4. Conservation status of species listed in Annex II, IV ... · Annex II of the Habitats Directive...

50

Annex II of the Habitats Directive includes ani-mal and plant species of community interestswhose conservation requires the designation ofspecial areas of conservation. Annex IV includesspecies of community interest in need of strictprotection and Annex V includes species of com-munity interest whose taking in the wild andexploitation may be subject to managementmeasures.

4.1 Priority species

Two of the species listed in Annex II are priority(*) species for the conservation of which the Com-munity has particular responsibility (Table 4.1).

4.1.1 1113* Houting Coregonusoxyrhynchus

Habitats Directive: Priority species. Annexes IIand IV - Danish Red List 1997: Rare

Distribution, population size and status

The Houting is a fish species whose known dis-tribution is the Wadden Sea and possibly adja-cent North Sea. Spawning takes place in freshwater in fast running streams over firm bottomsubstrates.

At the beginning of the 19th century, it was acommon species in the Dutch, German and Dan-ish Wadden Sea. However, during the 1920s and1930s the species gradually disappeared from

the Dutch and German rivers (Jensen et al. inpress.).

In Denmark, too, the houting became rare andby 1979-1980, its distribution was confined tothe Vidå-system which supported a small popu-lation (Sønderjyllands Amtsråd & Ribe Amtsråd1988). Its decline was possibly caused by thedeterioration in the spawning and reproductionconditions caused by extreme stream mainte-nance, poor water quality, and the installationof dams which prevented it from reaching itsspawning grounds. Drainage and canalisationhave further reduced winter flooding and thusthe nursery habitats used by the developing fry(Sønderjyllands Amtsråd & Ribe Amtsråd 1988).

Because of this decline, Ribe and Sønderjyllandscounties initiated a species action plan partly toenhance breeding and reproduction by improv-ing the environment and partly through rear-ing and restocking houting fry in streams previ-ously inhabited by the species. Thus, to date, atotal of 1.7 million houting fry were restockedinto six stream systems (Jensen et al. in press.).

Conservation status

Localities: During 1987-1992 599,000 fry were re-stocked in Vidå, 289,000 in Brede Å, 315,000 inRibe Å, 138,000 in Kongeå, 179,000 in Sneum Åand 222,000 in Varde Å (Fig. 4.1.1). So far, Vidåis the only stream system where this action hasresulted in an acceptable production of subadulthoutings. In Brede and Varde Å reproductiondoes take place, but it is uncertain whether thepopulation there can be made self-maintaining.No self-maintaining population has been estab-

4. Conservation status of species listed in Annex II, IVand V of the Habitats Directive

SpeciesScientific name

An-nex

No. oflocal-ities

Size ofpopu-lation

%of DK

Conservation status: No. of localities / % of speciesNational

statusFavourable Uncertain Unfavour. Unknown Disappear.

* Coregonus oxyrhynchus II, IV 8¤ ca 7700 >95% 2 / 59% 2 / 36% 4 / 5% Uncertain

* Osmoderma eremita II, IV 10 ca 1200 >95% 9 / >95% 1 / <5% Uncertain

Table 4.1. Conservation status for the two priority species (*) in Denmark. ¤Stream systems.

51

lished in Sneum Å and Kongeåen. A few indi-viduals have been registered in Brøns and RejsbyÅ where no restocking has taken place (Jensenet al. in press.).

The population in each individual stream sys-tem has been estimated using the capture-recap-ture method as follows: Vidå 3,000 (1995), BredeÅ 2,000 (1995), Brøns Å 36 (1995), Ribe Å 1,650(1998), Sneum Å 171 (1998), Varde Å 783 (1997).In addition, Kongeåen is estimated to support<100 and Rejsby Å <25 using other methods(Jensen et al. in press.).

The conservation status of this species (prima-rily based on its ability to establish self-sustain-ing populations) is as follows in each of thestreams: Vidå and Ribe Å favourable, Brede Åand Varde Å uncertain, and Sneum Å, Kongeå-en, Brøns Å, and Rejsby Å unfavourable (Table4.1).

Overall status: Through restocking, the houtinghas become more widespread in streams flow-ing into the Wadden Sea, but with only onepopulation apparently capable of maintainingitself, the overall conservation status in Denmarkmust be characterised as uncertain.

4.1.2 1084* Hermit BeetleOsmoderma eremita

Habitats Directive: Priority species. Annexes IIand IV -Danish Red List 1997: Critically endan-gered


The Hermit Beetle exploits hollow deciduoustrees, particularly oak and beech, in semi-openor open woods, e.g. in old deer parks. Thus thespecies often favours parks or avenues in con-nection with these woods.

Its distribution in Denmark is confined to theislands east of Storebælt and in recent times thespecies is known only from Zealand andLolland, although it is known in the past fromFalster (last observed in 1938). During 1830-1999the species was reported from 30 different lo-calities in Denmark. Since 1950, it is known from14 localities (5 in south Zealand, 4 in northeastZealand and 5 on Lolland). Mapping in 1993relocated the species at 10 localities (Martin1994), 9 of which were still occupied by hermitbeetles in 1999: 5 in south Zealand, 1 in north-east Zealand, and 3 on Lolland (Fig. 4.1.2). Eventhough the figures show a marked decrease inknown occupied localities the hermit beetle hasbeen discovered at some new localities onLolland (Martin 1994). No new localities havebeen found since 1993. It cannot be, ruled out,

Figure 4.1.1. Houting. Known general distribution inDenmark in 1999. Streams with confirmed breedingare shown in black, the grey shaded area delimitscoastal areas thought to constitute the major areaswhere fry develop to the adult stage.

Figure 4.1.2. Hermit Beetle. Confirmed records in Den-mark in 1999.

52

owever, that the species may be found at otherlocalities than those investigated.

The number of extant sub-populations at eachindividual locality was not determined in 1993which makes it difficult to assess the status ofthe population overall. The number of host treeshas, however, become fewer during the periodwhich probably indicates a decrease in totalpopulation size. Swedish data suggest 20 Her-mit Beetles per host tree (Ranius 1995), adopt-ing this figure for the Danish situation theknown Danish population could equate to ap-prox. 1,200 individuals.

Conservation status

Localities: The conservation status is consideredto be uncertain at nine localities and unfavour-able in areas where the species could not be re-located (Table 4.1.). Even though eight popula-tions are estimated as stable and only minorchanges in habitat are noted, the habitats are notsecured against changes in woodland and park-land management. Furthermore, the capacity ofthe Hermit Beetle to disperse is poor and, as eachsub-population becomes more isolated, it isquestionable whether the species will survivein the long run – even with no change in exist-ing habitat. Conservation status in the areawhere the Hermit Beetle was not found is esti-mated as unfavourable, although the speciesmay continue to exist in the area.

Conclusion: The national status of the HermitBeetle is uncertain.

4.2 Non-priority species

4.2.1 Mammals

4.2.1.1 Barbastelle Bat Barbastellabarbastellus

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV - DanishRed List 1997: Rare


The Barbastelle Bat breeds in hollow trees or inhouses while its winter quarters are primarilyin cellars, abandoned military structures, aban-doned ice stores, mine shafts, pits etc. Biotopepreferences are not fully known but the speciesfavours deciduous forest. Hunts over forestroads, along edges of woods and hedgerows,possibly also in more open land. Moves fromplace to place along woodland fringes, hedgesetc.

The Barbastelle Bat is rare throughout westernEurope. A survey by volunteer observers andspecial surveys using bat detector devices lo-cated a total of 4,707 localities with bats duringthe Danish bat atlas project 1973-1994 (H. Baagøeunpubl. data). This species was only registeredtwice: One individual found dead in the streetof Vordingborg in the autumn of 1986 and theother registered by detector at Røgbølle Sø,Lolland (Fig. 4.2.1.1). There may be a small popu-lation in southeastern Denmark (excludingBornholm), but it remains a strong possibilitythat these individuals were actually migrantsfrom Sweden or Germany/Poland, as the spe-cies is known to move over long distances of upto 290 km.

Population size of the species and its presentstatus are unknown. Comparison with histori-cal data suggests that the species has been morecommon during 1850-1950 than now. There isinformation on 27 Barbastelle Bat localities (in-

Figure 4.2.1.1. Barbastelle Bat. Confirmed records inDenmark 1973-1994.

53

volving approx. 60 individuals) out of 562 olderknown bat localities (before 1973) on Zealand,Lolland, and Falster, including one from Born-holm. The species seems to have been on thedecline for many years especially on Zealandand this tendency is reflected in several West-ern European countries.

Conservation status

Localities: The habitat at Røgbølle Sø is consid-ered a good biotope for the species. Based onpresently available data it is impossible to as-sess the conservation status of the species in theknown areas of occurrence (Table 4.2). Until re-cently the species was difficult to identify bydetectors but a new detector system makes iteasy, however, only when the species uses a par-ticular easily distinguishable sonar signal (Ahlén& Baagøe 1999).

Conclusion: The species is rare and the presentdata are not sufficient to assess the national con-servation status. Thus the true status of theBarbastelle Bat is unknown.

4.2.1.2 Pond Bat Myotis dasycneme

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV - DanishRed List 1997: Vulnerable - Danish Amber List1997: National responsibility species

Distribution, population size and development

The Pond Bat breeds in houses and hollow treesclose to its favoured foraging areas while itswinter quarters are usually in chalk pits, crev-ices, castle cellars etc. Over 90% of feeding takesplace above the water surface of lakes andstreams with abundant insects (Baagøe 1987,1991 and unpubl. data). The flight to and fromits hunting range is along woodland fringes,hedgerows and other linear features in the land-scape.

The Pond Bat is a rare species and its main dis-tribution is limited to Mid- and Eastern Jutland(Fig. 4.2.1.2). During the Danish bat project (H.Baagøe, unpubl. data) in 1973-1994, a total of4,707 bat localities were located by volunteerobservers and bat detectors. The species was


An-nex

No. oflocal-ities

Size ofpopu-lation

%of DK

Conservation status: No. of localities / % of species

Dis-appear.

Barbastella barbastellus II, IV ?

Myotis dasycneme II, IV ? x* / ?

Myotis bechsteinii II, IV ?

Myotis brandtii IV ?

Myotis daubentonii IV ?

Myotis mystacinus IV ?

Myotis nattereri IV ?

Pipistrellus nathusii IV ?

Pipistrellus pipistrellus IV ?

Plecotus auritus IV ?

Eptesicus serotinus IV ?

Vespertilio murinus IV ?

Nyctalus noctula IV ?

Phocoena phocoena II, IV

Lutra lutra II, IV 100%

Unfa-vour.

(x / ?)

1 / ?

1 / 0%

Halichoerus gryphus II >95%

Phoca vitulina II >95%

Muscardinus avellanarius IV >95%

Favour-able

x* / ?

x* / ?

x* / ?

(x / ?)

x* / ?

x* / ?

x* / ?

x* / ?

x* / ?

x* / ?

5 / 95%

4 / 85%

5 / >95%

35 / ?

Un-certain

(x / ?)

2 / ?

2 / 5%

3 / 15%

21 / ?

Sicista betulina IV

2

52

2

93

453

77

32

126

1080

193

1546

759

354

3**

8#

7

5/16¤

56

?

Unknown

>2-3000

Unknown

Unknown

Unknown

Unknown

>400

Unknown

Unknown

Unknown

Unknown

Unknown

Unknown

Unknown

>600?

Ca. 20

>7120

Unknown

Unknown ?

Un-known

2 / ?

2* / ?

x* / ?

x * / ?

Nationalstatus

Unknown

Favourable

Unknown

Favourable

Favourable

Favourable

Unknown

Favourable

Favourable

Favourable

Favourable

Favourable

Favourable

Uncertain

Uncertain

Uncertain

Favourable

Uncertain

Unknown

Table 4.2. Conservation status of mammals. *The number of localities is unknown, but the majority is sup-posed to belong to this category. **Management areas. #Counties. ¤ Marine areas/the most important sing-le localities.

54

located at 52 sites, of which 46 were records ofindividual bats, 27 were detector localities and5 were proven breeding colonies. A small butapparently viable population was registered inMidjutland, with a few individuals in Mols andThy. Bornholm is known to support 4 localities,however with irregular appearance and theseindividuals may be migrants from Skåne or theBaltic States. The only other parts of Denmarkin which the species was found are southernZealand and Falster. These individuals are prob-ably migrants.

Each winter Smidie lime pit in Himmerlandhouses 200-500 Pond Bats. Mønsted and Daug-bjerg lime pits both support 500-1,000 individu-als and Tingbæk lime pit holds 0-20 individuals(Baagøe et al. 1988, Degn 1987 and H. Baagøeunpubl. data). In all these places the winterpopulation seems to be stable. Ringed individu-als from these lime pits have been relocated inthe above mentioned areas in Midjutland (Egs-bæk & Jensen 1963, Egsbæk et al. 1971). It istherefore assumed that the present populationdepends on a combination of suitable winterquarters in the lime pits and the existence ofextensive feeding areas in the vicinity.

The current population size is unknown but asthe species is easy to locate, the small numberof known sites indicates a relatively small popu-lation. Based on the figures from the lime pits,however, the population is thought to number

at least 2,000-3,000 individuals. Comparisonwith historical data suggests that the speciesoccurred on Zealand from the late 1800s until1961. Despite thorough survey (Atlas project)and the continued existence of good summerbiotopes, the species has not been relocated here.

Conservation status

Localities: The Midjutland area in particularmaintains important feeding biotopes and rea-sonable summer roosting quarters (in houses).The conservation status of the wintering popu-lation in the lime pits in Jutland is favourable(Table 4.2), but the species here is vulnerable tosmall changes in the environment (e.g. the physi-cal collapse of the pits, changes in land use atand around the pits, changes in migration routes,as well as various sources of disturbance). Theconservation status of the summer populationin Midjutland seems to be favourable, but asthere is no actual surveillance at present, changesmay already have taken place.

Overall status: Conservation status seems favour-able for the hibernating populations in the corearea of the Jutland lime pits as well as for thesummer population. However, the size of thispopulation relative to the national populationremains unknown.

4.2.1.3 Bechstein’s Bat Myotis bechsteinii



The Bechstein’s Bat favours breeding in hollowtrees but will use nesting boxes provided forbirds and bats. Winter quarters are generally inhollow trees, occasionally in galleries, rock cavesetc. (Baagøe in press/c).

The Bechstein’s Bat is rare throughout Europeand its presence in Denmark is thought to berecent (Baagøe & Trolle 1988, Baagøe 1991, inpress/a, unpubl. data). A survey by volunteerobservers and special surveys using bat detec-tor devices located a total of 4,707 localities with

Figure 4.2.1.2. Pond Bat. Confirmed records (soliddots), known general distribution (grey shading) inDenmark 1973-1994.

55

bats during the Danish bat atlas project 1973-1994 (H. Baagøe unpubl. data). The species wasonly registered in two localities on Bornholm,viz. one individual in a house in Rø and one in-dividual recorded by using a bat detector inEkkodalen (Fig. 4.2.1.3). The Bechstein’s Bat isundoubtedly very rare, but is also difficult tosurvey by volunteer observers or by the use ofdetector devices. It cannot be ruled out that theseindividuals were actually migrants from Swe-den or Poland. It is, however, more likely thatBornholm supports a small population, as thisspecies is known to be one of the most seden-tary of bat species and rarely flies over open land.Population size and status are unknown (Table4.2).

Conservation status

Localities: The following areas on Bornholm seemto be favoured by the species: parts of Ekkodalenand old forest in Almindingen, e.g. at Lilleborg.Based on these data it is impossible to assess theconservation status of the species in the knownareas of occurrence.

Overall status: The species is very rare and thepresent data are not sufficient to estimate thenational conservation status.

4.2.1.4 Brandt’s Bat Myotis brandtii

Habitats Directive: Annex IV - Danish Red List1997: Vulnerable


The Brandt’s Bat breeds in houses, often closeto forests but also in hollow trees. Its winterquarters are primarily in galleries, rock caves,cellars etc, although houses and hollow treesmay sometimes be used. The species hunts atlow to medium heights (1-15 metres) particu-larly along edges of woods, in glades, gardens,parks or along hedgerows and in some few casesfar from wooden vegetation (Baagøe 1987, 1991and unpubl. data). Bornholm’s small woodlandsare important hunting territories for this species.

The Brandt’s Bat is a rare species in Denmarkaway from Bornholm where it occurs more of-ten. A survey by volunteer observers and spe-cial surveys using bat detector devices locateda total of 4,707 localities with bats during theDanish bat atlas project 1973-1994 (H. Baagøeunpubl.). The species was registered at 93 locali-ties. The Brandt’s Bat cannot be distinguishedfrom Whiskered Bat by bat detector and conse-quently the two species are considered as one(see below). With only 23 localities registered byvolunteer observers (including the known win-tering localities) and 70 detector localities(Brandt’s/Whiskered) the Brandt’s Bat is con-sidered one of the more rare species in Denmark.The few observations demonstrate that the spe-cies is reasonably scarce in Denmark with onlylocal populations on Bornholm (12 localities, 8of which are breeding localities) and in Mid-jutland (10 localities, 4 out of which are breed-ing colonies and 4 wintering quarters) and a sin-gle observation from Lolland-Falster (Fig.4.2.1.4). Using bat detectors, 62 sites were locatedon Bornholm supporting the Brandt’s or Whisk-ered Bats and 6 in Jutland as well as 2 fromLolland-Falster (presumably the Brandt’s Bat atthese 2 locations). The Brandt’s Bat is more fre-quent on Bornholm compared to the rest of Den-mark and on the basis of records from bat de-tectors, the Brandts/Whiskered Bats are themost commonly registered species on this island.

Approximately 200 Brandt’s Bats winter in Smi-

Figure 4.2.1.3. Bechstein’s Bat. Confirmed records inDenmark 1973-1994.

56

die Lime pit in Himmerland (H. Baagøe, unpubl.data, B. Jensen unpubl. data), 100-200 individu-als are assumed to winter in both Mønsted andDaugbjerg Lime pits (Baagøe et al. 1988) and 1-10 individuals in Tingbæk Lime pit. All thesewinter populations seem to be stable. The na-tional population size and status are, however,unknown, but Bornholm and Midjutland seemto support viable populations. Historical datasuggest that during the late 18th century thespecies could also be observed on Zealand.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status of the Brandt’s Batseems favourable in most localities (Table 4.2).Bornholm and Midjutland offer good huntingbiotopes and a reasonable number of summerquarters (houses). Conservation status of thewintering population is favourable in the Jut-land lime pits, but the species is vulnerable tophysical changes of these habitats. Informationon winter quarters on Bornholm is scarce. Thereseems to be no decline in numbers in the twosummering areas (Midjutland, Bornholm) andthe biotopes there, too, seem favourable to thespecies.

Overall status: Estimates are insufficient to offeran overall status of the species, but can be as-

sessed as favourable in the known winter andsummer quarters. Thus the national conserva-tion status is estimated favourable.

4.2.1.5 Daubenton’s Bat Myotisdaubentonii



The Daubenton’s Bat breeds almost exclusivelyin hollow trees, but occasionally under old stonebridges close to its hunting range. Its winterquarters are mainly in lime pits, rock clefts, cas-tle cellars etc. More than 90% of hunting takesplace above the surface of lakes and streams insites associated with abundant insect produc-tion, but the species also hunts between trees,along woodland fringes etc. (Baagøe 1987, 1991and unpubl. data).

The Daubenton’s Bat is a common species inDenmark. A survey by volunteer observers andspecial surveys using bat detector devices lo-cated a total of 4,707 localities with bats duringthe Danish bat atlas project 1973-1994 (H. Baagøeunpubl.). This species was one of the most com-mon species, occurring at a total of 453 locali-ties: 356 of which were registered by means ofdetectors and 97 by volunteer observers (Fig.4.2.1.5). Each winter Smidie lime pit supports500-1,200 Daubenton’s Bats and the number hasbeen increasing (H. Baagøe, unpubl., B. Jensen,unpubl.). The wintering population for bothMønsted and Daubjerg lime pits in Midjutlandis estimated at 3,500-5,000 individuals and sta-ble (Baagøe et al. 1988, unpubl. data). The cor-responding figures at the following locations are:Tingbæk Lime pit in Himmerland 150-300 indi-viduals and increasing, lime tunnel at Hasseris40-50 individuals and declining, and in a bun-ker at Silkeborg approx. 75 individuals and sta-ble (B. Jensen, unpubl. data), and in Kronborg5-10 individuals and stable (H. Baagøe and B.Jensen, unpubl. data). Only Smidie, Tingbæk,Hasseris, and Kronborg are counted regularly.

