PANDION

The activities of the project PANDION are carried out within the framework of a scientific collaboration agreement between PNAT and CNR-IRET, focused on the “Analysis, integration, and systematization of spatial data on the osprey in the Tyrrhenian area” and are part of the INTERREG Italy–France Maritime project “Talassa – protection and pilot actions for the transboundary governance of marine protected sites” (CUP E27F23000060007).

In particular, the project aims at the processing, analysis, and systematic integration of data concerning spatial use and the ecobiology of the osprey (Pandion haliaetus) in the Tyrrhenian area. The objective is to develop a comprehensive, up-to-date, and shared knowledge framework among project partners, capable of supporting effective conservation strategies. This activity contributes to strengthening biodiversity protection by promoting the systematization of knowledge on species and habitats of priority interest within a transboundary context.

The osprey is a species of high conservation concern, classified as “Critically Endangered (CR)” at the national level and “Endangered (EN)” in the Mediterranean region.
Historically a breeding species in Italy, it disappeared during the 20th century due to persecution, human disturbance, and habitat loss. For decades, it was considered extinct as a breeding species in the country. In 2006, a reintroduction project was initiated with the aim of re-establishing a breeding population in the central Tyrrhenian area, interconnected with the nearby Corsican population. Following these efforts, in 2011 the first documented breeding event of the species in Italy (in the Maremma Regional Park) occurred after more than forty years of absence. Subsequently, breeding pairs have gradually increased, with new occurrences also recorded in Sardinia starting from 2020. Over the past fifteen years, extensive information on the species has been collected through the application of different and complementary methodological approaches, developed within monitoring activities, research projects, and conservation initiatives promoted and coordinated by the “Progetto Falco pescatore“, in close collaboration with numerous national and regional institutions.

The systematization and integrated analysis of this information represent a fundamental step in supporting institutions in defining effective conservation and management strategies within the cooperation area.