro,
for all protection areas of the country a MP will be needed. The Solana Ulcinj is the first
site for which a MP has been prepared in cooperation with local stake-holders. In addition,
EuroNatur and CZIP have prepared the Ramsar Information Sheet for the area,
translated it into local language and offered it to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment
and the Institute for Nature Protection in Podgorica for nominating the salina as
a Ramsar site.
In the new Spatial Plan of Montenegro (MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 2008)
the Solana Ulcinj is listed as an important representative of the most characteristic
landscapes of the country. From a whole of 21 basic landscape units which the Ministry
has recognized, the Solana is included in „unit (5) Bojana River Valley, Zoganjsko
Mud, Solana Ulcinj and Šasko Lake” (p. 47). The Ministry’s report (p. 47) further
states: „Variety of landscapes is of great value and represents the richness of any country.
In Montenegro this diversity appeared in a combination of exceptional natural values
alongside with different local traditions in spatial use, which resulted from reflections
of cultural-historical and socio-economic circumstances.” The Solana is a good
example for a landscape unit which is harbouring outstanding natural values and reflects
the cultural-historical and socio-economic circumstances of the region (RADOVI
2008).
The termination of industrial and military activities along the Albanian border will
further provide potentials for the establishment of new tourist zones in coastal areas
(MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 2008: 154). Most probably the Solana Ulcinj will
be included into the proposed tourist zone. „The development of tourist accomodations
along the coast has to be handled with extraordinary care because the carrying capacity
of the municipalities in this region is already almost exhausted.” The development of
tourist accomodations will be focused „in the area of Ulcinj municipality in the locations:
Valdanos, Velika Plaža with its deep hinterland, and also Solana and Ada Bojana
with respect to sustainable principles and natural values” (MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
2008).
Thus, the present MP offers a good basis for the future development of nature tourism
in the Solana Ulcinj, which is based on sustainable development principles and
22
the preservation of its natural values. As the habitats in the salina are protected as a
Emerald Site, nature tourism is the only option for development inside the area of the
Solana.
The new Spatial Plan of Montenegro additionally proposes to protect the Bojana-
Buna Delta (cf. SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b) as a National Park by „expanding borders
of the National Park Skadarsko jezero (Skadar Lake) to the Regional Park Rumija
or the area of Šasko Lake/the River Bojana Delta” (MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
2008: 174). The Solana Ulcinj and its surrounding landscapes will be an invaluable
asset for the proposed protection area and the most favourable site for bird-watching.
3.2. Salt production
The annual cycle of salt production in the Solana Ulcinj starts in late April, i.e. between
24–30 April during the last years. Initially seawater with concentrations of up to
29 grams NaCl/litre (3,5° Be) is pumped into the evaporation basins from a depth of
6 m in the Adriatic Sea off Porta Milena by a 3 km long channel. With the help of two
pumping stations (total capacitiy 3.000 litres-s), 1st grade evaporation basins (4,2 km2)
are filled within 15 days (Fig. 5). In the basins of the 1st evaporation grade seawater
flows passively by gravitation from one basin to the other. Water depths vary between
20–60 cm, with maxima up to 100 cm. The area of 1st grade evaporation basins,
which was constructed in 1980 and represents the most recently constructed part of
the salina, is locally called Kneta (Fig. 5). Older 1st grade basins, which have been
constructed during the 1920s, include the pans Stojski 1 and Stojski 2. Together both
later basins cover a total area of 3,2 km2. When fully filled, water in Stojski 1 & 2 is
around 30 cm deep.
Fig. 5: Nomenclature of basins (salt-pans) of different evaporation grades and local names for
different parts or salt-pans in the Solana Ulcinj.
23
When leaving the 1st evaporation grade salt concentration has increased to
55 grams NaCl/litre (7° Be), which is almost twice the salinity of seawater (Fig. 6). Filling
of 2nd grade evaporation basins, which cover 3,2 km2 of the former inland lagoon,
takes another 12–15 days (basins Zoganjski 1 & 2, which together cover 44 ha, are
not functional). With water depth fluctuating between 20–30 cm, salinity in 2nd grade
basins reaches up to 115 grams NaCl/litre (12°–14° Be). In the 3rd grade evaporation
area (0,6 km2) salt concentration is 172 grams NaCl/litre (19° Be), while it finally reaches
up to 218 grams NaCl/litre (24° Be) in 4th grade basins (0,2 km2). In both latter
sections water depth varies between 10–20 cm. Brine is directed from 3rd into 4th grade
evaporation basins by another pumping station (cf. Fig. 36). Finally, the crystallisation
of common salt takes place in very shallow waters with salt concentrations
 235 grams NaCl/litre (25,8°–27,0° Be) in small crystallisation pans (0,8 km2).
Industrial salt is harvested till the first half of September, but in some years, like
in 2004, as late as early November. During the whole cycle of salt production, seawater
continues to flow into the salina; the inflow of water will be interrupted only during
extended periods of rain. The process of salt crystallisation starts after all basins in the
salina have been refilled with seawater or saline waters in late May. From June onwards,
the water surface in the salina as well as salt concentrations in basins of different
evaporation grades are stable.
At the northern edge of the salina two reservoir complexes are situated (Accumulation
1 & 2). In the reservoirs brine with salt concentrations of 74 grams NaCl/litre
(8°–9° Be) and 174 grams NaCL/litre (17°–23° Be) is stored. Brine from both reservoirs
is used to trigger the crystallisation process in last grade evaporation basins in
spring, before saline waters from 1st and 2nd grade basins reach the basins of the 3rd
evaporation grade (see Fig. 6 and 7).
Fig. 6: Salt concentration in basins of different evaporation grades in the Solana Ulcinj.
24
Seawater and saline waters are flowing between basins, within as well as between
basins of different evaporation grades, in > 2 m wide canals. The network of canals
which connect the salt-pans, follows the longest possible route through the salina
(Fig. 7). The total length of the Solana’s levees is calculated at 130 km, with 78,6 km
of them > 2 m wide, and 16,6 km of canals < 2 m wide. In addition, the salina is surrounded by an outer drainage canal, which is also in the possession of the Solana (GOMILAINOVI et al. 1988; SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b). 3.3. The Solana as habitat The high species diversity of the Solana’s fauna and flora as well as the shear extent of its salt habitats are unique in the eastern Adriatic region: The salina in Ulcinj is the most important wintering, resting and nesting site for a number of species of waterbirds along the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea. In addition, situated on the Montenegrin side of the Bojana-Buna Delta, the salina is surrounded by almost undisturbed alluvial forests, marshlands, meadows and pasturelands. Most of the Bojana-Buna Delta’s grasslands are traditionally used for hay making or by grazing of domestic cattle with low human impact. With large areas of wetland habitats which surround the salina, still existing much of the former Zoganjsko Jezero is still preserved. In the salina the levees of Jezero 1 & 2 clearly follow the shoreline of the former inland lagoon (Plate 1). Fig. 7: The flow of seawater and saline waters through the salt-pans of the Solana Ulcinj. Arrows indicate the direction of waterflow. 25 3.3.1. General information The principal function of the ecosystem of the former Zoganjsko Jezero, whose hydrological cycle was characterized by floodings during winter and periodic droughts during summer, is maintained in the salina’s evaporation basins (1.383 ha) by the annual cycle of salt production. Currently, 122,1 ha of dikes, levees and an unused basin are covered by grasslands, while stands of halophytes cover 60,2 ha of the basins, reed beds 8,0 ha in basins and canals, Tamarix scrubs and softwood 13,0 ha on dikes, levees and in the unused salt-pan, which is called „Meadow”. In addition, 55,0 ha above stony grounds on dams and levees are covered by pioneer vegetation. Dikes are grazed by free-roaming cattle, sheep and goats or burned during summer. A continuous flow of sea- and rainwater through the salt-pans and the presence of permanent waters are important factors for maintaining the biological diversity of the salina: A third of its total surface area is regularly flooded or permanently covered by water, like Jezero 1 & 2 – both remnants of the former inland lagoon –, parts of Kneta, Accumulation 1 & 2, and most canals. In particular, open, but regularly flooded mudflats in the evaporation basins are very characteristic for the salina (Fig. 8). The Solana’s mudflats represent a habitat type which is extremely rare along the predominantly rocky shores of the eastern Adriatic Sea. While most floodlands in the river mouths and deltas along the 800 km long coastline between northern Italy and Montenegro have been drained and heavily urbanized during the last century. The structural and chemical diversity as well as the spatial and temporal variability of the open water bodies is essential for the maintenance of the biological diversity Fig. 8: Periodically flooded mudflats with extensive stands of Salicornia herbacea are characteristic for Jezero 1. 22 July 2004, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: O. Vizi). 26 of the salina. The ecosystems of shallow waters and periodically flooded mudflats are characterized by the production of large biomasses of arthropods and other invertebrates. Both, the area’s high species diversity and high abundances of arthropods, crustaceans and marine mollusks are responsible for large numbers of birds which nest, overwinter or rest during spring and autumn migration in the salina. 3.3.2. Fauna 3.3.2.1. Mammals Currently, no detailed studies on the mammal fauna of the Solana are available. In 2005 tracks of Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) were found in the main canal, 400 m ahead of pumping station no. 16. We regularly noted large numbers of otter spraints along the Bojana-Buna River and in its river mouth close to the Solana. During bird surveys, since 2003 the EuroNatur team has further confirmed the presence of Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes), Golden Jackal (Canis aureus), Brown Hare (Lepus europaeus) and Gleaner Mouse (Mus spicilegus) in the salina. Besides dikes, both canids use dried-out basins and shallowly flooded salt-pans for foraging. In one occasion a Golden Jackal was encountered in a mixed-species breeding colony of Black-winged Stilts and Collared Pratincoles, while it was heavily attacked by the birds. The Solana further appears to be important for bats (Chiroptera). The new observation tower, erected by EuroNatur, was almost immediately accepted by bats for roosting. But more research on mammals in the area is needed. 3.3.2.2. Birds Birds are the best studied taxon in the Bojana-Buna Delta and the Solana Ulcinj (VASI 1979, PUZOVI 2002, STUMBERGER et al. 2005). From a total of some 250 species, which are on record for the Bojana-Buna Delta, more then 70 or 28 % protected under the Bird Directive of the European Union. Breeding birds: During 2003 – 2006 we recorded a whole of 55 species of birds which breed in the Solana, i.e. almost the half of all breeding species known for the Bojana- Buna Delta (STUMBERGER et al. 2005). For eight species the salina is the only nesting site in Montenegro (see Appendix 2). The population numbers since 1988 for the waterbirds, breeding in the salina, are summarized in Tab. 1. Wintering waterbirds: According to mid-winter counts (IWC) conducted by EuroNatur since 2003, during January 2004 – 2006 the Solana was frequented by 12.354, 16.879 and 17.157 waterbirds, most of it waders. Autumn migration: IWC data indicate that population numbers during autumn migration are comparable to total numbers of mid-winter counts. In November 2003–2006, 14.281, 10.134, 18.510 and 10.831 waterbirds, again mainly waders, were counted in the salina. Besides waders, in November large numbers of herons, Pygmy Cormorants and Dalmatian Pelicans – the latter according to WPE3 reaching the 3 % threshold of the Ramsar Convention – were present. 27 Tab. 1: Population numbers of waterbirds nesting in the Solana Ulcinj (minimum – maximum bp.). Species Year 1988* 2000** 2003*** 2005*** 2006*** Common Shelduck 5 1 – 5 1 – 7 Garganey 2 – 3 0 – 1 Mallard 0 – 1 Northern Shoveler 1 1 – 3 Common Moorhen 1 Eurasian Oystercatcher 1 1 1 – 3 Black-winged Stilt 100 1 82 – 106 40 – 100 80 – 130 Pied Avocet 7 1 0 – 2 Stone-curlew 30 7 – 9 > 6 6 – 16
Collared Pratincole 75 – 90 28 – 81 100 80 – 95
Little Ringed Plover ? 3 – 11 5 1 – 3
Kentish Plover 50 30 44 – 52 30 – 50 30 – 40
Redshank 44 – 60 35 – 40 4 – 60
Slender-billed Gull 0 – 2
Yellow-legged Gull 25 26 30 – 50 30 – 51
Little Tern 80 – 90 6 97 – 133 90 – 120 100 – 150
Common Tern 8 24 – 26 33 – 60 50 – 80
Caspian Tern 0 – 5
Common Kingfisher ? ? ? ? 3 – 5
Total 333 – 368 70 329 – 480 374 – 546 436 – 649
* PUZOVIC et al. 1992, ** SAVELJIC 2002, *** EuroNatur (unpubl. data)
Spring migration: With a peak count of 32.336 waterbirds in March 2006, the Solana
represents a key resting site for migrating waterbirds along the eastern coast of the Adriatic
Sea during spring migration. Again waders are dominant, but in contrast to autumn
migration and winter large numbers of ducks are present in spring (see 3.4., Criterion
5).
Dalmatian Pelican: In late summer and autumn the salina offers adequate feeding and
roosting conditions for Globally Threatened Dalmatian Pelicans. Since 2003 we noted
maximum numbers around 50 birds, with a peak of 99 pelicans in October 2007. Each
year the species was present for at least four months between August–November. In
addition to autumn and winter visitors, during the species’ nesting season we regularly
noted small feeding flocks of 2–5 pelicans. According to time of season, behaviour and
28
flight directions we suppose that the later birds belong to the local nesting population
at Lake Skadar (SAVELJI et al. 2004). Resightings of colour-ringed Dalmatian Pelicans
indicate that, during late summer and autumn, the salina is frequented by birds which
originate from coastal nesting sites in Albania and the Gulf of Amvrikakos in western
Greece. While up to now we recorded no birds from inland colonies in Mazedonia and
Greece, together with birds from Lake Skadar, Dalmatian Pelicans which winter in the
Solana Ulcinj, represent the westernmost – and a probably discrete – (sub)population.
Since April 2003, we have noted most pelicans in basins of the 1st and 2nd evaporation
grade, while in 3rd grade evaporation basins the birds were seen only along canals
during low water-level (Fig. 9). By evidence, the species prefers the larger, more
open salt-pans, and adjoining dams and levees, which are not overgrown by tamarisk
and other shrubs. The open character of the latter may help pelicans to avoid terrestrial
predators and human disturbances (Fig. 10). Night-time roosting sites, which were
used for longer periods of at least 2–3 weeks since 2003, are located in Stojski 1 & 2,
Jezereo 1, and – in some cases, after the birds had been heavily disturbed during the
day by hunters and bird shooting – in basins no. 6, 8 and 9 of the Kneta. Aside of the
basins of the highest evaporation grade, and when undisturbed by hunting activities,
Dalmatian Pelicans use almost the whole salina for feeding, resting and roosting.
Fig. 9: Maximum numbers of Dalmatian Pelicans (Pelecanus crispus) recorded per basin in the
Solana Ulcinj, 2003 – 2008 (n = 507).
Cormorants, herons and ibises: Up to 838 bp. of colonially breeding waterbirds, i.e.
