Study Visit on Green Infrastructure and Large Carnivore Conservation in Northern Greece

From 11 to 14 May, Bernarda Bele, a researcher at the Mediteranskega inštituta za okoljske študije ZRS Koper, participated in a study visit focusing on green infrastructure in the Amyntaio area of northern Greece. The field visits and seminars were organised by the Greek non-governmental organisation Arcturos as part of the 4PETHABECO project, implemented under the Interreg IPA ADRION Programme.

The purpose of the visit was to learn about green infrastructure and habitat connectivity in northern Greece. The participants visited wildlife crossings that ensure habitat connectivity on both sides of transport routes. The roads are bordered by high fencing that guides animals towards safe crossing points.

“We visited critical locations along regional and local roads where collisions between vehicles and wildlife frequently occur. We also learned about the wildlife sanctuary managed by Arcturos with the assistance of volunteers. Among its other activities, this non-governmental organisation cares for large carnivores rescued from unsuitable environments, including circuses and inadequate zoos. The organisation also presented its methodology for monitoring large carnivores and shared its experience of capturing bears and fitting them with telemetry equipment,” said Bernarda Bele.

The 4PETHABECO project is supported by the Interreg IPA ADRION Programme through Interreg funding from the European Regional Development Fund and the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA).