esia amendment greece annex 6.2 european souslik baseline

ESIA Amendment Greece

Annex 6.2 European Souslik Baseline Study

E.ON Technologies GmbH

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Project Title: Trans Adriatic Pipeline – TAP GPL00-EXG-642-Y-TAE-1006 Rev.: 00 / at10 Document Title:

ESIA Amendment Greece Annex 6.2. European Souslik Baseline Study

Table of Contents

1 Introduction 3

Literature data on the current and past Spermophilus citellus colonies along the Nestos plains and the surrounding region, in Drymos (Thessaloniki) region, and in the Eordea basin 3

Legislation Issues 5

Concise review of the Spermophilus citellus colonies as assessed in the TAP ESIA study (ESIA basecase) 7

Field Survey Scope of Work 8

2 Methodology 8

Sampling Methodology 8

Method to assess the current status of Spermophilus colonies reported in the ESIA (region of Eordea) 11

Limitations, Uncertainties and Bias 11

3 Results 12

Indications of Spermophilus citellus Presence in the Study Area 12

Spermophilus citellus Colonies 17

4 Conclusions 21

Key Habitats within the Study Area 21

Factors affecting the population dynamics and colony sites of the species 22 4.2.1 Habitat changes 22 4.2.2 Other (behavioural factors and random variation) 23 List of Tables Table 1-1 Ocurrence of S.citellus in specific Prefectures of Northern Greece according

to Literature 5 Table 2-1 Sampling effort for Spermophillus citellus (June 2014) 11 Table 3-1 Indications of Spermophilus citellus Presence in the Study Area 12 Table 3-2 Confirmed Spermophilus citellus Presence in the Study Area 18 Table 3-3 Potential Spermophilus citellus Presence in the Study Area 20 Table 4-1 Comparison of Spermophilus citellus colonies‘ presence within the working

strip or its immediate vicinity, between three breeding seasons (July 2011, May 2012 and June 2014) 21

List of Figures Figure 2-1 Example of Alignment of Sampling Points 10


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1 Introduction

Literature data on the current and past Spermophilus citellus colonies along

the Nestos plains and the surrounding region, in Drymos (Thessaloniki)

region, and in the Eordea basin

The European ground squirrel, Spermophilus citellus (Linnaeus, 1766), is a species of the

squirrel family Sciuridae, order Rodentia. The European ground squirrel, or else souslik, is an

obligate hibernator, thus its annual cycle is characterized by an inactive and active season, when

the animals immerge in and emerge from hibernation, respectively. Hibernation season lasts from

late summer until late spring, while its duration differs depending on the age and sex: adult

females enter first into hibernation, followed by the males and finally by the juveniles (Youlatos et

al., 2007; Mateju, 2008). During the active season, the ground squirrel exhibits only diurnal

activity (Hutt et al., 1999; Everts et al., 2004) and spends almost half of its time aboveground

(Everts et al., 2004, Youlatos et al., 2007). Its habitat is characterized by short-grass open

vegetation (Coroiu et al., 2008), where it follows an omnivorous diet.

The European ground squirrel forms loosely structured populations, known as colonies (Koshev,

2008), which correspond to aggregations of individuals (groups) within the space, which are

spatially separated from other similar groups inhabiting the same region (Stefanov & Markova,

2009). Each animal constructs and uses its own burrow (Benhaeim, 2006), and a single burrow

system consists of 1 - 5 (Boutsis, 2002; Ozkurt et al., 2005), or even more surface openings

(Mateju, 2008), inter-connected via tunnels (reviewed in Boutsis, 2002). Burrows are used for

multiple purposes: they provide shelter during the hibernation, while during the active season

they are used as resting, sleeping places, as shelters from predators, and as places for food

storage and reproduction (reviewed in Gedeon et al., 2010).

S. citellus is endemic to central and south-eastern Europe, and although widely distributed in

Europe, its populations are fragmented and its present range is just a part of a quite larger range

the species had in the past. The European ground squirrel is dependent on short-grass open

habitats (Coroiu et al., 2008), and the main reasons of its decline are associated with the change

of the agricultural practices and the urbanization.

The Greek populations of the European ground squirrel are considered to be also in decline and

severely fragmented. According to Youlatos (2008), the European ground squirrel occurs only in

the northern part of Greece and includes 3 clearly defined and probably isolated sub-populations,

located in western Macedonia, in central Macedonia and in Thrace. In western Macedonia, the


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species inhabits regions of Kozani and Giannitsa and in central Macedonia regions of the Axios

valley, Gallikos, Hortiati, Thermi, Pilaia and region of Serres. In Thrace, there are populations in

region of Alexandroupoli, in Evros delta and in isolated areas of north/north-eastern Evros

Prefecture (reviewed in Youlatos, 2008). These populations are considered as genetically and

morphologically differentiated: in western and central Macedonia populations comprise the

subspecies Spermophilus citellus gradojevici, whereas those in Thrace are formed by the

subspecies Spermophilus citellus martinoi (reviewed in Youlatos, 2008; Helgen et al., 2009).

More data about the distribution of S. citellus are provided in the fact sheets of the NATURA 2000

sites recording, according to which the species occurrence is broader and includes also regions

of the Prefecture of Florina, Kastoria, Imathia and Pieria.

Available data concerning species distribution in Xanthi, Kavala, Thessaloniki and Kozani

Prefectures show that the species occurrence is scattered (Table 1-1). More specifically, the

species has been observed in Nestos plains near the villages of Olvio and Kirnos, and also near

the mountains of Koula-Haidou, close to the Greek-Bulgarian borders. In the Prefecture of

Thesalloniki, souslik seems to be present in several sites; the sites of Kolchico, Lagathas,

Lagathaika, Koronia, Kalochori, Sindos, Malgara and Komnina are close to Drymos region.

Lastly, in Kozani Prefecture the souslik has been found also in 4 sites that are located far away

from Eordaia region, while no records of the species have been reported from Kavala Prefecture.

However, the available data, including most of Youlatos’ references also, come mainly from

literature sources, which date several years back and lack recent verification in the field, with the

exception of the Natura site of Axios, Loudias and Aliakmonas where the presence of the species

was recently verified (Youlatos, pers.comm.). On the other hand, field studies have shown that

the extinction risk of a colony is very high within only a few decades (Mateju et al., 2008), thus it

is very possible the species have become extinct in some of the reported locations. For example,

although the presence of the S. citellus in Dadia forest is reported in the Natura 2000 fact sheets,

the species became extinct in 1992 during the dam construction in Lyra region and no colony has

ever been observed since then (Catsadorakis and Bousbouras, 2010; Bousbouras, pers. comm.).

In addition, it is unknown if Spermophilus citellus still exists within the Nestos lowland area as for

several years and despite extensive searches, no colonies have been observed (Migli,

unpublished data).


