AMBITION - Amphibian Biotope Improvement in the Netherlands           [ 2004 - 2009]

The main objective is to develop viable meta-populations of five amphibian species named on Annex II (and Annex IV) of the Habitats Directive which will be achieved through restoration and improvement of habitats.

Currently conservation plans are carried out for all species (except T.cristatus). However, since a relatively large part of the northwest European Triturus cristatus population inhabits the Netherlands we bear a significant responsibility in protecting this species.

All of the species concerned are especially threatened because their former distribution in the Netherlands was also outside what is now the National Ecological Network, and dependent on small-scale agricultural landscapes. Agricultural enlargement between 1950 and 1980 has reduced the available number of ponds and small water bodies and landhabitats severely. Therefore, most species are now restricted to a few isolated core areas, often in nature reserves.

Beginning with securing of present core habitats followed by an enlargement of these habitats through development or restoration of habitat adjoining the core habitats. The isolated habitats are then joined together through corridors or migration zones. A sustainable network of interactive sub-populations will develop. This so-called meta-population structure ensures that the population will not vanish, even though the sub-populations may experience a local extinction. The adjoining sub-populations will be able to re-colonise the 'empty' habitat through natural dispersion process.

Actions and means involved

Restoration of core biotopes for all five species as well as the development of new suitable habitats adjoining these areas. Development of stepping-stones and corridor habitats such that clusters of core habitats are linked, allowing the formation of a meta-population structure. All species require water bodies for reproduction with adjoining suitable land habitat for all terrestrial life stages.

Actions involve both the restoration and development of some hundreds of ponds and development of adjoining land habitat. To guarantee sustainable habitat improvement we focus mainly on Natura 2000 areas which are recently designated under the Habitat Directive (article 4 of Directive 92/43/EEC) as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) for Triturus cristatus and Bombina variegata.

Expected results

For the severely threatened Bombina variegata this project should firstly conserve the remaining populations and might lead to further increase. For the other species creation of strongholds of sufficient size as well as the development of meta-population structure are the main objectives.

These will be achieved through restoration and connection of existing isolated populations in the Netherlands. The cooperation between partners will not only result in a stimulating effect within the project, but will encourage further joint actions nationwide and in the neighbouring countries. Education of the public and local people will lead to further participation in the protection of the endangered amphibians, especially in the cultured landscapes surrounding the Natura 2000 areas.

During these excursions will be given attention to the purpose of the EU-LIfe- AMBITION project, the European nature of it and its connection to NATURA 2000. Also about the involvement of the Dutch governmentand the special cooperation of all naturemanagement organisations in the Netherlands and the organisation concerned with the study of Amphibians.

Education to the public and organisations involved to enhance the awareness of the importance of habitat improvement of amphibians through workshops (regional and cross-border to Germany and Belgium), brochures, multimedia presentations and a website.