Pygmy and Great Cormorant, Black-crowned Night Heron, Squacco Heron, Little Egret,
Grey Heron, Purple Heron, and Eurasian Spoonbill, currently nest in the immidiate surroundings
of the salina. Significant numbers of cormorants, herons and spoonbills breed
on Paratuk and Ada Islands, and in the marshlands of Velipoja Reserve in Albania
(STUMBERGER et al. 2005, SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b). In addition, in spring Glossy
29
Ibises are regularly present on Paratuk Island, but up to now we found no active nests
of the species. Although, currently no breeding colony exists in the salina, the salt-pans
and canals of the Solana represent the most important feeding habitats for colonial waterbirds,
which nest throughout the floodplains of the lower Bojana-Buna River (Plate 3).
The diet of most colonial waterbirds, like cormorants, herons and spoonbills, consists
of fish, small mammals, insects, mollusks, and other aquatic invertebrates, which are
abundant in the salina.
Greater Flamingo: In spring each year flamingos are reported by Solana’s employees
and local hunters. Usually small flocks of up to 10 Greater Flamingos are present (cf.
PUZOVI 1994). Between March and May 2006 a small flock spent the whole spring in
the area. In autumn 2006 a colour-ringed bird was seen, who originated from the breeding
colony Salinas de la Trinitat in Spain’s Ebro Delta (JOHNSON & CÉZILLY 2007). Since
2003 we noted Greater Flamingos while feeding in Jezero 1 & 2, Stojski 2, basin
no. 17, and in crystallisation basins (see enumeration of basins in Fig. 31). Flamingos
use special techniques for filtering large numbers of small invertebrates, in particular
brine shrimps of the genus Artemia, from brackish and saline waters. During winter,
when adult brine shrimps are not available, flamingos feed on chironomid larvae, tubificid
worms, small mollusks, and the eggs (cysts) of Artemia shrimps (SADUL et al.
1998, JOHNSON & CÉZILLY 2007).
Ducks: Like in other freshwater and brackish marshland habitats of the Bojana-Buna
Delta, ducks breed only in very small and largely scattered numbers in the salina. Presumably,
the main reasons are uncontrolled hunting, shooting and other human disturbances.
During migration and winter eight species, mainly dabbling ducks, like Eurasian
Wigeon, Northern Pintail, Common Teal, and Garganey, are regularly present. Peak
Fig. 10: Group of Dalmatian Pelicans (Pelecanus crispus) resting on the Solana’s inner main
dam. 1 November 2005, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: P. Sackl).
30
numbers with up to 11.000 ducks were counted during mass stop-overs of Gargeneys
in March (Fig. 11; cf. also Appendix 5). Dabbling ducks feed mainly on water plants,
like Ruppia sp., by ‘tipping-over’ in shallow waters and pulling plants out from water
with their bills. In the salina we regularly saw ducks foraging on aquatic plants and insect
larvae in evaporation basins covered by shallow water. During winter most ducks
use the salina for daytime roosting, but fly out for feeding during dusk.
Waders: Between 50–70 % of all waterbirds, which we have counted in the salina since
2003, belong to this group. The most abundant species with maximum numbers of
> 1.000 birds are Northern Lapwing, Dunlin, Ruff, Common Snipe, Black-tailed Godwit,
Spotted and Common Redshank (see Appendix 5). In winter large numbers of Dunlin,
Northern Lapwing, Common Snipe and Eurasian Golden Plover feed in the shallow
waters and mudflats of the salt-pans. Maximum numbers are normally present in March,
when the Solana hosts up to 20.000 waders. A lower peak in early May with up to
2.300 birds consists mainly of Curlew Sandpiper (Fig. 12).
Fig. 12: Seasonal fluctuation of
total numbers of waders in the
Solana Ulcinj, 2003 – 2007 (24
counts). * no counts available.
Fig. 11: Seasonal fluctuation of
total numbers of waterfowl in
the Solana Ulcinj, 2003 – 2007
(24 counts). * no counts available.
31
Other Non-Passerines and passerines: Besides waterfowl and waders, we have noted
an additional number of 36 species of non-passerines which breed in the Solana or use
the area during migration (see also VASI 1979). A group of predominantly insectivorous
species, which are endangered in most of their former western and central European
breeding range, is of particular conservation concern: Lesser Kestrel (former nesting
species in the salina, but currently a rare migrant visitor), Little Owl (1–2 bp.),
European Roller (0–1 bp.), Eurasian Hoopoe (2–3 bp.), and European Bee-eater (0–
5 bp.). Passerines, who breed regularly and in good numbers in the salina, include
Crested Lark, Barn Swallow, Red-rumped Swallow, House Martin, Tawny Pipit, Yellow
Wagtail (ssp. feldegg), Great Reed Warbler, Zitting Cisticola, Spanish Sparrow (Fig. 13)
and Corn Bunting. During migration and winter large numbers of Meadow Pipit, Yellow
Wagtail (maxima of > 1.000 birds/day), European Robin, Whinchat, Moustached
Warbler, Spotted Flycatcher, Golden Oriole and Reed Bunting were noted on dams, in
reed beds and in the mudflats of the salina. But for a more comprehensive assessment
of the importance of the area for migrating and wintering passerines additional field
work will be needed.
Fig. 13: Male Spanish Sparrow (Passer hispaniolensis) feeding chicks in the Solana’s observation
tower. 18 June 2007, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: P. Sackl).
3.3.2.3. Fishes
The only document concerning the fish fauna of the salina which is currently availabe,
is a list of 18 species, which was prepared by Montenegrin experts for the 1st EuroNatur
workshop in November 2003 (Appendix 3). By comparing this list with the respective
list of fish species which have been recorded in the Bojana-Buna River ecosystem
(SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b), we expect that much more species may be present in
32
the salina. Because the outer drainage canal, which surrounds the Solana, is still connected
with adjoining marshlands and the Bojana-Buna River, even some endangered
species may exist in the area (cf. SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b).
3.3.2.4. Brine shrimps (Anostraca)
Worldwide brine shrimps of the genus Artemia (family Artemiidae) are known from
about 500 natural and artificial salt lakes and salinas (DUMONT 2004). Artemia shrimps
are adapted to aquatic habitats of high salinity of 70–250 grams NaCl/litre, which
are free of fishes, and other vertebrate and invertebrate competitors or predators. In saline
lakes and ponds brine shrimps may occur from the first inundation, when salt concentration
is low, up to the point of saturation. Because Artemia shrimps are incapable
of active dispersion, wind and waterbirds, particularly flamingos, are the most important
natural dispersion vectors. Brine shrimps colonize new habitats by eggs (cysts)
shed freely into water, and which manage to adhere themselves to the feet or feathers
of waterbirds. For the case to be ingested, cysts are able to remain intact for at least a
couple of days within the digestive tract of birds (DUMONT 2004).
Like in other natural and artificial salt lakes of the Balkan Peninsular, in the Solana
Ulcinj the species Artemia parthenogenetica is known to occur (LEVENS & SORGELOOS
1996). In October 1999 HEGEDIS et al. (in lit.) investigated the population numbers and
biomass production of the Solana’s native Artemia shrimps. With a total biomass of
24,2 tons, i.e. 54,2 grams/m3, the population density and biomass production of brine
shrimps in the salina is exceptionally high.
3.3.2.5. Insects
Few data concerning the insect fauna of the salina exist. Occasional observations,
which we noted mainly during bird surveys for EuroNatur, indicate seasonally fluctuating,
but sometimes large numbers of some grasshoppers (Orthoptera), like Anacridium
aegyptiacum, Locusta migratoria, Oecanthus pellucens, Xya cf. variegata, and Pteronemobius
heydenii. During spring and summer large numbers of butterflies (Lepidoptera)
were noted along dams, while in late summer and autumn we saw large numbers
of dragonflies (Odonata) along canals and in the low halophytes of some basins. In
2006 and 2007 numerous monarch butterflies of the species Danaus chrysippus
(Nymphalidae) were present in the halophyte vegetation of evaporation basins.
3.3.2.6. Mollusca
Like other invertebrate taxa, the mollusca fauna of the salina is poorly studied. During
a preliminary study of the benthos fauna of the salt-pans in September 2000, BOROVI
& SAVELJI (unpubl. data) found marine gastropoda of the genus Nassa (family Nassariidae)
in 1st grade evaporation basins and in evaporation II as well as the introduced bivalve
Tapes philippinarum in evaporation I–IV. In addition, a population of the autochthonous
mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis was confirmed in evaporation IV.
33
3.3.3. Flora
A whole of 114 species of plants is on record for the Solana (Appendix 4). Aside of extensive
stands of halophytes and reeds of the type Phragmition communis W. KOCH,
traditionally used meadows, pastures and different plant communities dominated by
pioneer plants exist on levees, dams, and in most basins. On several levees VUKSANOVI
& PETROVI (2004) noted the taxon Beta vulgaris ssp. maritime which was originally
described from Montenegro in 1913, and is actually known in the country from only
one other location. Aside of a number of other orchids, VUKSANOVI & PETROVI (2004)
noted Ophyrs bertollonii, a species which is strictly protected in Montenegro. On some
dikes and levees extensive stands of Orchis laxiflora and Narcissus tazetta exist. The
later species also occurs in large numbers in meadows in the hinterlands of Velika
Plaža. Concerning the international importance of the plant communities of the salina,
see Criterion 2 in chapter 3.4.
3.4. International importance
With > 1.000 ha the Solana Ulcinj is one of the largest salinas, which are currently in
active operation in the eastern Mediterranean region (SADUL et al. 1998). Following
rules of the Ramsar Convention the significance of the Solana Ulcinj for waterbirds and
other species is summarized as follows:
Criterion 1: According to the European Union’s Habitat Directive 92/43/EEC and the
Emerald Network, established under the Convention on the Conservation of European
Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Berne Convention), the area is situated within the Mediterranean
biogeographic region. Following the delimitations of the European Ecological
Region concept (DMEER), the Solana is situated within the Illyrian Deciduous Forest
region. Within both concepts, the shear extent of the salina’s brackish and saline wetland
habitats is unique for the respective biogeographic region. The Solana Ulcinj is an
outstanding example for an operational salina at the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea.
In addition, during seasonal floodings of the Bojana-Buna River, the salina is a functional
element for natural water retention in the lower Bojana-Buna river valley.
Criterion 2: Refering to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (2006) the proposed
Ramsar site supports the Critically Endangered Slender-billed Curlew (last sighting
2005), the Endangered Lake Scutari Water Frog (Rana shqiperica), a recently described
species of green or water frogs (Ranidae) which is endemic to Lake Skadar and the
lowlands of northern Albania (Fig. 14), and three bird species assessed as Vulnerable
(Tab. 2).
Apart of the Solana Ulcinj, stands of halophytes in comparable size exist in the
Republic of Montenegro only in the abandoned salina of Tivat (Boka Kotorska). While
in other parts of the country as well as along most of the eastern coast of the Adriatic
Sea (HORVAT et al. 1974), only few and largely fragmented stands of euryhaline plant
communities remain (S. VUKSANOVI in SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b). The preservati34
on of the Solana’s euryhaline plant communities depends on the annual cycle of salt
production and a careful management of the area. The salina further harbours a endemic
plant community, Salicornietum herbaceae, which was recently described by
JANKOVI & STEVANOVI (1983).
Fig. 14: Green frog with characteristics of the recently described Lake Scutari Water Frog (Rana
shqiperica HOTZ, UZZELL, GÜNTHER, TUNNER & HEPPICH, 1987). 6 May 2006, Gjo-Lulit, Albania
(Photo: T. Petras-Sackl).
Species Conservation status
Amphibia
Lake Skutari Water Frog EN – B1ab(iii)
Birds
Dalmatian Pelican VU – A2ce + 3ce
Lesser White-fronted Goose VU – A2bcd + 3bcd
Greater Spotted Eagle VU – C1
Slender-billed Curlew CR – C2a(ii), D
Tab. 2: Conservation status of
species listed in the IUCN
Red List of Threatened
Species (2006).
EN = Endangered,
VU = Vulnurable,
CR = Critically Endangered.
Criterion 3: In comparison to other wetlands in the Republic of Montenegro and the
Balkan Penisular, the Solana Ulcinj harbours a unique assemblage of freshwater, brackish
and saline wetland habitats. Apart of the high diversity of bird species (PUZOVI
2002, STUMBERGER et al. 2005), some other vertebrates, like Mediterranean Killifish
(Aphanius fasciatus), have their strongholds at the eastern coast of the Adratic Sea in
35
Taxon Number of species
Bojana/Buna
delta
Solana Ulcinj
Fishes 141 22
Amphibians 13 ?
Reptiles 28 ?
Birds 237 175
Mammals 31 ?
Tab. 3: Comparison of the
species diversity of birds and
other vertebrate taxa in the
Bojana-Buna Delta and in the
Solana Ulcinj (data adapted
from SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al.
2006b).
the Bojana-Buna Delta. A comparison of the species diversity of birds and other vertebrate
taxa in the Bojana-Buna Delta (Tab. 3) indicates that the Solana Ulcinj is at both,
the national and international levels, a outstanding site for the conservation of the biodiversity
of the western Balkan’s (SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b).
Criterion 4: During prolonged periods of severe weather with low temperatures and/or
heavy winds, large numbers of wintering waterfowl and waders are concentrated in the
salina, where dams and levees offer shelter from wind, and the alkaline environment
prevents mudflats and shallow waters from freezing-over (cf. SACKL et al. 2006 for the
Tivat Solila). Recent data indicate, that during adverse weather conditions in winter and
during dry summer months many waterbirds, like Great White Egret and other herons,
may leave Lake Skadar and other wetland habitats along the Bojana-Buna River for feeding
and roosting in the salina. The Solana Ulcinj is a key-site for wintering and migrating
waterbirds, and for most colonial waterbirds which nest in the Bojana/Buna River-
Lake Skadar ecosystem (cf. Plates 3 and 4). In addition, the area is regularly visited by
the most western population of Globally Threatened Dalmatian Pelican (3 % of the species’
global population).
Fig. 15: Seasonal fluctuations of
total numbers of waterbirds in
the Solana Ulcinj, 2003 – 2007
(24 counts). * no counts
available.
36
Species WPE3 WPE4
Pygmy Cormorant 1% 0,5%
Dalmatian Pelican 3% 2%
Little Egret 1,5% 1%
Great White Egret 1% 1%
Eurasian Spoonbill 1% 1%
Common Shelduck 1% 1%
Black-winged Stilt 1% 1%
Collared Pratincole 1% 1%
Kentish Plover 1% 0,5%
Grey Plover 1% 1%
Dunlin 1% 1%
Black-tailed Godwit 3% 3%
Slender-billed Curlew 1% 1%
Spotted Redshank 1,5% 3%
Marsh Sandpiper 1,5% 2%
Tab. 4: Waterbirds which reach
or exceed the 1 % threshold of
the Ramsar Convention in the
Solana Ulcinj, 2003–2007.