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Table 1-1 Ocurrence of S.citellus in specific Prefectures of Northern Greece according to

Literature

Sites

Prefecture Reference

Haidou, Koula Xanthi (Thrace) Sfikas, 2004 (Natura fact sheets)

Kirnos Xanthi (Thrace) Vohralik & Sofianidou 1992

Olvio Xanthi (Thrace) Vohralik & Sofianidou 1992

Kalochori Thessaloniki (Macedonia) Vohralik & Sofianidou 1987

Sindos Thessaloniki (Macedonia) Vohralik & Sofianidou 1987

Malgara Thessaloniki (Macedonia) Chuworth-Masters 1932; Hadjinikolaou 1935

Lagathas Thessaloniki (Macedonia) Peus 1954

Kolchico Thessaloniki (Macedonia) Peus 1958

Kimina Thessaloniki (Macedonia) Ondrias 1966

Koronia Thessaloniki (Macedonia) Niethammer 1974

Lagathikia Thessaloniki (Macedonia) Ruzic 1978

Axios, Loudia and Aliakmonas

deltas Thessaloniki (Macedonia) Sfikas, 2004 (Natura fact sheets)

Volvi and Koronia lakes Thessaloniki (Macedonia) Sfikas, 2004 (Natura fact sheets)

Tria Pigathia Kozani (Macedonia) Hatzisarantos et al. 1962

Kozani Kozani (Macedonia) Ondrias 1966

Pontokomi Kozani (Macedonia) Fraguedaki-Tsoli 1977

Mt Vourinos and valley of

Mesiano Nero Kozani (Macedonia) Sfikas, 2004 (Natura fact sheets)

Source: Compiled by Migli (2013)

Legislation Issues

Due to the decline of the species’ range, especially in the southern, northern and north-western

areas of its distribution, and the fact that its overall population decrease is suspected to have

been more than 30% over the last years, the species is assessed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.

That means that is considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild. Moreover, the

species is listed on Appendix II of the Bern Convention, which includes strictly protected fauna

species. Furthermore, S. citellus is listed in Annexes II and IV of the EU Habitats and Species

Directive, which include species requiring designation of Special Areas of Conservation, and

species in need of strict protection, respectively. In accordance with the European legislation, the

species is protected in Greece by the Presidential Declaration of 1981. Lastly, due to the decline

of its population and the fragmentation of its habitat, the species is described as “Vulnerable” in

the Red Data Book of Greece (Youlatos, 2008).


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Concise review of the Spermophilus citellus colonies as assessed in the

TAP ESIA study

S. citellus presence has been confirmed in several sites only along the western part of the route,

between N. Mesimvria and Greek-Albanian border), while evidence for persisting populations

along the eastern part of the basecase route (Greek/Turkish border – Nea Mesimvria) is currently

inconclusive. Souslik presence (or potential presence) has been associated with agricultural land

under mild agricultural practices, as well as in fallow fields and meadows.

Between Nea Mesimvria and Albanian border, two distinct population with clear-cut evidence

(observation of active animals) were recorded in 2011. The two populations are clearly

geographically separated from each other and are the following:

The eastern population, which ranges from Nea Mesimvria, NW of Thessaloniki, to the

Valley of Axios River, north of Gefyra village.

The western population, which is located between south of Maniaki village to Galateia

village, south of lake Chimaditis.

A point of great interest concerning these populations is the high turnover rate for several of the

colonies found along the pipeline route: a number of colonies detected the first year (2011) near

Perdikkas, Drosero and Galateia were not verified the next year (2012). It is currently unknown if

the results of the countercheck are associated with temporary displacement of the colonies due

to the late spring soil tilling for agricultural purposes or they indicate local extinction or movement

of the animals from one year to the next.

Between the Greek-Turkish border and Nea Mesimvria, there is evidence but not verified data for

the following:

an eastern population in Evros region, which is located between the Greek-Turkish border

and Kipoi, and near Kavissos.

a remnant population in Komotini area that ranges from west of Aetolofos village to east of

Lofario village.

a remnant population around Drymos village.


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The first two, in Evros-Komotini region, are separated geographically from each other by the

South Forest Complex of Evros Prefecture, while the third one is located close to the populations

identified east of Axios River on the study conducted between Nea Mesimvria and the Greek-

Albanian border. Although the populations of Evros and Drymos area seem to verify souslik

distribution in the area according to the literature, the population in Komotini region, if finally

certified, might constitute the first record of the species within the Komotini region.

Field Survey Scope of Work

The field surveys focused on recording the presence of Spermophilus citellus colonies within 500

m buffer zone around the reroutings (250 m on each side of the pipeline axis) at the following

areas:

Nestos (Chrysoupoli) area (corresponding to IP 374-1 to IP 374-23), Neos Xerias to

Pontolivado from east to west)

Drymos area (corresponding to IP 676 to IP 684)

Region of Eordea (corresponding to IP 1173 to IP 1184, and IP 1188 to IP 1196,west of

Perdikkas village to Variko)

The Kosmio rerouting was considered as outside of the currently verified range of the species,

therefore it was excluded from the field surveys.

In all areas surveyed, cultivations were the dominant landscape element. Along Nestos rerouting,

wheat and corn fields were widespread. Along Drymos rerouting, wheat cultivations was the

prevalent type of habitat, followed by meadows. In Eordea, the rerouting is crossing cereal and

alfalfa fields as well as patches of oak forest.

2 Methodology

Sampling Methodology

The fact that there is very limited recent information1 on the current distribution and habitat

preference of Spermophilus colonies in northern Greece made it a necessity that the 500 m

Rerouting area was searched as thoroughly as possible. To achieve this, the following procedure

was employed: 1 All reports from Macedonia region derive from fieldwork on or before 1983 (see table 1.1) whereas the year of observation/collection of specimens recently discussed in Kryštufek & al 2009 is unknown.


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The northern section of the 500 m zone of selected reroutings was divided into reference points

(marked as Rn, Rn+1.... from east to west in accordance with the new chainage) all lying in 1 km

distance from the ones standing immediately east and west to them. In a similar way, the

southern section of the 500 m zone of the same reroutings was divided into reference points

(marked as Ln, Ln+1… from east to west in accordance with the new chainage). All points will lie

at a perpendicular distance of 250 m north or south respectively to the route. As a result, the core

of the Rerouting area was divided into 32 sampling blocks in the form of “RnRn+1 - LnL+1”.

The sampling blocks were scanned as thoroughly as possible for suitable Spermophilus habitat,

considering the existing road network and therefore the accessibility of each sampling block. The

area between two consecutive R – (or L-) points and the route is 25 ha which is larger than the

usual size reported in bibliography for a single Spermophilus colony in Bulgaria (1.5 – 10 ha3). As

a result, clear-cut evidence of presence of Spermophilus colonies anywhere within two

consecutive R or L points or in between R/L points is enough evidence that the particular location

hosts at least one colony in the same site.

