Hucul horses grazing as a form of sustainable agriculture in the Bieszczady region

Abstract

The aim of the study was to analyze the grazing of Hucul horses as an element of sustainable agriculture in NATURA 2000-protected areas. The condition of the horses and the grazing load were assessed, as well as the number of birds present and foraging. A load of up to 10 DPJ, resulting from the implementation of agri-environmental programs, appears to be adequate both in terms of counteracting succession and protecting against degradation. The results confirm the positive impact of grazing on habitat species diversity, contributing to the preservation of nesting and foraging sites for birds.