GR150 Ornithological Importance The marine area of the IBA consists of the main foraging areas of the Audouin’s Gull which breeds here. This small but significant colony was first discovered in 2001 and has remained stable species
related IBA
Larus audouinii
GR150
since. The species also feeds in the coastal waters of eastern and northern Serifos and Piperi islet, however in lower numbers.
year
season
min
max
unit
accuracy
criteria
2001-10
B
9
21
P
good
A1, C1
Other Species of Interest The IBA hosts a breeding population of the Mediterranean Shag (26 pairs) which nests primarily along the coast of Serifos and nearby islets. The main marine area used by the species is located in the coastal waters along the northern, eastern and southern coast of Serifos. Both Cory’s and Yelkouan Shearwaters are often observed foraging in the pelagic areas surrounding
the IBA. Additionally, congregations of up to 200 Cory’s Shearwater individuals have been recorded during afternoon hours in the vicinity of Piperi and Serifopoula islets, suggesting that the species might be breeding in the area, however no colony sites have been found yet. More than 100 pairs of Yellow-legged Gulls breed on the islets around Serifos.
Uses, Threats, Management
The islet of Serifopoula is now uninhabited, with a monastery and ruins of a medieval tower. In the past, the abundant terraces were cultivated for cereals while nowadays they are only used for livestock grazing. Since the early 19th century Serifos experienced extensive exploitation of its iron ore deposits, although mining activities were completely abandoned in the 1960s. Nowadays the main economic activities include tourism and agriculture. The most significant threats identified at seabird colonies include human disturbance and predation
of eggs and chicks by rats and Yellow-legged Gulls. Additional disturbance and habitat degradation occurs on the coastal zone of Serifos due to tourist development. The marine area around Serifos is mainly influenced by marine traffic (passenger ships, local tourist vessels and fisheries) primarily associated with Livadi, the main port of Serifos. Additionally, overexploitation of fish stocks resulting in the reduction of seabird prey availability may pose a threat to seabirds foraging in waters around Serifos.
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