Heves Plain (1418)
Hungary, Europe
Site overview
KBA status: confirmed
Year of last assessment: 2002
National site name: Hevesi-sík
Central coordinates: Latitude: 47.6167, Longitude: 20.4500
System: terrestrial
Elevation (m): 83 to 113
Area of KBA (km2): 639.65981
Protected area coverage (%): 82.93
KBA classification: Global/Regional TBD
Legacy site: Yes
Site details
Site description: A well-drained flood-plain overlain by clay soils, situated between Füzesabony and Jászkisér to the north of the River Tisza. The IBA includes extensive areas of arable land and saline grassland, with some forestry plantations. Human activities include sheep- and cattle-grazing.
Rationale for qualifying as KBA: This site qualifies as a Key Biodiversity Area of international significance because it meets one or more previously established criteria and thresholds for identifying sites of biodiversity importance (including Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas, Alliance for Zero Extinction sites, and Key Biodiversity Areas)
Additional biodiversity: An important area for steppic birds.
Habitats
Land use: agriculture (90%) | hunting (5%) | nature conservation and research (5%)
| IUCN Habitat | Coverage % | Habitat detail |
|---|---|---|
| Grassland | 30 | |
| Artificial - Terrestrial | 70 |
Threats
Summary of threats to biodiversity at KBA: The main threat to the site is agricultural intensification, with the introduction of irrigation and mechanized cultivation. Artificial nest-sites are provided for both raptors and Coracias garrulus, and protection measures for Otis tarda are in place through MME. Wetland restoration work has been undertaken, and a management plan exists for the area.