Fauna Inventory at KSM Ruda – Listening to the Voice of Nature

Nature Without Borders: Revitalizing Post-Mining Areas at KSM Ruda in Budziska

Before we begin our fieldwork, we must first take a careful look at nature. The biodiversity inventory conducted as part of the “Nature Without Borders…” project at KSM Ruda is not merely a data collection exercise. It is a story of life thriving in places that, at first glance, may appear post-industrial and devoid of natural value.

As part of our field activities, we conduct systematic observations of birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and pollinating insects. The list of recorded species is impressive—and continues to grow. During field visits between February and July 2025, we observed 16 entirely new bird species, which may indicate that our efforts are positively contributing to biodiversity in this area.

Birds – Indicators of Biodiversity

Our records include both common species and those requiring special conservation attention, such as the common sandpiper and Eurasian hoopoe. In total, we confirmed the presence of over 70 bird species, including:

  • Woodpeckers: black, great spotted, middle spotted
  • Passerines: blackcap, whinchat, grasshopper warbler, skylark, wagtails, greenfinch, yellowhammer, golden oriole, chaffinch
  • Water and wading birds: great cormorant, mallard, mute swan, greylag goose, common tern, northern lapwing, little ringed plover
  • Birds of prey: common buzzard, kestrel, marsh harrier

The high number of species indicates that the former mining site—despite its transformation—continues to serve crucial ecological functions. The presence of birds is not only an indicator of habitat quality but also a compelling reason to continue conservation efforts.

Thanks to regular monitoring, we confirmed that the “Nature Without Borders…” project area is home to 81.81% of bird species included in the FaBI index – an indicator of farmland bird diversity in Poland.

Mammals, Amphibians, and Reptiles – Less Visible but Equally Important

Our observations confirmed the presence of roe deer, European hare, and red fox, as well as species typical of wetland habitats: pool frogs, common toads, and European tree frogs. We also noted grass snakes and viviparous lizards—evidence that the habitat mosaic supports the presence of reptiles and amphibians, which are highly sensitive to environmental change.

Pollinating Insects – The Foundation of the Web of Life

Among the pollinators, we observed species such as Andrena bees, red mason bees, buff-tailed bumblebees, small white butterflies, Old World swallowtails, and of course, the honeybee. Their presence is not just a matter of aesthetics or agricultural benefit—they are a cornerstone of local ecosystem stability.

By creating suitable habitats and ensuring continuous food availability throughout the growing season, we are protecting not only insects, but also the plants and animals dependent on them. This marks the beginning of effective rewilding.

Why Does a Fauna Inventory Matter?

✅ Understanding local biodiversity is the starting point for informed conservation and land management.
✅ Inventories enable us to design nature-based solutions that genuinely address local needs.
✅ They also serve as a foundation for education—because we cannot protect what we do not know.

Our methodology is rooted in continuous observation, data analysis, expert consultation, and community engagement. It is the synergy between people, science, and nature that holds the key to lasting change.