The Daubenton’s Bats ringed in lime pits havebeen recovered throughout Midjutland (Egsbæk

Figure 4.2.1.4. Brandt’s Bat. Confirmed records andknown general distribution in Denmark 1973-1994.Solid dots: Individuals identified in the hand. Trian-gles: Localities determined by detector devices sup-porting Brandt’s Bat/Whiskered Bat; outsideBornholm probably Brandt’s Bat. Grey shading: Nu-merous

57

& Jensen 1963, Egsbæk et al. 1971) and withoutdoubt most of these individuals use the lime pitson a regular basis. However, it seems likely thatthe species hibernates at other, currently un-known localities as it is also common in otherparts of Denmark. A few reports indicate thatthe species may also use or hibernate in oldwells. This rather suggests that this species isless strongly reliant on the lime pits to sustainthe population than, for example, the Pond Bat.

An overall estimate of the total population sizedoes not exist but as the species is frequent andwidespread it is likely not small. The trend isunclear but seems to be viable and stable through-out the country. The species is on the increase inmany other European countries. This may bedue to the fact that the species also hunts overmoderately contaminated water surfaces if onlyinsects are plentiful. Comparison with histori-cal data suggests no clear differences in distri-bution and abundance compared with formertimes in Denmark.

Conservation status

Localities: Most parts of Denmark offer goodhunting biotopes. Even though there is certainlya lack of hollow trees, the species may find itspreferred breeding localities throughout thecountry, as well as suitable winter quarters. Thusthe conservation status seems favourable at mostlocalities (Table 4.2). Lack of breeding quartersin hollow trees may, however, be a limiting fac-

tor to the species and the hibernating popula-tion in lime pits, bunkers, abandoned militarystructures etc. is vulnerable to even smallchanges in the physical conditions (collapse oflime pits and mine shafts, changes in migratorybehaviour, human disturbances etc.).

Overall status: The Daubenton’s Bat is a wide-spread and common species in Denmark whoseconservation status is estimated to be favour-able.

4.2.1.6 Whiskered Bat Myotis mystacinus


The Whiskered Bat breeds in houses, often closeto forests but also in hollow trees. Its winterquarters are primarily in galleries, rock caves,cellars etc, occasionally also in houses and hol-low trees. Hunts at low to medium heights (1-15 metres) particularly along edges of woods,in glades, gardens, parks or along hedgerowsand in some few cases far from wooded areas(Baagøe 1987, 1991 and unpubl. data). Born-holm’s small woodlands are important huntingterritories for the species.

In Denmark the Whiskered Bat occurs only onBornholm. A survey by volunteer observers andspecial surveys using bat detector devices lo-cated a total of 4,707 localities with bats duringthe Danish bat atlas project 1973-1994 (H. Baagøeunpubl.). The Whiskered Bat cannot be distin-guished from the Brandt’s Bat by bat detectorand consequently the two species are consideredas one. With only 15 localities (4 out of whichare breeding localities) registered by volunteerobservers and 62 registered by detector devices(Brandts/Whiskered Bat), the species is consid-ered one of the more rare species in Denmark(Fig. 4.2.1.6). Population size and trend are notknown but Bornholm may be assumed to sup-port a viable population. Older findings (3) con-firm its existence on the island far back.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status of Whiskered Batseems favourable at most localities (Table 4.2).

Figure 4.2.1.5. Daubenton’s Bat. Known general distri-bution in Denmark 1973-1994.

58

Bornholm offers good hunting biotopes andsummer quarters (houses) to the species. Verylittle is known of its winter quarters.

Overall status: Estimates are insufficient to offeran overall status of the species, but the nationalconservation status can be assessed as favour-able. There is no indication of decline in the spe-cies and an abundance of suitable biotopes re-mains.

4.2.1.7 Natterer’s Bat Myotis nattereri



The Natterer ’s Bat breeds in houses and hollowtrees. Winter quarters are mainly cellars, aban-doned military structures, lime pits etc. (H.Baagøe, unpubl. data). The species prefers de-ciduous forest and in particular more open for-est (e.g. grazing forest). It hunts at rather lowheights (often 1-5 metres) between branches orclose along woodland fringes and hedgerowsand in wooden gardens, parks and occasionallyalso over streams and lakes. (Baagøe 1987, 1991and unpubl. data).

The Natterer ’s Bat is widespread throughout Eu-rope, but scarce in most places including Den-mark. A survey by volunteer observers and spe-

cial surveys using bat detector devices locateda total of 4,707 localities with bats during theDanish bat atlas project 1973-1994 (H. Baagøeunpubl.). The species was only represented at32 localities and is thus a scarce species (Fig.4.2.1.7). By means of detector devices 14 locali-ties were registered and volunteer observerscounted 18 localities including breeding colonieson Lolland and Bornholm, which includes allknown wintering localities. The low number ofregistrations shows that the species is rare butas the Natterer ’s Bat is a sedentary species, it istempting to interpret the many widespread lo-cations as representing many discrete local pop-ulations. The species may be overlooked at somelocalities given the methods used.

The Atlas project indicated dense populationson Bornholm and possibly also in parts ofHimmerland. Nineteen out of 32 localities wereregistered on Bornholm, 4 out of which werebreeding colonies. Apart from Bornholm onlyone breeding colony has been found near Nør-resø (close to Maribo). Smidie lime pit inHimmerland supports each winter 100-150Natterer ’s Bats (H. Baagøe, unpubl. data, B.Jensen, unpubl. data). Mønsted and Daugbjerglime pits are estimated to each support 50-100wintering Natterer ’s Bats, Tingbæk lime pit 10-20 and Kronborg 15-25. In all places the num-bers seem stable.

Population size and trend of the Natterer ’s Bat

Figure 4.2.1.6. Whiskered Bat. Known general distri-bution in Denmark 1973-1994.

Figure 4.2.1.7. Natterer’s Bat. Confirmed records (soliddots), known general distribution (grey shading) inDenmark 1973-1994.

59

are unknown. The total population based onnumbers at the known wintering localities isestimated to be 225-400 individuals.

Conservation status

Localities: Generally speaking very little is knownabout conservation status at the localities but thewintering populations in the lime pits seem sta-ble with a favourable conservation status (Table4.2). Numbers fluctuate from year to year (bestregistered in Smidie). The fluctuating numberthroughout the winter indicates use of other win-tering sites, which makes it difficult to estimatethe size of the local population wintering in thepits.

Overall status: The species is relatively rare andthe national conservation status is partly un-known. Counts and estimates from the lime pitsand Kronborg show stable wintering popula-tions whereas data are scarce for the summerpopulations.

4.2.1.8 Nathusius’ Pipistrelle Pipistrellusnathusii



The Nathusius’ Pipistrelle has its summer andwinter quarters in both buildings and hollowtrees close to forests. The species favours areasrich in deciduous trees and hunts typically atmiddle heights (5-20 metres) close to trees, alongedges of woods, glades etc. and not so often invegetation (Baagøe 1987, 1991 and unpubl. data).The species is migratory. The Baltic Nathusius’Pipistrelle prefers regular migration in a southwesterly direction and is relocated in many midEuropean countries. The same applies to someScanian individuals. Migration patterns of theDanish population are unknown nor is there anyknowledge whether the Danish winter popula-tion is identical to the summer population or towhat degree this population actually representsmigrants from the north.

The Nathusius’ Pipistrelle is a relatively rare spe-cies in Denmark but its occurrence is not so rareas previously assumed. A survey by volunteerobservers and special surveys using bat detec-tor devices located a total of 4,707 localities withbats during the Danish bat atlas project 1973-1994 (H. Baagøe unpubl.). The Nathusius’Pipistrelle was one of the more rare species reg-istered at 126 localities, out of which 93 werelocated by detector devices and 33 by volunteerobservers (Fig. 4.2.1.8). The relatively lownumber shows that the species is far more rarelyoccurring than the Pipistrelle Bat. Estimates in-dicate a frequent occurrence and somewhatmore common distribution than previously as-sumed. Nathusius’ Pipistrelle may have beenoverlooked previously and population figuresdo not exist.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status is estimated fa-vourable in most habitats (Table 4.2). The de-ciduous forests in Denmark offer excellent hunt-ing opportunities and suitable winter and sum-mer quarters.

Overall status: It is a relatively frequently occur-ring species – more common and more wide-spread than previously assumed, and conserva-tion status is considered favourable.

Figure 4.2.1.8. Nathusius’ Pipistrelle. Confirmedrecords (solid dots), known general distribution (greyshading) in Denmark 1973-1994.

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4.2.1.9 Pipistrelle Bat Pipistrelluspipistrellus

Habitats Directive: Annex IV


The Pipistrelle Bat favours areas rich in decidu-ous trees (H. Baagøe, unpubl. data). Its summerand winter quarters are in both buildings andhollow trees close to forests, and hunting is typi-cally at low to middle heights (1-20 metres) closeto trees, along edges of woods, glades and notso often in vegetation (Baagøe 1987, 1991 andunpubl. data).

Within recent years it has been demonstratedthat the Pipistrelle Bat can be divided into twospecies which are distinguishable by differencesin sonar frequencies and by DNA. Detector de-vices reveal that one species uses ultrasoundshrieks with frequences below 50 KHz and hasa tongue formed distribution from south upthrough Jutland where in many places it co-oc-curs with another species which uses frequencesabove 50 KHz. The latter is widespread in Den-mark and the most common of these two spe-cies. The species have not yet been named andare treated here as one species, viz. the PipistrelleBat.

The Pipistrelle Bat is a common species in Den-mark apart from Bornholm (one finding), west-

ern Jutland and some smaller islands. Duringthe bat atlas project in 1973-1994 a total of 4,707bat localities were located. The Pipistrelle Batwas one of the most frequent species represent-ing 1,080 localities, out of which 593 were regis-tered by detector devices and 487 by volunteerobservers. Many of these localities supportedbreeding colonies (Fig. 4.2.1.9). Actual popula-tion figures do not exist but the species is fre-quent in most of its natural range. Comparisonof number of localities found per hour with de-tector devices reveals that populations are dens-est on Zealand, Lolland-Faster-Møn, Funen, andin South Jutland. Status in Denmark seems posi-tive.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status is estimated fa-vourable in most localities (Table 4.2). Its natu-ral range in Denmark is rich in favourable hunt-ing localities as well as many buildings offersuitable winter and summer quarters to thisspecies strongly associated with man.

Overall status: The national conservation statusis assessed as favourable.

4.2.1.10 Brown Long-eared Bat Plecotusauritus



The Brown Long-eared Bat has its summer andwinter quarters both in buildings and hollowtrees close to woods and parks. Only small num-bers winter in lime pits, cellars etc. The speciestypically hunts at low or medium heights (1-15metres) around trees, in glades along edges ofwoods and buildings – often in vegetation withleaves and branches offering the preferred prey(Baagøe 1987, 1991 and unpubl. data).

The Brown Long-eared Bat is a relatively com-monly distributed species throughout Denmark.A survey by volunteer observers and specialsurveys using bat detector devices located a to-

Figure 4.2.1.9. Pipistrelle Bat. Confirmed records (soliddots), known general distribution (grey shading) inDenmark 1973-1994.

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tal of 4,707 localities with bats during the Dan-ish bat atlas project 1973-1994 (H. Baagøeunpubl.). With a total of 193 localities the BrownLong-eared Bat was one of the less frequent spe-cies (Fig. 4.2.1.10). Fifty-two localities were regis-tered by detector devices and 141, some of whichincluded breeding colonies, by volunteer observ-ers. The Brown Long-eared Bat is a sedentaryspecies and the many widespread registrationsseem to indicate small local populations. It isprobable that the species compared to other spe-cies has been overlooked with the methods ap-plied. Population figures do not exist.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status of the speciesseems favourable at most localities (Table 4.2).Denmark offers favourable hunting localities tothe species and suitable summer and winterquarters.

Overall status: Conservation status of the BrownLong-eared Bat seems favourable.

4.2.1.11 Serotine Eptesicus serotinus



The summer and winter quarters of the Serotine

are confined to buildings (small detached houses,1-2 storey houses in the country). The species isfairly sedentary and hunts at medium heights(5-20 metres) close to trees and edges of woodsor over open land – never amongst vegetation(Baagøe 1987, 1991, in press/a and unpubl.data). During late summer and autumn the spe-cies exploits to a high degree the abundant in-sects which are attracted to artificial street light-ing, a feature which may have contributed tothe relative success of the species (Rydell &Baagøe 1996).

The Serotine is a common species in Denmarkexcept in the northeast of Zealand and in Jut-land north of Limfjorden (Baagøe 1986, 1991, inpress/b). During the bat atlas project in 1973-1994 a total of 4,707 bat localities were located(H. Baagøe, unpubl. data). The Serotine was themost common species of all bat species, regis-tered at 1,546 localities, of which 654 localitieswere registered by detector devices and 892 byvolunteer observers (Fig. 4.2.1.11). The manyknown breeding colonies are distributed evenlyover its natural range. Precise estimates of thetotal population size do not exist but the spe-cies is common in most parts of its natural range.Comparisons of the number of localities foundper hour with detector devices reveal that thepopulations are more densely distributed in Eastand South Jutland and on Funen than in WestJutland, on Djursland, in Mid- and South Zea-land, Lolland, Falster, Møn and Bornholm. Theconservation status of the species in Denmark

Figure 4.2.1.10. Brown Long-eared Bat. Known generaldistribution in Denmark 1973-1994.

Figure 4.2.1.11. Serotine. Confirmed records (solid dots),known general distribution (grey shading) in Denmark1973-1994.

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seems favourable, perhaps partly due to the factthat the species benefits from some aspects ofenvironmental change caused by man. Compari-son with historical data suggests that the spe-cies may have increased in number in the lastfew hundred years (Baagøe 1991 and unpubl.data).

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status of Serotine seemsfavourable at most localities (Table 4.2). Den-mark offers a wide range of hunting localitiesand suitable summer and winter quarters arewidespread. Its restricted distribution may bedue to competition from the Particoloured BatVespertilio murinus (Baagøe 1986, in press/a andunpubl. data).

Overall status: The national conservation statusis considered favourable.

4.2.1.12 Particoloured Bat Vespertiliomurinus



The summer quarters of the Particoloured Batare exclusively in buildings (detached houses,1-2 storey houses in the country, seldom in tallerbuildings). Its winter quarters are almost totallyconfined to high-rise blocks of more than fourstoreys, often in the middle of towns. The spe-cies typically hunts over quite open areas, oftenhigh above fields, forests and lakes but may alsohunt at medium heights (5-15 metres), e.g. abovelakes, open fields, glades and fringes of woods(Baagøe 1987, 1991, in press/c and unpubl. data).The Particoloured Bat is a migratory species,particularly in east Europe (Rydell & Baagøe1994), but the population of Zealand moves onlyover short distances between its summer andwinter quarters. During late summer and au-tumn, the species exploits the abundant insectswhich are attracted to artificial lighting, a fea-ture which may contribute to the success of thespecies (Rydell & Baagøe 1996, Baagøe in press/b and unpubl. data). Many observations, par-

ticularly outside its breeding season west of itsdistribution range (in Denmark as well as else-where in west Europe) prove that the Parti-coloured Bat roams (Baagøe 1999, in press/c).

The Particoloured Bat is a common speciesthroughout its distribution range in northeastZealand (Baagøe 1986, in press/c). During thebat atlas project in 1973-1994 a total of 4,707 batlocalities were located (H. Baagøe, unpubl. data).The Particoloured Bat was observed at a total of759 localities: 344 by means of detector devicesand 415 by volunteer observers (Fig. 4.2.1.12).Of these, 552 were registered in one restrictedarea in the northeast of Zealand where 194 sum-mer breeding colonies were located. Thus, thespecies has a very dense population here (almost200 breeding colonies). Only 3 other breedingcolonies are known from the rest of Denmark (2elsewhere on Zealand and 1 on Djursland) sup-plemented by some individual encounters andsmall and widespread groups of hunting indi-viduals. The town of Århus has a small winter-ing population. The distribution of the speciesin Denmark is strongly influenced by the pres-ence of man.

Precise estimates of the total population size donot exist, but the population of northeast Zea-land is by far the densest. Outside of Norwayand Sweden the population is presumed to bescarce in all European countries, although inDenmark the population trend is apparentlypositive.

Figure 4.2.1.12. Particoloured Bat. Confirmed records(solid dots), known general distribution (grey shad-ing) in Denmark 1973-1994.

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Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status of the Particol-oured Bat is presumed favourable at most lo-calities (Table 4.2). Denmark offers excellenthunting localities and suitable summer quarterseverywhere, whereas winter quarters are con-fined to towns with high-rise blocks. Its limiteddistribution may be caused by competition fromSerotine (Baagøe 1986, in press/b and unpubl.data).

Overall status: Conservation status of the Parti-coloured Bat is estimated as favourable.

4.2.1.13 Noctule Bat Nyctalus noctula



The Noctule Bat almost exclusively uses hollowtrees as its summer and winter quarters, al-though it has been reported in a few cases to bewintering in buildings. It typically hunts overopen areas, high over fields, edges of woods, inglades and over lakes, generally 5-15 metresabove the ground (Baagøe 1987, 1991 and un-publ. data). The species is migratory, but migra-tion patterns of the Danish population are un-known. Whether the Danish winter populationrepresents the summer population is unknown,since it is not known to what degree the sum-mer population includes migratory individualsfrom further north.

The Noctule Bat is a relatively common speciesin Denmark. During the bat atlas project in 1973-1994 a total of 4,707 bat localities were located(H. Baagøe, unpubl. data). The Noctule Bat wasa relatively frequently registered species at 354localities, of which 283 were located by detectordevices and 71 by volunteer observers. Manylocalities supported breeding colonies, includ-ing 20 summer colonies and 9 winter colonies(Fig. 4.2.1.13).

Population size is unknown and populationtrends are not clear, but there seem to be viablepopulations in most deciduous forest areas andat the same time there is no sign of a drastic de-cline, since repeated detector observations at anumber of key localities show no changes inapparent abundance.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status seems mainly fa-vourable for most areas rich in deciduous wood-land, even though conditions locally may beunfavourable or uncertain in the future (Table4.2). Generally, Denmark offers good feedinglocalities for the species and in particular thoseareas covered by deciduous trees (e.g. woods,parks, isolated trees) support suitable summerand winter habitats. Its distribution and statusmay, however, be limited now and in the futureby the availability of suitable hollow trees.

Overall status: In spite of some uncertainty aboutsuitable summer and winter localities, conser-vation status of the Noctule Bat is considered tobe favourable.

Figure 4.2.1.13. Noctule Bat. Confirmed records (soliddots), known general distribution (grey shading) inDenmark 1973-1994.

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4.2.1.14 Harbour Porpoise Phocoenaphocoena

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV - DanishAmber List 1997: Species requiring special at-tention


The Harbour Porpoise occurs in all Danish ma-rine waters but varies in density geographicallyas well as seasonally. The current abundance andtrends of this species are unknown at present.Analyses of genetic material from many indi-viduals indicate the existence of a number ofsub-populations in the North Sea, but exchangebetween populations and differential migrationof the sexes complicate the picture. The same istrue for animals using Kattegat-Bælthavet andthe inner Baltic. The Harbour Porpoises in theNorth Sea breed, among other places, along thewest coast of Jutland, whereas individuals in theinner waters breed in the waters north of Funen,in the northern parts of Lillebælt, in Smålands-farvandet, in Sydfynske Øhav and in Sejerø-bugten. It is likely that none of the Harbour Por-poise populations occur exclusively in Danishwaters.

