Western Isles
Hebridean Mink Project
| Introduction | Introduction cont...| Mink
the species | Under threat | The European responsibility|
| Addressing the problem | News and updates | Links |
The European responsibility
The Hebridean Mink Project will target the important bird interests in five Special Protection Areas in the Uists, at: Mointeach Scadabhaigh, North Uist Machair & Islands, Aird and Borve, South Uist Machair and Lochs, and Kilpheder and Smerclate. These SPAs form part of Natura, the network of conservation sites across the European Union, designed to satisfy the legal requirements of the EC Wild Birds Directive by protecting and managing areas which are important for wild birds. Likewise, Natura also includes Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), whis are designated under the EC Habitats Directive, for vulnerable habitats and/or species.
The responsibility for protecting Natura sites is shared between all public bodies with statutory powers in relation to the site or its surroundings. These organisations are charged by government to ensure the sites are maintained in favourable condition with respect to its qualifying features.
The valuable economic potential of these areas is also being realised, as many project partners have been successful in using Natura to attract EC LIFE funding for management and other projects which protect, enhance and promote the European conservation interests. The Hebridean Mink Project is one such initiative.
