This study used data from three large-scale citizen science programs in the UK to assess the effectiveness of national (Sites of Special Scientific Interest) and European (Special Protection Areas/Special Areas of Conservation) designated areas in improving the status of bird species. Positive associations were found between protected area extent and species occurrence and abundance, with the greatest benefits accruing to rare and declining species and habitat specialists. Increased productivity was identified as a potential mechanism for these positive effects.
Publisher
Nature Ecology & Evolution
Published On
Jan 01, 2023
Authors
A. E. Barnes, J. G. Davies, B. Martay, P. H. Boersch-Supan, S. J. Harris, D. G. Noble, J. W. Pearce-Higgins, R. A. Robinson
Tags
citizen science
bird species
protected areas
species occurrence
biodiversity
habitat specialists
productivity
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