Data Zone
Country/territory: Slovakia
IBA criteria met: C1, C3, C4, C6 (2004)
For more information about IBA criteria, please click here
Area: 18,845 ha
Site summary
The Dunajské luhy area is a part of the inland delta of the Danube. The site represents a unique mosaic of water, wetland, and forest ecosystems. Occasional meadow habitat is preserved, (Bodíky, Vetký Lél, Iža) as well as some thermophilic plant associations (Ostrov Kopáč, Ostrovné lúčky). Fragments of natural soft and hardwood alluvial forests are present, mainly between Šamorín and Komárno. Water habitats (rivers, dams, wetlands, etc.) are dominant in this area. Other typical habitats include deciduous forests and agricultural land. The area is used mainly for intensive forest activities, river transport, generation of electricity, recreation and tourism (hunting, sport fishing, water sports).
The area is an important nesting site for alluvial forest bird species, as well as water birds and other bird species which are ecologically associated to water habitats. The largest Slovak colonies of Common Tern and Mediterranean Gull nest on the islands of Hrušovska zdrž. The population of White-tailed Eagle nests in the distributaries system of the alluvial forests. Water ecosystems (Hrušovská Dam, Danube stream, and arms system) are important refuges for water species during the spring and autumn periods. The Danube is the most important wintering site for water birds in Slovakia and it is a significant international migration area. The main threats to the area are intensive forestry, unregulated sport fishing and recreational activities, disturbance, impact of dam management, drainage and impact of animal and plant introduction. The site is proposed as an SPA.
Acknowledgements
Spoluautori: Jozef Lengyel.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Important Bird Area factsheet: Danube floodplains (Slovakia). Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/danube-floodplains-iba-slovakia on 22/11/2024.