©
© Jari Peltomäki
Conservation programme for birds in Switzerland - Priority species
Corn Crake
The Corn Crake is critically endangered in Switzerland. It used to breed mainly in the Swiss Plateau, but today more than 75 % of records come from elevations above 1000 m asl. It needs species-rich, late-mown meadows with tall vegetation (> 20 cm), wet areas and mosaic-type land use. It also uses extensively managed pastures and herby vegetation, including e.g. nettles. Conservation measures include recording calling males and working with cantons and farmers to promote late mowing. Projects abroad show that with the aid of targeted measures it is possible to restore suitable habitats, which is vital if the species is to survive.
Distribution and development
Schematic distribution
Schematic distribution during the breeding season (ochre), in winter time (dotted in blue) or during migration periods (dotted in vinaceous).
Breeding bird index
The graph shows the relative evolution of the breeding population in Switzerland (100 = mean value). Example: A value of 130 means that the population in the corresponding year was 30% above the mean value of the entire period considered.
Habitat and food
©
© Lucas Lombardo
Corn Crake meadow in the Alpine foothills in Vaud.
©
© BirdLife Schweiz
Corn Crake meadow in Zuoz.
©
© Lucas Lombardo
Ideal early cover habitat for the Corn Crake.
Conservation programme for birds in Switzerland - Priority species
Corn Crake
The Corn Crake is critically endangered in Switzerland. It used to breed mainly in the Swiss Plateau, but today more than 75 % of records come from elevations above 1000 m asl. It needs species-rich, late-mown meadows with tall vegetation (> 20 cm), wet areas and mosaic-type land use. It also uses extensively managed pastures and herby vegetation, including e.g. nettles. Conservation measures include recording calling males and working with cantons and farmers to promote late mowing. Projects abroad show that with the aid of targeted measures it is possible to restore suitable habitats, which is vital if the species is to survive.
Birds of Switzerland
Corn Crake
To the species profile in the bird database
Project managers
Threats, activities and forecasts
Limiting factors and threats
The continuing intensification of agriculture is leading to early mowing, the destruction of nests and loss of habitat. Over-fertilization, pesticide use and predators (fox, marten, stoat) are additional strains on the population.
Breeding season
- Early mowing destroys clutches or kills young birds.
- Structurally poor grassland makes building nests more difficult.
- Predators such as foxes, martens and birds of prey predate nests and chicks.
Migration/ Winter
- Habitat loss in Africa due to overgrazing, fires, conversion to arable land.
- Illegal hunting on migration routes (e.g. Mediterranean region, Egypt).
- Droughts on the migration route or in wintering grounds.
Necessary activities
Monitoring
- Continue to record calling individuals throughout Switzerland.
- Long-term monitoring is important for determining trends and the impact of protection measures.
- Test the use of automatic acoustic devices.
Conservation
- Conservation of late-mown, species-rich meadows with tall vegetation.
- Collaboration with farmers and cantons.
- Creation of “early cover” areas by selective sowing of nettles or irises.
Research
- Studies of reproduction, nesting locations and breeding success.
- Identify the causes of changes in population.
- Improve knowledge of migration routes and wintering grounds.
- Test nest search and protection system using thermal imaging drones (pilot tests).
Prospects for success and prognostics
- Without targeted protection measures, the Corn Crake is at risk of extinction in Switzerland.
- Measures to improve habitat for Corn Crakes are effective and could also ensure renewed growth of the population in Switzerland.
- International cooperation and protection on migration routes are crucial for the long-term preservation of the species.
Conservation measures and stakeholders
Set up protected areas for breeding
Mowing only after 15 August and leaving 10–20 % unmown refuge strips (late cover) to safeguard broods and food availability.
Agriculture
Hunting and fishing
Nature conservation
Create ecological compensation areas
Subsidies for functional habitats rather than area payments. Assessment based on vegetation height, moisture, structure. Sowing cow parsley, hogweed and angelica promotes insect diversity, provides cover and ensures breeding success.
Agriculture
Cantons
Communities
Nature conservation
Adapted management
Individual advice, e.g. on cutting times, mowing techniques and conservation options, including effectiveness monitoring.
Agriculture
Cantons
Communities
Nature conservation
Staggered mowing
Mosaic-style mowing in stages creates refuge areas, safeguards broods and extends habitat availability into late summer.
Agriculture
Cantons
Communities
Nature conservation
Increase shrub coverage
Seeding specific early cover areas with nettles, irises and reed canary grass.
Agriculture
Cantons
Communities
Nature conservation
©
© Jari Peltomäki
Birds of Switzerland
Corn Crake
Up to the beginning of the 20th century, many people complained about the numerous Corn Crakes robbing them of their sleep with their persistent calls from every meadow. These times belong to the past. Corn Crakes are well known for their double-syllable call “ehrp-ehrp…” The scientific name originates from the Greek word “krex”. Aristotle already named the Corn Crake after its voice...
To the species profile in the bird database
