The Great Bustard in Hungary

摘要

Until the early part of the twentieth century the Great Bustard Otis tarda was fairly widespread in Hungary but hunting and modern farming practices have led to a dramatic contraction in its range. It is now restricted to just ten sites throughout the country, where it receives some degree of protection. Hungary currently supports about 1,600 Great Bustards, making it the most important country in Europe for this species after Spain and Russia. Human activity, in particular in relation to agriculture, is a crucial factor in relation to the species' long-term survival. With careful management, some recovery of the Great Bustard population in Hungary is possible.