In accordance with the EU Birds Directive, a management plan is devised for every Special Protected Area. For these management plans, the presence and state of each species’ population is monitored and the respective habitats are mapped. Conservation status is recorded and conservation and development goals are set and a plan of action for each species is established. The FVA is the responsible authority for mapping forest birds in the federal state of Baden-Württemberg. UNIQUE was commissioned by the FVA to map forest birds in the central Black Forest area. The most important species were mountain species such as the hazel grouse, three-toed and black woodpecker, capercaillie and pygmy owl as well as the boreal owl. In lower altitudes the focus of the study was on the stock pigeon and the middle and grey-headed woodpecker.

• Coordination of fieldwork of five highly qualified and specialized ornithologists.
• Preliminary delineation of habitats based on aerial photography and forest information.
• Final delineation of habitats and of work areas for future habitat management.
• Written reports as modules of future management plans.
• Discussion of findings and management plans with FVA and nature conservation authorities.