From a geographical point of view the North At-lantic Ocean has been divided into 13 popula-tions/ICES-areas for the purpose of conserva-tion of the Harbour Porpoise stocks (Jepsen &Gjødsbøl 1998). Three of these apply to Danishwaters, namely: The North Sea-Skagerrak (partsof ICES IVa and IVb and IIIa-north), Kattegat-Bælthavet (ICES IIIa-south and IIIb+c) and theinner Baltic Sea (ICES IIId). In 1994 the first jointsurvey of the Harbour Porpoises covered theNorth Sea, Skagerrak, Kattegat, Bælthavet andthe West Baltic Sea (Hammond et al. 1994), whichresulted in the first reliable estimates of num-bers of the Harbour Porpoises in the variousareas.

Estimates from the North Sea based upon theunintentional by-catch of the Harbour Porpoiseshave also been made (Vinther 1999). Althoughit is not possible to determine the trend in num-bers from a single joint survey, the results ofanalyses of the numbers in the unintentional by-catch suggest a slight population decline. The

distribution of the species in the Danish NorthSea waters probably remains unchanged. Thesize of the unintentional by-catch in Kattegat andBælthavet is difficult to assess and thus trendsfor the species are not available here, but thepopulation is probably unchanged apart fromsome local variation in numbers. Reliable esti-mates of the distribution of the species in theinner Baltic Sea do not exist but generally, infor-mation suggests a strong decline in populationas well as a contraction of natural range. Largenumbers are caught in fishing nets in Swedishand Polish waters.

Conservation status

Localities: Due to uncertainty about the defini-tion of population units, it is difficult to makegeneralisations about the conservation of thisspecies in different parts of the range. It is clearthat some elements of the population may bestrongly influenced by the level of mortalitycaused as a result of becoming caught in fishingnets. Thus, the status of the Harbour Porpoisein the North Sea, Skagerrak and Kattegat-Bælthavet may be unfavourable in some partsbut generally, an overall estimate characterisesboth sites as uncertain (Table 4.2). Conservationstatus in the inner Baltic Sea is considered to beunfavourable.

Overall status: Information on trends is uncer-tain but counts and unintentional by-catch pro-vide some indications of the status of the spe-cies. Based on the status of the two largest sub-populations compared to the extensive uninten-tional by-catch, the overall national status of theHarbour Porpoise is uncertain.

4.2.1.15 European Otter Lutra lutra

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV - DanishRed List 1997: Vulnerable.


The European Otter occurs in stagnant as wellas running water, and in salt and fresh water.Lakes, marshes and bogs with extensive areasof reeds are particularly favoured habitats.

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During a country-wide survey in Denmark in1996, the species was mapped and signs of ot-ters were found in the counties of North Jutland,Viborg, Århus, Ringkøbing, Ribe, Vejle, and WestZealand (Hammershøj et al. 1996). Similar sur-veys were performed in 1984-1986 (Madsen &Nielsen 1986) and in 1991 (Madsen et al. 1992).These surveys are based on a standard methodin which each locality is examined for trace ofotters (faeces/foot prints).

Transfer of localities to a UTM-grid of 10 x 10km squares resulted in otter signs being foundin 67 squares in 1984-1986; 95 in 1991 and 134 in1996. Based on data from the survey in 1996 sup-plemented with information from the countiesand localities with otters found dead since 1993,an analysis in May 2000 found signs of otters in165 squares (Fig. 4.2.1.15). Population estimatesare difficult to assess on this basis, but if it isassumed that each area supports 4-5 individu-als, the population can be estimated to be 660-825 individuals.

The game bag statistics show that by the end ofthe 1950s, the European Otter was widespreadthroughout the country except for some largerislands, such as Bornholm, Samsø and Læsø. Themajority of otters were shot in the western andsouthern parts of Jutland and on Mid Zealandwith fewest on Funen, South Zealand and Lol-land-Falster (Jensen 1964). Approx. 200 otterswere bagged annually in 1945-1965 after whichthere was a decline in the bag up to the point of

their protection in 1967 (Strandgaard & Asferg1980). A questionnaire survey in 1980 revealeda drastic decline in the population at that time(Schimmer 1981). From the mid 1980s, when thefirst conservation management measures wereintroduced, this decline stopped and was fol-lowed by a recovery in the population. This ten-dency has further been enhanced by actionsstemming from the Danish national manage-ment plan for the European Otter (Søgaard &Madsen 1996).

Conservation status

Localities: In the counties of Viborg and Ring-købing which are thought to hold 60% of thenational population, the status of the EuropeanOtter is considered favourable (Table 4.2). Tocontinue to support the increase in numbers inthe most important habitats, action plans andnature restoration projects have been carried out,such as those in the Hvidbjerg Å system andSkjern Å. In north Jutland, Århus and Ribe coun-ties (which hold 35% of the national distribu-tion), the status of the European Otter is alsoconsidered favourable in spite of the limited dis-tribution, since numbers have increased in suit-able habitats. In contrast, the status of the Euro-pean Otter in Vejle and West Zealand counties(which holds only c. 5% of the population) isconsidered uncertain due to the restricted oc-currence. The species is now absent from SouthJutland county, where otters occurred formerly

Overall status: Throughout most of the 20th cen-tury, the European Otter population in Denmarkwas in drastic decline. National surveillance has,however, suggested that the population (overthe past 10-15 years) has stabilised and may evenhave increased due to protection measures andrestoration of habitats. Compared to the rest ofEurope, the Danish otter population in Jutlandand Zealand is, however, very isolated. Shaffer(1981) recommends the establishment of a popu-lation of 500 sexually mature individuals tomaintain sufficient gene flow for a healthy popu-lation. This corresponds to an actual minimumpopulation size (see chapter 2.3) of 1,200 and1,600 otters (Wansink & Ringenaldus 1991). Theoverall status of the European Otter is thereforeconsidered as uncertain in Denmark.

Figure 4.2.1.15. European Otter. Confirmed records inDenmark 1993-2000 illustrated as squares of 10x10 km.

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4.2.1.16 Grey Seal Halichoerus gryphus

Habitats Directive: Annex II - Danish Red List1997. Critically endangered


Before 1800, the Grey Seal was a common spe-cies in Danish waters and up until 1900 bred atcertain undisturbed localities along the Danishcoast. Today the species occurs only in Kattegat,the Baltic Sea and the Wadden Sea, but has beenreported from Rønland Sandø in Limfjorden in1998 (Fig. 4.2.1.16).

The Grey Seal is a frequent visitor to Anholt andLæsø in Kattegat. The species has often been ob-served at Sdr. Rønner (Læsø) but from the mid1990s Grey Seals have been observed with in-creasing frequency at Hirtshals, Skagen, Hirs-holmene, Frederikshavn, Sæby and Hals, whichsuggests that the population in the northernparts of Kattegat may be increasing. Maximumnumbers on Anholt during aerial surveys inAugust have fallen from 6-10 individuals in1988-1992 to 5 individuals in 1994, 4 individu-als in 1996, and 3 individuals in 1998 (Heide-Jørgensen & Teilmann 1999). Dead juvenile GreySeals were found on Anholt in 1982 and 1996(Heide-Jørgensen et al. 1997). On Hesselø, aerialsurveys cannot distinguish the Harbour Sealfrom the Grey Seal against the stony substrates,whereas on Anholt seals are easily identified attheir sand haul-outs.

The Grey Seal occurs in the Baltic Sea at Salt-holm, Falsterbo and Rødsand. On Saltholmnumbers fluctuate, while in 1996 50 individualswere observed at Falsterbro. At Rødsand, thepopulation size was stable with 6-16 individu-als in the 1990s and with 11 individuals presentin 1999 (Falster Statsskovdistrikt, unpubl. data).A new-born dead Grey Seal was found here in1993.

Few Grey Seals were observed in the WaddenSea before 1980, but during the 1990s, up to fiveindividuals have been seen together (althoughonly males have been recorded to avoid possi-ble confusion with The Harbour Seals). It istherefore likely that the actual numbers in theWadden Sea may be higher (NERI, unpubl.

data). The Grey Seals have never been provedbreeding in the Danish part of the Wadden Sea,but the breeding population in Holland and Ger-many is on the increase (a total of 500-600 indi-viduals). The modest increase in the DanishWadden Sea probably reflects the increase in theDutch and German Wadden Sea since the 1980ssupplemented by some migratory individualsfrom the British Isles (S. Tougaard, pers. comm.).

Conservation status

Localities: At four localities, supporting 85% ofthe total population, the status of the species isconsidered favourable due to a stable or posi-tive population trend together with stable habi-tat conditions (Table 4.2). The very few individu-als are, however, scattered between several ar-eas with only a few known breeding attempts.An important factor affecting their number isthe fact that the most important localities havebecome seal reserves.

Overall status: From a historical point of viewthe Grey Seal has shown a remarkable decreasein Danish waters, followed by a recovery in mostrecent decades. The numbers involved suggestthat this change is the result of migratory indi-viduals from other neighbouring populationsrather than a self-sustaining population of thesame individuals. For this reason, the nationalconservation status of the Grey Seal is consid-ered uncertain.

Figure 4.2.1.16. Grey Seal. Important localities in Den-mark 1998-1999 (solid dots). Potential localities (greydots).

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4.2.1.17 Harbour Seal Phoca vitulina

Habitats Directive: Annex II


The Harbour Seal numbers were surveyed in1998 in five marine areas (the Wadden Sea,Limfjorden, northern and southern Kattegat andwestern parts of the Baltic Sea). Surveys coveredall known breeding and haul-out sites (16 locali-ties), of which the Wadden Sea is here consid-ered as one single locality (Fig. 4.2.1.17). A totalof maximum 7,120 individuals were counted inaerial counts in 1998 (Laursen 1999). Investiga-tions have shown that a proportion of the sealsin the water are not visible from the air, and tocorrect for this, c. 25% must be added to approxi-mate to the total population size (Heide-Jør-gensen et al. 1992, Tougaard 1997).

The trend of the Harbour Seal population hasbeen followed since 1976 when the populationnumbered c. 2,000 individuals. Numbers in-creased up to 1987 (c. 6,500 individuals) when aseal epidemic broke out which had almosthalved the population by the end of the 1980s.In 1988-1998 the annual growth rate averaged12-13% in Kattegat, 9% in Limfjorden and 6% inthe western part of the Baltic Sea (Heide-Jørgensen & Teilmann 1999) while the rate in theWadden Sea in 1976-1997 averaged 12% (Tou-gaard 1997). Some three quarters of the popula-

tion seems to be on the increase and the remain-der stable.

Conservation status

Localities: In the marine areas supporting morethan 95% of the population, the status of theHarbour Seal is considered favourable due to amainly positive trend in numbers and stablehabitat conditions (Table 4.2). Furthermore, 14out of 16 known localities (all of which are keyareas) have been declared seal reserves.

Overall status: The majority of the population ap-pears to be increasing. This fact, combined withstable habitat conditions, suggests that the na-tional conservation status is favourable.

4.2.1.18 Dormouse Muscardinusavellanarius



The Dormouse favours dense deciduous ormixed forest in some woodland areas on Funen,Zealand and East Jutland. The species is nightactive, a climber and a typical animal of wood-lands, the only representative of the dormousefamily Gliridae in Denmark.

Surveys based on numbers of nests were car-ried out in 1980-1986 and 1989-1992 (H. Vilhelm-sen, unpubl. data) and the species was registeredat 56 localities (Fig. 4.2.1.18). As some localitiessupported several separated nests, the totalnumber of sites was 95 in all. Fifty-five were situ-ated on Zealand (c. 58%), 37 on Funen (c. 39%)and 3 in Jutland (c. 3%). The abundance of loca-tions on Zealand was probably the result of morethorough investigations in this part of the coun-try rather than reflecting a qualitative differencein habitats in the various areas.

The discovery of nests has identified the spe-cies in several sites not previously registered aswooden areas, e.g. in East Jutland and in someatypical vegetation types. This might mean that

Figure 4.2.1.17. Harbour Seal. Important habitats inDenmark in 1998.

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habitat choice is more varied than previouslythought. In the specific key areas of South Funenand Mid- and West Zealand the population isconsidered to be stable, and despite these newdiscoveries, there has been no real increase innumbers. At all known localities, the species ishighly scattered in its occurrence even in largercontinuous woodlands. It often occurs in mar-ginal areas within woodlands (such as glades,peripheral regions of monocultures, edges ofwoods, along felling tracks and in storm gaps),where management of woodlands is more ex-tensive and plant diversity higher. The popula-tion size is uncertain, but live trappings at spe-cific localities show that density does not exceed3-4 individuals/ha.

Conservation status

Localities: Based on the surveys in 1980-1986 and1989-1992 (H. Vilhelmsen, unpubl. data), theconservation status of the Dormouse at the be-ginning of the 1990s was considered favourableat 35 localities and uncertain at 21 localities (Ta-ble 4.2). The local conditions for each of the in-dividual sub-populations are dependent upontraditional woodland management and fellingregimes, which do not necessarily provide con-stant, stable or suitable conditions in adjacenthabitats. Suitable Dormouse habitats may be-come isolated both within individual woodlands(where habitats may become a scattered mosaic)

and between individual forest units when cor-ridors such as hedgerows and bushes are lim-ited. Intensive exploitation of the forests andadjacent lands may in this way reduce the inter-change of genetic material.

Overall status: The national status of the Dor-mouse is uncertain. Even though its status is stillconsidered favourable for some of the knownsub-populations within its natural range, welack recent knowledge of its present status andhabitat requirements.

4.2.1.19 Northern Birch Mouse Sicistabetulina

Habitats Directive: Annex IV - Danish Red List1997: Rare


In Denmark the Northern Birch Mouse has beencaught or observed in old forests, scrub, mead-ows and in cultivated fields. In Scandinavia thespecies is most often observed in birch- and wil-low scrub. It is difficult to define the habitatchoice of the species, since this may vary accord-ing to its seasonal requirements, e.g. perma-nently dry areas such as well drained parts ofold forest for hibernation but perhaps differenthabitats during summer used for foraging andbreeding. It is currently considered that favouredhabitats are where old forest or bogs adjoin cul-tivated fields or woodland meadows.

In spite of this rather general habitat definition,the Northern Birch Mouse has only two widelyseparated key areas in Denmark, viz. westernLimfjorden, particularly north of the fjord andin southern Jutland south of a line betweenHorsens-Varde and north of Haderslev-Ribe(Fig. 4.2.1.19). Only a few individuals have beencaptured or observed in these areas, and theserecords are spread throughout the entire 20thcentury, particularly in the 1940’s (Jensen 1993).In more recent times, the species has again beenreported from both areas; both through directobservations, captures and through the presenceof remains in owl pellets. There are no recentreports from the eastern part of Limfjorden(Ålborg), the area just south of Limfjorden (Fer-

Figure 4.2.1.18. Dormouse. Confirmed records in Den-mark in 1980-1986 and 1989-1992. Number of locationsillustrated by solid dots/figures in the grey shadeddistribution areas.

69

ring) nor from the Horsens area. On the otherhand, there are some recent reports from the areawest of Kolding.

The size of the Danish population is difficult toassess, partly due to lack of knowledge regard-ing habitat requirements, but also because thereare no specific population estimates nor anyknowledge of population trends for the species.

Conservation status

Localities: Based on existing data it is impossibleto estimate the current conservation status inknown habitats in Denmark (Table 4.2). The spe-

cies occurs undoubtedly both in the northernand southern parts of Jutland but there is noknowledge of population size and trends.

Overall Status: Based on existing data it is notpossible to estimate the conservation status ofthe Northern Birch Mouse. Thus, status is un-known.

4.2.2 Reptiles

4.2.2.1 European Pond Turtle Emysorbicularis



The European Pond Turtle favours lakes andmay reach an age of 120 years. Breeding is onlysuccessful during particularly warm summersfollowed by winters with favourable climate.

The species is known from prehistoric times andremains found in Danish bogs date from approx.700 BC. Separate sub-populations seem to haveexisted since the 20th century. Hence, the Euro-pean Pond Turtle was known from Ribe in the1930s and up to 1958 from areas between Åbenråand Haderslev. The species was observed inSkjern Å in 1960 and at Skjern Å’s source in the1970s. In the neighbourhood south of Silkeborg,particularly around Velling, the species has beenobserved since 1947 and at Sminge Sø northeastof Silkeborg, the species was observed around1925 and in the 1940s.

During 1995-1999, at least 11 different individu-als were found in the neighbourhood of Silke-borg, most from 5 different localities around Vel-ling in the area from Bryrup to Salten, with onesingle individual at Sminge Sø (Fig. 4.2.2.1).Eight individuals were captured alive and bloodsamples taken for DNA-analyses. Oviparousfemales have been found several times, whereasjuveniles are difficult to find.

The individuals examined were demonstrablynot of the southern European form, but belongto the northern type. Seven of the individuals

Figure 4.2.1.19. Northern Birch Mouse. Confirmedrecords (solid dots), known general distribution (greyshading) in Denmark since 1850.

Figure 4.2.2.1. European Pond Turtle. Confirmed rec-ords after 1994.

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tested had a DNA-type which occurs in EastEurope, from the Black Sea to Poland andLithuania. The eighth individual had a differ-ent DNA-type which so far has not been ob-served elsewhere in Europe, but which isthought related to the Mid European type. Nodefinite conclusions can be drawn from theseanalyses. Seen from a zoogeographical point ofview, it is reasonable to assume that the specieshas survived from an original Danish relictpopulation which may have been related to theeastern European populations.

Conservation status

Localities: In the area south of Silkeborg, the spe-cies is scattered over a large geographical area.In the most used part of the area, the species isexposed to collection by the uninitiated, but isalso subject to traffic kills. There is, so far, noproof of successful breeding in the wild. It isimpossible to assess the current population sizeand its conservation status is unknown (Table4.3).

Overall status: So far it is unknown whether thepopulation relates to released individuals or toa surviving relict population. Should the latterprove to be the case, the species is so scarce thatits conservation status would inevitably proveto be unfavourable.

4.2.2.2 Sand Lizard Lacerta agilis



The Sand Lizard breeds in sunny places in moors,dry grasslands, roadsides, railway embank-

ments, gravel pits, dunes etc., generally in areaswith low vegetation and a warm micro-climate.

The species is widely distributed all over Den-mark (Fig. 4.2.2.2), but is possibly absent fromFalster, Lolland and Langeland. In the atlas sur-vey of 1976-1986, the species was reported inapprox. 40% of the acceptably investigatedsquares (5 km x 5 km), and in approx. 50% ofthe thoroughly investigated squares (Fog 1993).Thus, the species is almost as common in Den-mark as in areas in Central Europe with opti-mum climate.

Most populations are relatively small, but largepopulations do exist. Thus, approximately 500individuals are known from the Mols Bjerge(Jensen 1980) and approx. 150 individuals onRøsnæs (Ravn 1997). These represent, even byinternational standards, relatively large popu-lations.

The species is, however, decreasing. Sporadic in-formation indicates that approx. 30% of theknown populations were lost during approxi-


An-nex

No. oflocal-ities

Conservation status: No. of localities / % of speciesNationalstatusFavourable Uncertain Unfavour. Unknown Disappear.

Emys orbicularis IV 6?

%of DK

? 6? / ? Unknown

Lacerta agilis IV Many x* / ? Uncertain

Coronella austriaca IV ?

Size ofpopu-lation

Unknown

Unknown

? x Disappear.

Table 4.3. Conservation status of reptiles. * The number of localities is unknown, but the majority is supposedto belong to this category.

Figure 4.2.2.2. Sand Lizard. Known general distribu-tion in Denmark after 1980.

71

mately 1945 to 1980 and that the decrease hascontinued ever since (Fog 1993).

Conservation status

Localities: The species is widely dispersed withindications of declining populations. Thus, con-servation status is uncertain (Table 4.3).

Overall status: The Sand Lizard is declining with-out giving great cause for concern at present.Consequently, the national status is uncertain.

4.2.2.3 Smooth Coronelle Coronellaaustriaca

Habitats Directive: Annex IV - Danish Red List1997: Disappeared


The Smooth Coronelle preys on reptiles e.g. liz-ards and adders and thus its natural range ex-tends to where these prey are plentiful. The spe-cies is cryptic and hides frequently and is there-fore difficult to monitor.

