Marko Lorenzo Blaslov
@Marko Lorenzo Blaslov

1,800 pairs of sand martins nested in Đelekovec – a conservation milestone worth celebrating

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DRAVA LIFE, @Marko Lorenzo Blaslov

Đelekovec, October 1, 2025 – This year, the steep Lubenovec riverbank on the Drava River has hosted as many as 1,800 breeding pairs of sand martins (Riparia riparia) – the highest number ever recorded in this part of the Drava.

Last year, Đelekovec was declared the first Sand Martin Village in Croatia, in recognition of the community’s long-standing efforts to protect this species. The steep sandy bank of Lubenovec has been attracting hundreds of breeding pairs for years, but this season the number reached a historic record.

This remarkable success is the result of cooperation between the Municipality of Đelekovec, the Puhar Family Farm, Croatian Waters, and WWF Austria, who together found a way to align agriculture with the preservation of natural riverbanks. The result is the creation of ideal nesting conditions for sand martins.

Why are sand martins important?

Sand martins are an important indicator of river ecosystem health and highly effective natural insect hunters – during the breeding season, a single bird can eat thousands of mosquitoes per day. Their presence contributes to biodiversity and natural insect control along the Drava.

In 2018, 1,100 pairs were recorded at the Lubenovec site, while this year the number increased by 700 pairs. This growth is significant for the survival of the species and gives hope for its recovery.

This positive result in Đelekovec contrasts with regional and global trends showing a decline in sand martin populations. Globally, the species is decreasing due to the loss of natural, dynamic river habitats such as steep sandy banks, which sand martins use to dig their tunnels up to 70 cm long.

For this reason, protecting the Lubenovec riverbank and similar habitats is extremely important, while legal protection of the species remains key to its long-term survival.

Support from the local community is essential

This year’s Sand Martin Day, held on June 9, brought together residents, visitors, and researchers in educational workshops organized by the Vendi Association. The Đelekovec Primary School dedicated the entire school year to studying sand martins, integrating the topic into nearly all school subjects.

“I’m proud of this success in preserving our natural heritage along the Drava. The return of sand martins shows the power of awareness and dedication within our community. I invite other municipalities to join us in similar initiatives,” said Lara Samošćanec Kiš, Mayor of Đelekovec.

“These birds are a sign of a healthy river. The successful colony in Đelekovec shows that when we give space back to the river and its banks, nature restores itself,” said Arno Mohl, nature conservation expert from WWF Austria. “Seeing 1,800 pairs today is proof that practical conservation measures work. Restoring river dynamics, improving habitats, and raising awareness benefit both nature and people.”

Data on this year’s number of breeding pairs were collected by ornithologists Ivan Grlica and Ivan Darko Grlica.

Legrad

International Drava River Day Marked at the Educational Water Centre

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At the Educational Water Centre (EVC) managed by Croatian Waters in Legrad, on Tuesday, September 23, the International Drava River Day was celebrated with the participation of 80 elementary school students. The event was organized by Croatian Waters and the public institutions responsible for managing protected areas in Varaždin and Koprivnica-Križevci counties.

The day began with educational presentations in which each organizer presented their role in managing and preserving the river, as well as the importance of educating young people. This was followed by the official signing of cooperation agreements with two elementary schools (“Braća Radić” Koprivnica and Sveti Đurđ), whose students will regularly visit the centre in Legrad. The school principals received monographs on the Drava River as a token of appreciation and future cooperation.

After that, students took part in a field session led by experts in water management and nature conservation. They explored the riverbank, observed local plants and animals, and participated in fun and educational river-related activities.

We’re sharing part of the atmosphere through the attached photos — they best show how much the children enjoyed themselves, how important hands-on learning experiences are, and how meaningful the EVC is for the local and educational community.

The Educational Water Centre in Legrad is increasingly becoming a meeting point for children, teachers, and the Drava River — a living space where nature turns into an open-air classroom.

Stay tuned at www.drava-life.hr and on the DRAVA LIFE Facebook page — because although the project has officially ended, life along the Drava and in the EVC is just beginning.