Criterion 6: Bird species whose population numbers exceed the 1 % criterion of the
Ramsar Convention, are listed in Tab. 4. According to occasional records of exceptionally
dense aggregations another three species may reach the 1 % threshold: Garganey
(1 %), Common Redshank (1 %) and Little Tern (1 %). Detailed data and information
on the application of the 1 % criterion of the Ramsar Convention are summarized in
Tab. 5.
The salina is currently designated as IBA „Ulcinj saltpans – Ulcinjska solane” (national
code YU045) by BirdLife International (HEATH & EVANS 2000). The Solana is further
proposed to be included in the planned transfontier Biosphere Reserve „Skadar
Lake – Bojana/Buna Delta” (SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006a). In November 2005 the
Albanian government established the respective protection area and has designated it
as Ramsar site in February 2006. In accordance with the zonation of the forthcoming
transboundary conservation area, it appears to be most appropriate to nominate the
Solana Ulcinj as a Special Management Area, which will be included in the buffer zone
of the proposed Biosphere Reserve or the extended Lake Skadar National Park (cf.
3.1.4.).
Criterion 5: Between 2003–2006 the Solana has hosted 15.000–20.000 waterbirds
in autumn and winter. Peak numbers of up to 32.000 waterbirds/day, mostly shorebirds
and ducks, are present in March during spring migration (Fig. 15). According to
high turn-over rates of some species, like Garganeys, with maxima of 1.200 birds/hour
arriving in the salina in spring, population numbers of waterbirds which use the salina
for resting and refuelling during migration, may be much higher (EuroNatur Database).
37
Species Biogeographic Population Count max. 1% level Solana 1% level Solana Min. estimate 1% level
(2003–2006) WPE3 Ulcinj WPE4 Ulcinj (2003–2006) WPE4
P. pygmeus SE Europe, Turkey 485 400 1% 1000 0.5% 1000 1%
P. crispus Black Sea, Mediterranean (non-bre) 96 30 3% 45 2%
E. garzetta garzetta, C and E Europe, Black Sea, E Mediterranean (bre) 680 580 1.5% 580 1% 1000 1.5%
E. alba alba, C and E Europe, Black Sea, E Mediterranean (bre) 501 470 1% 470 1%
P. leucorodia leucorodia, C, SE Europe (bre) 112 120 1% 120 1% 200 1.5%
T. tadorna Black Sea, Mediterranean 620 750 near 1% 750 near 1%
A. penelope Black Sea, Mediterranean (non-bre) 1228 3000 0 3000 0
A. querquedula W Africa (non-bre) 8279 20000 0 20000 0 20000 1%
A. clypeata Black Sea, Mediterranean, W Africa (non-bre) 1158 4500 0 4500 0
H. himantopus himantopus, C and E Europe, E Mediterranean (bre) 304 340 1% 340 1% 500 1.5%
G. pratincola pratincola, Black Sea, E Mediterranean (bre) 300 240 1% 240 1%
C. alexandrinus alexandrinus, Black Sea, E Mediterranean (bre) 380 410 1% 660 0.5% 600 1%
P. squatarola SW Asia, E Africa (non-bre) 481 900 near 1% 900 near 1% 1000 1%
C. alpina alpina, W Europe (non-bre) 10503 13300 near 1% 13000 near 1%
C. alpina centralis, SW Asia, E Africa (non-bre) 10503 3000 3% 3000 3%
L. limosa limosa, E Europe (bre) 3423 1300 3% 1300 3%
N. tenuirostris Mediterranean basin (non-bre) 1 1 1% 1 1%
T. erythropus Europe (bre) 1471 1000 1.5% 530 3%
T. totanus totanus, E Europe (bre) 1988 3400 0.5% 3400 0.5% 3000 1%
T. stagnatilis Europe (bre) 500 370 1.5% 270 2% 1000 3%
S. caspia Europe (bre) 14 65 0 95 0 ?
S. albifrons albifrons, E Europe (bre) 295 960 0 880 0 600–700 near 1%
non-bre / bre = non-breeding / breeding
Tab. 5: Application of 1 % criterion of the Ramsar Convention according to WPE3 (2002) and WPE4 (2006) for waterbird counts in the Solana
Ulcinj, 2003–2007 (EuroNatur Database).
38
4. Management objectives
4.1. Main goals
Goal 1: The area is regulary guarded and controlled by rangers.
Goal 2: Main nesting sites of waterbirds are save from terrestrial predators, uncontrolled
flooding and human disturbances. The following minimum numbers are continuously
preserved in the salina:
Dalmatian Pelican 1–5 bp. (former breeding species)
Greater Flamingo new colony established
Black-winged Stilt 100 bp.
Avocet 2–10 bp.
Slender-billed Gull 2–10 bp.
Common Tern 30 bp.
Little Tern 100 bp.
Goal 3: Population numbers of birds which nest in dry grasslands and salt steppes, i.e.
Collared Pratincole and Stone-curlew, amount to > 100 bp. and > 10 bp., respectively.
Goal 4: Ducks breed again in significant numbers in the Solana, Great Bitterns regularly
breed in at least 1–2 bp., and Common Shelduck in minimum numbers of 10 bp.
Goal 5: Insectivorous bird species regularly breed in following minimum numbers:
 Lesser Kestrel breeding colony established (former breeder)
 Little Owl 3 bp.
 European Roller 2–4 bp.
 European Bee-eater 50 bp.
 Eurasian Hoopoe 5–10 bp.
Goal 6: During winter the Solana regularly hosts 20.000 waterfowl and waders.
Goal 7: During spring migration the Solana regularly supports 40.000 resting waterbirds.
Goal 8: Until 2012 during the period from August–November, peak numbers of Dalmatian
Pelicans will increase to 200 birds, with minimum numbers of 100 pelicans
between September and November.
Goal 9: All protected or endangered plants, e.g. all species of orchids, are preserved in
original numbers, and all stands of euryhaline plant communities are preserved in its
original extent.
Goal 10: The Solana Ulcinj is established as a Nature or Landscape Park according to
IUCN category V or maintained as a Managed Protected Area (category IV) as part of a
larger protection area (National Park, Regional Park or Biosphere Reserve).
39
4.2. Salt production
The existing, seasonal cycle of salt production which is based on the natural evaporation
process (cf. chapter 3.2.), is acknowledged as the optimal use of the salina and the
foundation of the MP.
4.2.1. Maintenance of dikes
All dikes have to be maintained by the Solana’s management as a crucial infrastructure
for salt production. EuroNatur supports its maintenance with a mini excavator. The
open character of dikes with scattered stands of low Tamarix shrubs, dry grasslands
and meadows, offers adequate nesting conditions for waterbirds and dry grassland
birds as well as access to the salina for renovation and visitor activities. Existing practices
for maintaining dikes include grazing by free-roaming domestic animals, cutting of
grasses and renovation of damaged dams and levees.
Concerning the maintenance of dikes and levees, a simple classification is appropriate:
 Dikes without nest sites of waterbirds, which could be maintained by grazing
cattle or mowing
 Dikes with breeding colonies, which have to be maintained by active conservation
management
Apart of Collared Pratincole and Yellow-legged Gull, currently no colonial waterbirds
nest on the main dike in the northern and southern parts of the salina. Most breeding
colonies are located on remnants of the old dike which separates Jezero 1 & 2. The
remnants of this dike, which are surrounded by open water, are inaccesible for terrestrial
predators, bird-watchers and other visitors. A large portion of the nest sites of waders,
who currently nest on the islets, will be lost due to reconstruction work during the
next years.
For mitigating the loss of nest sites on the damaged dike between Jezero 1 & 2,
the key priority is to maintain and to transfer the old dike in Jezero 1 into small islands
for nesting waterbirds (see chapter 6.9.). In 2005 a pilot project during which parts of
the old dike in Jezero 1 were transferred into artificial nesting islets, has been, with the
establishment of a nesting colony of 25 bp. of Little Tern, a first success of active conservation
management. According to current population numbers of colonially nesting
waterbirds in Jezero 2 and experiences with the pilot project in Jezero 1, a whole area
of at least 1 ha or 800 m in length of artificial islands will be needed along the old dike
in Jezero 1.
Grazing agreements: Till 2005 up to 500 sheep and 80 cattle, owned by local stockholders
in Stoj and Zoganj, have been grazed along the dikes and levees of the Solana.
Domestic animals, which graze in the salina, belong to local breeds of Pramenka sheep
(Zackelschafe), like ljaba, baljusa and bardoka, and some cattle to the grey, native busha
strain (Fig. 16 and 17).
40
Fig. 16: The Solana’s outer dam is grazed by free-roaming sheep. 25 April 2003, Solana Ulcinj
(Photo: P. Sackl).
Fig. 17: Cattle grazing on the southern main dam between Kneta and Jezero 2. 24 April 2003,
Solana Ulcinj (Photo: B. Stumberger).
Currently, signs for over-grazing are evident on the inner main dam between Evaporation
II and basins Zoganjski 1 & 2, and on the dikes in Kneta. The over-grazed
dams harbour significant nesting sites of Collared Pratincole, Stone-curlew and smaller
numbers of Common Redshank. To preserve adequate nesting conditions for Collared
41
Pratincoles and Stone-curlews it will be essential to maintain open grassland habitats
with low vegetation which is intermingled with patches of open ground, on dams.
Until 2005 grazing was practised by local people without any agreements with the
Solana’s management, and damages of dikes caused by cattle were regularly reported.
In contrast to grazing fees, it may be more praticable for keeping dikes, dams and levees
free from shrubs and high grasses by cattle, to make grazing agreements with 4–6 local
stockbreeders. Although cost benefits are important for the Solana, a simple regime for
the grazing of sheep and cattle should be accepted:
 Year-round grazing of domestic animals in the presence of shepherds is possible
only on the Solana’s outer dike.
 Grazing of inner main dams and smaller levees is possible only with free-roaming
animals.
 During herding cattle and sheep into and back home from the salina it is not
allowed to cross dry salt-pans, which may potentially damage the petola layer
of the evaporation basins.
 Grazing is prohibited in all basins of the 3rd and 4th evaporation grade, and in
crystallisation basins.
Alternatively, it may be more practicable to limit grazing by temporarly fencing-off
sensible areas or to limit the access of cattle to special management areas. Good examples
for the latter are given by the grasslands along Porta Milena and in the unused
basin called „Meadow” (cf. chapter 6.5.).
Dike between crystallisation basins and Porta Milena: 11 ha of the dam, which is currently
heavily overgrown by low scrubs, should be managed as an extensively grazed
pastureland (1,8 cattle/ha). This will offer the oppurtinity to establish a nucleus herd of
up to 20 animals of the critically endangered Montenegrin busha cattle in vivo. By installing
a 2,5 km long electric fence it’s possible to create a pasture which is safe for
cattle as well as visitors. The proposed pastureland is separated from the visitor trail,
which is running along the dam, by a narrow, but deep canal. Internationally operating
NGOs, like the Monitoring Institute – SAVE in Switzerland and the National Institute for
Agriculture in Montenegro, should be contacted for help with the establishment of the
nucleus herd.
Mowing: Besides grazing, mowing offers a practicable alternative for preserving low vegetation
on dikes. In comparison to grazing, mowing will be more cost intensive in
terms of working time and fuel, but offers a better control of the area, and damages of
dikes and levees by cattle will be avoided. For the case the Solana decides to use mowing
for the maintenance of main dikes and levees, the following regulations should be
implemented:
 During the nesting season of birds, i.e. between March 1st and September 1st,
only already existing tracks for vehicles on top of main dikes, which are necessary
for patrolling the salina, should be mown.
 All other dikes and smaller levees should be mown in autumn, after salt harvest
is finished.
42
Burning: Burning should be used only under special circumstances and following careful
planning. Burning of the dike between Jezero 2 and Zoganjski 1 in late winter till
March 10th, before birds start to nest, may be a option for creating nesting habitats for
Collared Pratincoles (SCHNEIDER-JACOBY & SAVELJI 2006). But, the effects of burning on
vegetation, habitat use and nesting success of the species has to be carefully monitored
(Fig. 18).
Fig. 18: Low grasslands intermingled with patches of bare soil offer adequate habitat for Collared
Pratincoles (Glareola pratincola) on heavily over-grazed dams. 28 April 2006, Solana
Ulcinj (Photo: T. Petras-Sackl).
4.2.2. Water regime
Although the water regime and ecology of the former Zoganjsko Jezero was heavily altered
by the construction of the salina, the former inland lagoon is still maintained as a
wetland habitat. At least the extent of wetland habitats, which are permanently or periodically
covered by water, in the Montenegrin part of the Bojana-Buna Delta has remained
unchanged during the last century. In winter, after the harvest of industrial salt
in late summer, most of the salina’s salt-pans are free of seawater, but will be covered
by heavily fluctuating levels of rainwater following local rainfalls, which permanently
refill the basins between October and May. In winter a minimum of one third of the saltpans
is permanently covered by water, while other basins, depending on local rainfall,
wind conditions and relief, are covered by shallowly flooded, wet or partially dried-out
mudflats. By their ecological function as artificially created intertidal wetland habitats,
the latter basins attract large numbers of waders and of other waterbirds during migration
and winter.
43
Because during winter, until a new cycle of salt production will start in late spring,
shallowly flooded or dried-out mudflats offer no adequate conditions for aquatic plants
and animals, which are not resistent to prolonged periods of desiccation, like chironomids,
tubificid worms, some mollusks and fish (SADUL et al. 1998), water management
is the most important factor which is limiting the numbers of migrating and nesting
waterbirds.
The Solana has offered four basins, where water levels could be managed exclusively
for conservation purposes: Jezero 1, Zoganjski 1 & 2, and the basin called „Meadow”
(Fig. 19). For compensation of the proposed reconstruction of Jezero 2, which
currently harbours significant numbers of nesting waders, the appropriate management
of the water regime in Jezero 1 will be of great importance for colonial waterbirds.
Main measures for maintaining water levels in Jezero 1 which are compatible with conservation,
are (cf. 6.9.3.):
 Construction of a dam or low levee along the southern side of the former, central
canal in Jezero 1 to divide the basin in two parts: Jezero 1a, with a naturally
fluctuating, and Jezero 1b, with an artificially controlled water level.
 The installation of three sluices along the dam between Jezero 1a & 1b.
 Installation of a year-round monitoring system and management of water levels
in Jezero 1b, Stojski 1 & 2 by continuously measuring water levels with
a water-gauge.
 During winter (October–April), i.e. between annual cycles of salt production,
the existing water regime in Jezero 1 should be not artificially altered. With
water covering 25–75 % of the basin, dikes and levees will be not damaged
by waves.
Fig. 19: Map showing non-functional basins offered by the Solana’s management for conservation
and habitat management.
44
4.2.3. Vegetation
Only 8 ha of the salina’s total area are covered by reeds, while associations of halophytes
cover 60,2 ha in salt-pans and canals. It is well known that, in comparison to
open water surfaces, evapotranspiration rates are substantially higher above reed banks
and stands of aquatic vegetation. Therefore, it’s in the Solana’s interest to preserve or
to increase the vegetation cover in the salt-pans.
