Sheep help birds of Kretuonas lake island
18-05-2020
Over 100 sheep of an old Lithuanian breed have been moved to Kretuonas Lake island. These sheep are very resistant to diseases and hash weather conditions, they can feed on the grasses, that are not suitable for other varieties. The animals came from the Zarasai district farmers, who have agreed to cooperate with the Aukštaitija National Park Administration for management of grasslands. The LOD cooperates with the Aukštaitija National Park Administration during implementation of LIFE TERNS project.
Photo from the archives of Aukštaitija National Park Administration
Although the island is managed annually, due to the late moving of vegetation (after 15th of July), it was impossible to eradicate nitrophilous grasses. It is expected that sheep will help with help to keep grasslands of good condition and next season we can expect more waders and terns breeding on the island. It was preliminary agreed to move to the island next season cattle heard, thus the managed area will be increased.