In Denmark, the Smooth Coronelle is knownfrom Zealand (3 localities), Funen (1-4 localities)and in Jutland-Vendsyssel (2-5 localities). Themost recent positive observation was made in1914, at Hjerl Hede in Northwest Jutland. Later,unconfirmed but likely observations derive fromSouthwest Jutland (1947), Hjerl Hede (1935,1958) and Vendsyssel (1979).

As there have been no positive observations formany years and as the number of unconfirmedobservations remain few, the species must havedecreased considerably and it may well havedisappeared. In North Germany and Skåne(Sweden), too, where the habitats are very simi-lar to those in Denmark, the species has also beenon the decline.

Conservation status

Localities: During recent years some sporadic at-tempts have been made to trace the species at

its localities in Vendsyssel where it is thought tohave been seen in 1979. The species is, however,often difficult to find and may very well still existin the area, even though it has not been observed(Table 4.3).

Overall status: The Smooth Coronelle has de-clined and is possibly extinct, as no positive ob-servations have been confirmed since 1914 (ex-cepting one possible observation in 1979).

4.2.3 Amphibians

4.2.3.1 Great Crested Newt Trituruscristatus



Great Crested Newt breeds particularly in clean,non-eutrophic, sunny pools and ponds withoutfish.

The species occurs only very sporadically inmany parts of west and north Jutland. In the restof Denmark it is very common and most fre-quently occurring in south east Denmark (Fig.4.2.3.1). In larger areas where all pools have beenexamined, the species was found in 5-15% of all

Figure 4.2.3.1. Great Crested Newt. Known general dis-tribution in Denmark based on information after 1985.

72

pools present. Frequency of occurrence may beeven higher than this in southeast Denmark. TheGreat Crested Newt is very common in Den-mark, appearing almost every time new poolsare created or old waterbodies dredged.

The species will not tolerate poor water qualityin the pools and consequently it is showing ageneral decline in all areas where small water-bodies are not being restored or re-created. How-ever, in areas where active creation of ponds isoccurring, numbers may be increasing locally.

Conservation status

Localities: The species is widespread and rathercommon. It benefits from pool projects carriedout for other amphibian species. The species is,

however, assumed to be declining overall andits conservation status is generally uncertain(Table 4.4), although favourable in areas withpool projects.

Overall status: The Great Crested Newt is prob-ably generally declining and its conservationstatus uncertain in spite of the fact that the spe-cies is very common, particularly in southeastDenmark.

4.2.3.2 Fire-bellied Toad Bombina bombina

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV - DanishRed List 1997: Critically endangered


The Fire-bellied Toad breeds in small, usuallyshallow water ponds that do not dry out before1 August. The species requires certain water tem-peratures, water quality and the absence of fish.Outside the breeding season the species mayoccur at other pools.

Historically, the species was common on theDanish islands from Als in the west to Bornholmin the east, northwards to Tunø, Samsø andHesselø, but the species has declined markedly.Out of 23 sub-populations known in Denmarkin the 1970s, only approx. 8 remain (Fig. 4.2.3.2).By the mid 1980s, all sub-populations were de-clining. Efforts were made to save the last sub-populations, by dredging and establishing newpools, land purchase of areas particularly im-portant for this species and through programmes


Conservation status: No. of localities / % of speciesNationalstatus

Triturus cristatus ? Uncertain

Bombina bombina Uncertain

Rana arvalis Uncertain

Rana dalmatina Favourable

Hyla arborea Uncertain

Pelobates fuscus Unfavour.

Bufo viridis Uncertain

Bufo calamita

An-nex

II, IV

II, IV

IV

IV

IV

IV

IV

IV

No. oflocal-ities

Many

10

Many

Many

90

136

108

105

Size ofpopulation

1750

4 millions ?

300,000 ?

25,000 ?

?

10,000 ?

10,000 ?

%of DK

100%

100%

100%

100%

?

>95%

<50%

Disappear.Favourable

x / ?

x* / ?

18 / 20%

1 / 1%

6 / 5%

3 / 3%

Uncertain

x* / ?

8 / 80%

x* / ?

70 / 78%

34 / 25%

41 / 39%

48 / 46%

Unfavour.

1 / 10%

x / ?

2 / 2%

15 / 11%

44 / 41%

18 / 17%

Unknown

1 / 10%

86 / 63%

17 / 15%

36 / 34% Unfavour.

Table 4.4. Conservation status of amphibians. *The number of localities is unknown, but the majority is sup-posed to belong to this category.

Figure 4.2.3.2. Fire-bellied Toad. Confirmed records inDenmark in 1999. Solid dots represent intact sub-pop-ulations and squares reintroduction localities.

73

of captive breeding and reintroduction (Fog1993, Fog 1999, Fog et al. 1997).

To maintain genetic variation in the various sub-populations, a breeding stock of at least 500 in-dividuals is required corresponding to an actualpopulation size (MVP, see section 2.3) of 1,000individuals (Fog 1999).

Conservation status

Existing localities: Seven sub-populations in Den-mark currently exist, of which four have in-creased during recent years and consist of morethan 100 individuals. Two sub-populations arerelatively stable and comprise some 100 indi-viduals (Fog 1999). In the seventh sub-popula-tion, the species has not bred in almost 10 years,and, the population is very small (four individu-als in 1999). Therefore, in 1999, a captive rearingprogramme was initiated to safeguard the popu-lation for the future.

An eighth sub-population was re-established asa mixed population, at present comprising ap-proximately 100 individuals which is currentlyon the increase. A ninth sub-population was lastreported active in 1983, when only a few indi-viduals were left; there are no positive observa-tions since then. A tenth sub-population was lastobserved in 1996.

One sub-population which was thought extinctin 1985, has been the subject of a reintroductionprogramme using stock from a neighbouringpopulation (Fog 1999).

The largest sub-population at present consistsof approx. 850 individuals. Thus no sub-popu-lations approach the number of individualsthought necessary to maintain a healthy popu-lation size (see section 2.3) that would securethe survival of the species in Denmark in thelong run. The long-term survival potential is,therefore, uncertain for all sub-populations.

Future localities: To strengthen survival of the spe-cies measures have been taken to establish re-serve populations for each of the present popu-lations. This is done by creating new habitats,captive rearing and the reintroducing of stockfrom existing populations.

Overall status: The total population of the Fire-bellied Toad in Denmark was approx. 1,000 in-dividuals in the mid 1980s and by 1999 approx.1,750 individuals. Thus, the species has in-creased in Denmark. The populations, however,are and have been isolated for a long time. Noneof the sub-populations have reached sufficientnumbers to maintain survival in the long run.Consequently, the national conservation statusis – in spite of preservation measures – uncer-tain and without these initiatives, the statuswould certainly be unfavourable (Table 4.4).

4.2.3.3 Moor Frog Rana arvalis

Habitats Directive: Annex IV - Danish AmberList 1997: Species requiring special attention


The Moor Frog usually breeds in sunny and shal-low water ponds. Outside of the breeding sea-son, the species occurs in meadows, bogs andmany other natural wetland habitat types.

The species is widespread in Denmark exceptfor Bornholm and in many parts it is continu-ously distributed.

The largest and densest populations occur inwest and north Jutland and in north Zealand(Fig. 4.2.3.3). Based on surveys of random plots,there is estimated to be approx. 500,000 ovipa-rous females of this species in the Danish farm-land landscape. In uncultivated areas, the popu-lation is assumed to be much denser, number-ing approximately 1,5 million individuals. In-cluding males, the total estimate for the coun-try is therefore c. 4 million individuals, albeitfluctuating from year to year.

The populations in north and west Jutland andon north Zealand do not seem to be decliningbut may be stable in some of these areas. In con-trast, eastern and southern parts of the countryshow negative trends. The most precise infor-mation derives from Århus municipality, fromsouth Funen and from Lolland, where there havebeen marked declines and the species is nowclose to disappearance from large areas. It seemsparticularly hard for the species to compete in

74

farmland where the species is apparently out-competed by the Common Frog Rana temporariaand the Branching Frog Rana dalmatina.

Conservation status

Localities: In northern and western parts of Den-mark, populations are evidently stable, whereassouthern and eastern areas support populationsthat are rapidly declining.

Overall status: In large areas of Jutland and thenorthern part of Zealand, the population trendsare stable and conservation status favourable.In the rest of the country, the species is rapidlydeclining and conservation status here is unfa-vourable. Overall status: uncertain (Table 4.4).

4.2.3.4 Branching Frog Rana dalmatina



The Branching Frog breeds particularly in mod-erately clean, sunny and often rather deep pondse.g. marl pits. Outside the breeding season it is

not limited to particular habitats. Largest num-bers are, however, to be found in deciduous for-ests.

The Branching Frog is confined to the southeast-ern part of the country and is not naturallyknown to occur in Jutland or in north Zealand(Fig. 4.2.3.4). Within its natural range, the spe-cies is continuously distributed and can be ob-served in most ponds. The assessment of popu-lation size has been estimated on the basis ofthe numbers of oviparous females. Densitiesvary according to landscape from c. 2 per km2

in randomly chosen farmland plots to 50-100 perkm2 in farmland with deciduous forest and toapprox. 250 per km2 in a military training area.In the country as a whole the population isroughly estimated to number c. 100,000 femalesor c. 250,000-300,000 individuals.

Where the species has been reliably surveyed,populations are reasonably stable or even in-creasing, probably as a result of pond creationprojects. In areas where there are no measuresto improve ponds, the populations show signsof decline. Expansion is observed particularlyin areas where the species ousts the Moor FrogRana arvalis. A reintroduced population north ofHillerød in north Zealand has expanded slowlyand the isolated population on Endelave is sta-ble or slowly increasing.

Figure 4.2.3.3. Moor Frog. Known general distributionin Denmark after 1985. Dark shading represents areaswith stable populations; light shading represents ar-eas supporting population on a decline.

Figure 4.2.3.4. Branching Frog. Known general distri-bution in Denmark after 1985.

75

Conservation status

Localities: The population is stable in the major-ity of its natural range and the conservation sta-tus is favourable (Table 4.4).

Overall status: There are no indications of a de-clining tendency over the past 10-15 years inDenmark, indeed in certain areas there is someevidence of expansion. The species reacts posi-tively to the establishment of ponds. Thus, thenational conservation status is favourable.

4.2.3.5 Tree Frog Hyla arborea



The Tree Frog breeds in clean, sunny ponds withwarm fish-free water. Outside the breeding sea-son the species prefers hedgerows, edges ofwoods, woods and gardens.

The species’ former distribution extended fromeast Jutland in the north to Djursland and Funen,Det Sydfynske Øhav and the islands east ofStorebælt. It has disappeared from many partsof this area, e.g. from Falster c. 1965 and fromFunen c. 1972 (Fig. 4.2.3.5). In 1989 it was closeto extinction on Zealand but was saved at thelast moment. In the 1990s, the species was re-introduced in two former localities, one southof Århus and another at Slagelse. Both areas sup-port viable populations now.

Considerable efforts have been made in the1990s to maintain the species, for example, byimproving ponds for all sub-populations. Inspite of this, one isolated sub-population hasdisappeared in southwest Jutland and a few sub-populations from Lolland. Two further sub-pop-ulations from Lolland seem presently threat-ened. The rest of the sub-populations are increas-ing and are reckoned to be able to survive. Outof c. 90 known sub-populations, two are decreas-

ing, c. 35 stable, and c. 50 continuously increas-ing.

The increase is most dramatic on Bornholm,from c. 1,400 males in 1991 to c. 6,000 males in1998. On Zealand the population has improvedfrom c. 6 males in 1989 to c. 350 males in 1999.The total present estimate for Denmark is at least16,000 males corresponding to c. 25,000 indi-viduals incl. females.

Conservation status

Localities: Several sub-populations seem - in re-cent years - to have increased to a viable popu-lation exceeding 500 individuals. For such pop-ulations, the conservation status is favourable.Many other, smaller sub-populations, are rap-idly increasing and will probably soon attain thesame favourable status (Table 4.4). Only a smallnumber of populations, particularly in southZealand and on Lolland, are currently of unfa-vourable conservation status.

Overall status: c. 90% of the populations existingin 1990 are secured and most of these are increas-ing. At the present moment, conservation sta-tus is considered to be uncertain.

Figure 4.2.3.5. Tree Frog. Confirmed records in Den-mark after 1990 (solid dots), known general distribu-tion (grey shading).

76

4.2.3.6 Common Spadefoot Pelobatesfuscus



The Common Spadefoot is a night-foraging am-phibian breeding in clean, sunny ponds in fields,in meadows or on heaths. Large fish species arealways absent from breeding ponds.

The species is widely distributed in Jutland, Als,Zealand, Nekselø, Amager, Lolland and Falster(Fig. 4.2.3.6). The species probably does not oc-cur on Funen and this fact, combined with ageographical variation in the appearance of eggssuggests that two different populations arepresent in Denmark. Potentially there is a Jut-land population originating from Germany andan eastern island population originating fromthe European continent to the south or south-east (Fog 1993).

The species has been intensively searched for ineast Denmark and it is thought that all existingsub-populations are now known. However, theCommon Spadefoot is widespread in Jutlandand it is highly likely that many more sub-pop-ulations could be located than are presentlyknown. Perhaps half of the entire population isreckoned to have been located so far, but a sim-ple method to estimate population size in these

areas is hard to find. Where local distributionand abundance of this species have been fol-lowed over a period of time and where no con-servation measures have been taken, populationtrends are generally on the decline e.g. inHimmerland, on Lolland and in the Copenha-gen area. Pond creation projects have been suc-cessful at slowing down or even stopping localdeclines in numbers. Only in Ribe County havesuch local conservation measures succeeded increating a marked increase.

Conservation status

Localities: Many localities in Jutland supportrather large and widespread populations, where-as in East Denmark, there are no larger popula-tions left. One such large population persistsnorth of Hillerød in north Zealand distributedover 14 ponds. Most other populations are smalland threatened. At present the species is onlyknown from one pond on Lolland. In the longrun all east Danish populations risk extinction.The nature conservation status at most locali-ties is either unfavourable, uncertain or un-known (Table 4.4).

Overall status: All east Danish populations aresmall and are in danger of extinction. In manyparts of Jutland, the species is widespread, butthe tendency is probably for most sub-popula-tions to decline, and thus the overall status mustbe characterised as unfavourable.

4.2.3.7 Green Toad Bufo viridis



The Green Toad breeds most often in coastalzones in various types of ponds, which are char-acterised by lack of vegetation, with a sunnyaspect and lack of large fish species. Outside thebreeding season the species uses many differ-ent habitats reasonably far from the breedingpond.

The species is confined to southeast Denmark.Figure 4.2.3.6. Common Spadefoot. Confirmed recordsin Denmark after 1985.

77

Its natural habitat range comprises almost allislands east of Jutland, including some islandswhere it is now extinct: Endelave, Tunø, possi-bly Als and probably Læsø (Fig. 4.2.3.7). Thepresent distribution is well covered and the sizeof most sub-populations is known.

The Green Toad has declined tremendouslythroughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Thisdecline accelerated until the 1980s when c. 70%of all remaining populations had disappearedwithin a decade. From 1990 onwards, this ten-dency was slowed down (but has not stopped)due to the new establishment and restoration ofponds, so that during the 1990s the general de-cline had become even less pronounced.

The size of sub-populations may fluctuate mark-edly over a short period of time. Thus, one fol-lowed population has increased from c. 3 malesin 1988 to c. 700 males in 1995. The largest knownpopulation at Stege on Møn numbered 5,000-10,000 individuals in 1993, but by 1998, only 3individuals were left and 1 was reported in 1999.This dramatic decline was caused by the releaseof pikes (K. Fog, pers. comm.). The overall na-tional population is estimated at c. 10,000 indi-viduals.

Conservation status

Localities: The Green Toad is presently distrib-uted in c. 108 separated sub-populations, out ofwhich c. 40 populations have been in receipt of

positive management in the form of the estab-lishment and restoration of ponds. By 1996, 148ponds were established specifically for this spe-cies in Danmark and this number has increasedsince. Nothing so far has been done for the othersub-populations of this species.

Only in six sub-populations, can the conserva-tion status be characterised as favourable dueto their abundance and recent marked increases(Table 4.4), and only two are assumed to havereached a viable population of at least c. 500 in-dividuals (Fog 1999). Three other populationsmay succeed, too, due to a rapid increase innumbers and a sixth is limited in numbers to asize suitable to the carrying capacity of the is-land in question. Conservation status for 39%of the sub-populations can be characterised asuncertain because the populations are too small,and for 41% conservation status is unfavourable.A small number of sub-populations which aredifficult to access have been registered but notinvestigated in any detail.

Overall status: During the 1990s a considerableeffort was made for the species and consequentlythe decrease in overall abundance has beenslowed down but not stopped. Thus, conserva-tion status is uncertain.

4.2.3.8 Natterjack Toad Bufo calamita



The Natterjack Toad breeds in ponds with fewpredators like fish and carnivore insects and fewcompeting tadpoles of other amphibians. Thewater must be sunlit and probably clean. Out-side the breeding season the species favoursopen and poorly vegetated areas like dunes,beaches and meadows.

Originally the species was widespread in Den-mark and there still seems to be some coherentsub-populations along most of the west coast ofJutland and along the coasts in the western partof Limfjorden. The precise number of localitiesand individuals involved in these sub-popula-

Figure 4.2.3.7. Green Toad. Confirmed records in Den-mark after 1990.

78

tions is unknown. In east Jutland and the islandsof Anholt, Samsø, Endelave and Als c. 50 sub-populations are presently known but the size ofthese populations has not been estimated andsome existing information is possibly outdated.The islands east of Lillebælt support c. 55 popu-lations distributed in c. 150 ponds with c. 5,000individuals (Fig. 4.2.3.8).

East Denmark, in particular, has experienced adramatic decrease, for example, on Zealand onlyfour localities are presently known – all support-ing very few individuals. In Himmerland andeast Jutland, too, the species has decreased inrecent years and it has probably disappearedalong the west coast of Sønderjylland.

Due to its extensive occurrence in west Jutland,the species, on a national basis, is not particu-larly threatened. In Funen county the speciesbenefits from pond projects which in severalplaces have enabled the recovery of threatenedsub-populations. Likewise, local initiatives inCopenhagen, Storstrøm and Bornholm countieshave secured habitats and halted declines forsome sub-populations.

Conservation status

Localities: The distribution of the Natterjack Toadalong the entire west coast of Jutland fromSkallingen to Jammerbugten may suggest thatall belong to one single sub-population. Conser-

vation status of this population is probably fa-vourable but the trends in abundance are notknown. In the rest of the country, only three sub-populations are of a viable population size andare increasing. Many other, fairly stable sub-populations are, however, of such a magnitudethat conservation status may be characterisedas close to favourable. Nine sub-populations areincreasing but are still not of a size to be reck-oned to achieve favourable conservation. A fur-ther 14 sub-populations are thought to be de-clining and together with four relatively stable,but small sub-populations, it adds up to 18 sub-populations with unfavourable conservation sta-tus. Many other sub-populations are difficult toestimate (Table 4.4).

Overall status: The Natterjack Toad has decreaseddramatically in recent years and presently thespecies may risk future extinction on Zealand.Thus, on a national scale, conservation statusmust be characterised as unfavourable.

4.2.4 Fish

4.2.4.1 Sea Lamprey Petromyzon marinus

Habitats Directive: Annex II - Danish - AmberList 1997: Species requiring special attention


The adult Sea Lamprey is a parasite of fish thatlives at sea and migrates up rivers to spawn. Asfar as it is known the larvae live for 3-5 years infresh water before they turn into adults andmigrate into the sea, where they may stay formore than 30 years.

Previously the species was widespread through-out the whole country; in fresh water, however,it is most common in west Jutland (Fig. 4.2.4.1).To-day, the species is only known from fjordsand streams in north- and west Jutland. Thereare no estimates of population size, but the gen-eral opinion is that the species is rare comparedto the River Lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis in moststudied areas. Lack of adequate data precludesany conclusions as to whether the species is onthe increase or decreasing. The conservation sta-

Figure 4.2.3.8. Natterjack Toad. Confirmed records(solid dots: isolated sub-populations), known generaldistribution (grey shading) in Denmark after 1990.