The following habitat types have been considered as unlikely to host Spermophilus colonies and

therefore, blocks located within these habitats have been excluded from the sampling protocol:

Forested areas such as Quercus and Pinus forest;

Sites with riparian vegetation;

Heavily irrigated fields such as corn and cotton.

When in the field, the following parameters have been considered as adequate evidence to

indicate presence of a Spermophilus colony:

Several holes on the ground with diameter > 6 cm, freshly dug which will lead into a tunnel

underground AND at least two large holes (diameter > 10 cm) in the same location, freshly

dug and leading to a wide tunnel underground

Observation of the animal alive

A group of holes with diameters smaller than 6 cm and no observation of a large hole will be

considered as evidence of Microtus (or Rattus in some cases) presence in the site. Symmetrical

piles of fine-grained soil on the ground were considered as evidence of Talpa or Microtus


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presence. Nannospalax piles (similar but larger of those of Talpa) have not been observed within

the Project area.

Figure 2-2-1 Example of Alignment of Sampling Points

Source (EXERGIA SA)

Between the 14th and the 15th of June 2014 and the 19th and 20th of the same month, one pair of

scientists worked in the rerouting sections to cover as thoroughly as possible the selected

distance of the TAP Project area in Chrysoupoli, Drymos and Eordea regions. The sampling

effort is described in the following table:


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Table 2-1 Sampling effort for Spermophillus citellus (June 2014)

Number %

Total number of sampling blocks within the Rerouting area (Nestos, Drymos, Foufas) 32 100

Number of sampling blocks searched thoroughly along the Rerouting Area 17 53.1

Number of sampling blocks searched at patches along the Rerouting Area 13 40.6

Number of sampling blocks determined as definitely unsuitable habitat during fieldwork 2 6.3

Source: EXERGIA (2014)

To sum up the information, 93.7% of the sampling blocks (30 out of 32 blocks) were searched,

while only 6.3% of the Rerouting area has been considered as extremely unsuitable habitat for

Spermophilus citellus colonies and was therefore ignored.

Method to assess the current status of Spermophilus colonies reported in

the ESIA (region of Eordea)

Following the 2011 fieldwork, the region of Eordea was considered a “hotspot” for Spermophilus

colonies along the TAP basecase route. In June 2014 a concurrent procedure was therefore

employed so as to assess the status of the 2011 colonies. In particular, a pair of scientists visited

the exact site where each colony had been detected and recorded:

Presence or absence of the colony

Status of the colony, regarding its size and expansion

Possible shifting of colony’s location

Any habitat change

Information from locals about sousliks’ occurrence and colony’s temporal persistence was also

collected whenever possible. In the case of complete absence of the colony, adjacent sites of

suitable habitat were searched thoroughly for any evidence of Spermophilus presence (as

described above).

In 2012, there were twenty eight (28) sampling locations in total along the western part of the

route, confirming presence of Spermophilus, eighteen (18) of which lied within Eordea region (ΙP

1170 to ΙP 1189+1000m). Due to time limits, thirteen (13) of them were again checked in 2014,

from IP1172 to IP11993 along the ESIA basecase.

Limitations, Uncertainties and Bias


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The locations of Spermophilus colonies presented in this report (see GPL00-EXG-642-Y-

TAE-1004, Section 3 – Project Modification) should be considered as the minimal range of

the species within the Rerouting area. It is possible that additional colonies (or an

expansion of an already recorded colony) may be found either within the borders of an

already searched block for which no colony is otherwise stated.

The persistence of colonies from one year to the next cannot be predicted: in the Czech

Republic, some colonies seem to have vanished from one year to the next (Mateju et al.,

2008) and the reason in several cases is unknown. There is inadequate data to check if

such turnover events also occur within Greece but if they do, it is possible that colonies

abandon one site, vanish or re-establish themselves somewhere else even within a year.

3 Results

Indications of Spermophilus citellus Presence in the Study Area

The main habitat types where the species was found comprised cereals’ fields (38.7%),

meadows (25.3%), fallow fields (18.7%), clover fields (5.3%), and the rest 12% consisted of

riparian land, parks, football pitch and other cultivations like walnuts and Actinidia sp. Cereal

fields (mostly found in Drymos region and Eordea basin) were not harvested during that period of

season, thus sampling would be confined into already cropped cultivations.

In Nestos (Chrysoupoli) area almost all the 500m zone along the rerouting was accessible. None

of the twenty nine (29) sampling locations showed any evidence of Spermophilus presence.

Similarly, in the area of Drymos, souslik’s absence was confirmed in eleven (11) out of twelve

(12) sampling locations. Ιn Eordea basin respectively, where thirty four (34) possible

Spermophilus habitat spots were scanned, twenty nine (29) of them proved to be clear of any

sign of the species.

Table 3-1 Indications of Spermophilus citellus Presence in the Study Area

GPS POINT

Geographical

area

Approx. IP

chainage Habitat General comments

MD_01 SW of Neos

Xerias 374-1

Irrigated olive and fallow fields

surrounded by cereals, sunflower

and olive fields.

No animal species of

interest was detected.


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GPS POINT

Geographical

area

Approx. IP


MD_02 North of

Chrysoupoli 374-5

Fallow field surrounded by corn

and wheat fields.

Talpa spp was detected in

the area. Information by a

local shepherd confirmed

the field results.

MD_03 North of

Chrysoupoli 374-5


and wheat fields.




the field results.

MD_04 North of

Chrysoupoli 374-6

Meadow surrounded by

sunflower, wheat and corn fields,

and some walnut trees.




the field results.

MD_05

North of

Chrysoupoli 374-8

Fallow field surrounded mainly by

corn and wheat cultivations.

Canis aureus was

detected in the area.

Potential presence of

Talpa spp.

MD_06 North of

Chrysoupoli 374-9

Cropped wheat filed surrounded

by corn and wheat cultivations.

Potential presence of

Talpa spp.

MD_07 NW of

Chrysoupoli 374-12

Sand extraction site surrounded

by fallow, wheat and corn fields



MD_08 NW of

Chrysoupoli 374-13

Fallow field and meadow,

surrounded by fallow, corn and

wheat fields.



MD_09 NW of

Chrysoupoli 374-12

Nectarine cultivation surrounded

by fallow, corn and wheat fields.



MD_10 West of

Chrysoupoli 374-19

Meadow surrounded by corn and

rice fields.

Talpa spp and Merops

apiaster were detected.

MD_11

South of

Petropigi 374-21

Fallow field surrounded by

sunflower and corn fields, and

some alfa alfa and melon

cultivations.



MD_12

South of

Pontolivado 374-23

Football field surrounded by

sunflower and corn fields, and

some alfa alfa and melon

cultivations.



MD_13 South of

Pontolivado 374-23

Cropped corn field by sunflower

and corn fields, and some alfa

alfa and melon cultivations.




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GPS POINT

Geographical

area

Approx. IP


MD_14

West of

Paleochora 677

Cropped wheat fields surrounded

by cropped and uncropped wheat

fields.

