CODE OF CONDUCT ON SMALL ISLETS
Guidelines on approaching small islets:
Small uninhabited islets are fragile ecosystems of profound value to wildlife. Their importance is largely due to their long-term isolation which has resulted in evolution of endemic species (i.e. those found nowhere else), as well as to the absence of humans and terrestrial carnivores, which make this islets ideal nesting sites for threatened birds species, such as seabirds and the Eleonora’s falcon. Many islets have been designated as “natura 2000” sites, a European network of protected areas (Directives 92/43/EEC and 79/409/EEC). Thus, their conservation is doth a national obligation and a shared responsibility.
Although isolation has kept islets safe for many years, they are now easily accessible to those travelling owned boats. Deliberate disturbance is often the result of ignorance or carelessnes
-
Birds nest on islets from April till October. If while approaching an islet, birds take off, do not land. Disturbance can prevent birds from nesting, can cause nest and colony desertion and affect6 breeding success.
-
Never light fires or keep strong lights close to islets during the night since this can disorientate seabirds returning to their nests. Fire may destroy important habitats.
-
Never allow cats and dogs on islets, even if they are kept on a lead. A bird colony could be abandoned instantly due to their presence.
-
Never spend the night on islets since rodents commonly found on boats will readily land. Nests located on ground are easily accessible to such predators.
-
Do not pick plants. Do not remove or introduce plants or animals.
-
There are many ways of visiting islets without harming wildlife!
Follow these simple rules and contribute in the conservation of these small but unique parts of the Aegean.
See some photos from Panagia
Island and from the birds
