Polderkomplex (700)
Belgium, Europe
Site overview
KBA status: confirmed
Global KBA criteria: D1a
Year of last assessment: 2000
National site name: Polderkomplex
Central coordinates: Latitude: 51.2500, Longitude: 3.2167
System: freshwater, terrestrial
Elevation (m): 2 to 8
Area of KBA (km2): 97.64548
Protected area coverage (%): 96.23
KBA classification: Global
Legacy site: Yes
Site details
Site description: The area includes the most interesting parts of the coastal polders to the north of Brugge which consist of grasslands, extensively used ditches, canals and reedbeds. It also includes a small part of the coastal dunes near Blankenberge.
Rationale for qualifying as KBA: This site qualifies as a Key Biodiversity Area of international significance that meets the thresholds for at least one criterion described in the Global Standard for the Identification of KBAs.
Additional biodiversity: This is an internationally important wintering site for Anser brachyrhynchus, A. albifrons and Anas penelope. The area is also important for breeding meadow birds.
Habitats
Land use: agriculture (90%) | nature conservation and research (5%) | tourism/recreation (5%)
| IUCN Habitat | Coverage % | Habitat detail |
|---|---|---|
| Grassland | 60 | |
| Artificial - Terrestrial | 40 |
Threats
Summary of threats to biodiversity at KBA: Because of its ornithological importance the site is well monitored by BNVR/RNOB and the Institute of Nature Conservation. Seventeen percent of the area has been designated as a green area on the physical planning map. Securing the populations of waders and geese on this site will depend on the success of management agreements with farmers, buying of land and an overall management scheme. 25 ha of IBA covered by proposed Site of Community Importance (Dune areas including IJzermonding and Zwin, 2,891 ha). 350 ha of IBA covered by proposed Site of Community Importance (Zilte poldergraslanden, 884 ha).