Bird Fauna Survey of Taleghan Protected Area

The Taleghan Protected Area, spanning 75,000 hectares with mountainous habitats, is located in the northwest of Alborz Province and the northeast of Qazvin Province. Designated as a protected area in 2013, Taleghan encompasses numerous villages in both lower and upper Taleghan. Despite the high number of human settlements, the region boasts rich wildlife and significant biodiversity due to the harmonious interaction between humans and wildlife ingrained in the local culture.

The Environmental Monitoring Supporters Association (PAMA) has been conducting environmental assessments and developing solutions for wildlife conflicts in this area for several years. In 2017, PAMA initiated a project to create sustainable livelihoods for local residents, focusing on developing birdwatching tourism. As part of this initiative, the Bird Fauna Survey of Taleghan Protected Area was launched in 2017, with AvayeBoom Bird Conservation Society appointed as the project executor.

Methodology

AvayeBoom conducted multiple surveys in the region, creating a checklist of bird species in the Taleghan Protected Area, along with the distribution and presence status of each species. Over the course of one year, surveys were conducted twice a month, each lasting two days.

Key Findings

A total of 93 bird species were identified in the area, with 64 species being migratory. Notable bird species with high tourism value recorded and photographed include the European Green Woodpecker, Dipper, Golden Eagle, and Bearded Vulture. Additionally, several mammal species such as the Stone Marten and Indian Crested Porcupine were observed and documented during the project.

Importance and Impact

This project highlights the rich biodiversity of the Taleghan Protected Area and underscores the potential for ecotourism to create sustainable livelihoods for local communities. By promoting birdwatching tourism, the project aims to foster a greater appreciation for wildlife conservation among residents and visitors alike.

Acknowledgments

The AvayeBoom Bird Conservation Society extends its sincere gratitude to the Environmental Monitoring Supporters Association (PAMA) and all the volunteers who participated in the surveys. Their dedication and hard work were instrumental in the successful completion of this project.