For preserving the vegetation in the basins two main rules should be followed:
 According to their effects on evapotranspiration, reeds and other stands of semi-
aquatic and aquatic vegetation should be not cut or burned.
 All stands of halophytes have to be preserved as far as possible from any damage
by reconstruction and renovation works (e.g. in Jezero 2).
For preserving open grassland habitats and pasturelands on dikes and levees the following
points are important:
 Regular grazing by domestic animals (see 4.2.1.) or 1–2 cuttings p.a.
 Mapping of plant communities and of all protected plant species on dikes and
levees.
By comparing economical aspects of grazing vs. mowing, mowing will be more expensive,
but grazing has to be more closely guarded. The mapping of plant communities
will help to identify segments along dams where grazing or mowing will be the better
or only practicable option.
4.2.4. Medicinal use of the salt-pans
For creating additional revenues and for contributing to the development of the wellness
section of tourism in the region, the Solana’s management is planning to use euryhaline
soils of the salt-pans for medicinal purposes. According to a preliminary study, ordered
by the Solana, Jezero 1 harbours the best soils for this purpose. For preserving the
basin’s significance for waterbirds (see chapter 6.9.) all mud should be taken:
 Outside the nesting season, and in small quantities only, between September
1st and March 1st.
 Close to the first hide (see Fig. 25) along the northern dike of Jezero 1.
With left-overs from the extraction of mud additional islands for nesting waterbirds or
observation facilities for visitors, close to the already existing hide, should be
constructed.
4.3. Rangers
The constant guarding of the salina by rangers will be the key for a successful implementation
of the MP. The tasks of rangers include the security of the Solana’s property,
guarding of protected areas, and the information of visitors on flagship species, like pe45
licans and flamingos, and on other natural values in the salina. Thus, the main tasks of
rangers include:
Standard route: The salina is controlled daily along the outer dam. Because sportsmen,
like hunters and fishermen, regularly enter the salina illegally during dusk and dawn, it
is most important to patrol during evening and morning hours. For demonstrating the
Solana’s best intention to protect the area from illegal access and bird shooting at least
two night patrols per week, two hours after sunset and two hours prior to sunrise, will
be appropriate.
Temporary route: Temporary patrol routes cover the salina’s inner dams and levees.
Along temporary routes guarding should be done once a week, or even lesser, and, so
far appropriate, a car could be used for patrolling. Because dams in the Kneta and in
some older parts of the salina are core roosting areas for Dalmatian Pelicans, they
should be used for patrolling only carefully and as less as possible.
Control points: For locating illegal sportsmen and other unauthorized visitors constant
control points should be used by rangers by 30 minute stops. Patrolling routes and control
points shown in Fig. 20 are selected to avoid disturbances in core conservation areas
and, simultaneously, to ensure the most effective patrolling of the salina.
In addition to patrolling, rangers should accomplish the following activities:
 Counting and regular reporting on the presence of flagship species, i.e. pelicans,
flamingos and other waterbirds, including species, date of observation,
location (number of basin), and numbers of birds.
 Promptly and regular reporting to the Solana’s management on all illegal activities,
like shooting, hunting, fishing, unauthorized visitors, hides, rafts,
bridges and unauthorized fishing equipment in the outer canal by recording
date, time of day, activities and numbers of people involved.
 Disposing of waste left on trails, on the observation tower and in hides by visitors.
 Helping visitors with information.
 Checking tickets of visitors and urging visitors not to leave trails.
 Guiding groups of visitors along the inner trail.
 Year-round monitoring of water levels in Jezero 1, Zoganjski 1, and, between
April and September, in Stojski 1 & 2.
 Noting of all activies and observations in a diary.
Equipment: The standard field equipment of rangers includes a bicycle and/or motor
cycle, mobile phone, binocular, note book, pens, maps showing the standard enumeration
of basins (Fig. 31) and a bird field guide.
46
Fig. 20: Standard and temporary patrol routes of rangers.
4.4. Protected areas
Throughout the Mediterranean region, active as well as abandoned salinas are important
wetland habitats for nesting and migrating waterbirds (SADUL et al. 1998). In the
same way, the Solana Ulcinj is a key-site for nature conservation, the sustainable use
of the Bojana-Buna Delta ecosystem (SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b), and for the national
biodiversity strategy of the Republic of Montenegro. Accordingly, the Solana should
be established as a protected wetland under IUCN category V (Protected Landscape/
Seascape).
The Solana further fulfills criteria of the Ramsar Convention. Besides its significance
as a key-site for 15.000–30.000 waders and other waterbirds along the Central
European Flyway (Adriatic Flyway), and its potential to attract endangered waterbirds
for nesting, like Dalmatian Pelican and Greater Flamingo, the area offers great potentials
for the development of eco-tourism. For achieving both objectives, it is necessary to
establish a strictly protected core conservation area in the salina, which will be prohibited
for people (Fig. 21), and to implement a special habitat and species management
in basins, which the Solana has already offered to put permanently out of operation for
conservation purposes (Fig. 19).
47
Fig. 21: Map showing the delimitation of the proposed core conservation area in the Solana
Ulcinj.
Following current Montenegrin law the whole area of the salina has to be considered
as an industrial area, in which according to hunting regulations of the Republic
of Montenegro, all hunting activities are prohibited. Under the same rules, according to
current hunting regulations of the provincial government of the Opstina Ulcinj any hunting
and bird shooting is strictly prohibited in the Solana. Despite legal regulations,
CZIP and EuroNatur have recorded a lot of illegal hunting and bird shooting by local
and foreign hunters in the salina and along Velika Plaža since 1999 (Fig. 22–23). A
considerable part of Velika Plaža is, like the Solana, protected by current Montenegrin
law (SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b, RASCHKE 2005).
Therefore, under Goal 1 (see chapter 4.1.) the present MP targets to (re)enforce
existing regulations and to implement a strictly guarded hunting ban in the salina (see
chapter 4.3.).
Further objectives of the proposed core conservation area in the salina are as follows:
 To preserve and to improve breeding conditions for colonially nesting waterbirds,
in particular for waders, ducks, and dry grassland birds.
 To preserve and to improve conditions for resting and over-wintering waterfowl
and shorebirds.
 To establish the natural and cultural heritage of the salina as an integrated
element of the Solana’s cooperative identity.
  To develop the non-functional basins Jezero 1, Zoganjski 1 & 2, and „Meadow”
as special conservation areas, managed for nesting waterbirds and dry
grassland birds (see chapter 6.).
48
Fig. 22: Common Redshank (Tringa totanus) wounded by bird-shooters. January 2001, Solana
Ulcinj (Photo: D. Savelji).
Fig. 23: Juvenile Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) wounded by gunshots. January 2001, Solana
Ulcinj (Photo: D. Savelji).
49
4.5. Nature tourism and environmental education
Until 2006 the Solana offered a guided tour for outside visitors through its factory buildings,
which was mainly used by local schools, while visitors were generally excluded
from the salt-pans. Nature tourism and environmental education started with the cooperation
of the Solana with EuroNatur, and first facilities for visitors, like a visitor trail,
hides, and a observation tower were erected between 2005 and 2006. In spring 2006
a exhibition was opened by EuroNatur in the Solana’s new museum space in cooperation
with the Natural History Museum of Montenegro in Podgorica.
For promoting awareness for the salina’s natural values, with help from EuroNatur,
the company has organized two workshops for staff members (see chapter 2.). In the
furture the presence and information responsibilities of rangers will further help to develop
the educational potentials of the Solana. The salt company is an important employer
for local people and an important partner for the development of tourism in the
region. Aside of the economic situation of the salt market, environmental education and
eco-tourism are new challenges for the Solana which will allow the marketing of salt
products in situ.
4.5.1. Information centre
A preliminary information centre with appropriate infrastructure, like information stands
and a Powerpoint projector, is already existing in the new museum of the Solana. Responsibilities
of the head/guide of the information centre during guided tours for school
classes and other visitor groups include:
 Welcome note to visitors (1 min.).
 Guided tour through the exhibition (10 min.).
 Powerpoint presentation or film, “Solana – Salt is Life” (10 min.).
 Answering questions and discussing with visitors.
 Guiding visitors through the factory buildings and salt-pans, and explaining
the process of salt production.
 Guiding visitor groups along the inner trail to the observation tower.
Concerning the organisation of the information centre main responsibilities include:
 Organisation of guided tours and group visits.
 Regular information of the media.
 Keeping contact with the Solana’s management and with rangers.
 Coordination of the visitor programme “Salt Production”.
An important responsibility of the information centre will be to inform visitors on the
aims, methods and the implementation of conservation activities, e.g. water-level management
for waders, hunting ban, habitat management for colonial waterbirds. The
main task of the information centre is to share information with the public. By doing so
it will be an important tool for increasing the Solana’s image and for marketing its products.
A dynamic person, who is able to speak Monetenegrin, Albanian and English,
should be posted as its head. EuroNatur is able to offer accurate training for the head
of the information centre and for guides.
50
4.5.2. Educational trail
In the salina an inner and outer trail already exists which are both suitable for visitors,
without affecting core conservation areas. Both trails allow self-guided tours, but should
offer information stands for people of different ages, education and interests. The inner
trail is 3,9 km long and takes a 3 hour walk. With the construction of an observation
tower (Fig. 24), hides, nest-boxes, nesting islets and signs since 2005, visitor facilities
along the inner trail are already under active construction. The outer trail, which will
surround the salina, is 17,6 km long and will take an 8 hour walk (Fig. 25). Additional
infrastructure, like a bicycle trail with watch towers around the salina, has been suggested
by the proposed GEF project of the World Bank.
For the furture along both trails additional information facilities will be needed. To
inform visitors on the ecological and economic values of the salina, information stands
explaining water gauges, salinity and evaporation grades, pumps, canals, vegetation,
birds and the management of water-levels should be erected in situ.
Along both trails visitors have to accept the following rules:
 Access for visitors is possible only along marked trails on dikes. A simple
sketch of both, the inner and outer visitor trail, should be printed on entrance
tickets.
 Visiting the salina is possible only during the day (summer: 8 a. m.–20 p. m.,
winter: 8 a. m.–17 p. m.).
 Throughout the salina camping, camp-fires and any artificial noise is prohibited.
 Visitors, who intend to take the outer trail on foot have to start at least 8 hours
before dusk. The entrance and checkpoint for visitors using the outer trail is
at basin no. 1 (refreshment stall in Fig. 25).
Fig. 24: Construction of the central observation tower along the inner visitor trail on the dike
between Jezereo 1 and Jezero 2. 25 September 2006, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: M. Vernik).
51
Fig. 25: Map of already existing visitor facilities along the inner visitor trail and the proposed
outer trail on the Solana’s surrounding dam.
4.5.3. Visitor train
In the salina a narrow-gauge railway exists, which was originally erected for transporting
salts from crystallisation basins to the Solana’s depots. This railway offers a good
oppurtinity for an additional service for visitors. Although the railway needs renovation,
it could be used to connect the Solana with seaside resorts and hotels, close to the isthmus
of the Porta Milena channel, at Velika Plaža, which are only a few hundred metres
away from the salina. The visitor train, which will be unique for the Balkan region, is
expected to attract many visitors from Velika Plaža, the main tourist destination in the
outskirts of Ulcinj.
The train line should start in front of the information centre and will connect the
latter directly with Jezero 1 (Fig. 26). This appears to be the best way to deal with visitor
groups in the future.
During the tourist season traffic jams prevail in the city of Ulcinj and in main resorts
along Velika Plaža. Therefore the idea of the visitor train, developed by EuroNatur,
is a challenge for the whole community which offers the potential to solve traffic and
many related problems of the Ulcinj community. In addition, the proposed visitor train
will help to establish the conservation image of the region. The Solana Ulcinj should
find partners which are interested in the project.
4.5.4. Bicycle trail
A bicycle trail along the outer dam of the salina was already proposed by the World
Bank’s GEF project (see 4.5.2.). According to current conditions, biking on the salina’s
outer, surrounding dam is possible only with mountain-bikes. In different segments the
dam is in need of smaller renovation works with bulldozers. Bike rentals in the Solana’s
information/visitor centre could be an interesting offer for tourists.
52
4.5.5. Salt festival
A salt festival “Berba soli” in the factory buildings of the Solana may be an important
and powerful social event for promoting the natural and cultural values of the region.
The best time for a festival will be at the end of the annual salt harvest in August/September.
In the long term, tourism is the main sector that produces the greatest added
values from Marine Protected Areas (e.g. KELLEHER et al. 1995). In this way a salt festival
will be a potentially powerful contribution to the development of tourism, based on
the natural and cultural resources of the Bojana-Buna Delta in Montenegro and Albania.
The idea has to be discussed with the Solana’s staff, because they often have the
best ideas for promoting their own place.
4.5.6. Visitor programme “Salt Production”
The Solana Ulcinj has great experience and a long-time tradition in guiding and informing
visitors on salt production in the salina. In the future a booklet, which should be
developed by the company and should be offered to all visitors, will be needed for the
information centre. In addition, new information stands and visitor facilities will be vital
for technical explanations of salt production along visitor trails (see 4.5.2.).
4.5.7. Regional programmes
National and international cooperations of the Solana should include joint ventures and
promotion programmes with other protected salinas in the Mediterranean region. As
part of the Adriatic Flyway Project5, EuroNatur is actually preparing a nature guide for
Fig. 26: Map of the proposed visitor train which will connect the inner trail with the Solana’s
visitor centre and seaside resorts at Velika Plaža in the outskirts of Ulcinj.
53
the east coast of the Adriatic Sea which, besides the Solana Ulcinj, will include other
salinas in Slovenia, Croatia and Albania. Another important site along the Adriatic Flyway
in Montenegro represents the abandoned salina in Tivat (Tivat Solila), which is already
under protection and according to the new Spatial Plan of Montenegro in urgent
need of accurate visitor management (SACKL et al. 2006).
Another powerful option for both, the Solana and the Ulcinj community, is the cooperation
with Shkodra and Velipoja on the Albanian side of the Bojana-Buna Delta.
The proposed trans-boundary Marine Park which will incorporate all conservation areas
along the Bojana-Buna river corridor between Lake Skadar and the river‘s mouth at the
Adriatic Sea, offers great potentials for the development of nature tourism, with the Solana
as one of the key attractions in Montenegro (SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b). In
addition, by incorporating the Solana Ulcinj and its information/visitor centre into the
European Green Belt initiative, it will be able to promote the Bojana-Buna Delta and the
Solana throughout Europe (ENGELS & GERLING 2006, SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006a).
4.6. Management of the Nature Park “Solana Ulcinj”
4.6.1. Management of the privately owned conservation area
The Solana will manage the nature park with its own staff. The main activity of the
company is the production of commercial salt, which forms the basis for the preservation
of the natural values of the salina (see chapter 3.3.). The Solana company covers
all costs for the production and the maintenance of equipment which is necessary for
salt production. Because the maintenance of the salt-pans was largely ignored during
the last Balkan War, and after the company’s insolvency 2005, the salina has to be rebuilt
by the new leadership of the Solana. In particular, for maintaining salt production
a large-scale reconstruction and renovation of Jezero 2 is necessary.
