The PSIB has presented in the Parliament a non-legislative proposal (PNL) with which it aims to strengthen the protection of the Pitiusan lizard in the face of the threat posed by the expansion of invasive snakes and, at the same time, to facilitate the involvement of landowners, conservation entities, and scientific teams in the defense of this species.
As the group has detailed in a statement, the initiative, registered by the Ibizan deputy in the regional chamber Marco Guerrero, proposes that the Govern consider the conservation of the lizard to be a priority and increase the human, technical, and economic resources allocated to safeguarding its populations and its habitats.
The proposal also focuses on the situation of the Can Jaume Arnau refuge, in the municipal district of Santa Eulària des Riu, after the Govern has opened an administrative proceeding that includes a fine of 6,000 euros. As a result of this case, the PSIB calls for the immediate review of all sanctioning proceedings processed in relation to private lizard refuges.
In addition, the PNL requests that the regional executive approve a specific protocol for the creation, maintenance, and supervision of privately owned refuges. This document must specify the conditions of the facilities, the habitat conservation criteria, and the requirements for scientific and technical monitoring by the Administration.
Along these lines, the proposal suggests that outdoor enclosures located in Eivissa that maintain the natural conditions of the habitat and are limited to preventing access by invasive snakes may be considered integrated protection spaces within the lizard’s own natural and historical ecosystem of the Pitiusan lizard, taking into account the characteristics and the actual operation of each enclosure.
The initiative also includes the creation of a registry of farms and public or private spaces that may be suitable for being used for the conservation of this reptile. The procedure must be simple so that the persons and entities holding title can voluntarily offer their land and, after a technical assessment, incorporate it into the conservation programs.
Furthermore, the PSIB proposes that the Govern ensure a public and free service of technical and administrative advice for owners, entities and administrations interested in enabling shelters for the lizard, in order to facilitate compliance with the regulations and the requirements necessary to launch these initiatives.
Another point of the PNL proposes setting up a network of shelters for the pitiusa lizard in Eivissa and Formentera, with participation from both the public and private sectors and under scientific coordination. This network would be implemented through agreements or other collaboration instruments that establish responsibilities regarding maintenance, supervision and monitoring.
Finally, the PSIB initiative calls for developing information and training actions, directed especially at the people and entities promoting shelters, with the aim of explaining clearly and accessibly the applicable regulations.