Research

Faunistic data base for Kosovo

Numerous faunistic data were collected, especially during the summer schools but also during other field trips. Many of these data are documented with collected specimens. In addition, there are also numerous visual observations, especially of vertebrates. The database currently contains more than 2,700 records and can be used to estimate the distribution of individual animal species in Kosovo.

Bird ringing courses

Since 2016, Kosovo has hosted bird ringing workshops led by the University of Konstanz and the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology. These courses provide students with hands-on training in avian research and contribute to global conservation efforts.

The first workshop, led by Dr. Wolfgang Fiedler in 2016, introduced local students to bird ringing techniques. Over the years, these workshops have grown to include participants from Kosovo, Albania, and beyond. A major milestone was reached when KEERC conducted the first bird ringing in Kosovo, using rings brought from Germany, as the country still lacks its own national rings.

By 2018, KEERC had taken an active role in organizing courses focused on migratory bird tracking and conservation awareness. With continued support from international and local experts, Kosovo continues to expand its role in global ornithological research.

Stork migration survey

In collaboration with experts from the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology and Konstanz University in Germany in 2016 – 2018 for the first time in Kosovo a pilot project for White Stork ringing and GPS tracking was started.

Until now, migration routes of 8 individuals of White storks and 1 Black storks have been tracked in cooperation with University of Konstanz and Max Planck Institute for Ornithology using high precision GPS/ACC solar panel loggers including accelerometers (E-Obs GmbH; Munich, Germany) that has been attached to nestlings.

Our results from satellite tracking enable us to document, for the first time, the passage and stopover patterns of White Storks from their breeding ground in Kosovo into the overwintering place in northern, central eastern and southern Africa.

Herpetology courses

Together with students from the University of Prishtina, Dr.sc. Karsten Schäfer conducted two field herpetology courses. The results are an important contribution to the knowledge of the amphibians and reptiles of Kosovo.

Bats

During the summer schools and other courses, numerous caves were studied for their bat fauna. Several species were identified, including one new to Kosovo.

Waterbird census

The International Waterbird Census (IWC), as a global monitoring program to assess the status of waterbirds and wetlands, conducted every year in January on a voluntary basis, plays a crucial role in tracking waterbird populations and their habitats worldwide.

In Kosovo, the IWC was initiated for the first time in 2019 through the efforts of KEERC in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure. The census took place during a period when wintering waterbird populations are more stable and remain in certain locations. Using binoculars and spotting scopes provided by KEERC, observers conducted the count at 10 designated wetlands included in the IWC network. This first-time participation marked a significant step towards improving waterbird monitoring in Kosovo and laying the groundwork for future advancements in conservation efforts.

Covering multiple wetland sites, this initiative provides essential data for conservation efforts and raises awareness about waterbird conservation. KEERC’s ongoing work ensures Kosovo’s contribution to global bird monitoring and wetland conservation.