In Italian-speaking Switzerland, the priority areas for its conservation are the Magadino Plain and its surroundings, the Riviera, and the Blenio Valley, where most breeding pairs nest. Scattered populations are found in some areas of the Lugano region and in the Mendrisiotto.
The project dedicated to species in agricultural areas—which Ficedula has been managing in collaboration with BirdLife Switzerland for over 20 years—has made it possible to restore orchards, new rows of standard fruit trees, hedgerows, and structures such as piles of stones and wood, as well as install and manage more than 200 nest boxes to provide alternatives to natural cavities, which are still too scarce. These artificial nests are also used by other priority species, such as the Wryneck and the Common Redstart. These hands-on conservation efforts have fostered close ties with farmers and winegrowers; it is thanks to them that all these conservation measures are possible, and that a broad network of collaborators has been established and maintained. In addition, Ficedula and BirdLife Switzerland have organized pruning courses and other workshops to teach participants how to build nests for the Hoopoe in dry stone walls; several participants have already constructed some. Through this project, we have initiated a very positive collaboration with numerous partners, including the Office for Nature and Landscape of the Canton of Ticino, the Agriculture Section of the Canton of Ticino, the Association of Ticino Winegrowers, and the Cantonal Agricultural School of Mezzana.