Anum per Anum

Dear Supporter,

The Collared Pratincole (Glareola pratincola) is the patron bird of our olive harvest 2024.
Thank you for supporting the conservation of this remarkable species by purchasing “Annum per Annum” – a bottle of Albanian extra virgin olive oil.

The name “Annum per Annum” symbolizes an almost sacred Mediterranean ritual: the olive harvest, a tradition celebrated for centuries. The olive tree represents peace, wisdom, solidarity, health, resilience, and life itself. Year after year, as we nurture these trees naturally, we grow in life experience and deepen our understanding of coexistence.

The name also reflects the life cycle of migratory birds, returning annually to the habitats they use to survive.

Our olive grove is located beside the Karavasta Lagoon, a wetland of natural importance and one of the most crucial habitats for migratory birds in the Mediterranean. This unique location not only serves as a habitat for a special Albanian variety of olives known as Kalinjot, but also is home to numerous bird species that return each year to breed.

As we live together in this ecosystem, we feel responsible for the migratory birds and their protection.

Each year, we will feature a different bird species from the area on our label. A share of each bottle sold will be donated to PPNEA to support their invaluable conservation work.

About the Collared pratincole

The Collared Pratincole lives near aquatic environments and is primarily found in meadows, pastures, and agricultural lands close to wetlands. It feeds on insects, which it catches in flight, helping to control harmful pests in coastal areas. The Karavasta Lagoon, part of the Divjakë-Karavasta National Park, offers abundant food sources and suitable habitats, making it a favored site for this bird.

The Collared Pratincole usually lays 2-4 eggs in ground nests. The eggs are cream-colored with black and brown spots or streaks, a clever adaptation to blend in with the surrounding environment. When it senses danger near its chicks or eggs, the bird emits loud calls and performs various movements to distract and avoid potential threats.

This species is seen in Albania from April to September, as it is migratory and winters in Africa. In Albania, its breeding range includes the Karavasta Lagoon, where part of its population is found. Overall, the country of Albania supports approximately 630 breeding pairs.

The Collared Pratincole is protected both nationally and internationally. According to Albania’s Red List of Flora and Fauna, it is classified as “Vulnerable” (VU). It also benefits from protection under several international conventions.

Habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as construction in wetland areas, are among the main threats to this rare species. Protecting and managing the Karavasta Lagoon and other wetlands is crucial for the survival of the Collared pratincole and the biodiversity it represents.