Bayonne, June 2004



Dear Friends,



Although the postnuptial migration appears to be still far away, it is necessary
to plan the next TRANSPYR.



2004 shall be the occasion to observe over 20 species of birds of prey during
migration, as well as two kinds of storks, grouses and pigeons. As in the past
years we shall try to count preferentially black storks, red kites and
short-toed eagles. Evidently, we shall pay particular attention to the pigeons -
and the impact of hunting on their movements. Numerous local species can also be
observed leisurely.



The scientific follow-up of migration is the unquestionable goal of our action
of contestation of the cynegetic abuse in the Pyrenees. The interest of our
action for the 25th year of observation can also be found in the counting of the
numbers of birds of the species cited above. The follow-up of the red kite on
the three observation sites in the Basque country has allowed to detect a
notable decrease of the tranpyrenean numbers since 1989, thus corroborating
studies effectuated in certain reproduction zones.



The reception of the public is essential for the information about the richness
of migration and about the abuse by hunting of European birds migrating towards
the South and the constant aggression of the mountain environment.



These objectives of observation and reception of the public, garantee the
progress in the protection of migratory birds and needs the presence of a
maximum of persons, independent of their level of knowledge. A formation guided
by exchange with the permanent members of the association shall allow everybody
to acquire a minimum of competence.



We therefore count upon you to diffuse largely this information among your
members, friends and readers so that TRANSPYR 2004 shall be again a success and
that in a not too distant future the freedom of migrating birds shall become a
reality.

Jean-Paul URCUN
Organbidexka Col Libre
11, rue Bourgneuf
F-64100 BAYONNE
tél : 00 33 (0)5 59 25 62 03
Fax : 00 33 (0)5 59 25 62 06
E-mail : ocl@...
http://www.organbidexka.org

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