Announcement of the Celebration of International Drava River Day in Legrad

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On Tuesday, 23 September 2025, International Drava River Day will be celebrated at the Educational Water Centre (EVC) in Legrad (Ulica Petefi Šandora 36).

The event is organized by Hrvatske vode and the Public Institutions for the Management of Protected Natural Areas of Koprivnica-Križevci County and Varaždin County. The program will include educational lectures, field workshops for primary school students, and the signing of a Cooperation Agreement with Braća Radić Primary School in Koprivnica and Sveti Đurđ Primary School.

The educational part will cover three thematic areas:

  • the role of Hrvatske vode in river management and flood protection,

  • the importance of biodiversity and the preservation of natural values,

  • education and sustainable development in protected areas.

The field program will offer students practical workshops on river habitat restoration, identification of invasive species, birdwatching, the role of forest ecosystems, and legends connected to the Drava River.

The aim of the celebration is to bring young people closer to the importance of preserving nature and rivers, and to encourage them to actively participate in environmental protection. The Educational Water Centre, established through the DRAVA LIFE project, is a unique place in Croatia that connects education, nature, and the community right at the confluence of the Drava and Mura rivers.

Marko Lorenzo BlaslovMarko Lorenzo Blaslov
Fotograf: Marko Lorenzo Blaslov

Obavijest o radovima na rukavcu Stara Drava Varaždin (C.2)

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Na lijevoj obali rijeke Drave u Varaždinu (rkm 289,3–292) nastavljaju se radovi obnove rukavca u sklopu EU projekta DRAVA LIFE (Obnova rukavca i proširenje korita rijeke Drave). Nositelj i investitor projekta su Hrvatske vode, Vodnogospodarski odjel za Muru i gornju Dravu.

Trenutni radovi:

  • Pripremni radovi uključuju sječu stabala i uklanjanje sitnog raslinja (do 10 cm) duž trase rukavca, odlagališta iskopanog materijala i pristupnih puteva.

  • Predviđeni radovi obuhvaćaju otvaranje ulaza u rukavac, iskop inicijalnog kanala te proširenje i produbljenje postojećeg neprotočnog dijela.

  • Proširit će se i glavno korito Drave uklanjanjem vegetacije i dijela riječnog praga.

Podaci o rukavcu:

  • Dužina: 2,56 km

  • Prosječna širina korita: 13 m

  • Planirani iskop: oko 148.000 m³ sedimenta

  • Vrijednost radova: 1,67 milijuna eura s PDV-om

Glavna svrha zahvata je ponovno uspostavljanje prirodne protočnosti rukavca i obnova morfološke dinamike rijeke Drave. Ovim projektom omogućit će se osvježavanje poplavnog (inundacijskog) područja, stvaranje novih riječnih staništa, sprudova i obalnih erozija, čime se doprinosi očuvanju i povećanju bioraznolikosti. Vrijednost radova procijenjena je na 1,67 milijuna eura s PDV-om, a radovi se provode uz koordinaciju s nadležnim tijelima (Javna ustanova “PRIRODA Varaždinske županije”, Hrvatske šume, Ministarstvo zaštite okoliša i zelene tranzicije, lokalne zajednice i dr.) i uz primjenu svih mjera zaštite okoliša.

Projekt predstavlja važan korak u obnovi rijeke Drave u Hrvatskoj i široj regiji, a zbog blizine urbanog područja očekujemo i pojačani interes građana za boravkom uz rijeku uz odgovorno očuvanje i korištenje ekosustava rijeke.

Radovi se provode u suradnji s nadležnim tijelima i uz primjenu svih mjera zaštite okoliša. Zbog blizine urbanog područja, građani se mole za oprez i razumijevanje. Ovaj projekt dugoročno doprinosi očuvanju rijeke, smanjenju rizika od poplava i poboljšanju prirodnog okoliša.

