Rebhuhn. Schlussbericht 1991–2000 - BAFU

Preface
In Switzerland, the partridge was traditionally a game bird. However, partridges
were last shot in this country in 1987. In 1988, a 10-year moratorium on shooting
this species was imposed by Parliament, and this was extended for a further 10
years by the Federal Council in 1998.
In 1991, SAEFL requested the Swiss Ornithological Institute in Sempach to establish
a framework for the protection of the partridge. In particular, ecological compensation
measures were to be promoted in an attempt to save the country’s last two
surviving populations of partridges − in the «Champagne genevoise» (canton of
Geneva) and in the Klettgau region (canton of Schaffhausen). Despite the considerable
efforts of those involved in the project, the cantons concerned, and not least the
farming community, the actual target species, the partridge, could not be preserved.
The species disappeared from the Klettgau region in 1993, and in the canton of Geneva
only two pairs remained in 2000. Although the project failed to achieve its
specific goal, exemplary work of a pioneering nature was carried out. The practical
experience accumulated was instrumental in shaping the ecological compensation
measures taken in intensively farmed regions and stimulated the development of a
sustainable agricultural policy.
Agriculture provides the basis for the existence of the partridge. If the species is to
be preserved in large-scale, interconnected habitats, even greater efforts will be required.
Only a few regions in Switzerland still maintain the potential to support the
partridge, but on the basis of the results of the experimental release of partridges in
the Klettgau region, there are certainly grounds for hope that the species may be
preserved as a breeding bird. However, before a reintroduction of the partridge can
be contemplated, there is a need for extensive improvements in the quality, quantity,
distribution and networking of ecological compensation areas.
It is gratifying to note that, as a result of habitat enhancement measures, increases
(sometimes substantial) have been observed in the populations of a number of
threatened species characteristic of farmland, such as the corn bunting, common
quail, stonechat, whitethroat and melodious warbler, and also in the prevalence of
certain threatened weeds, small mammals and insects. This will inspire those concerned
to pursue their endeavours – despite the failure of their efforts to preserve
the partridge itself. Additional measures, such as the new Ecological Quality Ordinance,
(ÖQV), will hasten the day when the partridge can return to Switzerland.
This goal can only be achieved with active support from the farming community.
But as consumers we can also promote the conservation of farmland species with
particular habitat requirements by systematically purchasing domestic produce deriving
from nature-friendly agriculture.
Swiss Agency for the Environment,
Forests and Landscape
Willy Geiger
Vice-Director
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