Microtus spp was

detected. Information by a

local farmer confirmed the

field results.

MD_15

West of

Paleochora 677-1



fields.

Microtus spp was



field results.

MD_16 Between

Drymos and

Paleochora

677-3



fields.

Microtus spp was

detected.

MD_17

North of Drymos 677-6



fields.

Microtus spp was



field results.

MD_18 North of Drymos 677-6

Meadow surrounded by meadows

and wheat cultivations.



MD_19

North of Drymos 684


by cereal fields and natural

vegetation.


interest was detected. Not

fully accessible block.

Tap1 SW of Neos

Xerias 374-1

Fallow field surrounded by

cereals, sunflower and olive

fields.



Tap2 SW of Neos

Xerias 374-1

Meadow surrounded by corn

fields.



Tap3 SW of Neos

Xerias 374-1

Cropped wheat field surrounded

by wheat cultivations.



Tap5 North of

Chrysoupoli 374-5

Meadow surrounded mainly by

corn and wheat cultivations.



Tap6 North of

Chrysoupoli 374-6

Walnut cultivation. Presence of Talpa spp.

Tap7

North of

Chrysoupoli 374-7


fields.

Presence of Talpa spp.

was detected. 2-3 small

holes that seemed

abandoned may be

attributed to other rodents.

Tap9 NW of

Chrysoupoli 374-9


by cereal fields.


interest was detected


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GPS POINT

Geographical

area

Approx. IP


Tap11 NW of

Chrysoupoli 374-12

Meadow surrounded by cereal

fields.



Tap12 NW of

Chrysoupoli 374-12

Fallow field with high vegetation

and gaps.

Talpa spp. was detected.

Tap13 West of

Chrysoupoli 374-14

Cropped cereal field surrounded

by cereal and corn fields.

Testudo spp was detected

Tap14

North of Erateino 374-19

Cropped clover fields surrounded

by rice and uncropped wheat

fields.

Merops apiaster, Talpa

spp and Erinaceus sp

were detected.

Tap15

North of Erateino 374-20

Clover field surrounded by

uncropped clover fields. Microtus

spp was detected.



Tap16 South of

Petropigi 374-20

Fallow fields surrounded by corn

fields. Talpa spp. was detected.

Tap17 South of

Petropigi 374-22

Abandoned cereal field

surrounded by cropped and

uncropped wheat fields.



Tap18 SE of

Pontolivado 374-23 Fallow field with reeds.

Merops apiaster was

detected

Tap19 SW of

Pontolivado 374-24

Fallow field that is used as

pastureland.



Tap20 West of

Paleochora 677-1


by cereal fields.



Tap21 West of

Paleochora 677-2


by cereal fields.

Microtus spp. was

detected. Not fully

accessible block.

Tap22 North of Drymos 677-4 Cropped cereal field surrounded

by uncropped cereal fields.

Microtus spp. was

detected. Not fully

accessible block

Tap24 North of Drymos 677-6 Cropped wheat field surrounded


Microtus spp. and Talpa

spp. were detected. Not


Tap26 NW of Drymos 684 Cropped cereal fields surrounded

by natural vegetation.


interest was detected. Not


Tap27 South of

Perdikkas 1172


by cereal fields.



Tap28 SW of Perdikkas 1175 Alfalfa field surrounded by cereal

fields.




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GPS POINT

Geographical

area

Approx. IP


Tap29 North of

Ptolemaida 1176

Riparian vegetation surrounded




Tap30 North of

Ptolemaida 1178

Park with low vegetation used as

pastureland.



Tap31 West of

Perdikkas 1178

Meadow surrounded by

pinewood.

Talpa spp., Testudo sp.

and Lepus europaeus

were detected

Tap32 NW of Foufas 1193 Meadow surrounded by maquis

vegetation.

No species of interest was

detected.

Tap33 North of Foufas 1191 Fallow field of low vegetation. No animal species of


Tap34 NE of Foufas 1190-1 Meadow of high vegetation

surrounded by cereal fields.



Eord2 SW of Perdikkas 1172-1 A meadow without flowers and a

meadow with corn No signs of a colony

Eord4 SW of Perdikkas 1173 Right and left fields (to be

harvested) with cereals No signs of a colony

Eord5 SW of Perdikkas 1173

Two sites with clover and a field

which was formerly cultivated for

corn. Right and left there are

cereal fields (to be harvested).

No signs of a colony

Eord6 North of

Ptolemaida 1175

A single meadow with wild flora.

Right and left there are cereal

fields (to be harvested)


Eord7 North of

Ptolemaida 1176 Cereal fields (to be harvested). No signs of a colony

Eord8 North of

Ptolemaida 1176 Cereal fields (to be harvested).

Bradyporus dasypus

(Insecta:Orthoptera) is

observed.

Eord12 North of

Ptolemaida 1177

Forest for recreational activities,

afforestation with Pinus, abies,

perhaps already existing Quercus

and Salix.

A few closed holes

Eord13 West of

Perdikkas 1178




and Salix.



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GPS POINT

Geographical

area

Approx. IP


Eord14 West of

Perdikkas 1178




and Salix.


Eord17 NW of

Ptolemaida 1180

Stream with oaks, apparently no

water No signs of a colony

Eord18 NW of

Ptolemaida 1181 A field of cereals to be harvested

A single large hole,

possibly not of

Spermophilus

Eord19 NW of

Ptolemaida 1181 Surrounded by cereal fields No signs of a colony

Eord20 NW of

Ptolemaida 1181 Beginning of stream Continuouing to Eord 17?

Eord21 NW of

Ptolemaida 1181 Cereal fields to be harvested No signs of a colony

Eord23 NW of

Ptolemaida 1183 Fields to be harvested

In the vicinity of the three

alternative routes (Eordea

rerouting, baseline _May

2014, EIS 2013

Fouf1 NW of Foufas 1193 Along a hill slope within a

Quercus forest.

Poecilimon sp.

(Insecta:Orthoptera) and

Nemoptera (Insecta:

Neuroptera)observed

Fouf2 NW of Foufas 1192 Open forest with Quercus No signs of a colony

Fouf3 North of Foufas 1191 Fields and forest openings No signs of a colony

Fouf4 North of Foufas 1191 Meadow with yellowish vegetation No signs of a colony

Fouf5 NE of Foufas 1191 In fields (the rerouting lies further

north crossing a hill) No signs of a colony

Fouf6 NE of Foufas 1190 Cereal fields to be harvested No signs of a colony

Spermophilus citellus Colonies

Six (6) sampling locations (Tables 3-2 and Table 3-3) presented some inconclusive evidence on

the presence of Spermophilus citellus colonies: one (1) of them in Drymos area and the other five

(5) were located in the region of Eordea. No animals were observed within any of the searched

blocks during the survey despite the fact that the surveys took place during the fully active period

of the animal’s life cycle.