79

tus for most populations is unknown, a few seemto be stable and one population seems to be in-creasing. Most observations are based on a sin-gle or very few individuals, generally from fish-ermen reporting on the rare by-catch of the spe-cies in their fishing tackle.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status may be summa-rised as favourable at localities where the spe-cies is regularly observed, and this is probablydue to improvements in water quality and posi-tive waterway management of streams. The con-servation status of the species is generally un-known throughout most parts of its natural habi-tat range (Table 4.5).

Overall status: The national conservation status

of the Sea Lamprey is unknown due to data de-ficiencies.

4.2.4.2 Brook Lamprey Lampetra planeri

Habitats Directive: Annex II - Danish Amber List1997: Species requiring special attention


The Brook Lamprey is a sedentary fish favour-ing small streams. The larvae reach the adultstage at 3-5 years of age. The change starts inthe autumn and ends during spring, after whichthe species spawns. When spawning is com-pleted, the adults die as amongst the other lam-prey species.

The Brook Lamprey is known to have been wide-spread in the past, except on Lolland-Falster.Since 1990, it has been observed in 10 out of 14counties (Fig. 4.2.4.2), and in all 10 counties thespecies is a common visitor in many large andsmall streams. There is no precise informationon population size but the species is commonlydistributed in most places. There is no indica-tion of a negative trend in occurrence or popu-lation density.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status of The Brook Lam-prey is judged to be favourable as the waterquality and physical conditions in most streamshave improved in recent years (Table 4.5).

Figure 4.2.4.1. Sea Lamprey. Confirmed records in Den-mark after 1990.



Petromyzon marinus

Lampetra planeri

Lampetra fluviatilis

Acipenser sturio

Cottus gobio

Alosa fallax

Alosa alosa

Salmo salar

Cobitis taenia

%of DK

?

?

Misgurnus fossilis

An-nex

II

II

II, IV

II, IV

II

II, V

II, V

II, V

II

II

No. oflocal-ities

12

100

18

0

1*

6

1

36983

7

1?

Size ofpopu-lation

?

?

?

0

0

?

?

750#

Many

?

Disappear.

1

Unknown

7 / ?

14 / ?

6 / ?

1 / ?

1? / ?

Favourable

5 / ?

Many / ?

4 / ?

1 / ?

6 / ?

Uncertain

Few / ?

1 / ?

Unfavour.

2 / ?

1? / ?

Nationalstatus

Unknown

Favourable

Unknown

Disappear.

Disappear.

Unknown

Unknown

Unfavour.

Favourable

Unfavour.

Table 4.5. Conservation status of fish. *Until 1960. #Skjern Å/River.

80

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Brook Lamprey is considered favourablealthough generally, the data are insufficient tomake a full assessment.

4.2.4.3 River Lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis



The River Lamprey is a migratory fish, whichlives at sea and enters the rivers to spawn. Thelarvae live 3-5 years in fresh water before theyturn into the adult form and migrate to the sea.

The species is known to have been historicallywidespread throughout the country, both alongthe coasts and in fjords, and in most of the largestream systems. It has always been most numer-ous in west Denmark. The species is still wide-spread, but occurs predominantly in streams inJutland (Fig. 4.2.4.3). It may very well occur inconsiderably more streams than reports cur-rently show or may be mistaken for the BrookLamprey. The fish survey methods used in largestreams in Denmark are not very suitable for de-tecting this species, and consequently its occur-rence is often overlooked.

The species seems unable to pass fish ladders,

hence dams and other obstructions limit its dis-tribution in many streams. There are no popu-lation estimates for Denmark; the trend for mostsub-populations is unknown, although someseem to be stable (3), increasing (1) or declining(1). Some observations are based on only a fewreported individuals.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status may be character-ised as favourable at the localities where thespecies has been observed, because of recentimprovement of the physical and chemical prop-erties of the streams involved. In some river sys-tems, obstructions have been removed fromstreams favoured by the species. The conserva-tion status is, however, unknown for most of thelocalities where the species occurs (Table 4.5).

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the River Lamprey is considered unknown,as available data are insufficient.

4.2.4.4 Sturgeon Acipenser sturio

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV - DanishRed List 1997: Disappeared


The Sturgeon is a marine demersal fish. In

Figure 4.2.4.2. Brook Lamprey. Confirmed records inDenmark after 1990.

Figure 4.2.4.3. River Lamprey. Confirmed records inDenmark after 1990.

81

spring, the sexually mature fish migrate up riv-ers to spawn in rapid currents in deep water.

All information relating to the distribution of thespecies in Denmark derives from old fishing re-ports as there have never been actual surveys ofthis species. In the 19th century, capture of thespecies was quite a normal occurrence along theDanish coasts, in fjords and bays, but catchesdecreased up to the year 1900. There were re-ports of captures in Danish streams, too, themajority from Jutland such as Sneum Å, VardeÅ, Skjern Å, Gudenåen and Kolding Å togetherwith a few reports from Funen/Zealand, forexample in Odense Å. The last reported captureof the species in a Danish stream happened inFrijsenvold Fiskegaard in the Gudenåen on 7May 1901. Whether the species spawned in Dan-ish streams before the year 1900, is not known.

Reductions in the numbers captured along Dan-ish coasts and in streams coincided with thedecline in the west European populations. TheSturgeon caught in Danish streams may havebeen strays from other populations. Today, thespecies is almost extinct in Europe including theBaltic Sea (last individuals caught in 1950, 1967,1971 and 1984). The last two self-maintaining pop-ulations occur in the rivers of Gironde (France)and Rioni (Georgia).

Conservation status

Localities: Conditions suitable for this species arethought not to exist in any Danish streams atthe present (Table 4.5). Furthermore, since thespecies is close to extinction in western Europe,there are no populations from which immigrantsmay be recruited.

Overall status: The Sturgeon is extinct in Den-mark and there is no chance of its natural re-occurrence.

4.2.4.5 Miller’s Thumb Cottus gobio

Habitats Directive: Annex II - Danish Red List1997: Disappeared


The Miller ’s Thumb favours cool, fast runningstreams over stony bottoms in clear water, richin oxygen or in the surf zone of oligotrophiclakes.

In Denmark, the species is only known from onestream system, viz. Susåen. Up to c. 1960, thespecies was very numerous in several localitiesalong this stream, e.g. at Holløse Mølle, Herlufs-holm and Maglemølle flood-gate (Otterstrøm1912, Ejby-Ernst & Nielsen 1981). In a very thor-ough survey in 1960 and the following years,the species was not located in any of these habi-tats.

Conservation status

Localities: The Miller ’s Thumb has disappearedfrom Susåen and thus, from Denmark (Table 4.5).The species is extinct, probably due to contami-nation of the stream by the extent and frequencyof silage during the 1950s (Ejby-Ernst & Nielsen1981).

Overall status: The Miller ’s Thumb has disap-peared from Denmark. As it is a sedentary spe-cies, it is not likely to re-colonise.

4.2.4.6 Twaite Shad Alosa fallax

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and V - DanishRed List 1997: Critically endangered


The Twaite Shad lives in the sea as a shoalingfish exploiting areas close to the coast at depthsdown to 100 m. During early summer, the sexu-ally mature Twaite Shad runs upriver to spawn,and during autumn the fry descend again to saltwater.

82

The species is often caught along Danish coastsand in fjords. Most reports are from fishermen.Some individuals have been captured duringsurveys of a more general character, but thisspecies has never been the subject of a specificsurvey. Almost all captures are from salt water,e.g. the Wadden Sea, Ringkøbing Fjord, NissumFjord, Limfjorden, Randers Fjord etc. (Fig.4.2.4.6). There is no information on populationsize or trend, but fishermen are of the opinionthat the population of Ringkøbing Fjord is in-creasing; during recent years there have beenweekly captures of the species in the season. Insome cases, spawning adults and fry have beensearched for in the outflow from Limfjorden, butwithout successful result.

The species is generally thought to be on thedecline in its natural habitat range.

Conservation status

Localities: The only regular captures from freshwater and thus from potential spawning locali-ties are from Ribe Å where the species is caughtannually, but where the conservation status isunknown (Table 4.5). Nor is it known whetherspawning takes place here or in any other Dan-ish streams.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Twaite Shad is unknown due to lack ofobservations. If the few reports available reflect

the frequency of the species, the conservationstatus is probably likely to be unfavourable.

4.2.4.7 Allis Shad Alosa alosa



The Allis Shad lives in the sea as a shoaling fish,exploiting areas close to the coast at depths downto 100 m. In early summer, the sexually matureAllis Shad migrate up stream to spawn, andduring autumn the fry descend to salt water.

The species is only caught incidentally along theDanish coasts and in fjords, and all reports arefrom the by-catch of fishermen. The only local-ity where it has been caught is Ringkøbing Fjord.As the Twaite Shad is also frequently caught inthis fjord, some individuals may be mis-identi-fied species.

The species is generally considered to be on thedecline in its natural habitat range.

Conservation status

Localities: The only regular capture site is Ring-købing Fjord where the conservation status isunknown (Table 4.5). It is unlikely that the spe-cies spawns regularly in Danish streams.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Allis Shad is unknown due to lack of ob-servations. If these few reports reflect the fre-quency of the species, its conservation status isprobably unfavourable.

4.2.4.8 Salmon Salmo salar



The Salmon is a long-distance migrant, devel-

Figure 4.2.4.6. Twaite Shad. Confirmed records in Den-mark after 1970.

83

oping as fry in freshwater headwaters, but liv-ing in salt water from which it migrates back tospawn in the very streams from which the indi-vidual originated. The fry descend to the seaafter 1-3 years in the stream.

For many years it has been known that Skjern Åsupported a population of the Salmon whichshowed little genetical influence from otherstock. In 1999, some streams, known to supportthe species in recent times, were investigated inwest Jutland. Tissue samples from the species(fry and sexually mature individuals) were takenand DNA analyses were compared to DNA fromold (50-150 years) fish scale samples from origi-nal individuals of each individual stream. In thisway, remnants of the original population, werefound in further two stream systems, viz. RibeÅ and Varde Å (S. Berg, pers. comm.). It is as-sumed that Storåen, too, supports an originalpopulation. Moreover, Vidåen, Sneum Å, BredeÅ, Kongeåen and Gudenåen support stock ofnon-native origin. In very recent years, a fewstray individuals have been registered in 6-7other streams on the east and west coasts of Jut-land (Fig. 4.2.4.8). It is possible that these origi-nate from stock in other streams.

In 2000-2001 a management plan is being drawnup which synthesises the available knowledgerelating to the Danish Salmon populations.

Conservation status

Localities: At one locality with a genetically origi-nal population, conservation status is estimatedas favourable. At all other localities, the conser-vation status is unfavourable due to very smallpopulations and/or poor physical conditions inthe rivers or because of the presence of obstruc-tions that hinder movements to and from spawnlocalities (Table 4.5).

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Salmon is unfavourable as there is only onepopulation in Denmark with a positive tendency.

4.2.4.9 Spined Loach Cobitis taenia

Habitats Directive: Annex II - Danish Red List1997: Vulnerable


The Spined Loach is a sedentary demersal fish ofclear, fast-flowing waters or in large lakes withsand bottoms.

The Spined Loach has always been a rare fishspecies in Denmark. The species is or has beenwidespread in 3 water systems on Funen, 5 onZealand and 1 on Lolland. In recent years, it hasbeen found to occur in all 3 water systems onFunen (Odense Å, Stavis Å and Vindinge Å) andin 4 out of 5 water systems on Zealand (Susåen,

Figure 4.2.4.8. Salmon. Confirmed breeding records inDenmark after 1990. Solid dots: original Salmon spe-cies, squares: Salmon of foreign origin.

Figure 4.2.4.9. Spined Loach. Confirmed records inDenmark after 1990.

84

Tude Å, Halleby Å and Køge Å, but has disap-peared from Fladså; Fig. 4.2.4.9). Likewise, it hasdisappeared from Maribo Søndersø on Lolland.There is only very little, old information on popu-lation density at some localities, like e.g. >2 indivi-duals/m2 in Susåen at Rødebro in 1967 and 0.6individuals/m2 in Tude Å at Skatholm in 1979.Population estimates of entire water catchmentsare not available; Funen county estimates, how-ever, that the population in Odense Å exceeds10,000 individuals today. The species is probablymost numerous in Susåen where it is widespreadthroughout the catchment; in Halleby Å watersystem on the other hand, it has only been ob-served at one locality. In the habitats where thisspecies occurs, there is nothing to imply that it isdeclining.

Conservation status

Localities: At all localities except for one, conser-vation status is favourable (Table 4.5), supportedby the apparent stable population densities andits numerous occurrence in the water systemswhere it occurs. The physical and water chem-istry properties of these streams have generallyimproved in recent years.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Spined Loach is judged to be favourable.

4.2.4.10 Weatherfish Misgurnus fossilis

Habitats Directive: Annex II - Danish Red List1997: Critically endangered.

The Weatherfish is a sedentary fish living insmall lakes and canals with soft bottoms.

In Denmark, the species is only known fromditches and canals in the lower part of Vidåen,

and from adjacent ponds and small lakes. Thelast reports on the Weatherfish in Denmark arefrom Sølsted Mose north of Tønder where a fewindividuals were found in the beginning of 1980.Whether the species is still in this area is un-known.

Conservation status

Localities: It is uncertain whether the Weatherfishis still to be found in Denmark. Thus, conserva-tion status is unfavourable (Table 4.5). The spe-cies has obviously decreased in the only watersystems from which it is known.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Weatherfish is unfavourable.

4.2.5 Butterflies

4.2.5.1 The Large Copper ButterflyLycaena dispar

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV - DanishRed List 1997: Disappeared


The Large Copper Butterfly favours largemarshes and moors rich in vegetation and ca-nals and streams with abundant vegetation ofwater dock Rumex hydrolapathum which, in Den-mark, was also the host plant of the species(Stoltze 1996).

The Large Copper Butterfly was only known fromHorreby Lyng on Falster in Denmark, where itwas reported from 1934 till 1955. The species isprobably immigrated from north eastern Germany.



Lycaena dispar Disappear.

Euphydryas aurinia Unfavour.

Parnassius mnemosyne Disappear.

Coenonympha hero Disappear.

Maculinea arion

An-nex

II, IV

II

IV

IV

IV

No. oflocal-ities

1*

22

19#

20¤

7^

Size ofpopu-lation

0

?

0

0

100-300

%of DK

100%

Uncertain

3 / ?

Unknown

1 / ?

Disappear.

1

19

20

Favourable

1 / ?

1 / 100%

Unfavour.

17 / ?

2 / 0% Unfavour.

Table 4.6. Conservation status of butterflies - Lepidoptera. *1934-1955. #Until 1961. ¤Until 1981. ^After 1980.

85

Conservation status

Localities: The Large Copper Butterfly has notbeen registered in Denmark since 1955 (Table4.6). Stoltze (1996) assesses that drainage fol-lowed by overgrowth of vegetation caused thespecies to disappear from Horreby Lyng, but hecannot exclude the fact that collection may alsohave contributed. If this locality is to be re-es-tablished, reinvasion will have to take place, butthere are still populations close to the Baltic Seacoast in Germany and Poland.

Overall status: The Large Copper Butterfly hasdisappeared from Denmark and natural reset-tlement seems unlikely right now.

4.2.5.2 Marsh Fritillary Euphydryasaurinia

Habitats Directive: Annex II - Danish Red List1997: Critically endangered


The Marsh Fritillary lives in wet heaths andunfertilised meadows on poor soil with abun-dant devil’s-bit Succisa pratensis, the preferredhost plant (Stoltze 1996).

Previously, the species was widespread through-out the country and particularly in Jutland. Af-ter 1900, there are only – outside Jutland – posi-tive reports from Zealand where the speciescould be found at Tisvilde until 1923. In Jutland,the species was locally distributed in the firstpart of the 20th century. The species has experi-enced a drastic decline during the last part ofthe 1900s and is now scarce and confined to avery few localities in north Jutland.

1n 1998, the species was searched for in 21 Jut-land localities known to have supported the spe-cies in the beginning of the 1990s (Fig. 4.2.5.2).The Marsh Fritillary was located at only four ofthese sites (Stoltze 1999). The species has alsobeen registered at Napstjert Mose (P. StadelNielsen, pers. comm.). P. Nielsen (pers. comm.)estimates that, in 1999, 6-10 localities in Jutlandstill supported the species.

Conservation status

Localities: The Marsh Fritillary was found atTolshave, Råbjerg Mose, Lundby Hede, VullumSø and Napstjert Mose – all localities in northJutland. As the species often occurs in small,well-defined parts of large areas, it cannot beruled out that it may be overlooked at some lo-calities; nor can it be ruled out that the speciesmay occur elsewhere. Conservation status is fa-vourable at 1 site, uncertain at 3 and unknownat 1. In the 17 areas where the species was notlocated in 1999, conservation status is unfavour-able (Table 4.6).

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Marsh Fritillary is unfavourable as thespecies has disappeared from several localities.

4.2.5.3 Clouded Apollo Parnassiusmnemosyne



The Clouded Apollo occurred in large numbers,typically in glades in old deciduous forests withrich leaf mould which supported Corydalisintermedia, the most important forage plant forthe Clouded Apollo.

Figure 4.2.5.2. Marsh Fritillary. Known general distri-bution in Denmark in 1998-1999 (solid dots) and areassearched without success (grey dots).

86

The species was last reported in Denmark in1961, and is today considered extinct. The Cloud-ed Apollo was reported on Funen, Langelandand Lolland-Falster up to 1900 after which it onlyoccurred on Zealand (Fig. 4.2.5.3). After 1922,populations were known in Knudsskov atKnudshoved Odde up to 1948 and in JægersprisNordskov up to 1961 (Stoltze 1996).

Conservation status

Localities: The species has not been reported inDenmark since 1961 (Table 4.6). The chance ofits re-occurrence at Danish localities in the nearfuture is estimated as poor (Stoltze 1996). Thespecies has shown a dramatic decline in the

southern part of Sweden, which would form apotential recruiting area for any natural reset-tlement of Denmark.

Overall status: The Clouded Apollo has disap-peared from Denmark and it cannot be expectedthat the species will re-appear naturally, irrespec-tive of management or re-establishment meas-ures.

4.2.5.4 Scarce Heath Coenonympha hero



The Scarce Heath favours moist woodland mead-ow and glades in woods rich in mixtures ofgrasses. Cock’s foot Dactylis glomerata is knownas forage plant from studies in captivity. Forageplant of the species in Danish habitats is, how-ever, unknown (Stoltze 1996).

The Scarce Heath was last reported in Denmarkin 1981, but Stoltze (1996) could not exclude thepossibility that the species might still be foundin one of the woods of east or mid Zealand. Thespecies is only reported on Zealand where it hasbeen numerous at certain localities (Fig. 4.2.5.4).Since 1960, the species was only known fromLellinge and Vemmetofte where it was relativelynumerous until it disappeared in 1981 (Stoltze1996).

Conservation status

Localities: The Scarce Heath has not been seen inDenmark for 20 years and management or re-establishing measures of habitats will hardlyhave any effect as natural resettlement is un-likely (Table 4.6). Stoltze (1996) considered thatthere may be a very small chance of the speciesbeing overlooked in the woods of mid or eastZealand. The species is therefore consideredextinct.

Overall status: The Scarce Heath has most likelydisappeared from Denmark and natural reset-tlement is unlikely.

Figure 4.2.5.3. Clouded Apollo. Distribution of all his-torical records from Denmark.

Figure 4.2.5.4. Scarce Heath. Distribution of all histori-cal records from Denmark.

87

4.2.5.5 Large Blue Butterfly Maculineaarion

Habitats Directive: Annex IV - Danish Red List1997: Critically endangered


The Large Blue Butterfly favours dune heathsand dry unfertilised grasslands with thyme Thy-mus sp. which is the most important forage plant.On Møn, however, oregano Origanum vulgare,is an equally important host plant (Nielsen &Bittcher 1997, Nielsen 1999). The caterpillar canpupate only in the nests of the Red Ant Myrmicasabuleti (Stoltze 1996).

