Donor: WWF Adria and international partners
Duration: 18 months
This project established, for the first time in Kosovo, a modern and institutional framework for the management of large carnivores – bears, wolves, and lynx. Implemented by Ecopana in close cooperation with national institutions and WWF Adria, the project led to the formal establishment of Kosovo’s first Large Carnivore Intervention Team, alongside a national Coordination Team, marking a major milestone in wildlife governance.
For the first time, responsible institutional staff were trained through structured theoretical and practical trainings, delivered by experienced experts from the region. These trainings covered species monitoring, field response, human–wildlife conflict management, and safety protocols, bringing Kosovo in line with EU and regional best practices.
The project ensured that intervention teams were fully equipped with the necessary field gear and protective equipment, enabling them to operate effectively on the ground. A formal handover and acceptance ceremony of the equipment was organised in Blinaja, with the presence of the Minister, reinforcing institutional ownership and long-term commitment.
In parallel, the project addressed conflict prevention at community level. Farmers in high-risk areas were supported with electric fences compliant with EU standards, reducing livestock losses and preventing negative encounters with large carnivores. This practical support directly contributed to lowering tensions between rural communities and wildlife.
As a result, Kosovo now has operational teams, standardised procedures, trained personnel, and essential equipment for large carnivore management. The project significantly improved coexistence between people and wildlife and positioned Kosovo within regional conservation and management networks, aligned with modern European standards.