Because hunting, fishing and other illegal activities by outsiders have regularly
caused damage and conservation problems, a private security agency is guarding the
property since spring 2007. Costs for guarding the area are paid by the Solana.
The Nature Park and core conservation areas in the salina are managed by the Solana
in close cooperation with EuroNatur. In cooperation with Darko SAVELJI from the
National Institute for the Protection of Nature of the Republic of Montenegro, EuroNatur
is responsible for monitoring bird populations in the salina. Although the EuroNatur
team is holding permanent meetings, so far no formal board for the implementation and
a constant evaluation of the MP has been nominated. EuroNatur has suggested the establishment
of a voluntary board which should include representatives of the local com-
5 The Adriatic Flyway is part of the Central European Flyway of bird migration from western Eurasia
to Africa. In autumn large numbers of birds from eastern Europe, central and northern Asia
migrate in south-western directions across the Adriatic Sea via southern Italy, Sciliy and Malta to
North Africa.
54
munity in Ulcinj, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, the National Institute for
Nature Protection, the Natural History Museum of the Republic of Montenegro and international
partners, to support the Solana with the implementation of the MP.
By organizing meetings and workshops EuroNatur supports the Solana to maintain
and to create additional visitor facilities. During a workshop in autumn 2006, in which
volunteers from BirdLife Slovenia and BirdLife Austria have participated, breeding islets
for terns, observation hides and nest-boxes for Common Shelduck, European Roller and
Bee-eaters have been erected along the inner and outer visitor trails (Fig. 27–29).
Fig. 27: Construction of artificial nesting islands by employees of the Solana in Jezero 1. April
2004, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: B. Stumberger).
Fig. 28: Installation of nest-boxes for Common
Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna). April 2005, Stojski 1,
Solana Ulcinj (Photo: B. Stumberger).
Fig. 29: Installation of nest-boxes for
European Roller (Coracias garrulus) on
electric poles. 29 September 2006,
Solana Ulcinj (Photo: M. Vernik).
55
4.6.2. Financing and entrance fees
EuroNatur is supporting the implementation of the MP and the Nature Park within the
framework of the project “Protection and Sustainable Development of the ‘Solana Bajo
Sekuli, Ulcinj – Bojana-Buna Delta (Montenegro)”, which is financed by the MAVA
Foundation. The assistance and cofinancing by EuroNatur is justified by the national
and international significance of the natural values of the salina and the site’s importance
for preserving the Lake Skadar-Bojana/Buna River ecosystem (chapter 3.3. and
3.4.). In addition, the salina represents an outstanding cultural and natural heritage for
the municipality of Ulcinj. Therefore, the preservation of the Solana should be additionally
supported by other national and international funds. The formal protection of the
salina under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance will stimulate
further efforts for generating funds. In the future support for education programmes
and conservation projects by the Republic of Montenegro will be of great importance.
On the local scale tourists and other guests which visit the Solana for bird watching
or environmental education, will generate additional sources of income for the
Nature Park. We propose entrance fees of 2 € for adult visitors and a minimum fee of
8 € for visitor groups, but special offers for children and school classes are recommended.
Generated income should be used for guarding the area, the maintenance of basins
and for conservation activities. Further offers for visitors should include souvenirs
and special products of the Solana (e.g. fleur du sol).
4.6.3. Wise use of the Solana’s natural resources
While the basic income of the salina is the production of industrial salts, by entrance
fees, merchandising and fundings for conservation projects, the Nature Park will generate
additional income for the Solana. Like in other salinas of the Mediterranean region,
it will be important for the Solana to explore supplementary income by the sustainable
use of its natural resources, like grazing fees for cattle or for mowing. Additional income,
already mentioned, may be generated by the use of euryhaline soils for medicinal
purposes (see 4.2.4.).
Currently, the Solana is discussing supplementary income by fish farming, and a
pilot project has been already conducted in the main canal along crystallisation basins
close to the Solana’s headquarters. In accordance with conservation targets, outlined in
the MP, EuroNatur suggests to establish a fish trap in front of the main pumping station,
where fish could be removed from the main canal, before it will be killed or heavily
damaged by pumps. In any case, the installation of an ‘otter-exist’ for securing otters
and other animals to be killed in the fish trap, is recommended. And for avoiding conflicts
with the conservation of fish-eating birds, all fishing should be restricted to basin
no. 1.
56
5. Monitoring
Environmental monitoring is based on the regular examination and recording of the abundances
of organisms or other indicators, with the help of standardized methods
which offer the potential to reveal changes of the environment (FURNESS & GREENWOOD
1993). The status and population numbers of birds are internationally accepted indicators
for assessing environmental change. While the departure of population numbers
from target values helps conservation authorities and wildlife managers to raise alarms,
illuminate the reasons for any failure to achieve targets, and for determining remedial
action (GREENWOOD 2000). Therefore, monitoring schemes are long-term activities
which have to be well prepared.
Already existing monitoring in the Solana Ulcinj includes:
 Meteorological data and the monitoring of some hydrological parameters; i.e.
long-term data on air temperature, precipitation, wind speed, wind direction,
humidity and air pressure.
 Ongoing record of salt production (since 1935).
 In 2003 EuroNatur started a long-term monitoring scheme for migrating and
wintering waterbirds. IWC data for the salina include information on species’
numbers per basin, actual water surface per basin and human impacts, like
hunting and fishing activities. Reference numbers (= targets) for waterbirds
and other bird species are outlined in the main objectives of the MP (see
chapter 4.1.). During summer population numbers of nesting waterbirds
(Tab. 1) and for some flagship species, like Dalmatian Pelicans and Greater
Flamingos, detailed data on habitat use and behaviour are recorded.
In addition to already established waterbird counts and breeding bird surveys, for an
appropiate evaluation of the effects of habitat management and related conservation
activities it will be necessary to monitor mortality and annual nesting success of keystone
species (SADUL et al. 1998), like Common Shelduck, Black-winged Stilt, Pied
Avocet, Stone-curlew, Common Redshank, Collared Pratincole, gulls and terns. According
to proposals of the Solana for changing grassland management on dams and for
renovation work in some basins, this scheme of integrated monitoring (GREENWOOD
2000) should be implemented as soon as possible.
During all monitoring activities utmost care has to be taken to avoid breeding failures
or to cause other disturbances for nesting birds or resting migrants. Since 2003
the EuroNatur team is conducting waterbird counts by car and on foot following a standard
route with fixed observations points which cover the whole area of the salina
(Fig. 30). During autumn and winter when < 20.000 waterbirds are present (cf. Fig. 15), it is possible for a single, but experienced field ornithologist to count the salina during one day. During spring migration between mid-March and late April, when larger numbers of birds are present, a minimum of two observers are needed to count the salina simultaneously in one day. Beside binoculars, for an appropriate identification of birds it is necessary to use telescopes ( 30x) in most basins. During all moni57 toring activities each basin has to be counted separately by using the enumeration of basins in Fig. 31. For the case that the surrounding dam will become accessible by car, it will be acceptable to change the standard route shown in Fig. 30 appropriately. For a further improvement of the existing monitoring, some additional studies and longterm monitoring schemes are recommended:  For a better understanding and interpretation of IWC data, seasonal fluctuations of waterbird and wader populations should be investigated during a 3–5 year period.  A continuous monitoring scheme on the spatial distribution, population size, nesting performance, and on human impacts for key-stone species, in particular colonially nesting waterbirds, should be established throughout the Bojana- Buna Delta. Preliminary data during a rapid assessment of the conservation significance of the delta indicate for almost all colonial waterbirds which nest in the Bojana-Buna Delta, that the salina is the most important feeding area (STUMBERGER et al. 2005, SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b).  Continuous monitoring of the use and acceptance of education facilities, and the salina’s information centre with the help of tickets sold per month.  A monitoring scheme for the in-/outflow of water in the salina’s basins should be established.  For a better understanding of the ecology of the salt-pans we recommend a 2–4 year study on the species diversity and seasonal abundances of the invertebrate fauna in basins of different evaporation grades. Fig. 30: Map showing standard route and observation points used by EuroNatur for waterbird counts in the Solana Ulcinj. 58 6. Action plan To achieve the goals outlined in the MP it will be necessary to realize a number of projects throughout the salina. In the following chapter these projects are described separately for each beach or, when it appears more feasible, for a set of different basins. The names and enumeration of basins are given in Fig. 31. Fig. 31: Enumeration of evaporation basins in the Solana Ulcinj. Basins no. 1–13 in the southern part of the salina are locally called Kneta. 6.1. Basin 1 (Kneta) Description: With a surface area of 15 ha and a total length of 1,8 km basin no. 1 is the longest and narrowest salt-pan in the Solana. Maximum water depth: up to 1 m. Conservation significance: When seawater is pumped through the basin during summer, basin no. 1 functions like a lagoon channel. Between autumn and spring the basin is used for feeding by herons, Pygmy Cormorants and other waterbirds, including Dalmatian Pelican. Following local rainfalls, mudflats and shallow waters are present, which are frequented by foraging waders during winter. Management: Currently the Solana has suggested to use the basin for aquaculture or fish farming. Although aquaculture will not destroy the salina’s ecosystem, the implementation of extensive fish farming or other aquaculture will lead to major loss of biological diversity (SADUL et al. 1998). By protecting the basin with nets and/or wires against fish-eating birds, most other birds and otters will be excluded. In addition, alien 59 and/or invasive species, accidentally introduced by aquaculture, may inflict disastrous damage for autochthonous species. Therefore, before implementing aquaculture in basin no. 1 – and in other parts of the salina – potential conflicts should be carefully evaluated. For the case the Solana decides to place aquaculture or fish farming in basin no. 1, it has to be taken care that:  Access for managing aquaculture and fish farming will be only along the outer dam.  No disturbances of pelicans and other sensitive species in adjoining salt-pans will be caused.  No alien fishes or other allochthonous species, like non-native crustaceans and other invertebrates, will be introduced.  An action plan for fish breeding or any other aquacultural use will be prepared by the Solana.   Warding-off fish-eating birds is done by scaring birds and other potential predators by the Solana’s staff and no artificial noise, e.g. explosives, or netting will be used. 6.2. Basins 2–13 (Kneta) Description: The Kneta covers a whole area of 5 km2, and includes a number of large basins which vary in size between 12 and 68 ha. During the winter season between September and April, most basins in the Kneta are covered by large areas of shallow water and extensive mudflats. Conservation significance: In the basins of the Kneta halophytes are present mostly in small and scattered stands, but well-developed and more extensive patches exist in basin no. 5. With > 10.000 birds during autumn and winter the Kneta represents the
most important ‘intertidal’ feeding zone for waders in the Solana (Fig. 32). Between
2003 and 2006 all basins of the Kneta were constantly covered by shallow waters. The
water surface in the pans varied from 20–80 %. With annual numbers of 0–3 bp. since
2003, the Kneta is the only nesting site of Eurasien Oystercatcher in the salina and the
last save breeding place for the species in the Bojana-Buna Delta. A significant portion
of Black-winged Stilts and > 50 % of the salina’s Yellow-legged Gulls use the halophyte
vegetation of the Kneta for nesting. The extensive salt-pans are important feeding and
roosting sites for Dalmatian Pelican, Greater Flamingo, Common Crane and geese,
while on the dam between basins no. 5 and 6 Zitting Cisticola is nesting.
60
Fig. 32: Flock of Eurasian Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria) resting in basin no. 7, Kneta.
11 January 2008, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: P. Sackl).
Management: With long-term planning the shear extent of the Kneta’s salt-pans will
allow the creation of nesting and roosting sites for many colonial waterbirds. All breeding
colonies of ibises, herons and cormorants in the Bojana-Buna Delta are heavily disturbed
by people: Out of three colonies which we found 2003, only one remained in 2006
(STUMBERGER et al. 2005). The high diversity of feeding habitats in the Kneta and in
adjacent marshlands are excellent pre-conditions for creating a mixed-species breeding
colony of colonial waterbirds in the salina. Although long-term planning is necessary for
attracting ibises, spoonbills and herons for nesting, first actions should be taken as soon
as possible:
 Planting of 200 saplings of deciduous trees on the island in basin no. 6 for
attracting tree-nesting waterbirds.
 Construction of artificial nesting islets for Dalmatian Pelican (36 m2) and Greater
Flamingo (1500 m2) in basin no. 8.
 Preserve the existing water regime in the Kneta which allows flooding of the
basins by rainwater outside the production season.
 Preserve existing pasture- and grasslands on dams and dikes.
 Investigating the breeding ecology of the local population of Eurasian Oystercatcher.
 Implementation of a core conservation area which is prohibited for people.
The success of management actions in the Kneta depends on the strict controll of
illegal access, hunting and bird shooting (see chapter 6.9. Jezero 1).
61
6.3. Stojski 1 & 2
Description: Outside of the salt production season the shallow basins of Stojski 1
(63 ha) and Stojski 2 (28 ha) are covered by extensive, and partially flooded
mudflats.
Conservation significance: Both basins are almost free of vegetation. Stojski 1 & 2 are
core roosting sites for Dalmatian Pelicans and one of the most important feeding and
roosting areas for migrating waders in the salina.
Management: In 2005 EuroNatur constructed a nesting islet for colonial waterbirds in
Stojski 1. In addition, artificial nest-boxes for Common Shelduck have been installed on
the island.
In the near future the following management measures have to be taken:
 Remove a considerable part of at least 10 m of the former levee in Stojski 1
adjacent to the southern main dam (Kneta) and close to the basin’s northern
dike in front of the observation tower, to create nesting habitats on the former
levee which are inaccessible for people and terrestrial predators.
 Take actions to prevent Stojski 1 (water surface 20–40 %) from drying-out
during winter.
 Both basins have to be included into the core conservation zone of the salina.
  Close to the already existing observation tower at the end of the inner visitor
trail, artificial islets which are surrounded by shallowly flooded mudflats
should be constructed for creating optimum observation possibilities for birdwatching.
6.4. Basins 17–27
Description: This part of the salina which includes 10 basins, covers a whole area of
194 ha. With a maximum area of 20 ha per basin, all salt-pans in this group are of
similar size.
Conservation significance: In basins no. 20 and 21 extensive stands of halophytes are
present which harbour significant numbers of nesting Black-winged Stilts, while in
most other basins scattered patches of reeds and sedges exist. Aside of their significance
for nesting waders, the dikes host some of the salina’s scattered bp. of Zitting Cisticola.
Additional nest sites of the species exist in nearby “Meadow” and on the dike between
basins no. 5 and 6. Apart from unsuccessful breeding attempts in Jezero 1 and in basin
no. 9, we irregularly noted small numbers of Slender-billed Gulls in basins no. 18 and
24. The area further appears to be the most important feeding and resting habitat for
62
dabbling ducks, like Garganey and Common Teal, and for over-wintering Northern
Lapwings and Common Snipes.
Management:
 For preserving the high grassland vegetation and lower scrubs on dikes the
number of grazing cattle should be restricted to a maximum of 5 cattle or, alternatively,
to 30 sheep.