The Large Blue Butterfly was previously wide-spread but local on Bornholm, Møn, north andwest Zealand, Djursland and north Jutland. Itnow only occurs with certainty at Høvblege onMøn (Fig. 4.2.5.5). There is a slight chance thatthe species may still persist at Grønnestrandwhere it was last observed in 1994 and atBulbjerg where the species was last seen in 1997(Stoltze 1999).

The species disappeared from south Funen inthe last century, from Bornholm in 1961, eastJutland in 1962, and Zealand in 1989. The LargeBlue Butterfly has been reported from seven lo-calities in Denmark since 1980. In north Zealand,

over that time, the species has disappeared fromLumsås and Melby Overdrev, where it was lastobserved in 1983, and from the neighbourhoodof Rørvig where the last observation was in 1989.In north Jutland, the species has disappearedfrom Hammer Bakker where it was last observedin 1987. Stoltze (1996) assesses that the speciesmay have been overlooked at a very few locali-ties in north Jutland or Zealand. In spite of in-tense searches in 1998 and 1999, the species wasnot located in any of these localities (Bech et al.1999 and 2000).

Conservation status

Localities: The population has, since 1997, expe-rienced an increase on Møn and is now esti-mated at 100-300 individuals per season. Since1991, efforts have been made to improve thishabitat by means of modifying cultivationthrough mowing and clearing of trees andbushes. Furthermore, since 1996, its breedingrange is being expanded by laying fallow an ad-jacent field (Nielsen 1999). Conservation statusof this population is favourable (Table 4.6).

At the localities of north Jutland it has been im-possible to implement adequate managementmeasures as the reasons for the decline of theLarge Blue Butterfly and its host ant species areunknown (Gadeberg 1997). Conservation statusat these localities is unfavourable or disap-peared.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Large Blue Butterfly is unfavourable asthe species has disappeared from several locali-ties. The only positive, remaining population is,however on the increase and intensive manage-ment measures are being carried out to securethe species here.

Figure 4.2.5.5. Large Blue Butterfly. All areas of recordsin Denmark after 1990 (solid dots) and extinct popula-tions (grey dots).

88

4.2.6 Dragonflies

4.2.6.1 Green Club-tailed DragonflyOphiogomphus cecilia



The Green Club-tailed Dragonfly breeds inclean, well-oxygenated streams, where the lar-vae buries itself in sand or gravel, predominantlyin fast-running streams. It is most numerous inthe lower parts of the stream catchment system.

The Green Club-tailed Dragonfly has, since thebeginning of the last century, been known inDenmark from four large, stream systems in Jut-land, viz.: Varde Å, Skjern Å, Karup Å andGudenåen. Within the last decade, the specieshas been located in the three last mentioned riversystems, but, since 1943, it has not been observedin Varde Å.

Observations in 1999 show that the species isstill to be found in Skjern Å, Karup Å andGudenåen (Fig. 4.2.6.1). In all three river sys-tems, both imagines and exuvier were found inreasonable numbers.

Conservation status

Localities: The Green Club-tailed Dragonfly waspreviously considered rare and scarce and in the1970s (Jensen 1972) on a marked decline. Thespecies, however, seems to be increasing andthere is no doubt that the improvements instream quality have had a positive effect. Thebreeding localities of the species are not threat-

ened and appear to be in a satisfactory condi-tion (Table 4.7).

Overall status: It may be concluded that the GreenClub-tailed Dragonfly continues to thrive in rea-sonable numbers, showing stable populationtrends in the three mentioned stream systems.As it is, however, uncertain whether these sub-populations are sufficient to survive in the longrun, the general conservation status of this spe-cies and its habitat is uncertain.

4.2.6.2 Large White-faced DarterLeucorrhina pectoralis



The Large White-faced Darter breeds particular-ly in clean, stagnant, oligo- or mesotrophic lakes

Figure 4.2.6.1. Green Club-tailed Dragonfly. Confirmedrecords in Denmark in 1999.


%of DK


Ophiogomphus cecilia Uncertain

Leucorrhina pectoralis Unfavour.

Leucorrhina caudalis Disappear.

Leucorrhina albifrons Disappear.

Aeshna viridis

An-nex

II, IV

II, IV

IV

IV

IV

No. oflocal-ities

3*

4

Few**

1¤

6

Size ofpopu-lation

?

?

0

0

?

Uncertain Unfavour.

4 / 100%

Disappear.

x# / ?

1

Favourable

3*/ 100%

5 / ? 1

Unknown

/ ? Uncertain

Table 4.7. Conservation status of dragonflies - Odonata. *Stream system. **898-1912. #The number of locali-ties is unknown, but the majority is supposed to belong to this category. ¤1959-1961.

89

and ponds but may also be observed at peat-stained woodland lakes and in old, partly over-grown peat cuttings with acid water. It favourssunny localities rich in vegetation of water plantsand bog mosses. The breeding localities of thespecies are generally very sensitive to scrub en-croachment, which leads to eutrophic and over-shadowed conditions.

The Large White-faced Darter has, since 1764,been found at about 20 localities partly in north-east Zealand, partly in mid and east Jutland. Inrecent decades, the species has declined stronglyand during the last 10 years it has only been re-ported at the following localities in northeastZealand: a peat bog at Tikøb Langesø (one indi-vidual in 1992), at a small pond north of AsserboRuin (imagines and exuviae in 1995 and 1997,respectively), Vaserne at Holte (one teneral malein 1999) and Kattehale Mose at Allerød (imag-ines and exuviae in 1992-1998 – in all seasonsbut decreasing from c. 25 imagines in 1992 to 2imagines in 1998; Fig. 4.2.6.2).

Registrations at 1999 in these four localities re-sulted in only one individual sighting at Vaserne.

Conservation status

Localities: The Large White-faced Darter is strong-

ly declining. Any remaining populations are un-doubtedly very small and the species is prob-ably close to extinction in Denmark (Table 4.7).The species may occur in several of its habitatson northeast Zealand – primarily in KattehaleMose which probably supports/has supportedthe most stable breeding population. The smallponds of the habitat are, however, heavily over-shadowed and suffering from eutrophication. Itis very likely that the total population inKattehale Mose is located in one sunny pond,the environment of which has been cleared ofsurrounding tree and bush vegetation.

Overall status: The general conservation statusof the Large White-faced Darter and its habitatsis unfavourable.

4.2.6.3 Bulbous White-faced DarterLeucorrhina caudalis



The Bulbous White-faced Darter breeds in clean,slightly nutrient-rich lakes and ponds and insmall peat-stained woodland lakes. The speciesprefers warm and sunny localities rich in veg-etation of floating plants like e.g. pondweedPotamogeton sp., yellow waterlily Nuphar luteaand white waterlily Nymphaea alba.

The Bulbous White-faced Darter was known ina few lakes and ponds of northeast Zealand in1898-1912, possibly earlier. Wesenberg-Lundstudied this species in the vicinity of Hillerødwhere it occurred frequently around 1910.

Conservation status

Localities: The Bulbous White-faced Darter hasnot been reported since 1912 (Table 4.7).

Overall status: The species has disappeared fromDenmark.

Figure 4.2.6.2. Large White-faced Darter. Confirmedrecords in Denmark 1990-1999; recovered in 1999(solid dot), no recovery in 1999 (grey dots).

90

4.2.6.4. Eastern White-faced DarterLeucorrhina albifrons



The Eastern White-faced Darter breeds in clean,slightly acid lakes and ponds and in peat-stainedwoodland lakes. The species prefers more oli-gotrophic and acid water than its close relative,the Bulbous White-faced Darter Leucorrhinacaudalis but prefers, likewise, sunny localities,rich in floating leaf vegetation. Furthermore, itcan be found in sites rich in bog moss vegeta-tion.

Only few individuals of the Eastern White-facedDarter were found in Denmark at Store Gribsøin Gribskov in 1959 and 1961.

Conservation status

Localities: The Eastern White-faced Darter hasnot been reported in Denmark since 1961 (Table4.7).

Overall status: The species has disappeared fromDenmark.

4.2.6.5 Green Hawker Aeshna viridis



The Green Hawker breeds partly in sunny, meso-or oligotrophic lakes and bogs situated in wood-land (northeast Zealand), and in warm, canalsand ditches rich in vegetation (the marsh insouthwest Jutland). The female almost alwaysoviposits her eggs into the plant of water sol-dier Stratiotes aloides, and, thus, the species isnormally to be found only in places where thisplant occurs.

The Green Hawker has been known in Denmark

since the end of the 1800s. The species is prima-rily found in northeast Zealand where it has beenreported from 25 localities over the years. Fur-thermore, in 1988, it was observed in an area inTøndermarsken and in 1994 in Kulemosen onFunen (E. Vinther, pers. comm.). In the last dec-ade, the Green Hawker has been found alto-gether in six sites in northeast Zealand, on Funenand in Tøndermarsken.

Observations in 1999 show that the species stilloccurs at four localities in northeast Zealand andin Tøndermarsken (Fig. 4.2.6.5). At all localities,imagines were found in reasonable numbers,while exuviae were registered in large numbersin several of the northeast Zealand habitats.Kulemose was not surveyed in 1999.

Conservation status

Localities: The Green Hawker probably breedsin relatively healthy populations at the five ex-amined Danish localities where status is as-sumed favourable, while status is unknown inKulemosen (Table 4.7). Compared to other in-vestigations during the last 10 years, the differ-ent populations seem to be quite stable. Like-wise, status of breeding localities seems rela-tively stable, but through overshadow andovergrowth, the habitats of Zealand will dete-riorate in a short while. In the process of dredg-ing suitable waters, it is of vital importance tocreate optimum conditions for the hostplant,water soldier.

Figure 4.2.6.5. Green Hawker. Confirmed records inDenmark in 1999 and Kulemose in 1994.

91

Overall status: Conservation status of the GreenHawker is uncertain as the number of sites islimited.

4.2.7 Beetles

4.2.7.1 Great Diving Beetle Dytiscuslatissimus



The Great Diving Beetle favours clean lakes withclear or pale brown water with an abundantsupply of summer populations of large caddisworms (the food of the larvae).

The Great Diving Beetle has been found at c. 60localities distributed throughout the countrysince the 1700s (Holmen 1993, Pedersen 1994,M. Holmen, pers. comm.). Assessment of con-servation status is based on the six sites wherethe species has been reported within the last 20years and which are thought to constitute themajority of the existing breeding population (Fig.4.2.7.1). The species was last found, in a fewnumbers, at one locality in 1994 during a sur-vey of previously occupied and possible habi-tats (Pedersen 1994).

In 1994, the species was thought to occur at threeout of the six most recent locations. Small popu-lations may be difficult to detect and the specieshas not been systematically surveyed in all Dan-ish lakes. Furthermore, the species is a power-ful flier and is therefore capable of airborne dis-persal. The conservation status is assessed to bestable at one locality and negative or unknown

at all other, currently known localities. Gener-ally speaking, many lakes are subject to influ-ence by factors known to have a negative im-pact on the species, primarily eutrophication(which possibly reduces food resources of thelarvae, reduces dispersal and exchange of ge-netic material).

Conservation status

Localities: In 1 of the 6 most recently occupiedsites, conservation status is judged to be favour-able. This is based on the fact that here, thescarce, but stable population occurs in a suit-able habitat (Table 4.8). At 3 sites, the situationis unfavourable either because (i) lack of recov-ery of a former large population has not takenplace because positive management is requiredor (ii) the current sites no longer offer suitablehabitat. In 2 sites, former scarce populationshave not been recovered and the species isthought to have disappeared.

Figure 4.2.7.1. Great Diving Beetle. Confirmed recordsin Denmark 1994 (solid dot) and 1975-1991 (grey dots).



Dytiscus latissimus

Graphoderus bilineatus

%of DK

100%?

100%?

Lucanus cervus

Limoniscus violaceus

An-nex

II, IV

II, IV

II

II

No. oflocal-ities

6?

4?

5*

1**

Size ofpopu-lation

?

?

0

0

Favourable

1 / ?

1 / ?

Uncertain

1 / ?

Unfavour.

3 / ?

1 / ?

Unknown

2 / ?

1 / ?

Disappear.

5 / 100%

1 / 100%

Nationalstatus

Unfavour.

Unfavour.

Disappear.

Disappear.

Table 4.8. Conservation status of beetles - Coleoptera. *Until 1966.

92

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Great Diving Beetle is unfavourable. Thereis only one positively confirmed finding in 1994where the population seemed stable. Further-more, the species has not been recovered at fivelocalities where it has occurred within a 20-yearperiod, although small or reduced populationsmay have been overlooked at three of the locali-ties.

4.2.7.2 Dipping Beetle Graphoderusbilineatus



The Dipping Beetle favours in particular cleanlakes with clear or pale brown water, usuallyedged with sedge Carex sp. or moderatelyoligotrophic ponds with abundant summer pop-ulations of small water fleas close to the bank(which form the diet of the larvae).

Since the mid 1800s, the Dipping Beetle has beenobserved at over 35 Danish localities from eastJutland and eastwards (Holmen 1993, Pedersen1994, Hansen et al. 1999, O. Vagtholm, pers.comm., M. Holmen, pers. comm.). Conservationstatus is based on the status at four Danish lo-calities where the species has been observed

during the last 20 years and which may repre-sent breeding populations. The species was onlyfound at one locality in 1994 during a survey ofthe former known haunts and a number of po-tential habitats elsewhere (Pedersen 1994). Sincethen, the species was rediscovered in the samesite in 1995-1996 and at two further localities in1998-1999 (Fig. 4.2.7.2).

Conservation status:

Localities: At one of the four localities, conserva-tion status is assessed as favourable due to apossible stable occurrence in spite of some dete-rioration of the water environment (Table 4.8).Conservation status at one locality is thought tobe uncertain. This is caused by falling numbersin the population and need for managementmeasures. At another locality, status is unfavour-able due to the lack of recovery of a small popu-lation, the poor quality of the water environmentand the need for management measures. At an-other locality where conservation status has notbeen determined, a formerly scarce populationhas not been rediscovered, although the habitatseems favourable to the species to the presentday.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Dipping Beetle is unfavourable. During1994-1999, there are only confirmed observationsfrom three Danish localities and at least on twoof the four localities where the species has beenobserved since 1980, the population is thoughtto have declined or disappeared.

4.2.7.3 Stag Beetle Lucanus cervus


In Denmark, the Stag Beetle favoured old opendeciduous forests, where the species in particu-lar was associated with oak, beech and ash. Else-where in Europe, the species is also reportedbreeding in coniferous trees and outside forestsin heaps of sawdust e.g. at sawmills and (lessfrequently) in heaps of compost in parks andgardens.

The Stag Beetle was probably widespread in

Figure 4.2.7.2. Dipping Beetle. Confirmed records inDenmark 1994-1999 (solid dots) and 1976-1980 (greydots).

93

most regions of Denmark (maybe except fornorth Jutland, Lolland and Falster) until the mid1800s. Apparently, the species disappeared firstfrom Zealand where the last known reportedindividual was from Næsbyholm in 1873 (Mar-tin 1993). From Jutland, the Funen-area, Mønand Bornholm the species was still reported orobserved during the 1900s. The last known ob-servation from Jutland concerned an individualin 1931 from Fakkegrav, although an individualwas ostensibly photographed from this site onan oak in 1966. Another individual may havebeen observed here in 1970 (Fig. 4.2.7.3). FromFunen, the species was particularly known fromÆbelø where it was protected in 1924 and ob-served on a few occasions up to 1954, at whichtime a specimen was removed from the island(Rørth & Michelsen 1962). Subsequently therehave been no observations from Æbelø. On Møn,the last observation was made in Klinteskov in1910. From Bornholm, the last positive observa-tion is from 1955 where a female was captured,photographed and released in the Habbedal-area at Olsker, and from the same area, there isreliable information on some individuals whichwere observed on broken branches of cherrytrees in about 1959 (Stoltze 1989).

At all these localities, the species has been lookedfor in recent years in vain. It cannot be ruledout, however, that there may exist a small popu-lation at one or more of these localities or else-where where conditions are favourable for thespecies.

Conservation status

Localities: The Stag Beetle has been searched forin all former locations in Denmark, but in vain(Table 4.8).

Overall status: The Stag Beetle has not been reg-istered with certainty since 1966 and the speciesis thought to have disappeared from Denmark.

4.2.7.4 (Violet Click Beetle) Limoniscusviolaceus



The species which has recently been named'violsmælder' in Denmark, favours old decidu-ous forests where it breeds in hollow trees closeto the ground. In Denmark, the species has onlybeen observed in oak (in one single tree). Out-side of Denmark, the species is known frombeech, elm, ash and oak, but is primarily ob-served in old long-established beech forests.

The Violet Click Beetle has only been observedat one locality in Denmark: Bognæs Storskov inRoskilde Fjord (Martin 1989). The species hasprobably always been rare in Denmark becausethis is the northern limit of its distribution. Thus,it has never been observed in Sweden and inGermany the most northerly observation is fromBrandenburg.

The Violet Click Beetle was observed on Bognæsin 1924 in the remains of a hollow oak on Ege-hoved. A total of three individuals were found.Since then the species has been searched for atBognæs in vain, despite the remaining hollowtrees at this site, and at other suitable localitiesin Denmark. The species is difficult to detect inits larval form, as well as an adult beetle, whichis why it cannot be ruled out that the speciesstill occurs in Denmark.

Conservation status

Localities: The Violet Click Beetle has only beenFigure 4.2.7.3. Stag Beetle. Confirmed records in Den-mark 1910-1966.

94

found at one locality in Denmark and was lastobserved in 1924 (Table 4.8).

Overall status: It is considered that the VioletClick Beetle has disappeared from Denmark.

4.2.8 Snails

4.2.8.1 Geyer’s Whorl Snail Vertigo geyeri



The Geyer ’s Whorl Snail is a northerly distrib-uted species with a relict distribution, confinedto well-defined habitats, namely calcareous lo-calities where the species particularly favourswithered leaves of sedges Carex sp. The localpopulation size is often small. Almost all for-merly known Danish localities are or were im-portant botanical localities.

During c. 1900-1970, the species was reportedfrom 14 sites in Denmark, distributed betweennorth Jutland, Zealand and Bornholm. Only 12of these have a precise indication of the locality.

In 1999, another search of the same 10 localitieswas carried out and only one locality in midJutland, where it was last observed in 1936, wasfound to support the species (Fig. 4.2.8.1). Sev-eral other localities offered habitats that may besuitable for the species, but as it is difficult todetect, it is possible that the species may havebeen overlooked. If this is the case, the size ofthe population is hardly very big.

Conservation status

Localities: The species was observed in 1999 in ameadow/marsh area in mid Jutland where fourindividuals were detected during three hours ofsearch. The small number of individuals foundconfirms that the population size is probablysmall. The monitored area is possibly too heav-ily grazed to be suitable, whereas the rest of thelocality lacks grazing. Thus, conservation sta-tus is uncertain at this locality, whereas it is un-known at all the other historical localities (Table4.9).

Overall status: The few observations resultingfrom the survey in 1999 tend to suggest that theGeyer’s Whorl Snail has strongly decreased eventhough it may have been overlooked. The na-tional conservation status is unknown.

Figure 4.2.8.1. Geyer ’s Whorl Snail. Sites supportingthe species in Denmark in 1999 (solid dots). Historicalrecords 1900-1970 (grey dots).


An-nex

%of DK


Vertigo geyeri II Unknown

Vertigo angustior II Unknown

Vertigo moulinsiana II

No. oflocal-ities

14*

555#

43¤

Size ofpopu-lation

?

?

?

Unfavour. Disappear.Favourable

1 / ?

Uncertain

1 / ?

1 / ?

1 / ?

Unknown

13 / ?

54 / ?

41 / ? Unknown

Table 4.9. Conservation status of snails - Gastropoda. *900-1999. #1877-1999. ¤1864-1999.

95

4.2.8.2 Narrow-mouthed Whorl SnailVertigo angustior



The Narrow-mouthed Whorl Snail favours twohabitat types, namely wet calcareous habitatslike lime ponds and base-rich meadows and dryhabitats such as half-shaded slopes and stonefences. Population size is usually small and thespecies is thus difficult to detect.

Between 1877 and 1974 the species was regis-tered in c. 54 sites in Denmark (Fig. 4.2.8.2).

