As part of the ecological restoration actions of the LIFE ScrubsNet project, four islands of vegetation have been created on one of the plots of the São Mateus estate, following the same methodology applied in Terra das Freiras (TF).
Each island, measuring 16 x 12 metres, was fenced with wire mesh to prevent grazing, leaving one side open to facilitate monitoring tasks. These areas were divided into two zones:
? Active regeneration: planting of native shrubs with different ecological functions, such as the production of honey flowers, berries, disease control and shelter for fauna. Notable among the species planted were Cistus crispus, Lavandula pedunculata, Arbutus unedo and Pyrus bourgeana. Seed balls of Rosa sp., Rubia peregrina and Tamus communis were also placed as a complementary technique.
?Passive regeneration: protection of the area without direct intervention, to observe the natural evolution of the ecosystem.
Initial monitoring (October 2024) shows an average survival rate of 48%, which is better than in Terra das Freiras due to more favourable summer conditions. In January 2025, replacement actions were carried out and further monitoring is expected in the coming autumn season.??
The scrub islands will continue to be monitored during the coming autumn, allowing the effectiveness of the different techniques to be evaluated and knowledge about ecological restoration strategies in montado ecosystems to be reinforced.
? These actions contribute to restoring ecological balance, improving shrub cover and creating refuges for local wildlife.
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