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North of Drymos village (IP 677-6) a single burrow was detected in a meadow over a hill

(observation point Tap25), with a quite big entrance that seemed recently abandoned. Due to the

habitat suitability and also to the great resemblance of the burrow to the ones generally known as

of ground squirrels, it is quite possible that Spermophilus occupied this area, at least one year

ago. Although the adjacent fields were thoroughly searched, no other evidence of species’

presence was found, thus the area is should be revisited. It should be discussed that the Drymos

rerouting leads to locating the pipeline northwards of the ESIA basecase, thus the colony that

was recorded in May 2013 is now avoided. The abandoned burrow detected in June 2014 stands

1km NW of the 2013 colony.

In the region of Eordea, west of Perdikkas village, two (2) clusters of freshly dug holes were

detected, in a quite close distance to each other. The first cluster (ΙP 1176) from east to west

comprised large holes at the boundary of an extensive cereals’ unharvested field, at three (3)

different locations (Eord9, Eord10, Eord11) in a row. The burrows were confined in the edge of

the field, along a dirt road and their size approached the size of Spermophilus burrows, although

a much larger one that is usually found was missing. No animal was observed alive, despite the

few-minutes-observation of the field team in the area, neither any other hole was detected within

the fields; therefore souslik’s presence in this site is reported as potential and not confirmed.

The second cluster lies also west of Perdikkas village and represents the most likely active

Spermophilus colony along the reroutings. At least thirty (30) burrows combined with a larger one

were scattered in a meadow along a dirt road, at the edge of a pinewood, between IP1178 and

1179. The two sampling points selected (Eord15 and Eord16) showed a continuous expansion of

the holes along the road heading NW of the rerouting, therefore these two sites should be

considered as parts of the same colony.

To sum up, among the six (6) sampling locations that showed evidence of souslik’s presence in

the rerouting sections, four (4) displayed evidence of a former or potential presence of the

species in the area and two (2) sites presented clear (but still in need of verification) evidence of

Spermophilus presence.

Table 3-2 Confirmed Spermophilus citellus Presence in the Study Area

No.

GPS

POINT

Geographical

area

Approx. IP

chainage

Distance to

pipeline Habitat General comments


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No.

GPS

POINT

Geographical

area

Approx. IP

chainage

Distance to

pipeline Habitat General comments

1 Eord 15 West of

Perdikkas 1178 - 1179 22m

Meadow along the

dirt road, at the

edge of a

pinewood.

At least one large hole and

several other open holes

resembling much those of

Spermophilus . Possible site

of active colony, more than

30 holes altogether

2 Eord 16 West of

Perdikkas 1178 - 1179 78 m

Meadow along the

dirt road, at the

edge of a

pinewood.

(in continuation with Eord 15)

Several other open holes

resembling much those of

Spermophilus . Possible site

of active colony, more than

30 holes altogether.

Figure 3-1 FOUFAS rerouting (EORDEA): Main (?) Entrance hole of a possible Spermophilus citellus colony in the area (GPS point: Eord 15)


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Figure 3-2 FOUFAS rerouting (EORDEA): Strong (but in need of verification) evidence of a Spermophilus citellus colony in the area (GPS point: Eord 16)

Table 3-3 Potential Spermophilus citellus Presence in the Study Area

No

GPS POINT

Geographical area

Approx. IP chainage

Distance to pipeline

Habitat General comments

1 Tap25 North of Drymos

677-6 140 m Meadow over a hill

One recently abandoned burrow was detected. Possible presence of Spermophilus in the past (one year ago or perhaps more)

2 Eord 9 West of

Perdikkas 1176 35 m

Cereals’ field to be harvested

Large holes at the boundary of field, inconclusive evidence of Spermophilus presence.

3 Eord 10 West of

Perdikkas 1176 88 m



4 Eord 11 West of

Perdikkas 1176 103 m



Source: Exergia field survey (2014)


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4 Conclusions

Key Habitats within the Study Area

After surveying the reroutings and revisiting the 2011 colonies in Eordea plain, there are only two

(2) sites currently presenting strong evidence as hosting Spermophilus citellus colonies:

SE of Filotas village, between where only a remnant of a much bigger colony seems to

have persisted. This colony probably stands outside the 250 zone of the rerouting.

West of Perdikkas village, between where a new potentially large colony maybe present,

less than 50 meters from the pipeline. If this colony proves to be active within the next

years, then it is vulnerable to the pipeline construction activities.

The high turnover rate of the 2011 colonies in Eordea plain is unexplained: it is unknown if it

refers to temporary displacements of the colonies due to agricultural changes or local extinctions

or stochastic movement of the animals from one year to the next.

The region of Eordea which lies between the lakes Vegoritida and Chimaditis, proved a “hotspot”

of Spermophilus colonies during the 2011 fieldwork along the ESIA basecase route. In 2011,

there were seventeen (17) observation points with confirmed presence of the species between IP

1170 and IP 1189. Two (2) of them however indicated local extinction during a subsequent check

in 2012 whereas the remaining eight (8) locations didn’t provide adequate evidence to consider

the colony as “persisting”.

In 2014, fourteen (14) of the initial seventeen (17) observation points were re-examined, in order

to assess the current status of the 2011 colonies. A sole site southern of Filotas village, between

showed evidence of souslik’s activity, as 5-6 holes were detected in the same harvested field as

during the 2011- fieldwork (GPS point MM43i). The rest of the checked sites appeared either

abandoned or destroyed. Information from locals in Perdikkas region confirmed the absence of

the species for at least 2013 and 2014 despite the fact that they used to observe the species

every year before 2011. Adjacent fields would be also checked in case the animals have moved

further away but the results of the sampling effort were negative (Table 4-1)

Table 4-1 Comparison of Spermophilus citellus colonies‘ presence within the working strip or

its immediate vicinity, between three breeding seasons (July 2011, May 2012 and

June 2014)

Section IP chainage Evidence of colony Evidence of colony in Evidence of colony in


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(approx.) in 2011 2012 2014

Maniaki MM20,MM21,MM23 (IP 1150)

Yes (MM20,MM21,MM23)

Yes

MM20 and MM21 were

not checked. No evidence

of colony In MM23

Filotas

MM33 (IP 1161)

MM35ii (IP 1162-1163)

MM36 (IP 1163-2)

MM34i (IP 1161)

Yes (MM33, MM35ii, MM34i, MM36)

Presence of colonies not

confirmed (not enough

evidence)

No evidence of colony in

MM33, MM35ii and

MM36. In MM34i 5-6

holes were present in a

harvested field

Perdikas

IP 1172

IP 1172

IP 1172-1

IP 1172-1

IP 1172-1

IP 11721

Yes

Yes (Presence of a

subpopulation of the

colony in KP 471.6 not

confirmed) Colony in KP

474.9 possibly extinct

No evidence of colony in

any of the points

(Eord1&Eord3)

Drosero KP 94 (IP 1189)

KP 95 ( IP 1189) Yes

Presence of colony not

confirmed. (not enough

evidence)

KP94 and KP95 were not

checked.

