 The strict and special reserves, as well as the national and nature parks, are managed and protected by the central government, while other protected areas are managed by counties.In 2005, the National Ecological Network was set up as the first step in preparation for EU membership and joining the Natura 2000 network.Habitat destruction represents a threat to biodiversity in Croatia, as developed and agricultural land is expanded into previous natural habitats, while habitat fragmentation occurs as roads are created or expanded.