Mindaugas wished to study the ornithological fauna in this district of Utena and to organise an effective scheme to protect birds. Despite the area's relatively small size (122,906 ha) there are several biotopes within the region which encourage a thriving bird life. Mindaugas first started his survey of the whole district in 1995 and has studied the north-western part of the district, which comprises some 57,000 hectares, in detail. He has done everything from studying when forest birds breed to the development of their chicks. He has recorded some 151 species of bird and tracked 124 breeding pairs. Four territories with valuable ornithological fauna were singled out. Mindaugas suggests that the Municipality of Utena should accord them protected area status. From his research he has since determined when is the most intensive breeding period and has accordingly drawn up a set of recommendations for foresters and others to observe. Plus he has registered the nests of birds of prey in order to protect them, and says he is going to continue his project and study the rest of the district in detail as well.

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