Milvoz promotes Science Alive!

This year, in partnership with the Vasco da Gama Research Centre, we organised two activities as part of the Ciência Viva no Verão (Science Alive in Summer) programme.

We began with a visit to the Mondego Estuary, focusing on the diversity of elements associated with the marshland environment. We drew the participants' attention to the rich birdlife, and it was possible to appreciate an interesting range of species characteristic of these habitats, with a total of 36 birds observed. Flamingos, spoonbills, ospreys and marsh harriers delighted the participants, in addition to several other species of waders and passerines.

Milvoz has been warning of the need to strengthen management and protection measures for the Mondego Estuary, a wetland of international importance with Ramsar Site status. The degradation of the ecosystem, heavy hunting pressure and bird mortality in aquaculture aerial nets have contributed to the marked degradation of the site. We sought to alert participants to these issues so that they can also become agents of environmental surveillance and protection of the estuary.

The Senhora da Alegria Bio-Reserve was the venue for a Bioblitz activity, focusing on the high diversity of various fauna and flora groups, characteristic of this biodiversity hotspot. This Milvoz' micro-reserve never disappoints in its ability to welcome and engage visitors, who easily grasp the great biological wealth that characterises this native forest and which helps to materialise and convey the philosophy that has guided the Milvoz project.

In addition to familiarising participants with the local context and the work we have been doing, we were also able to observe charismatic species from this Bio-Reserve, such as the south-western winged bellflower and the ragged-robin, as well as the first mushrooms of the season, which sprouted with the timid rains of late summer.

At the next activity, we look forward to seeing you at the Senhora da Alegria Bio-Reserve!