Physical-geographic aspects of bird diversity in the Czech Republic

Physical-geographic aspects of bird diversity in the Czech Republic Abstract This thesis deals with the concept of biodiversity. It describes the basic findings about biological diversity on Earth, the negative influences on its quality and steps taken for its protection. Factors determining biodiversity such as latitude, altitude, environment's character etc. are described and related to the diversity of birds of prey. I also briefly focus on selected physical - geographical aspects of the Czech Republic that influence biodiversity, especially that of the birds of prey. These aspects are related to climate conditions which are also closely connected with global climate changes. Then I proceed to describe the ecosystems which are the most important for the bird community, in particular the forest, mountain, wetland and agricultural land ecosystems. The final part focuses on birds of prey. My aim was to map their diversity on the territory of the Czech Republic in dependence on selected physical-geographical conditions - i. e. altitude and character of the environment. I also compare the diversity of birds of prey with regard to the presence of a protected territory or bird area. The results of my research are interpreted in the conclusion