Aliman-Adamclisi SPA

The site is located in the steppe bioregion comprising a representative area in the west of the South Dobrogea plateau with altitudes below 200 m. It is wide undulating along the folds of Sarmatian limestones and has a slight slope from east to west. The valleys have a pronounced endorheic character. The area has an arid climate, with high average temperatures (10-11 degrees C), high temperatures in summer, low rainfall (around 400 mm/year), tropical days and frequent droughts; in winter the Crivat frequently beats. The area is designated as a Special Protection Area. It protects 62 species of the Nature Directives. Comprises a mosaic of habitats dominated by arable areas and steppe meadows between which are interspersed bodies of lush forest. Arable farming, grazing and forestry are the primary land use in the site.

The Aliman-Adamclisi area is distinguished by an alternation of wide valleys and higher wooded areas, with water mirrors of lakes and ponds in the vicinity of the site, all generating a succession of landscapes that give the territory a distinct personality and great diversity of fauna and flora. Over 200 bird species can be seen in the site. The high conservation value is complemented by the presence 62 are included in Annex I of Birds Directive. The site is important for the breeding populations of species characteristic of agricultural and steppe areas in southeastern Romania such as: Tawny pipit (Anthus campestris), Greater short-toed lark (Calandrella brachydactyla), Calandra lark (Melanocorypha calandra), European Roller (Coracias garrulus), Eurasian stone-curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus) and Red-footed falcon (Falco vespertinus).

It is an important breeding and foraging area for the Long-legged buzzard (Buteo rufinus) and Saker falcon (Falco cherrug).

One pair of Saker falcon is found in the site as regular breeder. The pastures in the site are offering good habitats for the European ground squirrel with significant densities which are providing sufficient food for the falcons.

• Human activities

  The site is subject to anthropogenic pressure especially through the traditional grazing activity and intensive farming activities. Uncontrolled tourism also has a negative impact on species, as do surface mining (stone quarries).

• Wind turbine farms

  The construction of wind farms at the site will reduce the areas used by species that nest in grassland habitats or crops and will have a major negative impact on bird migration. The wind farms in the vicinity of the site also affect the feeding habitats of some bird species that nest on the territory of the site.