Marko Lorenzo BlaslovMarko Lorenzo Blaslov
Fotograf: Marko Lorenzo Blaslov

Works at the Side Branch Stara Drava Varaždin (C.2)

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On the left bank of the Drava River in Varaždin (rkm 289.3–292), restoration works on the side branch continue as part of the EU project DRAVA LIFE (Side Branch Restoration and Expansion of the Drava River Bed). The project owner and investor is Hrvatske vode, Water Management Department for the Mura and Upper Drava.

Current works:

  • Preparatory works include tree felling and removal of small vegetation (up to 10 cm) along the side branch route, spoil disposal areas, and access roads.

  • Planned works involve opening the inlet to the side branch, excavation of the initial channel, and widening and deepening of the existing non-flowing section.

  • The main riverbed of the Drava will also be widened by removing vegetation and part of the river sill.

Side branch data:

  • Length: 2.56 km

  • Average bed width: 13 m

  • Planned excavation: approx. 148,000 m³ of sediment

  • Value of works: €1.67 million (including VAT)

The main purpose of this intervention is to re-establish the natural flow of the side branch and restore the morphological dynamics of the Drava River. The project will help revitalize the floodplain (inundation) area, create new river habitats, gravel bars, and bank erosion zones, thereby contributing to the preservation and increase of biodiversity.

The works, valued at €1.67 million (including VAT), are being carried out in coordination with relevant authorities (Public Institution “PRIRODA Varaždin County”, Croatian Forests, Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition, local communities, and others) and in compliance with all environmental protection measures.

This project represents an important step in restoring the Drava River in Croatia and the wider region. Due to the proximity of the urban area, increased public interest in spending time along the river is expected, along with responsible preservation and use of the river ecosystem.

Citizens are kindly asked for caution and understanding during the works. In the long term, this project will contribute to the conservation of the river, reduction of flood risk, and improvement of the natural environment.

Međimurska priroda - Javna ustanova

Study Visit to the Educational Water Centre Legrad

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On Wednesday, July 2, 2025, a study visit was organized by the public institution Međimurje Nature – Public Institution for Nature Protection and Croatian Waters for principals and teacher-coordinators from eight primary schools in Međimurje County that are part of the Mura-Drava-Danube Biosphere Reserve School Network.

The goal of this educational day was to showcase examples of good practices in environmental education and to strengthen cooperation between schools and institutions involved in nature protection and water management.

In the morning, the participants visited the Regional Science Centre for Primary Education in STEM – LORI in Ludbreg. The second part of the day was dedicated to visiting the Educational Water Centre (EWC) Legrad, located in a renovated water guardhouse on the banks of the Drava River.

Igor Tošić, head of the centre and representative of the DRAVA LIFE – Integrated River Management project, presented the project’s goals and results, with a special focus on the restoration of old river side-arms, which play a key role in preserving biodiversity and the functionality of the river ecosystem.

Of particular interest were:

  • the educational materials and equipment available at the centre,

  • the educational trail that leads across the embankment and along the side-arm to an observation point,

  • and the opportunities for schools to sign cooperation agreements with Croatian Waters, enabling the centre to serve as a resource for field classes and nature-related educational activities focused on the Drava River.

During the walk along the Drava’s educational trail, principals and teachers exchanged experiences and ideas for future activities with students. The visit concluded with a shared lunch in an inspiring and relaxed atmosphere, with schools expressing a strong interest in continued use of the Educational Centre for educational purposes.

Participants: Schools from Donja Dubrava, Kotoriba, Hodošan, Domašinec, Mala Subotica, Orehovica, Selnica, and Mursko Središće

📍 Location: Educational Water Centre Legrad

We thank all participants for their active involvement and look forward to future gatherings aimed at strengthening environmental literacy and connecting youth with the nature of the Drava River.

Suveniri

Sand Martin Day Celebrated in Đelekovec

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Sand martin population in Croatia drops from 30,000 pairs to fewer than 4,000 over the past 30 years

Đelekovec, 9 June 2025 – Over the weekend, the Sand Martin Day was celebrated on the banks of the Drava River near Đelekovec as part of the Municipality Day festivities. The colony of this endangered bird species at the Lubenovec site, downstream from Legrad, is one of the largest along the Drava River. In recognition of this, the village of Đelekovec was named Croatia’s first “Sand Martin Village” in 2024. This title highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and showcases the successful collaboration between the local community, farmers, and environmental experts.

