MAPPING THE FUTURE: DEVELOPING AN ACTION PLAN AND IDENTIFYING KEY WOLF HABITATS IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Wolves are currently more vulnerable in the long term than in the previous few decades. The relaxation of protection measures and the proposed changes by the European Union — moving wolves from Annex II to Annex V of the Bern Convention — realistically threaten their survival. The latest report from the Large Carnivore Initiative for Europe indicates a declining population trend of wolves in Bosnia and Herzegovina and highlights the urgent need for continuous monitoring.
Our previous research has shown a moderately high genetic diversity of wolves in BiH, but also a low effective population size and reduced gene flow with neighboring subpopulations. In addition, for the first time, we documented range overlap and hybridization within the Canis genus in our country. These findings, together with habitat fragmentation, overhunting, and pressures from jackals and stray dogs, clearly point to the serious challenges wolves are facing today.
Goals of our Rufford Project
With this final project, we are working on:
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preparing a formal action plan for wolf conservation in BiH, in collaboration with relevant institutions;
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providing electric fences to farmers to reduce conflicts and promote coexistence between people and wolves;
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identifying critical wolf habitats and proposing them for protection;
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conducting further research on range overlap and hybridization within the Canis genus;
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strengthening capacities for future conservation efforts through educational and practical workshops.
Expected Impact
The results will enable the development of concrete conservation measures and ensure the long-term survival of wolves in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider region.
The project is supported by The Rufford Foundation (UK).
For more information about our previous wolf conservation projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina, click on the arrow below:
THE MOST IMPORTANT PUBLICATIONS
THE FIRST NATIONAL WOLF MONITORING PLAN HAS BEEN PUBLISHED IN REPUBLIKA SRPSKA
In cooperation with the Center for the Environment and the Institute for the Protection of Cultural, Historical and Natural Heritage of Republika Srpska, the first national wolf (Canis lupus) monitoring plan for the territory of Republika Srpska has been developed.
This important document was co-authored by Dr. Dragana Šnjegota, a specialist in wolf genetics and ecology, whose field and genetic data collected over previous years served as the foundation for defining the monitoring methodology. The plan was developed in accordance with modern standards and best practices used in the region and the European Union, while taking into account the specific characteristics of the wolf population in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The plan sets out clear guidelines for monitoring the wolf population over time, including methods such as camera trapping, genetic analysis, field sampling, and engagement with local communities. Its primary goal is to establish a long-term, sustainable, and scientifically sound monitoring system that will contribute not only to wolf conservation, but also to the preservation of broader biodiversity.
The development of the document was financially supported by the USDA Forest Service. This marks an important first step toward a more comprehensive approach to large carnivore conservation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The plan may also serve as a foundation for future strategic documents in the field of nature protection.
👉 More about the wolf monitoring plan is available at the following link:
https://czzs.org/multimedia/publikacije/biodiversitet-i-zasticena-podrucja/
Monograph: Wolf Genetics of Bosnia and Herzegovina
As part of a multi-year research project on the wolf population (Canis lupus) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a comprehensive scientific study has been conducted, resulting in the development of a monograph on the genetic structure of this species within the country. The primary aim of the research was to provide a thorough understanding of genetic diversity, population structure, and the phylogeographic position of wolves in BiH, in order to establish a solid foundation for effective conservation and management strategies.
This research provides a strong scientific basis for developing wolf conservation strategies in BiH and highlights the urgent need for continuous population monitoring. Genetic data enable the identification of important subpopulations, as well as the detection of potential threats.
The monograph includes a detailed presentation of all methods, results, and conclusions, and serves as a valuable resource for biologists, wildlife managers, and policymakers in the field of nature conservation.