Galatia KP 96 (IP1190)

Yes Presence of colony not

confirmed (not enough

evidence)

No evidence of colony

Source: Spermophilus citellus field survey (July 2011, May 2012 and June 2014)

Factors affecting the population dynamics and colony sites of the species

There are several factors that may affect the population dynamics and colony sites of the

European ground squirrel. These factors can be summarized as: natural population cycles,

habitat changes, as well as behavioural factors and random variation.

4.2.1 Habitat changes

Habitat changes seem to be strongly associated with population dynamics and colony sites of the

species. The species is dependent on short-grass open habitats (Coroiu et al., 2008), and its

decline is often attributed to changes of the agricultural practices and urbanization (Turrini et al.,

2008; Koshev, 2008; Mateju et al., 2008, Uhlikova et al., 2008). Habitat changes seem to have

also affected the Greek populations. For example, although the presence of the S. citellus in

Dadia forest is reported in the Natura fact sheets, the species became extinct in 1992 during the

dam construction in Lyra region and no colony has been observed since then (Catsadorakis &

Bousbouras, 2010; Bousbouras, pers. comm.).


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Although there is evidence that ground squirrel can migrate and colonize other habitats (Mateju

et al., 2010) and establish new colonies (Koshev, 2008), habitat fragmentation and isolation are

inhibitory factors for dispersal and maintenance of high and viable densities (Millesi et al., 2004;

Turrini et al., 2008).

4.2.2 Other (behavioural factors and random variation)

Behavioural interactions among individuals influence greatly demographic processes. Specific

behavioural interactions occurring among individuals, such as predator-prey interactions,

competition, dispersal, and patterns of habitat use seem to determine largely population size or

dynamics (review by Mateju, 2008). Moreover, hibernation period seems to be a factor of great

significance and, in some cases, death loss during the hibernation seems to the main part of

inter-year mortality rate, particularly in juveniles (Hoffmann et al., 2003; Mateju, 2008).

The European ground squirrel seems to form small and scattered populations in its entire range.

However, small populations are known to be more susceptible to random variation. In general,

small populations are subject to rapid declines in numbers for three main reasons (Frankham et

al., 2007):


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loss of genetic variability and related problems of inbreeding and genetic drift

demographic fluctuations due to random variations in birth and death rate

environmental fluctuations due to variation in predation, competition, disease and food

supply; and natural catastrophes that occur at irregular intervals, such as fires, floods,

volcanic eruptions, storms and droughts

Several studies have related squirrel population dynamics with random variation factors, such as

predation (Millesi et al., 1999; Turrini et al., 2008), weather conditions (Hoffmann et al., 2003;

Mateju, 2008; Mateju et al., 2008), demographic fluctuations (review by Mateju, 2008) and loss of

genetic variability (Hulová & Sedláček, 2005).


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Supplement I List of fieldwork points discussed in the report (and the field sheets) indicating the time and

coordinates

No

.

GPS

number X-coord Y-coord

Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

1 MD_01 558636 4540586 33 374-1 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Irrigated olive

and fallow fields

surrounded by

cereals,

sunflower and

olive fields. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No

2 MD_02 558007 4539288 30 374-5 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field

surrounded by

corn and wheat

fields. Talpa spp

was detected in

the area.

Information by a

local shepherd

confirmed the

field results.

No

3 MD_03 558136 4539425 34 374-5 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field

surrounded by

corn and wheat

fields. Talpa spp

was detected in

the area.

Information by a

local shepherd

confirmed the

field results.

No


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No

.

GPS


Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

4 MD_04 557825 4539105 23 374-6 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Meadow

surrounded by

sunflower,

wheat and corn

fields, and some

walnut trees.

Talpa spp was

detected in the

area.

Information by a

local shepherd

confirmed the

field results.

No

5 MD_05 557709 4538625 24 374-8 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field

surrounded

mainly by corn

and wheat

cultivations.

Canis aureus

was detected in

the area.

Potential

presence of

Talpa spp.

No

6 MD_06 557436 4538325 28 374-9 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

filed surrounded

by corn and

wheat

cultivations.

Potential

presence of

Talpa spp.

No

7 MD_07 557135 4537955 28 374-12 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Sand extraction

site surrounded

by fallow, wheat

and corn fields.

No animal

species of

interest was

detected.

No


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No

.

GPS


Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

8 MD_08 556719 4537593 22 374-12 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field and

meadow,

surrounded by

fallow, corn and

wheat fields.

No animal

species of

interest was

detected.

No

9 MD_09 556775 4537990 22 374-12 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Nectarine

cultivation

surrounded by

fallow, corn and

wheat fields.

No animal

species of

interest was

detected.

No

10 MD_10 553922 4535342 9 374-19 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Meadow

surrounded by

corn and rice

fields. Talpa spp

and Merops

apiaster were

detected.

No

11 MD_11 551929 4534894 15 374-21 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field

surrounded by

sunflower and

corn fields, and

some alfa alfa

and melon

cultivations. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No


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No

.

GPS


Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

12 MD_12 548762 4534997 13 374-23 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Football field

surrounded by

sunflower and

corn fields, and

some alfa alfa

and melon

cultivations. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No

13 MD_13 548650 4534922 6 374-23 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped corn

field by

sunflower and

corn fields, and

some alfa alfa

and melon

cultivations. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No

14 MD_14 413295 4517269 191 677 15/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

fields

surrounded by

cropped and

uncropped

wheat fields.

Microtus spp

was detected.

Information by a

local farmer

confirmed the

field results.

No


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No

.

GPS


Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

15 MD_15 412977 4517094 185 677-1 15/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

fields

surrounded by

cropped and

uncropped

wheat fields.

Microtus spp

was detected.

Information by a

local farmer

confirmed the

field results.

No

16 MD_16 412553 4517060 206 677-3 15/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

fields

surrounded by

cropped and

uncropped

wheat fields.

Microtus spp

was detected.

No

17 MD_17 411412 4516915 222 677-6 15/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

fields

surrounded by

cropped and

uncropped

wheat fields.

Microtus spp

was detected.

Information by a

local farmer

confirmed the

field results.

No

18 MD_18 411048 4516712 231 677-6 15/06/2015 Mertzanidou

Migli

Meadow

surrounded by

meadows and

wheat

cultivations. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No


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No

.

GPS


Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

19 MD_19 410765 4515549 243 684 15/06/2016 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

fields

surrounded by

cereal fields and

natural

vegetation. No

animal species

of interest was

detected. Not

fully accessible

block.

No

20 Tap1 41.016751° 24.697690° 26 374-1 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field

surrounded by

cereals,

sunflower and

olive fields. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No

21 Tap2 41.017929° 24.697044° 36 374-1 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Meadow

surrounded by

corn fields. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No

22 Tap3 41.017315° 24.695206° 39 374-1 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

field surrounded

by wheat

cultivations. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No

23 Tap5 41.008021° 24.692778° 21 374-4 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Meadow

surrounded

mainly by corn

and wheat

cultivations. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No


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No

.

