重点鸟区(IBA)监测，衡量生物多样性

重点鸟区 Important Bird Areas (IBAs) 下一步的工作是开展一个放诸四海皆准的监测方法，只有这样才能衡量保护的成效。这个监测在非洲等地区已有初步的成果，亚洲地区在去年开始做了培训和试验，希望也很快会得到有用的数据。

In a significant contribution to indicators that track trends in the rate of global biodiversity loss, the BirdLife Partnership has developed a standard framework for monitoring Important Bird Areas (IBAs).

Data derived from monitoring IBAs will provide vital measures for assessing progress towards the implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity, (CBD) across a network of priority sites for biodiversity around the world. To date, over 10,000 IBAs of global significance have been identified in 204 countries or territories.

The IBA framework is designed to be simple, sustainable and cost-effective, and to maximise local participation and institutional engagement. A paper published in the most recent issue of Bird Conservation International describes the approach, and how it was applied to show trends in IBAs in Kenya between 1999 and 2005.

A simple methodology is used to assign scores (0–3) for the condition of IBAs (‘State’), the threats they face (“Pressure”) and the conservation action being taken (“Response”). For example, “Pressure” scores (where 0 is low and 3 very high) are calculated by assessing threats to the “trigger” bird species that designate the IBA. “Response” scores are the sum of the scores for three different types of action: the levels of formal protection, management planning and implementation of conservation action.

The raw data are collected by field staff and community groups at IBAs, using a simple and robust system grounded in national and local institutions. Monitors based near or visiting the IBA fill in a form providing information on the site. The form is submitted to the National IBA Monitoring Coordinator, who verifies and assesses the forms for consistency, and then collates them. Finally%