 For the case artificial nesting islands in Jezero 1 will be not used by Slenderbilled
Gulls, additional islets should be placed in basins no. 18 and 17.
 All basins of this group have to be included into the core conservation area.
  For Slender-billed Gulls and a number of waders, like Black-winged Stilts,
which breed in the area, constant water levels have to be ensured during the
nesting season (May–August).
6.5. “Meadow”
Description: Together with the main dams and the dike along Porta Minela (cf. 3.3.1.
and 4.2.1.), this basin which is not longer in use for salt production, is the most
extensive continuous grassland area (12 ha) in the salina (cf. Fig. 19).
Conservation significance: In addition to low grasses which are more abundant on the
basin’s dams and dikes, according to fluctuating water levels and periodical floodings
the grassland habitats of the “Meadow” are dominated by different Juncus and Carex
species. Currently the significance of the basin for waterbirds and waders is negligible,
but during January counts we found a number of wintering Water Rails.
Management:
 The “Meadow” should be transformed into a shallowly flooded, brackish pastureland,
grazed by free-roaming horses, which will function as adequate
feeding habitat for Glossy Ibis, Little Egret and Eurasian Spoonbill. Grazing intensity
should not exceed 15 animals.
 For establishing a small nucleus herd of horses in “Meadow” local breeds, like
the small mountain horse of the Balkans brdski konj, is recommended. Mysekaja,
the lowland type of brdski konj, which is endemic to the Bojana-Buna
Delta, will be the best choice.
 For maintaining the herd a small bridge has to be created across the main canal,
and the levees have to be fenced-off.
 The area has to be included into the core conservation area, and besides for
maintaining the horses, access by people has to be prohibited.
  The amphibia, dragonfly and grasshopper fauna of the basin should be studied
and results included into a forthcoming draft of the MP.
63
6.6. Basins 28–32
Description: The small, 4–9 ha large basins cover a total area of 35 ha. Some basins
of this group harbour remnants of former dikes which form rows of small islets, as well
as extensive stands of halophyte vegetation. Above maximum water level, most islets
are overgrown by grasses and low scrubs. All basins, which represent the most
diversified pans of the Solana (Fig. 33), are in use for salt production. Parallel to the
outer, surrounding drainage canal along the eastern side of the basins, the salina’s inner
canal is running. The latter is used for directing saline waters from evaporation II into
the basins of evaporation III.
Fig. 33: Map of existing islets and remnants of former dikes in basins no. 30–32.
Conservation significance: The small islands in the basins host significant breeding
numbers of Black-winged Stilt, Pied Avocet, Kentish Plover, Common Redshank,
Common Tern, Collared Pratincole and Yellow-legged Gull. During winter the shallow
waters and mudflats are used by large numbers of waders, in particular Dunlin, Spotted
Redshank, Grey Plover, European Golden Plover, Northern Lapwing and Common
Snipe.
64
Management: The already existing structures offer good breeding opportunities for
many solitary and colonially nesting waterbirds (Fig. 33). Because access to the basins
is rather easy for people, EuroNatur proposes the construction of additional, more
undisturbed nesting islands:
 In particular for Pied Avocets, it will be necessary to prepare undisturbed nesting
islets which are inaccessible for terrestrial predators. Nesting islets for
the species should be 1–1,5 m2 in size, with flat, slip-off slopes and a total
height between 30–40 cm above maximum water levels in the respective basin.
In addition, the islets have to be cleared regularly from grasses and scrubs,
with one half of the island each year and the other half each second year.
 A number of the existing islets which are currently heavily overgrown, should
be prepared as nesting habitats for Common and Little Tern, Collared Pratincole
and Kentish Plover. To afford this, large areas on existing islands or former
dikes have to be cleared from grasses and other vegetation. To attract
Little Terns for nesting it will be necessary to prepare a 1-2 m wide layer of
mollusk shells parallel to shoreline. In the furture bare ground on nesting islands
and dikes have to be maintained by mowing.
The improvement of nesting conditions in basins no. 28–32 is of high priority, because
the higher, outer dam at the eastern edge of the basins offers good oppurtinities
for observing nesting shorebirds by children, school classes, bird-watchers and other
visitors. Removing of grasses and scrubs from islets and former dikes will also offer a
possibility to prevent the further increase of Yellow-legged Gulls in the salina.
For a successful establishment of additional nesting islands it is fundamental:
 To regulate water levels in a way that all basins in this group are permanently
flooded, but water levels should not exceed maximum height during the nesting
season (May–August).
 That access to core conservation areas in the basins for people and all other
potential disturbances are strictly prohibited and controlled.
6.7. Jezero 2
Description: Together with Jezero 1, Jezero 2 is a remnant of the central, permanently
flooded part of the former inland lagoon. With a total area of 110 ha Jezero 2 is the
largest salt-pan in the salina. Originally the basin was largely segmented by lower
levees (Fig. 34). Because the inner levees have been not maintained for deacdes,
currently all dikes inside Jezero 2 are flooded during medium and high water levels.
The Solana plans to restore the basin by reconstructing the inner levees and by
constructing a new canal which will replace the old, largely damaged canal.
Conservation significance: In the eastern part and along the northern and southwestern
edge of the basin extensive stands of halophyte vegetation exist. During late spring and
65
summer the inner, low-lying levees are the most important nesting habitats in the salina
for Little Tern, Common Tern and Kentish Plover. In addition, with up to 5.000 birds
Jezero 2 represents a core feeding area for waterbirds during migration and winter.
Management: For mitigating effects of the proposed restoration of the basin, the
following management measures should be taken (see also 4.2.2. and 6.9.3.):
 Jezero 2 has to be included into the core conservation zone of the salina,
which will be prohibited for people.
 Following the reconstruction of inner levees, measures have to be taken to
prevent the access of terrestrial predators. To prevent access to inner levees,
the construction of fences or gates at the base of inner dikes along the outer
dam is recommended.
  For creating optimum observation oppurtinities for visitors a number of smaller
islets for nesting and resting birds, close to the already existing observation
tower, should be constructed.
6.8. Zoganjski 1 & 2
Description: Like Jezero 1 and Jezero 2, both basins represent remnants of the former
Zoganjsko Jezero. With maximum water depths between 20–30 cm, Zoganjski 1
(24 ha) and Zoganjski 2 (20 ha) are rather shallowly flooded basins with high salt
concentrations of up to 115 grams NaCl/litre.
Fig. 34: Map showing the old canal and the system of inner levees in Jezero 2.
66
Conservation significance: With extensive areas of bare ground and large stands of low
halophytes above halomorphic soils both Zoganjski basins represent a habitat type
which is unique throughout the Bojana-Buna Delta. The dry and sparsely vegetated
mudflats provide optimal nesting habitat for > 60 bp. of Collared Pratincoles. During
winter both basins harbour large numbers of Common Snipes.
Management: Due to irregular floodings in Zoganjski 1 & 2 and in other basins, and the
overgrowing of some dams with bushes, between 2000 and 2003 the breeding
population of Collared Pratincole dropped below an estimated maximum of 60–80 bp.
For regaining its international importance, it will be necessary to manage potential
nesting habitats for the species in both Zoganjski basins and on adjacent dams:
 Both basins have to be included into the salina’s core conservation zone.
 In both basins water levels have to be artificially regulated. While both basins
should be temporarily flooded outside the nesting season between October
and March (maximum water depth: < 30 cm), during the breeding season (April–September) water levels should be extremely low which will allow up to 80 % of the area in both basins to dry-out.  The reconstruction of inner levees and dikes in Jezero 1 provides an excellent oppurtunity to install an artificially regulated water regime which will be adequate for the nesting of Collared Pratincoles (details see 4.2.2. and 6.9.3.).  Fencing-off against terrestrial predators, like Red Foxes and Golden Jackals, will probably enable population numbers of Collared Pratincoles to increase to international significance (240 bp. according to WPE4).  For creating additional nesting habitat for the species the northern dike of both basins should be fenced-off and grazed by free-roaming cattle between September and mid-May.   Strictly controlled burning of the dike between Jezero 2 and Zoganjski 1 & 2 may be necessary to maintain adequate nesting conditions for Collared Pratincoles. But the effects of burning on the dam’s vegetation and breeding birds should be closely investigated (see 4.2.1.). 6.9. Jezero 1 Description: At present Jezero 1 (80 ha) is not used for salt production. Like both Zoganjski basins, Jezero 1 represents a remnant of the former inland lagoon which is situated below sea level. The basin is used as a reservoir for surplus rain- and saltwater, which is pumped out of the salina by pump no. 16 via Porta Milena channel. Surplus water is collected by the old canal which is running through the whole basin. Because this canal as well as the lower, inner levees in Jezero 1 were not maintained for years, currently the central canal is partly blocked by sediments and most of the lower levees are regularly flooded. 67 Conservation significance: Because the micro-relief of the basin closely resembles that of a naturally formed lagoon, Jezero 1 is of great significance for conservation. According to its brackish waters and largely fluctuating water level, the edges of the basin are covered by wide belts of halophytes. With peak numbers of > 13.000 waterbirds,
Jezero 1 is a key-site for bird protection in the Solana for both, nesting and migrating
waterbirds.
Management:
 Jezero 1 has to be included into the core conservation zone.
 Along the former, inner levees of Jezero 1 a system of artificial islands for nesting
waterbirds have to be created to mitigate the loss of nesting habitat following
restoration of Jezero 2 (see 4.2.1.).
 The lateral dike along the central canal should be rebuilt along the southern
side of the canal. Soil, excavated from the canal, should be used to repair and
for reconstruction of the old dike along the canal’s southern side. When necessary
the dike could be used for dredging the canal.
 After restoration the northern dike along the central canal will separate the
southern part of Jezero 1. This will allow the regulation of water level in Jezero
1b (see 4.2.2.).
 In the future the newly separated basin, Jezero 1b, has to be managed for colonially
nesting waterbirds, in particular Greater Flamingo and Dalmatian Pelican,
which usually start to breed in early spring. The new basin should be
refilled with water in late winter (early February), so that potential nesting
sites for flamingos and pelicans are covered by shallow water and will be save
from terrestrial predators.
 The new dike, which will separate Jezero 1a from Jezero 1b, should be strictly
closed for people by installing fences on both ends that will additionally prevent
terrestrial predators from entering the dike. Because the same will be necessary
on the dam to Stojski 1, a total of 4 fences have to be erected in
Jezero 1.
 The northern dike along the central canal should be further developed as nesting
habitat for Little and Common Tern, Black-winged Stilt and other waders
(Fig. 35), and additional nest-boxes for Common Shelduck should be placed
on the dike (Fig. 28).
 Because the water level in Jezero 1a depends on precipitation and the
Solana’s overall water management for salt production, it is not possible to
regulate water level in Jezero 1a separately from that in other basins. Anyway,
to prevent terrestrial predators from entering nesting islands all measures
should be taken that Jezero 1a will be covered by at least 10–20 cm deep
water or to prevent the basin from drying-out completely during the breeding
season.
68
 All reed beds, stands of halophytes and other natural vegetation have to be
preserved as far as possible during restoration.
 Excavation of soil has to be strictly restricted to the non-breeding season and
a special management plan for the use of soil from Jezero 1 for medicinal purposes
has to be prepared (see 4.2.4.).
 A new, approximately 50 m long dike which should be bounded on both sides
by rows of low Tamarix trees, from the main dam for the access of visitors to
an additionally erected observation hide on the northern edge of the basin has
to be constructed (Fig. 35).
6.10. Evaporation II
Description: Evaporation II consists of a number of smaller basins which are separated
by a network of lower narrow levees. In particular, the central and western parts of the
90 ha large area is covered with small and very scattered stands of Common Reed
(Phragmites communis). The canal along the southern edge of evaporation II is partly
covered with dense reed beds.
Conservation significance: Apart of small numbers of Black-winged Stilts and Collared
Pratincoles, good numbers of Kentish Plover and Common Redshank breed in
evaporation II, while the area is the only nesting site for Great Bittern in the Solana.
Fig. 35: Proposed management measures in Jezero 1.
69
Nesting of the latter species depends on the presence of dense patches of reed. In
addition, large areas in evaporation II are covered by different communities of
halophytes. Outside the nesting season the area harbours concentrations of up to
1.000–2.000 shorebirds.
Management:
 The area has to be included into the core conservation zone.
 All stands of reeds in evaporation II have to preserved. In the future reed beds
should be whether burnt nor cutted.
  For the case that the canal along the southern edge of evaporation II has to be
excavated for maintaining, the canal’s reed beds and aquatic plant communities
should be protected at least along one side of the canal.
6.11. Evaporation III – IV
Description: Because of the high salinity of brine waters of up to 172 grams NaCl/litre
(evaporation III) and 218 grams NaCl/litre (evaporation IV) which cover the small
basins during summer, the 55 ha and 20 ha large surface area of evaporation III & IV
is dominated by open soils. With very fragmented stands of halophytes, most basins
are sparesly covered by vegetation.
Conservation significance: When flooded for salt production, evaporation III & IV are
important feeding areas for Little and Common Terns. Apart of smaller numbers of
nesting Kentish Plovers and Black-winged Stilts, during migration and winter the area
is frequented by significant numbers of Kentish Plover and Northern Lapwing of up to
> 100 birds of each species.
Management:
 On pump no. 31 a nest-box for Little Owls and on nearby pylons along the
northern dam two nest-boxes for European Rollers have been placed by Euro-
Natur. Because pylons and electric wires along the outer dams are regularly
used by both species for hunting, wires should be not destructed and an additional
number of 5 nest-boxes for European Roller and Hoopoe should be
placed.
 Both areas should be included into the core conservation area and access by
people has to be restricted to the visitor trail.
  The existing water regime with irregular floodings following heavy rains outside
salt production should be preserved.
70
6.12. Crystallisation
Description: For many visitors the 76 ha large network of shallow crystallisation basins
which are separated by low, rectangular levees, is the most interesting part of the
salina. Above halomorphic soils, most basins are dominated by bare ground.
Conservation significance: In crystallisation basins we noted small numbers of nesting
Little Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Collared Pratincole and Stone-curlew, the later
species regularly feeding in the pastures of nearby Ulcinjsko Polje. The central and
northern basins of the area are used by large numbers of gulls, Grey Herons and Great
White Egrets for roosting.
Management:
 Like evaporation III & IV, all crystallisation basins should be included into the
core conservation zone and access for visitors restricted to the visitor trail.
 Like in evaporation III & IV, existing pylons and electric wires should be not
destructed.
  Although 4 nest-boxes for European Roller and a nest-box for Little Owl have
been already placed on pylons along the visitor trail, the installation of 5 additional
nest-boxes for European Rollers and Hoopoes is recommended (see
Fig. 29).
6.13. Reservoirs 1 & 2
Description: Both reservoir complexes (= Accumulation 1 & 2) consist of 3–4 basins
which together cover a whole area of 28 ha. All basins are situated above the surface
level of the salina’s salt-pans. This allows brine of high salinity to flow passively from
both accumulation complexes into the salt-pans for triggering salt crystallisation in
spring (see chapter 3.2.). Water depths in reservoirs are fluctuating between  1 m
and up to 3–4 m. The inner slopes of dams are constructed of stones, while the outer
embankment is covered by ruderal plants, dry grasslands and scattered bushes.