GPS


Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

24 Tap6 41.003069° 24.689389° 23 374-6 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Walnut

cultivation.

Presence of

Talpa spp.

No

25 Tap7 41.000569° 24.689579° 28 374-7 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field

surrounded by

corn fields.

Presence of

Talpa spp. was

detected. 2-3

small holes that

seemed

abandoned may

be attributed to

other rodents.

No

26 Tap9 40.997859° 24.686200° 28 374-8 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

field surrounded

by cereal fields.

No animal

species of

interest was

detected

No

27 Tap11 40.993382° 24.681138° 27 374-12 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Meadow

surrounded by

cereal fields. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No

28 Tap12 40.990368° 24.678388° 26 374-12 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field with

high vegetation

and gaps. Talpa

spp. was

detected.

No

29 Tap13 40.982419° 24.667422° 18 374-14 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped cereal

field surrounded

by cereal and

corn fields.

Testudo spp

was detected

No


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No

.

GPS


Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

30 Tap14 40.970520° 24.643052° 9 374-19 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped clover

fields

surrounded by

rice and

uncropped

wheat fields.

Merops

apiaster, Talpa

spp and

Erinaceus sp

were detected.

No

31 Tap15 40.968731° 24.631192° 9 374-19 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Clover field

surrounded by

uncropped

clover fields.

Microtus spp

was detected.

No

32 Tap16 40.966775° 24.623492° 9 374-20 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow fields

surrounded by

corn fields.

Talpa spp. was

detected.

No

33 Tap17 40.964820° 24.615645° 5 374-22 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Abandoned

cereal field

surrounded by

cropped and

uncropped

wheat fields. No

animal species

of interest was

detected

No

34 Tap18 40.965272° 24.599979° 5 374-23 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field with

reeds. Merops

apiaster was

detected

No

35 Tap19 40.963510° 24.570038° 2 374-24 14/06/2014 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field that

is used as

pastureland. No

animal species

of interest was

detected

No


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No

.

GPS


Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

36 Tap20 40.804600° 22.971678° 193 677 15/06/214 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

fields

surrounded by

cereal fields. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No

37 Tap21 40.803021° 22.968443° 184 677-2 15/06/214 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

field surrounded

by cereal fields.

Microtus spp.

was detected.

Not fully

accessible

block.

No

38 Tap22 40.805034° 22.962824° 209 677-4 15/06/214 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped cereal

field

surrounded by

uncropped

cereal fields.

Microtus spp.

was detected.

Not fully

accessible

block.

No

39 Tap24 40.800109° 22.950434° 226 677-6 15/06/214 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped wheat

field surrounded

by uncropped

cereal fields.

Microtus spp.

and Talpa spp.

were detected.

Not fully

accessible

block.

No


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No

.

GPS


Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

40 Tap26 40.787951° 22.943688° 221 684 15/06/214 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped cereal

fields

surrounded by

natural

vegetation. No

animal species

of interest was

detected. Not

fully accessible

block.

No

41 Tap27 40.548424° 21.693446° 616 1172 19/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Cropped wheat

fields

surrounded by

cereal fields. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No

42 Tap28 40.550684° 21.682791° 624 1175 19/06/214 Papapavlou

Migli

Alfalfa field

surrounded by

cereal fields. No

animal species

of interest was

detected

No

43 Tap29 40.553117° 21.666776° 673 1176 19/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Riparian

vegetation

surrounded by

uncropped

cereal fields. No

animal species

of interest was

detected

No

44 Tap30 40.549550° 21.659103° 724 1176 19/06/214 Papapavlou

Migli

Park with low

vegetation used

as pastureland.

No animal

species of

interest was

detected.

No


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Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

45 Tap31 40.550893° 21.656144° 743 1178 19/06/214 Papapavlou

Migli

Meadow

surrounded by

pinewood.

Talpa spp.,

Testudo sp. and

Lepus

europaeus were

detected

No

46 Tap32 40.546641° 21.536629° 743 1193 20/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Meadow

surrounded by

maquis

vegetation. No

species of

interest was

detected.

No

47 Tap33 40.544409° 21.551389° 680 1191 20/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Fallow field of

low vegetation.

No animal

species of

interest was

detected.

No

48 Tap34 40.548789° 21.565849° 678 1190 20/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Meadow of high

vegetation

surrounded by

cereal fields. No

animal species

of interest was

detected.

No

49 Eord2 N40 32.873 E21 41.410 625 1172 19/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

A meadow

without flowers

and a meadow

with corn.

No


Migli

Right and left

fields (to be

harvested) with

cereals.

No


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Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony


Migli

Two sites with

clover and a

field which was

formerly

cultivated for

corn. Right and

left there are

cereal fields (to

be harvested).

No


Migli

A single

meadow with

wild flora. Right

and left there

are cereal fields

(to be

harvested)

No


Migli

Cereal fields (to

be harvested). No


Migli

Cereal fields (to

be harvested).

Bradyporus

dasypus

(Insecta:Orthopt

era) is

observed.

No


Migli

Forest for

recreational

activities,

afforestation

with Pinus,

abies, perhaps

already existing

Quercus and

Salix. A few

closed holes.

No


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Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony


Migli

Forest for

recreational

activities,

afforestation

with Pinus,

abies, perhaps

already existing

Quercus and

Salix.

No


Migli

Forest for

recreational

activities,

afforestation

with Pinus,

abies, perhaps

already existing

Quercus and

Salix.

No


Migli

Stream with

oaks,

apparently no

water

No


Migli

A field of

cereals to be

harvested. A

single large

hole, possibly

not of

Spermophilus

No


Migli

Surrounded by

cereal fields No


Migli

Beginning of

stream.

Continuouing to

Eord 17?

No


Migli

Cereal fields to

be harvested No


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Elevati

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Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony


Migli

Fields to be

harvested. In

the vicinity of

the three

alternative

routes (Eordea

rerouting,

baseline _May

2014, EIS 2013)

No

64 Fouf1 N40 32.781 E21 32.226 743 1193 20/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Along a hill

slope within a

Quercus forest.

Poecilimon sp.

(Insecta:Orthopt

era) and

Nemoptera

(Insecta:

Neuroptera)obs

erved

No


Migli

Open forest with

Quercus No


Migli

Fields and

forest openings No


Migli

Meadow with

yellowish

vegetation

No


Migli

In fields (the

rerouting lies

further north

crossing a hill)

No

69 Fouf6 N40 32.911 E21 34.014 675 1190-1 20/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Cereal fields to

be harvested No


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Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

70 Eord1 N40 32.926 E21 41.435 623 1172-1 19/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Close to the gas

station where a

large

Spermophilus

colony was

indentified in

2011

KPL81/KPL83 -

owners support

that they

haven'seen the

animals since

2011

No

71 Eord3 N40 32.791 E21 41.152 624 1172-1 19/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

60 m from the

baseline, fields

with non

harvested

cereals.

