Brown bears are gradually recolonising the south-eastern Alps, creating a unique opportunity to establish long-term coexistence between humans and one of Europe’s most iconic large carnivores.
While most interactions between bears and people remain conflict-free, a small number of incidents have reduced public support for bear conservation. At the same time, the bear population in the Central Alps faces a serious genetic bottleneck, having originated from only ten founder individuals. Maintaining connectivity between the Central Alpine and Dinaric bear populations through the south-eastern Alps is therefore crucial for the species’ long-term survival.
Despite the importance of this region, reliable information on bear population size, movements and migration corridors remain limited.
Project Objectives
The project aims to strengthen scientific knowledge of brown bears at the north-western expansion front of the Dinaric population while promoting peaceful coexistence between bears and local communities.
By combining field research, education and community engagement, the project will support evidence-based bear management and help prevent conflicts before they arise.
Monitoring Bear Populations and Movements
A key component of the project is an intensive monitoring programme based on non-invasive genetic sampling, as well as the capture and GPS-collaring of selected bears.
Working closely with forest services, hunters and scientific partners, the project will:
- Assess population size and distribution;
- Monitor dispersal patterns and bear movements;
- Evaluate the effectiveness of migration corridors between Slovenia, Italy, and Austria;
- Improve understanding of the species’ ongoing expansion across the Alps.
The collected data will also be compared with previous monitoring results to identify long-term trends and conservation priorities.
Supporting Coexistence Through Education and Outreach
Scientific research alone is not enough to ensure successful coexistence. Raising awareness among people who live, work, and spend time in bear habitats is equally important.
The project will engage local communities through:
- School visits and educational activities;
- Public presentations and awareness campaigns;
- Guided tours along the Tarvisio Bear Trail;
- Workshops for farmers, beekeepers, and local authorities.
These activities will promote understanding of bear ecology, encourage safe behaviour during bear encounters, and share practical measures to prevent conflicts.
Improving Waste Management and Conflict Prevention
Improper waste management is one of the most common sources of human-bear conflict. To address this challenge, the project will identify critical garbage collection sites and develop practical recommendations for bear-proof waste management in collaboration with local communities.
These measures will help reduce attractants, minimise risks, and support safer coexistence for both people and bears.
Expected Impact
By combining scientific monitoring with proactive public engagement, the project will generate essential knowledge for the conservation of brown bears in the Alps. At the same time, it will strengthen public acceptance of bears and support the peaceful coexistence of humans and wildlife across this important transboundary landscape.
Photo credits © Progetto Lince Italia
