Does large-scale, multi-species pasturing maintain high biodiversity with rare and endangered species? — The Sava floodplain case study

Abstract

The Lonjsko Polje nature park in the Sava floodplain is situated southeast of Zagreb (Croatia). It harbours a high number of endangered or rare animal and plant species. The large-scale and low-intensity grazing regime seems to be a key factor in the maintenance of viable populations. First, this regime helps to establish and maintain a high level of habitat diversity. As a result, species with complex habitat requirements, such as spoonbills, amphibians and various invertebrates, find optimum conditions in the area. Second, the overgrazing of specific areas, the trampling and especially the disturbance by pigs is beneficial to poorly competing plant and other pioneer species.