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1. Polyommatus humedasae is an endemic species narrowly distributed in a few sites in the Aosta Valley (NW Italy). Similarly to other alpine butterflies, the survival of the species is closely linked to the conservation of semi-natural grasslands. 2. Despite the species being known since 1976, this is the first comprehensive data collection and analysis on this species, firstly to understand its distribution. At Pont d'Ael, the species core site, we applied the mark-release-recapture (MRR) method to estimate population size and density. To understand the species ecology, we collected data on preimaginal stages (eggs and larvae), host plants, and vegetation composition. 3. The new data on species distribution (with 5 new sites and 2 subpopulations already extinct) permitted to update the extinction risk through IUCN assessment to Critically Endangered (CR). The estimated size (881 individuals) and density (73 N/ha) of the studied population are higher than those of other endemic Polyommatus species. Data suggest the species is monophagous on Onobrychis arenaria and prefers to lay eggs where the host plant is abundant, in ecotonal areas with some shrub cover (average 8 %), high herbaceous cover (average 68 %) and on plants in better physiological conditions. 4. For species such as P. humedasae , which are threaten by woody encroachment, climate change, fires and collection, we propose the application of a management plan that includes: 1) mechanical cut of wood species; 2) small herds on a rotational basis to reduce woody encroachment and maintain shrub patches; 3) dissemination events to highlight the population importance. • Polyommatus humedasae is an endemic Italian butterfly narrowly distributed. • Even if it is known since 1976, this is the first comprehensive data collection. • We revised the species distribution, thus it is now Critically Endangered. • We proved that the species is monophagous on Onobrychis arenaria. • We proposed a conservation plan to oppose its threats in all its distribution area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We used capture-mark-recapture data from three ringing sites in central-northern Italy to estimate adult survival, recruitment and population growth rates of the Common Reed Warbler. We used software MARK to analyze mist-netting data collected according to the Italian Constant Effort Site ringing scheme (named PRISCO). At each site, rate estimates were adjusted for transient birds with respect to sex. Expressed as percentages, survival rates at Palude Brusà (VR) site were 63±6 for both sexes; at Punte Alberete (RA) were 61±4 for males and 48±5 for females; at Emissario Trasimeno (PG) 48±2 for both sexes. Recruitment rates, for both sexes, at Palude Brusà were 46 ± 8, Punte Alberete 50±6 and Emissario Trasimeno 63±6. At Punte Alberete and at Emissario Trasimeno, Common Reed Warbler populations decreased during the study periods; at Palude Brusà the population remained substantially stable. This investigation can not fully prove it, but our experience in these 10 years of study makes us think that populations decline observed above all at Punte Alberete and Emissario Trasimeno, is most likely caused by the incorrect management of the water levels of the reed beds during the reproductive period. At Palude Brusà, although the population remained stable during the period considered, there has been a gradual drainage and burying of the swamp with the consequent loss of the extension and the quality of the reeds. This situation, exacerbated by the small size of the area and its isolation from other wetlands, could cause, also in this site, a decline in the medium term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new longevity record has been registered for the Common Whitethroat Curruca communis, with a bird recaptured in Italy 18 years and 11 months from the date of ringing. This exceeds the previous longevity record by almost 10 years. A comparison is made with records of known longevity for other species of small passerine birds. The possible migratory routes and the total distances travelled by the bird are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]