The Asbicon Association is developing a conservation project for the Iberian-western marsh bunting through the study of its habitat.

The Asbicon Association has carried out a pilot project on the management of wetlands, habitats of the Ibero-western marsh bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus lusitánica) for this the entity has carried out habitat improvement work: selective cutting of trees, adaptation of abandoned meadows, selective cutting of reedbeds, study of these habitats (before and after the actions) and the census of birds to check the effectiveness of the measures. Although some improvement has been seen between the two consecutive years of census, it is too hasty to ensure the full effectiveness of the measures. In addition, all this pilot experience has served for the entity to draw up guidelines on the management of these spaces: authorise the cutting of isolated trees, authorise and promote the summer mowing of meadows, to avoid abandonment and allow the annual cutting of reeds in mosaic, in continuous extensions not exceeding 200 m², and especially in the driest areas of the wetlands.

The Iberian marsh bunting is an Iberian endemic species in decline listed as endangered in Spain. Through the analysis of the taxon’s habitat selection and the evolution of wetland characteristics, guidelines were established in 2015 for the design of habitat management trials, with which to increase effectiveness and reverse the unfavorable conservation status. The project develops a pilot experience of habitat improvement, through which tests are being carried out to observe the success and effectiveness of the selective cutting of trees, reeds and brambles. In addition, this project is gaining practical experience to improve the design and execution of new management works.