Conservation significance: Reservoir 1 (13 ha) is an important roosting site for
Common Redshank. During heavy bird shooting in the salina we counted > 1.000
redshanks roosting tightly together on the inner dam. In addition to scattered bp. of
Tawny Pipit along dams of both accumulation complexes, on the dikes of reservoir 2
(15 ha) we found the only nesting site of Short-toed Lark in the salina. In both reservoirs
Eurasian Hoopoes nest in narrow hollows between stones of the dams inner
embankment.
71
Management:
 No access for bird-watchers and other visitors to both reservoirs’ inner dikes
which separate the basins.
 No burning of dams between March and August.
Fig. 36: Main canals and enumeration of pumping stations in the Solana Ulcinj.
6.14. Canals
Description: The network of deep canals differs from all other habitat types in the
Solana: In contrast to the salt-pans, most canals are permanently covered by at least
shallow water and never dry-out completely. Three pumps are in use for pumping saline
water through the canals into evaporation II and III, and for pumping fresh- or seawater
out of Jezero 1, where all surplus water of the salina is collected (Fig. 36). With a
maximum width of up to 15 m the cumulative length of canals amounts to 26,5 km.
Pumps, bridges and sluices are technical facilities along canals.
Conservation significance: The linear network of canals, which connects the basins of
the salt-work, represents the most important migration corridor for fishes and Eurasian
Otter. Because many canals are covered by marshland and aquatic plants, like reeds,
sedges and rushes, they are important nesting and feeding habitats for many bird
species. In particular, a large portion of the local breeding population of Common
Redshank is concentrated in canals (Plate 6). Besides Common Redshank, smaller
numbers of Black-winged Stilt and Kentish Plover as well as Great Reed Warbler, Yellow
Wagtail (ssp. feldegg) and Water Rail nest in canals and on adjoining dikes. Pumping
stations, bridges and sluices are used as nesting substrates by Little Owl, Barn and
Red-rumped Swallow, House Martin, Pied Wagtail, Tree Sparrow, House and Spanish
Sparrow.
72
Management:
 During maintenance work all existing reedbeds and other vegetation should
be preserved as far as possible, e.g. by cleaning only one side or cleaning both
sides of canals alternatively, with longer intervals in between, which will allow
plants to regrowth.
 Otter exits, nets or cages to prevent accidentally drowning of otters should be
installed in pumping stations no. 16 and 31.
 Already existing hollows in bridges, sluices and pumping stations, suitable for
the nesting of swallows, sparrows and hole-nesting birds, should be mapped
and 15–20 artificial nesting structures should be placed for Red-rumped
Swallows on sluices and pumping stations.
 Because canals represent the main migration corridor for fishes into the salina
and between basins within the salina, a comprehensive study of the fish fauna
and on fish migrations in canals are urgently needed (see 3.3.2.3).
Acknowledgements
The present management plan was prepared between 2004 – 2006 by EuroNatur within the project
“Protection and Sustainable Development of the Solana Bajo Sekuli, Ulcinj – Bojana Delta
(Montenegro)”, which was supported by the MAVA Foundation. With additional support by the
MAVA Foundation, since 2006 EuroNatur continues to monitor the site and to cooperate with the
salina within the framework of the project “Protection of Priority Wetlands for Bird Migration (Adriatic
Flyway) in the Dinaric Arc Eco-Region through Integrated Site and River Basin Management”.
The authors thank the staff of the Solana Ulcinj, all colleagues and friends for their help with bird
surveys and first management actions in the saline. Additionally, we are very grateful to Dritan
Dhora (Univerity of Shkodra), who prepared the Albanian translation of the abstract, Michael
Seidl,who has helped with the English text as well as all photographers who put their pictures to
our disposal for this publication.
73
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Anschrift der Verfasser:
Borut STUMBERGER
Cirkulane 41
2282 Cirkulane
Slovenia
stumberger@siol.net
Peter SACKL
Landesmuseum Joanneum
Raubergasse 10
8010 Graz
Austria
peter.sackl@museum-joanneum.at
Darko SAVELJI
Center for Protection and Research of Birds
Trg Becir bega Osmanagica 16
81000 Podgorica
Montenegro
sav@cg.yu
Martin SCHNEIDER-JACOBY
EuroNatur
Konstanzer Straße 22
78315 Radolfzell
Germany
martin.schneider.jacoby@euronatur.org
76
Appendix 1
German and scientific names of birds mentioned in the text
Barn Swallow Rauchschwalbe Hirundo rustica
Black-crowned Night Heron Nachtreiher Nycticorax nycticorax
Black-tailed Godwit Uferschnepfe Limosa limosa
Black-winged Stilt Stelzenläufer Himantopus himantopus
Caspian Tern Raubseeschwalbe Sterna caspia
Collared Pratincole Rotflügel-Brachschwalbe Glareola pratincola
Common Crane Kranich Grus grus
Common Kingfisher Eisvogel Alcedo atthis
Common Moorhen Teichhuhn Gallinula chloropus
Common Redshank Rotschenkel Tringa totanus
Common Shelduck Brandgans Tadorna tadorna
Common Snipe Bekassine Gallinago gallinago
Common Teal Krickente Anas crecca
Common Tern Flussseeschwalbe Sterna hirundo
Corn Bunting Grauammer Miliaria calandra
Crested Lark Haubenlerche Galerida cristata
Curlew Sandpiper Sichelstrandläufer Calidris ferruginea
Dalmatian Pelican Krauskopfpelikan Pelecanus crispus
Dunlin Alpenstrandläufer Calidris alpina
Eurasian Golden Oriole Pirol Oriolus oriolus
Eurasian Golden Plover Goldregenpfeifer Pluvialis apricaria
Eurasian Oystercatcher Austernfischer Haematopus ostralegus
Eurasian Spoonbill Löffler Platalea leucorodia
Eurasian Wigeon Pfeifente Anas penelope
European Bee-eater Bienenfresser Merops apiaster
European Hoopoe Wiedehopf Upupa epops
European Robin Rotkehlchen Erithacus rubecula
European Roller Blauracke Coracias garrulus
Garganey Knäkente Anas querquedula
Great Bittern Große Rohrdommel Botaurus stellaris
Great Cormorant Kormoran Phalacrocorax carbo
Greater Flamingo Rosaflamingo Phoenicopterus ruber roseus
Greater Spotted Eagle Schelladler Aquila clanga
Great Reed Warbler Drosselrohrsänger Acrocephalus arundinaceus
Great White Egret Silberreiher Egretta alba
Grey Heron Graureiher Ardea cinerea
Grey Plover Kiebitzregenpfeifer Pluvialis squatarola
House Martin Mehlschwalbe Delichon urbicum
House Sparrow Haussperling Passer domesticus
Kentish Plover Seeregenpfeifer Charadrius alexandrinus
Lesser Kestrel Rötelfalke Falco naumanni
Lesser White-fronted Goose Zwerggans Anser erythropus
Little Egret Seidenreiher Egretta garzetta
Little Owl Steinkauz Athene noctua
Little Ringed Plover Flussregenpfeifer Charadrius dubius
77
Little Stint Zwergstrandläufer Calidris minuta
Little Tern Zwergseeschwalbe Sterna albifrons
Mallard Stockente Anas platyrhynchos
Marsh Sandpiper Teichwasserläufer Tringa stagnatilis
Meadow Pipit Wiesenpieper Anthus pratensis
Moustached Warbler Mariskensänger Acrocephalus melanopogon
Northern Lapwing Kiebitz Vanellus vanellus
Northern Pintail Spießente Anas acuta
Northern Shoveler Löffelente Anas clypeata
Pied Avocet Säbelschnäbler Recurvirostra avosetta
Pied Wagtail Bachstelze Motacilla alba
Purple Heron Purpurreiher Ardea purpurea
Pygmy Cormorant Zwergscharbe Phalacrocorax pygmeus
Red-rumped Swallow Rötelschwalbe Hirundo daurica
Reed Bunting Rohrammer Emberiza schoeniclus
Ruff Kampfläufer Philomachus pugnax
Short-toed Lark Kurzzehenlerche Calandrella brachydactyla
Slender-billed Curlew Dünnschnabel-Brachvogel Numenius tenuirostris
Slender-billed Gull Dünnschnabelmöwe Larus genei
Spanish Sparrow Weidensperling Passer hispaniolensis
Spotted Flycatcher Grauschnäpper Muscicapa striata
Spotted Redshank Dunkler Wasserläufer Tringa erythropus
Squacco Heron Rallenreiher Ardeola ralloides
Stone-curlew Triel Burhinus oedicnemus
Tawny Pipit Brachpieper Anthus campestris
Tree Sparrow Feldsperling Passer montanus
Water Rail Wasserralle Rallus aquaticus
Whinchat Braunkehlchen Saxicola rubetra
Yellow-legged Gull Mittelmeermöwe Larus michahellis
Yellow Wagtail Schafstelze Motacilla flava
Zitting Cisticola Cistensänger Cisticola juncidis
78
Species
Nesting habitats
in the salina
other breeding
places
in Montenegro
Tadorna tadorna dams, islets (artificial nest-boxes in banks) NO
Botaurus stellaris reedbeds (Phragmites communis); tall, dense cover YES
Accipiter brevipes deciduous trees (fragmented alluvial forest) YES
Falco tinnunculus buildings and trees YES
Phasianus colchicus dams YES
Rallus aquaticus canals (Phragmites, Carex, Juncus, Typha, Salix) YES
Gallinula chloropus canals (Phragmites, Carex, Juncus, Typha, Salix) YES
Himantopus himantopus shallowly flooded mudflats, halophytes (Salicornia) NO
Haematopus ostralegus islets or levees (?) NO
Recurvirostra avosetta islets (sparse vegetation) NO
Burhinus oedicnemus dams, levees, islets (sparse vegetation) YES
Charadrius dubius levees, mudflats in basins (sparse or no vegetation) YES
Charadrius alexandrinus levees, islets, basins (sparse vegetation) YES
Glareola pratincola
dry basins with Salicornia, grazed dams/levees with
low vegetation
NO
Tringa totanus canals, dams with lower, more densely vegetation YES
Sterna hirundo islets, levees (no or sparse vegetation) NO
Sterna albifrons islets, levees (no or sparse vegetation) NO
Larus michahellis islets, levees (covered with grasses and low scrubs) YES
Larus genei islets NO
Streptopelia turtur park (factory building) YES
Clamator glandarius breeding parasite (host species?) ?
Athene noctua buildings (pumps, factory etc.) YES
Merops apiaster dams (bankment) YES
Coracias garrulus old trees, buildings? YES
Upupa epops embankments of stone, buildings, old trees YES
Galerida cristata dams (scattered, low vegetation), parking lot YES
Calandrella brachydactyla higer embankments of stone with short grasses YES
Hirundo rustica buildings, pumps, bridges YES
Appendix 2
List of birds nesting in the Solana Ulcinj, 2003–2006.
79
Species
Nesting habitats
in the salina
other breeding
places
in Montenegro
Hirundo daurica bridges, pumps YES
Delichon urbicum buldings, pumps YES
Motacilla alba buildings, dams, bridges YES
Motacilla flava
dams, levees (grazed), dry mudflats with halophytes
YES
Luscinia megarhynchos scrubs, park YES
Phoenicurus ochruros buildings, pumps, dams (embankments of stone) YES
Oenanthe oenanthe embankments of stone YES
Oenanthe hispanica embankments of stone YES
Turdus merula scrublands, park, Tamarix YES
Acrocephalus arundinaceus reedbeds (Phragmites communis) YES
Acrocephalus scirpaceus reedbeds (Phragmites communis) YES
Hippolais pallida scrublands, alluvial forest, Tamarix YES
Sylvia atricapilla scrublands, alluvial forest, Tamarix YES
Sylvia communis scrubs, fragmented alluvial forest YES
Muscicapa striata forest, park YES
Lanius senator meadows, scrub (dam) YES
Lanius minor dams, trees (power lines for hunting) YES
Sturnus vulgaris buildings, pumps YES
Oriolus oriolus park, alluvial forest YES
Pica pica park (coniferous trees) YES
Corvus corone cornix trees, scrubs YES
Passer montanus buildings, pumps YES
Passer domesticus buildings, pumps, trees YES
Passer hispaniolensis buildings, pumps, trees YES
Carduelis cannabina dams, levees (meadows, scrubs, pastures) YES
Emberiza melanocephala meadows, pastures (nesting only in one basin) YES
Miliaria calandra dams, levees (pastures, meadows, scrubs) YES
80
Species Skadar Lake Bojana/Buna
River Sasko Lake Bojana/Buna
& Adriatic Sea Viluni Lagoon Solana Ulcinj
Anguilla anguilla + + ++ + +
Aphanius fasciatus + + +
Atherina boyeri + +
Chelon labrosus1 + + +
Dicentrarchus labrax + + + ++ + +
Delentosteus sp. +
Diplodus annularis ++ + +
Diplodus vulgaris ++ + +
Diplodus sargus sargus ++ + +
Gobius sp. +
Lithognathus mormyrus +
Liza ramada + + ++ + +
Liza saliens + +
Liza aurata1 + +
Lipophrys sp. +
Mugil cephalus + + + ++ + +
Mullus surmuletus +
Platichthys flessus luscus + + + ++ + +
Pomatoschistus sp. +
Sarpa salpa1 + +
Solea lascaris + +
Solea vulgaris ++ + +
1 data available only for
Montenegro
Appendix 3
Fish species recorded in the Lake Skadar-Bojana/Buna River ecosystem and in the Solana Ulcinj
(SCHNEIDER-JACOBY et al. 2006b). Bojana/Buna & Adriatic Sea: + species recorded only in Albania,
++ species recorded for Albania and Montenegro
81
Ajuga chamaepitys (L.) Schreb.
Alkana tinctoria (L.) Tausch
Anemone hortensis L.
Anagalis arvensis L.
Anchusa officinalis L.
Anthemis arvensis L.
Aristolochia rotunda L.
Arum maculatum L.
Asphodelus microcarpus Viv.
Aster amellus
Avena barbata Pott. ex Link.
Bellis perennis L.
Bidens tripartita L.
Bituminaria bituminosa (L.) Stirton
Blackstonia perfoliata (L.) Huds.
Calepina irregularis (Asso) Thell
Capesella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medicus
Cardamine hirsuta L.
Centaurea alba L.
Centaurea calcitrapa L.
Centaurea solstitialis L.
Centaurium erythraea Rafn.
Cichorium intybus L.
Cirsium arvensis (L.) Scop.
Clematis viticella L.
Clinopodium vulgare L.
Convolvulus arvensis L.
Conyza canadensis (L.) Cronquist
Cynoglossum creticum Miller
Daucus carota L.
Delphinium peregrinum L.
Ditrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter
Dorycnium hirsutum (L.) Ser.