Spermophilus

colony was

indentified here

in 2011

KPL84/KPL85/K

PL86/KPL87

No

72 Eord 15 N40 33.015 E21 39.218 724 1179 19/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Meadow along

the dirt road, at

the edge of a

pinewood.

At least one large

hole and several

other open holes

resembling much

those of

Spermophilus.

Possible site of

active colony,

more than 30

holes altogether


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Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

73 Eord16 N40 33.042 E21 39.194 725 1179 Papapavlou

Migli

Meadow along

the dirt road, at

the edge of a

pinewood.

(in continuation

with Eord 15)

Several other

open holes

resembling much

those of

Spermophilus.

Possible site of

active colony,

more than 30

holes altogether.

Specimen of

Lucanus cervus

(Coleoptera:

Lucanidae)


Migli

Field to be

harvested.

Colonies here

in 2011

(KPL90)

No


Migli

In the vicinity of

KPL96 which

now has

Helianthus

instead of

clover, field is

checked for

Spermophilus

No

76 Tap25 40.800193° 22.946807° 224 677-6 15/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Meadow over a

hill

One recently

abandoned burrow

was detected.

Former possible

presence of

Spermophilus

77 Eord 9 N40 33.001 E21 39.840 687 m 1176 19/06/2014 Papapavlou

Migli

Cereals’ field to

be harvested

Large holes at the

boundary of field,

possible but not

confirmed

evidence of

Spermophilus.


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Elevati

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Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony


Migli

Cereals’ field to

be harvested

Large holes at the

boundary of field,

possible but not

confirmed

evidence of

Spermophilus.


Migli

Cereals’ field to

be harvested

Large holes at the

boundary of field,

possible but not

confirmed

evidence of

Spermophilus.

80 KPL 81 558636 4488919 07/07/2011 Papapavlou

Kallivoka Meadow

On the main road

next to a gas

station and a

nearby house,

many holes and a

large tunnel (>10

cm diameter) were

observed. The

colony surrounded

the house and the

gas station. Holes

were detected in

the garden behind

the house but not

in the vineyard

AND within any

remnant meadow

surrounding the

plot. Animals were

observed every

morning by the

house and gas

station owner.

Sighting of the

animal for approx.

5-10 min

(K.Papapavlou)

while entering a

hole.


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Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

81 KPL 83 558530 4489019 07/07/2011 Papapavlou

Kallivoka Meadow

Spermophillus

citellus burrows

were detected.

Group of holes

was observed.

Extend of colony

observed at

KP081.

82 KPL 84 558004 4488780 07/07/2011 Papapavlou

Kallivoka Meadow

Spermophillus

citellus burrows

were detected.

Group of holes

was observed.

Sightings of

KP0084, KP085,

KP086, KP087

might all comprise

holes of the same

Spermophilus

colony.

83 KPL 85 557934 4488781 07/07/2011 Papapavlou

Kallivoka Meadow

Spermophillus

citellus burrows

were detected.

Group of holes

was observed.

Sightings of

KP0084, KP085,

KP086, KP087

might all comprise

holes of the same

Spermophilus

colony.


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Elevati

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Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

84 KPL 86 558057 4488699 07/07/2011 Papapavlou

Kallivoka Meadow

Spermophillus

citellus burrows

were detected.

Group of holes

was observed.

Sightings of

KP0084, KP085,

KP086, KP087

might all comprise

holes of the same

Spermophilus

colony.

85 KPL 87 558040 4488616 07/07/2011 Papapavlou

Kallivoka Meadow

Spermophillus

citellus burrows

were detected.

Group of holes

was observed.

Sightings of

KP0084, KP085,

KP086, KP087

might all comprise

holes of the same

Spermophilus

colony.

86 KPL 90 555168 4487652 07/07/2011 Papapavlou

Kallivoka Meadow

Spermophillus

citellus burrows

were detected.

Group of holes

was observed.

87 KPL 94 551843 4488371 07/07/2011 Papapavlou

Kallivoka Alfalfa field

Spermophillus

citellus burrows

were detected

outside the 500m

zone, but probably

the colony

extended also

within the 500 m

zone. Holes

detected at KP094

and KP095 belong

to the same

colony.


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Elevati

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Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

88 KPL 95 551881 4488424 07/07/2011 Papapavlou


Spermophillus

citellus burrows

were detected

outside the 500m

zone, but probably

the colony

extended also

within the 500 m

zone. Holes

detected at KP094

and KP095 belong

to the same

colony.

89 KPL 96 549611 4488662 07/07/2011 Papapavlou


Spermophillus

citellus burrows

were detected.

Group of holes

was observed.

90 MM 20 565261 4502271 06/07/2011 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field of

short vegetation

(under cereal

crop in the past)

Spermophilus

citellus burrows

were detected. 4

holes of 7-8 cm

diameter were

counted.

91 MM 21 565263 4502359 06/07/2011 Mertzanidou

Migli

Meadow of

medium

inclination with

low vegetation

Spermophilus

citellus burrows

were detected. 15-

20 holes, over 7

cm diameter, were

counted, most of

them in the upper

part of the hill

where ground

cover was denser.


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No

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Elevati

on (m) IPs Date

Scientist

Name

Remarks

Evidence for

Spermophilus

colony

92 MM 23 564782 4501895 06/07/2011 Mertzanidou

Migli

Fallow field of

very low, sparse

vegetation

Spermophilus

citellus burrows

were detected.

Large group of 30-

40 holes over 7

cm diameter was

observed, several

of them with

animal faeces

around.

93 MM 33 560654 4495501 06/07/2011 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped

cereals’ field

Spermophilus

citellus burrows

were detected. 5

holes over 7 cm

diameter were

counted

94 MM 34i 560613 4494957 06/07/2011 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped alfalfa

field

Spermophilus

citellus burrows

were detected.

Group of many

holes was

observed.

95 MM 35ii 560598 4494260 06/07/2011 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped alfalfa

field

Spermophilus

citellus burrows

were detected.

Group of many

holes was

observed.

96 MM 36 560624 4493443 06/07/2011 Mertzanidou

Migli

Cropped alfalfa

field

Spermophilus

citellus burrows

were detected. 2

holes were

counted.

Trans Adriatic Pipeline AG-Greece (Branch Office)

21st floor, Athens Tower, 2-4 Mesogion Ave.

11527 Athens, Greece

Phone: +30 210 745613

Fax: +30 210 745300

[email protected]

www.tap-ag.com

Date 12/2014

Copyright Reserved: This document may not be copied, shown to or placed at disposal of third parties without prior consent of TAP AG. The latest version of the document is registered in the TAP Project’s Database.

esia amendment greece annex 6.2 european souslik baseline

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