Sand martins – key indicators of healthy river ecosystems

Sand martins (Riparia riparia), Europe’s smallest swallows, nest exclusively in steep sandy riverbanks. Their presence is an important indicator of the health of river ecosystems. Unfortunately, their population in Croatia has declined from around 30,000 to fewer than 4,000 pairs over the last three decades.

The main causes of this decline include the loss of natural habitats due to river regulation, excessive pesticide use, draining of wetlands (which reduces insect populations), and human disturbance during the nesting season.

Education and community engagement are key to protection

Visitors had the opportunity to attend a presentation by a representative of the DRAVA LIFE project, participate in a creative workshop, and join a boat ride organized by the Rafting Club Koprivnica — all offering a closer look at the life of sand martins. The event emphasized the importance of responsible behavior near nesting colonies — such as avoiding noise, keeping a safe distance, and following guide instructions during the nesting period (late April to mid-July).

A key example of good practice is the collaboration between the Municipality of Đelekovec, the Puhar family farm, WWF Austria, and Croatian Waters. Through lease agreement adjustments, natural erosion of the Lubenovec riverbank is enabled, creating new suitable nesting habitats each year. This initiative stands as a model for successful cooperation between the local community, agriculture, and nature conservation professionals.

Special recognition goes to the school cooperative “Mak” from Đelekovec, whose project “Sand Martins in the Embrace of the Drava” qualified for the National Student Cooperative Fair. Students created educational and creative products to raise awareness about the importance of preserving this species.

DRAVA LIFE – Integrated River Management

The DRAVA LIFE project focuses on improving river ecosystems in Croatia, particularly in areas that are part of the Natura 2000 ecological network. By restoring the river’s natural dynamics and fostering cooperation among institutions, NGOs, and the local community, the project contributes to the protection of endangered species and habitats — while also helping to safeguard populated areas from flooding.

Photos Mladen Međimorec and Iva Naglić Dolić
G. Šafarek
Mala čigra / Little tern (Sterna albifrons) © G. Šafarek

Let’s protect the homes and young of little terns

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Little Tern – Ambassador of the Drava River 

Koprivnica, May 8th, 2025 – The Little Tern (Sternula albifrons), one of the rarest breeding birds in Croatia, is returning to the gravel and sandbars of the Drava River to raise its offspring. These extremely sensitive birds depend on natural, untouched gravel and sand islands in the river—habitats that are increasingly threatened each year due to human impact.

Members of the DRAVA LIFE project team appeal to all visitors of the Drava River to avoid walking on sandbanks from mid-April to the end of July! With your attention and responsibility, you allow little terns to peacefully nest and raise their chicks, contributing to the conservation of this strictly protected species.
The little tern is a symbol of a living, natural river. Its survival speaks to the health of the river ecosystem shared by other endangered birds such as sand martins, kingfishers, and bee-eaters. Unlike the common tern, the little tern refuses to nest on artificial platforms and is exclusively bound to natural river environments.


Characteristics and Habitat

The Little Tern’s body is slender with narrow wings and a forked tail, perfectly adapted for fishing in rivers and seas. The chicks are gray-brown-yellow in colour, making them almost invisible on gravel and sandy islands without vegetation. In Croatia, they nest only on the Drava River in Koprivnica-Križevci County (with an average of 4-7 pairs), while the rest of the population nests along the coast. The presence of Little Terns indicates natural dynamic sections of the river flow with sandy and gravelly shoals, steep banks, and backwaters. It hunts small fish in shallow water zones along the riverbanks.

Threats and Protection

Mala čigra / Little Tern © Goran Šafarek

Mala čigra / Little Tern © Goran Šafarek

This strictly protected species is threatened by river regulation and hydroelectric power plants, extraction of gravel and sand, human disturbances such as rowing, fishing, swimming, etc.

