Conclusions and Perspectives

Abstract

In this closing chapter, we synthesize the most relevant results presented in this volume and discuss research and conservation prospects for the little bustard. Research should focus on unexplored areas of little bustard biology and ecology, such as sensorial perception, physiological trade-offs related to sexual selection and reproductive investment, sperm competition, multiple paternity, sibling and mother-offspring conflict, natal dispersal, adult survival (critical for population viability) and trophic ecology and feeding behaviour (including food niche partitioning with ecologically similar species). As regards conservation policy and action, it is critical to better appreciate the status and trends of the eastern population and to set up an East-West collaborative research and conservation programme. The greatest challenge of the future, however, is reversing the current collapse of Western populations, which will require addressing the question of whether farming and bird conservation are irreconcilable targets. In this context, we should seek the involvement of farmers in win-win agricultural practices incorporated into CAP prescriptions, so that entire region important for little bustards and other farmland birds could be managed under an agro-ecological framework. This requires clear social and political engagement and thus will take a time that might be too long given the speed of the decline. All these research and conservation efforts combined will hopefully guarantee the presence of this flagship species in Palearctic steppes, grasslands and extensive farmland.