18. Using of karakachan horses for management of grassland habitats as hunting grounds of lesser kestrel and imperial eagle

In this paper we present the experience of Green Balkans in the use of the autochthonous breed Karakachan horse for the management of grassland habitats, which are key hunting areas for the Lesser Kestrel (Falco naumanni) and the Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca). These territories are located in the area of the Sakar SPA, part of the European ecological network NATURA 2000. The management of grassland habitats by Green Balkans through extensive grazing of indigenous Karakachan horses contributes to the maintenance of grass species composition and production; local landscaping; maintenance of open areas with low vegetation as hunting areas for birds of prey; providing nutritional resources for birds of prey and vultures through grazing animals mortslity, etc. This field of research is an innovative approach for our country, as horses are used not for agricultural purposes but for nature conservation activities. Additionally, these activities contribute to conservation of the genetic resources of this rare breed and the range expansion of the breed.