In 1999 it was searched for at six known, for-merly occupied localities but without success.In one of the sites, where the species was nu-merous a hundred years ago, no specimens werefound in spite of a thorough monitoring pro-gramme and the existence of apparently suit-able habitat. These negative results indicate thatthe species is experiencing a general decrease.On the other hand, the species was detected in1999 in Himmerland at a locality new to the spe-cies during surveys for the Geyer ’s Whorl Snail.

Conservation status

Localities: The locality where the species was de-

tected in 1999 is left in a natural state and is des-ignated as an area of outstanding natural beauty.The snails were found in a very small area ofthe sedge marsh and it remains unknown wheth-er the species is confined to this small area. Con-tinued scrub and woodland encroachment withshading alders will, in the long term, threatenthe survival of the species. Thus, conservationstatus is assessed as uncertain at this locality,whereas it is unknown in the rest of the sitesoccupied historically (Table 4.9).

Overall status: Until further monitoring is initi-ated it can be assumed that the species is on thedecline and has disappeared from many of theformerly occupied sites. It is, however, possible,that the species does still occur in several places.The national conservation status is unknown.

4.2.8.3 Desmoulins’ Whorl Snail Vertigomoulinsiana



The Desmoulins’ Whorl Snail favours the stemsof marsh vegetation, particularly leaves of sedgeCarex sp. on the banks of lakes and largerstreams.

Between 1864 and 1977 the Desmoulins’ WhorlSnail was registered from c. 43 sites, mainly dis-tributed on the islands with a few records in eastJutland (Fig. 4.2.8.3). The number of individu-als at one locality can be numerous, with manyindividuals on each sedge plant.

The species was, in particular, found in numer-ous numbers in the Mølleå-system north of Co-penhagen. Monitoring of the area in 1999 re-sulted in relocation in two-three sites where ithad last been observed in 1936.

Eutrophication of wetlands causes sedge beltsto shrink or be completely succeeded by willowscrub and forests of reeds. Should this happen,the species will become scarce or disappear com-pletely. The species has, however, survived eu-trophication of Mølleåen, and it may well be thatthe species has survived in many other locali-

Figure 4.2.8.2. Narrow-mouthed Whorl Snail. Site sup-porting the species in Denmark in 1999 (solid dot). His-torical records in 1877-1974 (grey dots).

96

ties. The possibility remains that it is still to befound in the majority of its former localities.

Conservation status

Localities: In 1999, the Desmoulins’ Whorl Snailwas registered between Rådvad and Strandmøl-len where it was very scarce. The biotope wasnot ideal for the species (being rather too shaded)but as this area is left in a natural state, the con-servation status may, nevertheless, be character-ised as favourable. The species was furthermoreregistered in 1999 at Stampen at which localitythe extent of suitable vegetation is very limited.Thus, the situation here for the species is uncer-tain. In all other documented sites occupied inhistorical times, the conservation status is un-known (Table 4.9).

Overall status: The Desmoulins’ Whorl Snail maybe found at several localities in east Denmark,but a detailed mapping and consequent conser-vation status awaits a survey. Thus, the nationalconservation status is unknown.

4.2.9 Bivalves

4.2.9.1 Freshwater Pearl MusselMargaritifera margaritifera



The Freshwater Pearl Mussel favours cleanstreams where reproduction of the species de-pends on host fish like salmon or trout.

The species in Denmark has only been observedfrom the lower part of Varde Å. The FreshwaterPearl Mussel was stocked in 1910-1912 in SkjernÅ, Sneum Å and Kongeåen, but it remains un-known whether the species has maintained it-self in these streams (Mandahl-Barth 1949).

Restoration of parts of Varde Å in the 1970s re-vealed that the species is still occurring here butthe population consists of only older individu-als.

Conservation status

Localities: The Freshwater Pearl Mussel has re-cently only been registered on a reach of VardeÅ east of Varde. It looks as if the species hasceased to maintain a self-perpetuating popula-tion as elsewhere in many other Europeanstreams (Alvarez-Claudio et al. 2000; Table 4.10).

Overall status: The national conservation for theFreshwater Pearl Mussel is unfavourable as theonly known Danish occurrence is no longer self-maintaining.

Figure 4.2.8.3. Desmoulins’ Whorl Snail. Site support-ing the species in Denmark in 1999 (solid dot). His-torical records in 1864-1977 (grey dots).


An-nex

No. oflocal-ities

Size ofpopu-lation

%of DK


Margaritifera margaritifera II, V 1 ?

Favourable Uncertain Unfavour. Unknown Disappear.

1 / 100% Unfavour.

Unio crassus II, IV ? ? Unknown

Table 4.10. Conservation status of bivalves - Bivalvia.

97

4.2.9.2 Thick Shelled River Mussel Uniocrassus

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV


The Thick Shelled River Mussel in Denmark fa-vours streams with stony, gravelled or sandybottoms and strong or moderately flowing wa-ter where reproduction of the species dependson host fish: minnow, stickleback or variouscarps.

The species has previously been widespreadthroughout the country and has been reportedfrom Jutland, Funen and Zealand, although thedistribution of the species has always been dis-persed (Mandahl-Barth 1949).

At the beginning of 1990, observations weremade in Lyngbygård Å in east Jutland and inmid 1980 in Suså at Holløse Mølle on Zealand.As there have been no changes of the environ-ment in these two places, the species is assumedto still live here.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status is unknown atrecent localities (Table 4.10). There have been no

proper survey or monitoring of the Thick ShelledRiver Mussel which explains why the speciesmay have been overlooked at several localities.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Thick Shelled River Mussel is unknowndue to insufficient data.

4.2.10 Vascular plants

4.2.10.1 Little Grapefern Botrychiumsimplex



The Little Grapefern favours peaty coastal drygrasslands and stabilised green dunes. The Lit-tle Grapefern was searched for in 1997-1998 atSaltbæk Vig where it is assumed to still occur(Wind et al. 1999).

The species was first reported in 1890 at the nowdrained Gårdbogård Sø northwest of Frederiks-havn where it has not been rediscovered since.Up to 1950 the species was registered from sevensites (Wind 1992).


No. oflocal-ities


Botrychium simplex 1 Unfavour.

Saxifraga hirculus 17 Unfavour.

Luronium natans 10 Uncertain

Najas flexilis 2 Unfavour.

Cypripedium calceolus 2 Uncertain

Liparis loeselii 18 Unfavour.

Lycopodium selago 45 Uncertain

Lycopodium alpinum 3 Uncertain

Lycop. tristachyum 13 Uncertain

Lycop. complanatum 3 Unfavour.

Lycop. clavatum 184 Uncertain

Lycop. annotinum 154 Uncertain

Lycop. inundatum

An-nex

II, IV

II, IV

II, IV

II, IV

II, IV

II, IV

V

V

V

V

V

V

V 73

Size ofpopu-lation

?

app. 2900

?

small

445

>5500

?

0

?

>850

?

?

?

%of DK

100%

>95%

100%

100%

100%

100%

>75%?

>95%

>95%?

>95%

>75%?

>75%?

>75%?

Disappear.

1

?

Favourable

3 / 88%

7 / ?

2 / 100%

5 / 92%

1 / 95%

Unfavour.

1 / 100%

11 / 1%

1 / ?

1 / 100%

10 / 1%

1 / 5%

Unknown

2 / ?

1 / 0%

Uncertain

3 / 11%

3 / 7%

45

3

13

184

154

73 Uncertain

Table 4.11. Conservation status of vascular plants - Tracheophyta.

98

Conservation status

Localities: At one locality - probably the most im-portant historical and possibly the only remain-ing population of the species in Denmark - con-servation status is uncertain. The species at thislocality is of unfavourable status due to the fluc-tuating number of individuals combined withthe strong isolation of the habitat (Table 4.11).

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Little Grapefern is unfavourable in spiteof insufficient knowledge of distribution and thestatus at the only confirmed haunt of the spe-cies.

4.2.10.2 Yellow Marsh Saxifrage Saxifragahirculus

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV - DanishRed List 1997: Vulnerable


The Yellow Marsh Saxifrage favours wet openclearwater springs and spring bogs with sum-mer-cold water spring (Palludella springs).

The Yellow Marsh Saxifrage was searched for in1998 in 17 sites that were known to support thespecies within the last 20 years (Wind et al. 1999).The species was located at seven of these locali-ties totalling c. 2,900 individuals (Fig. 4.2.10.2).

Status is stable at three localities and decliningor unknown at the remaining four localities.

Before 1950, the Yellow Marsh Saxifrage waspositively reported from c. 90 localities, prima-rily in mid and north Jutland and in north Zea-land (Wind 1988).

Conservation status

Localities: At three localities holding barely 90%of the recent population, conservation status isconsidered to be favourable based on stablenumbers and suitable habitats (Table 4.11)whereas conservation status is thought uncer-tain at three localities holding c. 10%, due tonegative trends in numbers of plants or lack ofinformation. Conservation status at 11 localitiesholding barely 1% is unfavourable due to a de-cline or disappearance of the species supple-mented by a need for management measures inseveral habitats. Generally speaking, the recentknown localities are strongly isolated as a resultof the intensive exploitation of the adjacent land-scape which reduces the potential for the ex-change of genetic material.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Yellow Marsh Saxifrage is judged unfa-vourable, because of the decline in the majorityof the populations, and the need for manage-ment of the habitats to avoid scrub encroach-ment. Furthermore, the species has not been re-located at 10 localities where it was observed inthe last 20 years.

4.2.10.3 Floating Water Plantain Luroniumnatans

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV - DanishRed List 1997: Critically endangered - DanishAmber List 1997: Species of national responsi-bility


The Floating Water Plantain favours streams andcanals with slowly flowing water, in ponds withstagnant water and at the bottom of dune ponds.The species occurs only in west Jutland.

Figure 4.2.10.2. Yellow Marsh Saxifrage. Confirmedrecords in Denmark in 1998 (solid dots) and 1969-1990(grey dots).

99

In 1998, the Floating Water Plantain was searchedfor at 5 localities, 4 of which were inhabited bythe species (Wind et al. 1999). At further 3 lo-calities, Ringkøbing county council district lo-cated the species in 1995 and 1997 (Moeslund1996, 1997a, 1997b), and in 1999 the species wasobserved at new localities at Skjern Å andNissum Fjord. Altogether the Floating WaterPlantain occurs at 9 localities in west Jutland atRingkøbing and Nissum fjords (Fig. 4.2.10.3).

The Floating Water Plantain was previously ob-served at c. 25 localities in the area betweenNissum Fjord and Ribe (Mikkelsen 1943).

Conservation status

Localities: At seven localities, conservation statusof the Floating Water Plantain is presumed fa-vourable due to stable or positive populationtrends and stable conditions in the habitats. Atone locality, conservation status is assumed to beunfavourable as the species has not been relocatedhere and at two newly registered localities, theconservation status is unknown (Table 4.11).

Overall status: Even though conservation statusis predominantly favourable at individual locali-ties, the national conservation status is assumedto be uncertain based on the fact that the spe-

cies occurs at few localities with a limited geo-graphical distribution. This makes the speciesvulnerable to declines and for many sites, it isuncertain whether a self-maintaining populationoccurs.

4.2.10.4 Slender Naiad Najas flexilis



The Slender Naiad favours open sandy or cal-careous sea bottoms in shallow marine waters.

In 1998 the Slender Naiad was monitored at twoformerly known localities, at one of which thespecies was relocated (Wind et al. 1999). NorsSø in Thy is now probably the only habitat inDenmark and at Fil Sø the Slender Naiad waslast observed in 1947 (Løjtnant & Worsøe 1977).A herbarium specimen of the Slender Naiadfrom Thy in 1961 was later questioned for itsauthenticity (Moeslund & Schou 1993).

The Slender Naiad was mapped in 1998 in NorsSø, estimated to be confined to 1.6-2.0 m depth.During the period since the species was firstobserved at the locality in 1993 (Moeslund &Schou 1993), the population has decreased. Atthe same time the extent of all kinds of vegeta-tion has increased, and the growth of algae inNors Sø has reduced the transparency of thewater column.

Conservation status

Localities: The conservation status in Nors Sø ispresumed to be unfavourable due to a negativepopulation trend and uncertain habitat quality.Since 1947, the species has not been relocated inFil Sø, so the species is assumed to have disap-peared from there (Table 4.11).

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Slender Naiad is presumed unfavourable.

Figure 4.2.10.3. Floating Water Plantain. Confirmedrecords in Denmark 1995-1999.

100

4.2.10.5 Lady’s Slipper Orchid Cypripediumcalceolus



The Lady’s Slipper Orchid in Denmark favourslight open situations on calcareous soils in wood-land and on slopes.

In 1998, two viable populations of the Lady’sSlipper Orchid were found in Himmerland (Fig.4.2.10.5); at neither site did the habitats seem inneed of special management measures to securethe species (Wind et al. 1999). The Lady’s Slip-per Orchid was observed for the first time inHimmerland in 1884 (Grøntved 1948) whereasone individual was found in the other habitat in1973. One of the populations account for c. ¼ ofall individuals and has a stable tendency whilethe other one has increasing numbers of indi-viduals.

There are indications of reports of this speciesfrom other places in Denmark, e.g. from MønsKlint before 1800, but these are questionable.Other records relate to plants artificially intro-duced, all of such populations have now disap-peared.

Conservation status

Localities: In the two sites supporting the cur-rent population, the conservation status of theLady’s Slipper Orchid is assumed to be favour-able due to stable or increasing occurrence atsites with stable habitat conditions (Table 4.11).

Overall status: As the total population of the La-dy’s Slipper Orchid occurs in small and isolatedpopulations which are vulnerable to negativefactors, the national conservation status of thisspecies is uncertain.

4.2.10.6 Fen Orchid Liparis loeselii

Habitats Directive: Annexes II and IV - DanishRed List 1997: Vulnerable


The Fen Orchid favours calcareous bottom inmoist meadows and bogs and in dune slacks(alkaline fens).

The Fen Orchid was monitored in 1997 and 1998at 18 localities where the species has been re-ported during the past 10 years (Wind et al.1999). At 10 localities the species was positivelyrelocated totalling c. 5,500 plants and in 1999relocated at a further locality (Fig. 4.2.10.6). In 4of the 11 relocation areas supporting approx. halfof the national population, the trend is positive,while the trend is stable or decreasing at 3 lo-calities supporting c. 1%, and unknown at 4 lo-

Figure 4.2.10.5. Lady’s Slipper Orchid. Confirmedrecords in Denmark 1998-1999.

Figure 4.2.10.6. Fen Orchid. Confirmed records in Den-mark 1997-1999 (solid dots) and 1985-1995 (grey dots).

101

calities supporting c. 47% of the national popu-lation. One of these 4 localities supports 44% ofthe total population. At most localities where theFen Orchid was not rediscovered, only one ortwo individuals had previously been reported.

Generally speaking, the Fen Orchid has de-creased dramatically during the 1900s (Vinther1985). Before 1950, the species was known fromc. 75 localities mainly distributed throughout theislands (Grøntved 1948).

Conservation status

Localities: At five localities supporting more than90% of the recent population, conservation sta-tus is presumed favourable due to stable or in-creasing numbers and suitable habitats withoutany apparent need for management action (Ta-ble 4.11). Conservation status of three popula-tions supporting just under 10% is assumeduncertain due to a very small number of indi-viduals in two habitats and some need for man-agement actions in the third habitat (to preventscrub encroachment). The conservation statusof the remaining 10 localities holding c. 1% ofthe total population, is presumed unfavourabledue to falling numbers and the need for man-agement actions at two localities (scrub en-croachment/water regulation) and there wereno rediscoveries of the species at seven locali-ties.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Fen Orchid is presumed unfavourablebased on the recent population size and trend,like e.g. apparent extinction at seven localitiesand a general decline of the species throughoutthe 1900s.

4.2.10.7 Fir Clubmoss Lycopodium selago

Habitats Directive: Annex V - Danish Red List1997: Rare


The Fir Clubmoss occurs sporadically in most

areas of the country, present in open sites witholigotrophic soil on heaths, in dune- and heath-plantations and on banks in both open land-scapes and coniferous plantations.

A coordinated field registration of the FirClubmoss on a national basis has not been car-ried out since Topografisk-botaniske Undersø-gelser (TBU) (Topographical-botanical Surveys)survey No. 18 covering the pteridophytes (Wiin-stedt 1953). A few areas have been researchedduring the last 10 years. Hence, in northwestJutland the species was registered in 12 squares(1 x 1 km) in 1991-1998 (Søndergård 1998a) andon north and eastbound banks along main roadNo. 26 in 1992 (Bavnhøj & Kjærgaard 1995). Thespecies was relocated at 16 localities in Grib Skovin 1990-1997 of which 12 populations were stillin existence in 1997 (Dalgaard 1998). Supplemen-tary information reveals registration of the spe-cies at 21 other localities in Denmark in 1980-2000. Thus, the Fir Clubmoss is represented at45 known localities (Fig. 4.2.10.7).

The Fir Clubmoss occurs typically as very fewindividual plants at each locality, but it can bemore numerous, as for example, at the southJutland site thought to support the largest popu-lation, which held c. 100 individuals in 1990(Wind 1994).

The population in Grib Skov counted 1-72 indi-viduals (Dalgaard 1998). Aggressive invasion ofherb vegetation erodes the habitats and may, in

Figure 4.2.10.7. Fir Clubmoss. Confirmed records (soliddots), known general distribution (grey shading) inDenmark 1980-2000.

102

only few years, cause an apparent well-estab-lished population to decline or completely dis-appear.

Conservation status

Localities: A quantitative, local evaluation of con-servation status of the Fir Clubmoss is not pos-sible based on the existing knowledge. A quali-tative comparison between the distribution mapin TBU No. 18 and Fig. 4.2.10.7 reveals that thehabitats of the species have been reduced to onethird. The main distribution of the Fir Clubmosshas changed and the species can no longer berelocated in many areas, formerly known to sup-port the species (east and south Jutland andFunen). The frequency and extent of suitablehabitat on Zealand and in many parts of Jutlandhave been reduced except in north Zealand andnorthwest Jutland where searches have resultedin several new discoveries of localities. This posi-tive result implies that the Fir Clubmoss willremain in Denmark as long as suitable habitatsare available.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Fir Clubmoss must be characterised asuncertain as information on population size andthe need for management at each of the habitatsare not available (Table 4.11).

4.2.10.8 Alpine Clubmoss Lycopodiumalpinum

Habitats Directive: Annex V - Danish Red List1997: Disappeared


The Alpine Clubmoss favours clear and opensoil at oligotrophic, sandy localities in moors andgravel pits, which are constantly disturbed, pre-venting more vigorous vegetation from estab-lishing itself.

The Alpine Clubmoss was not included in theNERI monitoring of red listed vascular plants,as it was not rediscovered in 1990 in the lastknown habitat north of Viborg, nor in the twoother known habitats in Vendsyssel and on An-

holt (Fig. 4.2.10.8). The Danish population mustbe characterised as marginal in relation to themain distribution of the species (circumpolar,arctic-alpine and sub-alpine).

New populations may establish themselves insuitable areas, like e.g. abandoned mineral work-ings such as gravel pits, containing oligotrophicsoil or on heaths subject to man-made distur-bances, but the occurrence of the species willonly be temporary due to transient light andmicro-climatic conditions before more aggres-sive colonisers move in.

Conservation status

Overall status: At present the national conserva-tion status must be characterised as uncertainwith the possibility that the species may havedisappeared (Table 4.11).

4.2.10.9 Pursh Deeproot ClubmossLycopodium tristachyum

Habitats Directive: Annex V - Danish Red List1997: Vulnerable


The Pursh Deeproot Clubmoss favours oligo-trophic soil on heaths in areas where all othervegetation is low. In areas subject to scrub en-

Figure 4.2.10.8. Alpine Clubmoss. Previous registrationsin Denmark.

103

croachment, over-shading ousts the species andconsequently favoured management actions in-clude the removal of heath peat, heather har-vest or burning of scrub. The species reproducesby lateral shoots which produces many branchedaerial shoots. Opening of the vegetation en-hances the possibility of dispersal for the spe-cies.