The Little Tern is strictly protected under Croatian and European legislation and international conventions. It is protected according to the Nature Protection Act (OG 80/13, 5/18, 14/19, 127/19, 155/23) and the Ordinance on Strictly Protected Species (OG 144/13 and 73/16). It is included in the Croatian Red Book of Endangered Birds and is internationally protected under the EU Birds Directive (Annex I), the Natura 2000 network, and the Bern and Bonn Conventions.

It is prohibited to:
• Capture or kill them
• Disturb them, especially during breeding season
• Destroy or take eggs
• Deliberately destroy, damage, or remove nests
• Damage or destroy breeding or resting areas

Mala čigra / Little Tern © Goran Šafarek

Our Responsibility
To preserve the last breeding pairs of Little Terns, it is necessary to restore the natural river’s dynamics and allow the Drava to create new gravel and sand bars and prevent disturbance of birds during the nesting season. This was one of the main goals of the DRAVA LIFE project, in which Hrvatske vode, WWF, Association for Nature and Environment protection Green Osijek and Nature Protection Institutions of Koprivnica-Križevci, Virovitica-Podravina and Varaždin County have joined forces and worked together to create a best practice example of river restoration in Croatia and the region.

We also emphasize the importance of protecting the Drava River and protected areas within the County, especially the Mura-Drava Regional Park, which is part of the Natura 2000 area and the Five-country Mura-Drava-Danube Biosphere Reserve.

We can all be nature guardians! We invite everyone to join in protecting the unique habitats and species of our environment and to support the conservation of one of the last populations of Little Terns on the Drava!

You can find more info here The little tern leaflet.

Hrvatske vode

Works at Location C.1. Otok Virje

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C1 Otok Virje

We would like to inform you that restoration work on the right branch of the Drava River near the village of Otok Virje is nearing completion, as part of the DRAVA LIFE project. As announced during the public event held last September in the Municipality of Cestica, the aim of this project is to improve water flow, give the river more space, restore natural habitats, and reduce flood risk. The restoration covers the section between river kilometers 312 and 314.

Why are parts of the vegetation and bank reinforcements being removed?
🔹 The Drava is a living river that depends on natural processes to breathe and regenerate. Currently, this river branch is filled with sediment and overgrown with vegetation, which restricts water flow and threatens rare plant and animal species.

What’s being done?
🔹 The branch is being deepened and excess vegetation removed to improve flow
🔹 Sections of artificial bank reinforcement are being removed to restore natural river dynamics
🔹 Riverbanks are being stabilized using bioengineering techniques
🔹 Excavated material is being reused to build access roads

These interventions will help make the Drava more natural and biodiverse, while also making the surrounding area safer from flooding and more enjoyable for recreation.

By enabling the river to regenerate on its own, we are creating new habitats for birds and other wildlife and improving flood resilience in both Croatia and Slovenia.

Thank you for your understanding!

 

KebračJavna ustanova Priroda Varaždinske županije
Kebrač

Is the Return of Myricaria germanica to the Drava Possible?

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At this stage, a definitive answer to the question posed in the title remains uncertain; however, based on prior reintroduction efforts, there is cautious optimism.

Myricaria germanica (German tamarisk) was once a common shrub on the gravel and sandbanks of the Drava River. However, due to extensive hydrotechnical interventions and subsequent alterations in habitat conditions, the species has disappeared from its natural sites along the river.

In response, a series of restoration activities aimed at re-establishing Myricaria germanica in its native habitat along the Drava River was initiated several years ago.

Monitoring of individuals planted in previous periods has led to the identification of micro-sites that appear to offer slightly more favorable conditions for the growth and survival of Myricaria germanica. In early March of this year, additional nursery-grown specimens—propagated at the Arboretum Opeka Secondary School in Marčan—were planted at these locations.

Unfortunately, the newly established plants face a range of threats in their new habitat, including unfavorable weather conditions, sudden fluctuations in water levels, sediment dynamics, herbivory by wild animals, and damage caused by irresponsible off-road vehicle use. It is therefore evident that, alongside careful site selection and management, a measure of luck will also be necessary for the success of the reintroduction effort.