Conservation of seabird species
ENCI is a partner in the LIFE TETIDE project, “Turning Eradication Targets Into Durable Effects”, which aims to improve the conservation status of 3 species of seabirds and 7 habitats of European interest on 26 islands in the Mediterranean Sea. The delicate balance of island ecosystems, in fact, is constantly threatened by the risk of colonization by invasive species (e.g. rats), which have a negative impact on both marine birds and other groups of vertebrates and invertebrates, as well as on flora and vegetation.
Rat-free status
Species with fossorial or cave-dwelling reproductive habits, such as Procellariformes, are those that benefit most from maintaining rat-free status in nesting sites. The canine units trained by ENCI will be used as eco-detection to prevent the arrival of invasive species, through programmed monitoring actions, combined with rapid interventions in response to potential incursions. The objective of the specific training will be the specialization of dogs in detecting the presence of rats at very low densities in field conditions.
LIFE Actions
The use of dog units for monitoring in existing and potential nesting sites in Italy will be carried out starting from 2025. Monitoring activities with teams of detection dogs will be carried out in all seasons in which rat incursions are suspected, on the islands falling within the LIFE actions. To carry out this activity, the dog units will have to pass the admission test, and, after a period of specialized training that will be provided free of charge online and in person, the final test preparatory to operations. The monitoring activity of the dog units will be remunerated according to the LIFE financial standards (source: ENCI).
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