The Balkan Lynx Recovery Programme -transboundary approach -

Transcription

1 The Balkan Lynx Recovery Programme -transboundary approach - Dime Melovski Aleksandar Stojanov Gjorgi Ivanov Vasko Avukatov Alexandër Trajçe Bledi Hoxha Kujtim Mersini

2 Balkan Lynx Recovery Programme Description It is a joint multilateral project implemented in Macedonia (MES) and Albania (PPNEA) with the main goal to save the Balkan Lynx The international cooperation KORA (CH), EuroNatur (D), NINA (NO) Lynx component Protected Areas component Human dimension component I phase and II phase Sponsored by: MAVA foundation Switzerland; BfN Germany; SNSF-Swiss National Scientific Foundation; Norwegian Research Council

3 Situation of the Balkan lynx Distribution of Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx) in Europe Most endangered indigenous population Balkan population: estimated individuals

4 Status of the Balkan Lynx (Lynx lynx balcanicus) The Balkan Lynx is Critically Endangered according to IUCN Red List criteria ELOIS (2004)

5 Components of conservation planning Status assessment Status Report Range-wide strategic planning Conservation Strategy National action planning Action Plans

6 Lynx presence according to Baseline Survey

7 7 Camera-trapping method 7 camera-trapping session Around 80 lynx photos 9 photos outside its core area In Mavrovo and surroundings 9±3,24 individuals Density of around 0,80 ± 0,30 ind./100 km 2 7 7

8 Camera-trapping in Albania Three sessions so far (2009, 2011, 2012) Six geographical areas surveyed (almost all N, NE and E Albania) Presence of Balkan lynx confirmed in 2011 (1 individual) and 2012 (2 individuals) Updated and more accurate knowledge on many wildlife species

9 Radio-telemetry method To learn about their home range Distribution and abundance Habitat preferences Social organization Predation and diet Health and genetic analyses

10 Radio-telemetry method Marko - The first lynx caught in Mavrovo NP on 14 th of March 2010 Local assistance from Mavrovo NP wardens Riste second lynx captured on 5 th of March 2012 Local assistance from Kichevo hunters

11 Radio-telemetry method -results Marko MCP of 360 km² 64% roe deer, 24% chamois, 12% hare Riste MCP of 400 km² 90% roe deer, 10% hare

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13 Protected areas approach Proclamation of Trans-boundary protected areas Enhancement of international cooperation for nature conservation Protection of large and complex ecosystems Protection of sub-populations of lynx Jabllanica Mt.

14 Potential Protected Areas studied in BLRP

15 Balkan Green Belt as ecological corridor for bear, lynx and wolf Jablanica Mt. Biodiversity case study studying biodiversity and geology Capacity building along Balkan Green Belt Small grant projects Establishment of transboundary hiking trail Submitted proposal for proclamation of PA in 2009

16 Important biocorridors Macedonian Green Belt Low human population density and minimal infrastructure Relief and high percent of well-preserved forest coverage To submit a proposal - value as a biocorridor category V/VI Great support from the locals Small grant projects

17 Reports on evaluation of biodiversity, geology and hydrography Established database Publication of information material booklet and hiking maps Promotion of the natural values of Shar Planina Mountain through environmental education and stakeholder involvement Small grants scheme Using synergies with other initiatives UNEP; IPA; local stakeholders

18 Protected areas component in AL Proclamation of Shebenik- Jabllanica NP (2008) Proclamation of Korab-Koritnik Nature Park (2011) Working towards the protection of Pashtrik-Morine corridor and Albanian Alps protected area

19 Conclusions and outlook Achievements: Existence of lynx proved in AL (possible subpopulation?) Improved knowledge on the wildlife situation in the countries Raised awareness on nature conservation issues (Balkan lynx as a flagship) Increased capacities on wildlife research and nature conservation Interconnected network of large PAs High natural value that can be conserved Clear potential for long-term sustainable use

20 Future focus Continuation of the monitoring of the Balkan lynx and its prey species Continue with awareness raising activities in relation to lynx and protected areas Improve general wildlife management in Albania through increasing capacities and awareness Improvement of the Monitoring Network Improve landscape protection and management for habitat recovery Enlargement of the activities towards Kosovo and Montenegro

21 Thank you for your attention!