Program

Outline
The Pin-tailed sandgrouse and the Calandra lark share many ecological requirements and are frequently sympatric across their distribution range in Western Europe. They also experience alarming population declines and range contraction throughout the Mediterranean.       
Although extensive research has recently been conducted on Pin-tailed sandgrouse in the Iberian Peninsula, both species remain among the least understood steppe birds, slowing the development of efficient conservation strategies.      
Proposed as part of the French conservation plan on Pterocles alchata and Melanocorypha calandra, this workshop seeks to outline recent progress in the understanding of the biology and ecology of both species, and to explore future priorities in conservation research.

Overall and specific objectives
The session will invite various species specialists to present recent research results on the ecology and conservation of Pterocles alchata and Melanocorypha calandra. Because of the elusive nature of the species, special attention will be given to methodological challenges, and how they can be overcome.      
Attendees will then be invited to debate about research priorities. The workshop will specifically aim at stimulating research on the species, sharing experiences and practices, and developing national and international collaborations.      
      
Debates will especially focus on:      
- Estimation of demographic parameters and associated threats      
- Population monitoring methods       
- Habitat requirements and management of pseudo-steppe and agro-pastoral landscapes Related topics
- Life-history strategies      
- Population monitoring and trends      
- Dynamics and drivers of habitat change

Benefits for participants
Participants will be provided with an update in conservation research on Pterocles alchata, Melanocorypha calandra, and their habitats. Debates will seek to give insights about how to overcome methodological challenges, and to create emulation and collaboration perspectives for the development of new researches.

Workshop length
210 min

Number of participants
10 to 30

Target audience
Specialists of the species, people conducting research on related species or on the management and conservation of their habitats, and anyone interested in developing research or conservation projects related to either species.
 

Axel Wolff

Biography not available