The Pursh Deeproot Clubmoss is very rare inDenmark and the species is only to be found inJutland and in one area in north Zealand. Afterthe publishing of Topografisk-botaniske Under-søgelser (TBU) No. 18 (Wiinstedt 1953), the dis-tribution of the Pursh Deeproot Clubmoss wasmapped on a national basis during a mappingof moors and commons by Feltbotanisk Klub.In 1980-1989 the species was reported in 10squares (5 x 5 km) supplemented by a report ofthe species from Skovbjerg Bakkeø in 1990 (Pitter& Rasmussen 1990). In 1998 the species wasfound on heathland in west Jutland (Hammer1999) and rediscovered in Grib Skov in 1995(Dalgaard 1996). During registration of pterido-phytes in 1991-1998 in northwest Jutland, thePursh Deeproot Clubmoss was not found(Søndergård 1998a). Thus, the Pursh DeeprootClubmoss is known to occur at 13 localities (Fig.4.2.10.9).

Conservation status

Localities: Information on the Pursh Deeproot

Clubmoss is too sporadic to assess its presentquantitative conservation status at a local level.A qualitative comparison between distributionmap in TBU No. 18 and Fig. 4.2.10.9 reveals thatthe number of suitable habitats has been reducedto one quarter of its former distribution. Themain distribution of the species is unchangedas the species can still be found in west Jutland,however, with a marked decreasing frequency.Apart from the rediscovery at a locality in northZealand there are no other reports from otherparts of the country which indicate that the spe-cies may have disappeared from Bornholm.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Pursh Deeproot Clubmoss must be char-acterized as uncertain due to lack of informa-tion on each individual population size and theneed for habitat management (Table 4.11).

4.2.10.10 Groundcedar Lycopodiumcomplanatum

Habitats Directive: Annex V - Danish Red List1997: Critically endangered


The Groundcedar reproduces itself vegetativelywith above ground offshoots and by airbornespores. In Denmark, the species favours poor,clear and open soil on hilly heaths, in clear andopen, species-rich heath vegetation and in half-shade among low vegetation in oligotrophicplantations.

The Groundcedar is known from approx. 35localities in the 20th century, including some 25in Jutland, 3-4 on Zealand, Falster and Born-holm. The species has disappeared from mostof these localities due to changes in habitat man-agement resulting in a more homogenous veg-etation or encroachment by scrub and wood-land. Since 1975, the species has only been re-ported from four localities, in most cases, it musthave disappeared from the other localities morethan 25 years ago.

In 1999, the Groundcedar was monitored at threelocalities in Jutland known to be the most likelylocations in Denmark within the last 20 years

Figure 4.2.10.9. Pursh Deeproot Clubmoss. Confirmedrecords in Denmark 1980-2000.

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(Wind 2000). The species was observed in twoof these localities supplemented by informationfrom Ringkøbing county council district on onefurther locality (Fig. 4.2.10.10). The populationtrend at the two localities is unknown while atthe third it is presumed to be declining. Onepopulation is thought to number 800 individu-als, the other 54 while the number is unknownin the third.

The taxonomic status of the Danish distributionof the Groundcedar is being revised as researchshows that the species easily cross-breeds withthe closely related Pursh Deeproot Clubmoss.Examinations of herbarium specimens provethat cross-breeding between the two species hasbeen observed in Denmark.

Conservation status

Localities: Conservation status at one locality ispresumed favourable due to the present condi-tions of the habitat while at the other, status isunfavourable, due to scrub encroachment andlack of management action. The conditions atthe third locality are unknown (Table 4.11).

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Groundcedar is unfavourable as survivalof the remaining populations cannot be guaran-teed in the long run. One of the habitats needgentle cultivation to maintain clear and openareas, whereas the two others need surveillance.

4.2.10.11 Running Clubmoss Lycopodiumclavatum

Habitats Directive: Annex V

The Running Clubmoss occurs scatteredthroughout the country in clear and open siteswith oligotrophic, often bare soil amidst heaths,dune and heath plantations, and on banks andabandoned mineral extraction areas, such asgravel pits.

The Running Clubmoss reproduces itself veg-etatively and thus, typically, spreads in a car-pet-like vegetation, such that only one or a fewindividuals are capable of covering considerableareas. In other sites, species distribution is re-duced to some few individuals due to lack ofclear and open areas. In Atlas Flora Danica(unpubl. data) 49 localities are registered, ofwhich 25 populations hold less than 10 individu-als, 14 populations 10-100 individuals and 10populations more than 100 individuals.

There have been no field observations of theRunning Clubmoss, on a national basis, sincethe publishing of Topografisk-botaniske Under-søgelser (TBU) No. 18 (Wiinstedt 1953), but in-formation from a few areas in Denmark doesexist based on research during the last 10 years.Thus, from northwest Jutland: the species oc-curred in 76 squares (1 x 1 km) in 1991-1998(Søndergård 1998a); on north and eastboundbanks along main road 26 in 1992 (Bavnhøj &Kjærgaard 1995), from dune plantations in 1996-1998 in Thy: 57 populations (Søndergård 1998b),at Grib Skov: 24 habitats in 1990 (V. Dalgaard,pers. comm.). During the ongoing research forAtlas Flora Danica, The Running Clubmoss hasbeen observed at 49 localities (unpubl. data).Vejle county e.g. has reported four habitats inthe county and NERI received information on31 other locations in Denmark in 1980-2000.Thus, the species has been reported at a total of184 localities (Fig. 4.2.10.11).

Conservation status

Localities: It is not possible quantitatively to es-timate the present conservation status at local-ity level due to lack of information on the trend

Figure 4.2.10.10. Groundcedar. Confirmed records inDenmark 1996-1999.

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of the Running Clubmoss. Comparison, on aqualitative basis, between distribution map inTBU No. 18 and Fig. 4.2.10.11 shows that thenumber of sites known to support the specieshas fallen by one third. By 1950 it was possible,although scattered, to observe the RunningClubmoss in suitable areas throughout most ofthe country, whereas now, the species is confinedto dune and coastal grasslands and edges of for-ests. Apart from the many observations in theGrib Skov complex, the species is relativelyscarce on the main islands. On the other hand,searches in suitable habitats have resulted inmany new discoveries of the species, and con-sequently it may be assumed that the RunningClubmoss will remain in Denmark as long assuitable habitats are present.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Running Clubmoss is uncertain due tolack of information on population size and trendand management plans for the habitats (Table4.11).

4.2.10.12 Stiff Clubmoss Lycopodiumannotinum



The Stiff Clubmoss occurs scattered throughout

the country in open sites with oligotrophic soilconditions, often uncovered soil like heaths,dune and moorland plantations, usually in con-nection with young plantations, and on banksand abandoned mineral extraction areas, suchas gravel pits.

Very little is known about the abundance of thespecies. The Stiff Clubmoss reproduces itselfvegetatively and thus, typically, spreads a car-pet-like vegetation, hence only one or a few in-dividuals are capable of covering considerableareas. In other sites, species distribution is re-duced to some few individuals due to increas-ing shading in suitable areas.

There have been no field observations of the StiffClubmoss on a national basis, since the publish-ing of Topografisk-botaniske Undersøgelser(TBU) No. 18 (Wiinstedt 1953), but results froma few areas in Denmark exist based on researchcarried out during the last 10 years. Thus, fromnorthwest Jutland the species has been reportedfrom 39 squares (1 x 1 km) in 1991-1998 (Søn-dergård 1998a); on north and eastbound banksalong main road 26 in 1992 (Bavnhøj &Kjærgaard 1995), from dune plantations in 1996-1998 in Thy: 33 populations (Søndergård 1998b),at Grib Skov: 13 habitats in 1990 (V. Dalgaard,pers. comm. 1990). During the ongoing researchfor Atlas Flora Danica, the Stiff Clubmoss hasbeen observed at 65 localities (unpubl. data).Vejle county for example, has reported four habi-tats in the county and NERI received informa-tion on 33 other locations in Denmark in 1980-2000. Thus, this species has been reported froma total of 154 localities (Fig. 4.2.10.12).

Conservation status

Localities: It is not possible quantitatively to es-timate the present conservation status at local-ity level due to lack of information on the trendof the Stiff Clubmoss. Comparison, on a quali-tative basis, between distribution map in TBUNo. 18 and Fig. 4.2.10.12 shows, that the numberof reported sightings is unchanged, although thedistribution of the Stiff Clubmoss has changed.Ribe and Sønderjylland’s counties for examplesupported only very few individuals in 1980-2000; the species has become rare on the mainislands and has disappeared from Lolland and

Figure 4.2.10.11. Running Clubmoss. Confirmed records(solid dots), known general distribution (grey shad-ing) in Denmark 1980-2000.

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Møn. On the other hand, research in suitablehabitats has resulted in many previously un-known localities, and consequently it may beassumed that the Stiff Clubmoss will remain inDenmark as long as suitable habitats are present.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Stiff Clubmoss is uncertain due to lack ofinformation on population size and trend andmanagement plans for the habitats (Table 4.11).

4.2.10.13 Bog Clubmoss Lycopodiuminundatum



The Bog Clubmoss favours oligotrophic, sandybottoms in places which are typically coveredby water during the winter. Its ability to com-pete with other vegetation is poor and thus com-petition from more vigorous species is a threatfor the Bog Clubmoss.

Apart from scattered occurrences in Thy andwest Jutland, the Bog Clubmoss is now veryscarce or has disappeared from most parts of thecountry, largely as a result of the disappearanceof suitable habitats. In Atlas Flora Danica, 24observations are reported, of which 4 popula-tions support less than 10 individuals, 13 popu-

lations 10-100, and 7 more than 100 individuals(unpubl. data). Otherwise, there is no informa-tion on population size of the species. It is typi-cal for many populations to comprise relativelyfew individuals scattered over large areas ofsuitable habitats.

There have been no field surveys of the BogClubmoss on a national basis, since the publish-ing of Topografisk-botaniske Undersøgelser(TBU) No. 18 (Wiinstedt 1953). In a monitoringof the Bog Clubmoss in northwest Jutland, 32squares (1 x 1 km) were registered in 1991-1998(Søndergård 1998a). During the ongoing re-search for Atlas Flora Danica, the Bog Clubmosshas been observed at 16 localities. NERI receivedinformation on 29 other locations in Denmarkin 1980-2000. Thus, a total of 73 localities havebeen registered (Fig. 4.2.10.13).

Conservation status

Localities: It is not possible quantitatively to es-timate the present conservation status at local-ity level due to lack of information on the trendof the Bog Clubmoss. Comparison, on a quali-tative basis, between distribution map in TBUNo. 18 and Fig. 4.2.10.13 shows that the numberof localities has been reduced to one third in thatperiod. By 1950 it was possible, although scat-tered, to observe the Bog Clubmoss in suitableareas throughout most of the country. Now, thespecies is confined to dune areas/plantations

Figure 4.2.10.12. Stiff Clubmoss. Confirmed records(solid dots), known general distribution (grey shad-ing) in Denmark 1980-2000.

Figure 4.2.10.13. Bog Clubmoss. Confirmed records(solid dots), known general distribution (grey shad-ing) in Denmark 1980-2000.

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and acidic fens in heaths and dune slacks in Jut-land, particularly west of the Ice Age border andin Thy. The species is only known from two ar-eas on the main islands, viz. Zealand andBornholm. The Bog Clubmoss will presumablycontinue to decline as long as suitable habitatsdisappear caused by conditions like fallingground water tables, impacts of airborneeutrophication and scrub encroachment.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Bog Clubmoss is uncertain due to lack ofinformation on population size and trend andmanagement plans for the habitats (Table 4.11).

4.2.11 Mosses

4.2.11.1 Dichelyma Moss Dichelymacapillaceum



The Dichelyma Moss favours stones, branches,the base of trees/scrubs growing close to slowlyrunning water and along lakeshores (in the zonewhich is periodically flooded). This environmentis often rather oligotrophic/mesotrophic.

The species was only recovered once in Den-mark, viz. at Sortesø in Teglstruphegn in 1884.Repeated monitoring of this locality in the 1990s,latest in December 1999, were unsuccessful inlocating the species.

Conservation status

Localities: It is most unlikely that the DichelymaMoss still occurs at Sortesø, as this species is aneasily recognisable moss which has been exten-sively surveyed at the locality (Table 4.12). Al-though it cannot be ruled out that the speciesmay occur in other parts of the country, this factis presumed most unlikely.

Overall status: The Dichelyma Moss has disap-peared from Denmark.

4.2.11.2 Green Shield Moss Buxbaumiaviridis



The Green Shield Moss is a moss which favoursvery decomposed, barkless logs of both decidu-ous and coniferous trees. The logs must be at astate where the surface structure is decomposedand to establish itself it is important to avoidcompetition from large forest floor mosses. Dueto the fact that the Green Shield Moss requiresspecial habitats combined with a poor competi-tive ability in comparison with other plants, it isnot supposed to grow at the same place for aprolonged period, whereas if new dead wood isconstantly available, the species should be ableto maintain itself in a restricted woodland area.The species is capable of growing on the groundin Denmark and the most recent observationcomes from a substrate of decomposing pineneedles (S. Lægård, pers. comm.).


An-nex

No. oflocal-ities

%of DK


Dichelyma cappillaceum II 1* Disappear.

Buxbaumia viridis II 14 Unfavour.

Orthotrichum rogeri II 1# Disappear.

Meesia longiseta II 3# Disappear.

Hamatocaulis vernicosus II 11

Size ofpopu-lation

0

?

0

0

? / small

Favourable

1 / ? 1 / ?

Uncertain

2 / ?

1 / ?

Unfavour.

?

Unknown

3 / ?

Disappear.

1 / ?

9 / ?

1 / ?

3 / ?

8 / ? Unfavour.

Table 4.12. Conservation status of mosses - Bryophyta. *1884. #Before 1900.

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In Denmark, the Green Shield Moss has beenreported from 14 localities of which 9 observa-tions date from before 1906, 3 observations weremade in north Jutland in 1957-1969, whereas thespecies is only found in Grib Skov and Torupplantation after 1980 (Fig. 4.2.11.2). Here, thespecies was rediscovered in 1990 and 1991, af-ter which it disappeared from the almost unrec-ognisable log which was covered by carpet-likeforest floor mosses (K. Damsholt & K. Things-gaard, pers. comm.). It is most likely that theGreen Shield Moss occurs in Grib Skov due tothe fact that the species is adapted to airbornedispersal through the release of abundant smallspores and that locally, suitable habitats areavailable. Torup Plantage, where the last knownobservation of the species was made in 1997, wasrevisited in 1998, but by this time the GreenShield Moss could not be found (S. Lægård, pers.comm.).

Conservation status

Localities: At the two localities, where the GreenShield Moss has been observed after 1980, GribSkov and Torup Plantage, conservation statusis presumed uncertain (Table 4.12). At the 9 lo-calities where the species was observed before1906, conservation status must be characterisedas disappeared and unknown at the 3 remain-ing localities.

Overall status: It may be concluded that in re-

cent times, the Green Shield Moss has only beenlocated on a few occasions, but it is difficult toassess whether this is caused by a real declineor an extensive monitoring. Consequently con-servation status must be characterised as unfa-vourable.

4.2.11.3 Roger’s Bristle-moss Orthotrichumrogeri



The Roger ’s Bristle-moss is an acrocarpousmoss, creating low hillocks on the bark of de-ciduous trees with nutrient-rich bark in clear andopen environments.

The Roger ’s Bristle-moss was observed once inDenmark. In the 1800s the species was sampledfrom a tree on Møns Klint. The species has beensearched for on several occasions, the last timebeing during the autumn of 1999, but was notrediscovered. This area is extensive and the spe-cies ought to be continuously monitored onMøns Klint and in other potential habitats.

Conservation status

Localities: The Roger ’s Bristle-moss was moni-tored in the autumn of 1999 on Møns Klint butwithout being recovered (Table 4.12). TheOrthotrichum-species have proved to be verysensitive to certain kinds of air pollution (Gil-bert 1970). Thus, reduction of SO2-emission,during recent decades, may have a positive ef-fect on possible survival of the species. Hence,it was recently rediscovered both in Norway (K.Thingsgaard, pers. comm.) and in Sweden(Hylander 1998), and for the first time observedin southwest Germany (Schäfer-Verwimp 1994).

Overall status: Taking into consideration that theRoger ’s Bristle-moss was not reported for morethan 100 years, it is most likely that it has disap-peared from Denmark. The species is, a mem-ber of the genus, Orthotrichum, which is diffi-

Figure 4.2.11.2. Green Shield Moss. Confirmed recordsin Denmark after 1980 (solid dots) and before 1980(grey dots).

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cult to determine in the field, and hence it maystill occur in Denmark.

4.2.11.4 Meesia Moss Meesia longiseta



The Meesia Moss favours minerogenous ormesotrophic fens and spring areas e.g. charac-terised by Paludella squarrosa.

The Meesia Moss was twice reported, viz inHorreby Lyng, Falster and Hjortesø around Hval-sø, Zealand, in the 18th century. Furthermore,Odgaard (1988) reports an observation of thespecies from Lyngby Åmose north of Copenha-gen (Fig. 4.2.11.4). Subsequently the species wassearched for in all three areas but without re-sult.

Today, the potential habitats of the species (Pa-ludella squarrosa in particular) are greatly reducedcompared to their extent in the 18th century.

Conservation status

Localities: All three locations have changed andare for instance, influenced by lowering of thewater level (Table 4.12).

Overall status: The Meesia Moss has probably dis-appeared from Denmark.

4.2.11.5 Slender Green Feather-mossHamatocaulis vernicosus



The Slender Green Feather-moss favours clearand open mesotrophic fens and spring areas butis not particularly related to calcareous locali-ties. The species is known from various locali-ties in Jutland and on Zealand. There is, how-ever, some doubt about the occurrence of thespecies, as quite a lot of museum material hasproved to be erroneously labelled. The SlenderGreen Feather-moss is reported from three lo-calities on Zealand where the species was re-ported with certainty or most likely had oc-curred previously (Christiansen & Moeslund1983). The species was searched for in all threelocalities in 2000 but was not rediscovered (Fig.4.2.11.5). Two of the areas have changed, par-ticularly as regards scrub encroachment. Appar-ently, the third locality (Ll. Rørbæk) has notchanged, and all other species cited by Chris-tiansen & Moeslund (1983) were relocated, ex-cept for the Slender Green Feather-moss.

In 2000 the species was searched for in Jutland

Figure 4.2.11.4. Meesia Moss. Distribution of all histori-cal records from Denmark.

Figure 4.2.11.5. Slender Green Feather-moss. Distribu-tion in Denmark 2000 (solid dots). No recovery 2000(grey dots).

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in a selection of nine localities which might po-tentially support the species. In spite of thoroughmonitoring, the species was only rediscoveredat three localities, one of which seemed to sup-port a stable population trend.

Conservation status

Localities: In one of the localities in Jutland, con-servation status is presumed favourable basedon abundant plants and suitable habitats (Table4.12). At another locality, conservation status ispresumed uncertain, in spite of the fact that thespecies seems to thrive, but a visit in April 2000gave the impression of an excessive grazing pres-sure by red deer in the adjacent fens. At a thirdlocality, conservation status is presumed unfa-vourable. The occurrence of the species whichseems to have declined for a number of years,as well as all the other species of Paludellasprings, is presumed threatened by overgrowth

due to change in grazing practice. All other lo-calities were not monitored and thus, the pre-cise status cannot be confirmed.

The Slender Green Feather-moss was not redis-covered at five of the eight monitored localitiesin Jutland which indicates that the species hasdisappeared or that its occurrence is so scarcethat the species was overlooked in spite of thor-ough examination. For the two most southerlysituated localities in Jutland, the existence of thespecies is unlikely, as habitats are no longer suit-able due to scrub encroachment and eutrophi-cation from the adjacent farm.

Overall status: The national conservation statusof the Slender Green Feather-moss is unfavour-able, as most of the monitored localities demon-strate a declining trend combined with a needfor either management actions or adjustment ofmanagement at two out of three localities in Jut-land where the species is observed.

4. Conservation status of species listed in Annex II, IV ... · Annex II of the Habitats Directive...

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