Farewell to a pioneer: Jan Hora (1945–2026)

Jan was exceptional in his ability to bridge science, practical conservation and policy. Whether conducting field research in the remote forests and mountains of Šumava National Park, writing for scientific and popular audiences, or advocating for nature at national and international levels, he brought the same rigour, conviction and knowledge to everything he did.

For more than four decades, Jan helped shape the development of bird conservation in Czechoslovakia and later in Czechia,  and played a significant role within the BirdLife Partnership. During the 1980s and 1990s, he helped secure the future of the Czech Society for Ornithology, guided its successful integration into BirdLife International, and contributed to transforming it from a closed scientific society into a modern conservation organisation open to all.

IBAs – the network of sites most critical to bird survival – were already being mapped across the world. But Jan saw that identifying them wasn’t enough. Working within the International Council for Bird Preservation (ICBP) in the 1980s, he proposed something new: local volunteer groups who would take active responsibility for the conservation of these sites. He called them “caretaker groups”. It was a simple idea with a long reach, and it became a cornerstone of how BirdLife Partners around the world protect the places birds need most.

In recognition of this outstanding contribution to global bird conservation, BirdLife International awarded Jan with its prestigious Conservation Achievement Award at the BirdLife International World Conference 2008, in Buenos Aires.

Closer to home, Jan played a crucial role in preparing Czechia for accession to the European Union. He led efforts to introduce and promote the implementation of the EU Birds and Habitats Directives, trained conservation authorities, and coordinated the identification and designation of Special Protection Areas that would become part of the Natura 2000 network.

His dedication never dimmed. Even at the age of eighty, Jan remained active in field research, bird monitoring and conservation issues, continuing to contribute to science conservation practice, and public understanding of birds until the end of his life.

Jan Hora leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. His vision, commitment and tireless work shaped bird conservation in Czechia and left a mark globally. He will be remembered as an outstanding conservationist and leader, and equally, as a mentor, colleague and friend whose knowledge, integrity and distinctive sense of humour inspired generations of ornithologists and conservationists.

Our thoughts are with Jan’s family, friends and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Pictures by ČSO