Echium vulgare L.
Epilobium hirsutum L.
Erigeron annuus (L.) Pers.
Erodium cicutarium (L.) L’Her
Erodium malacoides (L.) L’Her
Eryngium amethistinum L.
Eupatorium cannabinum L.
Euphorbia helioscopia L.
Euphorbia peplis L.
Euphorbia peplus L.
Euphorbia terracina L.
Filago vulgaris Lam.
Geranium columbinum L.
Geranium dissectum L.
Geranium robertianum L.
Geranium brutim Gasparr.
Hyacinthus orientalis L.
Helichrysum italicum (Roth.) G. Don
Heliotropium europaeum L.
Hordeum vulgare L.
Hypericum perforatum L.
Inula brittanica L.
Inula crithmoides L.
Juncus acutus L.
Juncus maritimus Lam.
Kickxia commutata (Bernh. ex Reichenb.)
Fritsch
Lamium purpureum L.
Lathyrus cicera L.
Linaria vulgaris Miller
Linum nodiflorum L.
Linum usitatissimum L.
Lotus corniculatus L.
Medicago minima (L.) L.
Melilotus officinalis (L.) Pallas
Moenchia mantica (L.) Bartl.
Muscari comosum (L.) Miller
Narcissus tazetta L.
Nigella damascena L.
Appendix 4
List of plants recorded in the Solana Ulcinj (prepared by Snezana VUKSANOVI and Danka
PETROVI).
82
Ornithogalum sp.
Oxalis corniculata L.
Parentucellia latifolia (L.) Caruel
Petrorhagia prolifera (L.) P. W. Ball &
Heywood
Picris hieracioides L.
Plantago lanceolata L.
Plantago major L.
Polygonum aviculare L.
Portulaca oleracea L.
Prunella laciniata (L.) L.
Prunella vulgaris L.
Pulicaria dysenterica (L.) Bernh.
Reseda phyteuma L.
Romulea bulbocodium (L.) Sevast. &
Mauri
Rosa canina L.
Salvia verbenaca L.
Salvia verticillata L.
Scandix pectin-veneris L.
Scolymus hispanicus L.
Senecio rupestris Waldst. & Kit.
Sherardia arvensis L.
Silene conica L.
Silene gallica L.
Silene nocturna L.
Solanum nigrum L.
Sonchus arvensis L.
Stellaria media (L.) Vill.
Taraxacum officinale Weber
Teucrium chamaedrys L.
Trifolium campestre Schreber
Trifolium incarnatum L.
Trifolium nigricens Viv.
Trifolium resupinatum L.
Trifolium subterraneum L.
Trigonella esculenta Willd.
Verbascum sinuatum L.
Verbena officinalis L.
Veronica arvensis L.
Veronica chamaedrys L.
Vicia grandiflora Scop.
Vicia sativa L., ssp. nigra (L.) Ehrh.
Vincetoxucum hirundinaria Medicus
83
Appendix 5
Results of waterbird counts in the Solana Ulcinj, 2003–2008 (n=24).
Species Presence Total Min. Max. x – +/- SE Excess
Tachybaptus ruficollis 13 (54,2 %) 306 1 85 23,5 +/- 6,6 1,61
Podiceps cristatus 5 (20,8 %) 10 1 4 2,0 +/- 0,6 1,36
Podiceps auritus 1 (4,2 %) 1 1 1 – –
Podiceps nigricollis 9 (37,5 %) 149 1 68 16,6 +/- 7,0 2,20
Phalacrocorax carbo 17 (70,8 %) 705 2 198 41,5 +/- 13,0 1,95
Phalacrocorax pygmeus 23 (95,8 %) 2073 1 370 90,1 +/- 20,9 1,54
Pelecanus crispus 14 (58,3 %) 507 2 99 36,2 +/- 10,1 0,77
Botaurus stellaris 3 (12,5 %) 4 1 2 1,3 +/- 0,3 1,73
Nycticorax nycticorax 1 (4,2 %) 95 95 95 – –
Ardeola ralloides 1 (4,2 %) 2 2 2 – –
Egretta garzetta 24 (100 %) 2892 2 457 120,5 +/- 20,4 1,79
Egretta alba 21 (87,5 %) 1787 1 501 85,1 +/- 28,9 2,36
Ardea cinerea 24 (100 %) 1800 1 269 75,0 +/- 13,5 1,21
Ardea purpurea 3 (12,5 %) 4 1 2 1,3 +/- 0,3 1,73
Ciconia nigra 1 (4,2 %) 3 3 3 – –
Ciconia ciconia 1 (4,2 %) 1 1 1 – –
Plegadis falcinellus 4 (16,7 %) 16 2 7 4,0 +/- 1,1 1,19
Platalea leucorodia 19 (79,2 %) 744 5 112 39,2 +/- 7,8 0,81
Phoenicopterus r. roseus 4 (16,7 %) 15 1 7 3,8 +/- 1,3 0,56
Cygnus olor 2 (8,3 %) 13 4 9 6,5 +/- 2,5 –
Anser albifrons 2 (8,3 %) 20 4 16 10,0 +/- 6,0 –
Anser erythropus 1 (4,2 %) 3 3 3 – –
Tadorna tadorna 21 (87,5 %) 987 1 620 47,0 +/- 28,9 4,46
Anas penelope 18 (75,0 %) 8309 6 1671 461,6 +/- 113,8 1,18
Anas strepera 8 (33,3 %) 224 2 107 28,0 +/- 14,3 1,52
Anas crecca 10 (41,7 %) 5260 4 3460 526,0 +/- 342,0 2,71
Anas platyrhynchos 12 (50,0 %) 624 1 506 52,0 +/- 41,4 3,43
Anas acuta 20 (83,3 %) 5782 1 793 289,1 +/- 52,4 0,28
Anas querquedula 7 (29,2 %) 8391 3 8279 1198,7 +/- 1180,1 2,65
Anas clypeata 18 (75,0 %) 2262 2 1158 125,7 +/- 64,7 3,54
Aythya ferina 3 (12,5 %) 339 1 330 113,0 +/- 108,5 1,73
Aythya fuligula 1 (4,2 %) 18 18 18 – –
Pernis apivorus 1 (4,2 %) 1 1 1 – –
Circaetus gallicus 2 (8,3 %) 2 1 1 1,0 +/- 0,0 –
Circus aeruginosus 18 (75,0 %) 44 1 8 2,4 +/- 0,4 2,20
Circus cyaneus 9 (37,5 %) 28 1 6 3,1 +/- 0,6 0,31
Circus macrourus 2 (8,3 %) 2 1 1 1,0 +/- 0,0 –
Circus pygargus 3 (12,5 %) 8 1 5 2,7 +/- 1,2 1,29
Accipiter gentilis 1 (4,2 %) 1 1 1 – –
Accipiter nisus 10 (41,7 %) 27 1 6 2,7 +/- 0,6 0,66
Accipiter brevipes 1 (4,2 %) 1 1 1 – –
Buteo buteo 15 (62,5 %) 61 1 11 4,1 +/- 0,84 0,88
Aquila clanga 1 (4,2 %) 1 1 1 – –
Pandion haliaetus 2 (8,3 %) 8 2 6 4,0 +/- 2,0 –
Falco tinnunculus 5 (20,8 %) 5 1 1 1,0 +/- 0,0 –
Falco vespertinus 1 (4,2 %) 1 1 1 – –
Falco columbarius 6 (25,0 %) 7 1 2 1,2 +/- 1,7 2,45
Falco subbuteo 2 (8,3 %) 3 1 2 1,5 +/- 0,5 –
84
Species Presence Total Min. Max. x – +/- SE Excess
Falco biarmicus 2 (8,3 %) 2 1 1 1,0 +/- 0,0 –
Rallus aquaticus 15 (62,5 %) 82 1 13 5,8 +/- 0,8 0,64
Porzana porzana 1 (4,2 %) 1 1 1 – –
Gallinula chloropus 13 (54,2 %) 40 1 14 3,1 +/- 1,0 2,70
Fulica atra 4 (16,7 %) 649 1 601 162,3 +/- 146,6 1,98
Haematopus ostralegus 7 (29,2 %) 15 1 5 2,1 +/- 0,6 1,45
Himantopus himantopus 14 (58,3 %) 1847 1 270 131,9 +/- 30,0 -0,01
Recurvirostra avosetta 8 (33,3 %) 125 1 101 15,6 +/- 12,2 2,80
Burhinus oedicnemus 13 (54,2 %) 204 1 82 15,7 +/- 5,8 3,12
Glareola pratincola 8 (33,3 %) 568 1 225 71,0 +/- 33,9 1,19
Charadrius dubius 14 (58,3 %) 514 2 201 36,7 +/- 14,1 2,62
Charadrius hiaticula 13 (54,2 %) 213 1 58 16,4 +/- 5,5 1,38
Charadrius alexandrinus 23 (95,8 %) 4115 25 472 178,9 +/- 24,7 0,87
Eudromias morinellus 1 (4,2 %) 1 1 1 – –
Pluvialis apricaria 11 (45,8 %) 2040 1 514 185,6 +/- 63,4 0,64
Pluvialis squatarola 23 (95,8 %) 5034 4 481 218,9 +/- 28,1 0,13
Vanellus vanellus 15 (62,5 %) 9304 1 3186 620,3 +/- 241,7 1,83
Calidris canutus 10 (41,7 %) 70 1 21 7,0 +/- 1,7 2,06
Calidris alba 7 (29,2 %) 50 2 26 7,1 +/- 3,2 2,49
Calidris minuta 21 (87,5 %) 4644 10 950 221,1 +/- 50,9 1,64
Calidris temminckii 5 (20,8 %) 56 1 51 11,2 +/- 10,0 2,23
Calidris ferruginea 5 (20,8 %) 666 2 363 113,2 +/- 71,8 0,90
Calidris alpina 21 (87,5 %) 94.217 1 10.503 4486,5 +/- 732,9 0,15
Philomachus pugnax 17 (70,8 %) 6589 1 2618 387,6 +/- 183,9 2,38
Lymnocryptes minimus 2 (8,3 %) 2 1 1 1,0 +/- 0,0 –
Gallinago gallinago 19 (79,2 %) 8121 1 2445 427,4 +/- 159,7 2,07
Limosa limosa 14 (58,3 %) 3867 1 3423 276,2 +/- 242,6 3,71
Limosa lapponica 3 (12,5 %) 3 1 1 1,0 +/- 0,0 –
Numenius phaeopus 6 (25,0 %) 111 1 105 18,5 +/- 17,3 2,45
Numenius tenuirostris 1 (4,2 %) 1 1 1 – –
Numenius arquata 22 (91,7 %) 393 1 75 17,9 +/- 4,0 1,53
Tringa erythropus 23 (95,8 %) 10.477 11 2249 455,5 +/- 118,4 2,07
Tringa totanus 24 (100 %) 23.850 8 1988 993,8 +/- 131,8 -0,38
Tringa stagnatilis 18 (75,0 %) 467 1 138 25,9 +/- 8,0 2,38
Tringa nebularia 24 (100 %) 1055 1 113 44,0 +/- 6,5 0,54
Tringa ochropus 19 (79,2 %) 240 1 113 12,6 +/- 5,8 3,91
Tringa glareola 8 (33,3 %) 654 1 486 81,8 +/- 59,4 2,55
Actitis hypoleucos 10 (41,7 %) 83 1 51 8,3 +/- 4,8 3,02
Arenaria interpres 2 (8,3 %) 3 1 2 1,5 +/- 0,5 –
Larus melanocephalus 5 (20,8 %) 13 1 5 2,6 +/- 0,7 1,12
Larus minutus 4 (16,7 %) 41 1 32 10,3 +/- 7,3 1,93
Larus ridibundus 20 (83,3 %) 11.454 3 1673 572,7 +/- 117,8 0,84
Larus genei 1 (4,2 %) 8 8 8 – –
Larus fuscus 4 (16,7 %) 4 1 1 1,0 +/- 0,0 –
Larus michahellis 24 (100 %) 3275 23 495 136,5 +/-21,9 1,95
Sterna caspia 8 (33,3 %) 45 1 17 5,6 +/- 1,8 1,73
Sterna hirundo 7 (29,2 %) 262 7 144 37,4 +/- 18,3 2,37
Sterna albifrons 6 (25,0 %) 1004 15 391 167,3 +/- 60,1 0,74
Chlidonias hybridus 2 (8,3 %) 9 4 5 4,5 +/- 0,5 –
Chlidonias niger 5 (20,8 %) 7 1 2 1,4 +/- 0,3 0,61
Chlidonias leucopterus 2 (8,3 %) 48 5 43 24,0 +/- 19,0 –
Alcedo atthis 15 (62,5 %) 254 1 71 16,9 +/- 5,1 1,53
Total 240.356 1453 32.336 10.014,8 +/- 1528,6 1,10
st
and the basin called “Meadow”; centre Jezero 2, dry mudflats in Zoganjski 1 & 2, and in smaller
basins of the 2nd evaporation grade; in the far back (left) Porta Milena channel and Velika Plaža
(Photo: M. Schneider-Jacoby).
Plate 2: Small, almost rectangular crystallisation basins characterize the pans of the highest
evaporation grade. 19 June 2008, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: T. Petras-Sackl).
Plate 1: Aerial view of the Solana Ulcinj. In the foreground basins of the 1 evaporation grade
Plate 3: Distribution of breeding colonies and main feeding areas of cormorants, herons and
ibises in the Bojana-Buna Delta, April – June 2003.
Plate 4: Distribution of wintering waterbirds in the Bojana-Buna Delta, January 2004.
Plate 6: Breeding distribution of waders, gulls and terns in the Solana Ulcinj, June 2003.
Plate 5: Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus) nesting in the Solana’s inner canal. 18
June 2007, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: P. Sackl).
Plate 8: Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber roseus). 26 September 2006, Solana Ulcinj
(Photo: M. Tiefenbach).
Plate 7: Dalmatian Pelicans (Pelecanus crispus) pass the Solana’s central observation tower. 3
November 2006, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: T. Petras-Sackl).
Plate 10: The remnants of former levees in basin no. 32 are important nesting habitats for terns,
Pied Avocet and other waders. 19 June 2003, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: B. Stumberger).
Plate 9: Little Terns (Sterna albifrons) nesting on recently constructed breeding islet in
evaporation III. 17 June 2008, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: P. Sackl).
Plate 12: Collared Pratincole (Glareola pratincola). 19 June 2008, Zoganjski 1, Solana Ulcinj
(Photo: P. Sackl).
Plate 11: Extensive stands of Salicornia herbacea characterize both Zoganjski basins. 26
September 2006, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: M. Tiefenbach).
Plate 14: Pygmy Cormorant (Phalacrocorax pygmeus) wing-drying after foraging in the Solana’s
inner main canal. 3 November 2006, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: P. Sackl).
Plate13: During winter the inner canals, here between evaporation II und Zoganjski 2, are
important feeding habitats for cormorants and herons. 19 March 2003, Solana Ulcinj (Photo: B.
Stumberger).

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