The main objective of this project is to evaluate the functionality of ecological networks, including national protected areas and the Natura 2000 network, for brown bears in Europe, at the local, regional and European scales. Our specific objectives can be found below:
Objective 1
Evaluate functional connectivity and factors influencing brown bear distribution, movements, and effective dispersal in the current landscapes and future landscape scenarios.
Objective 2
Understand the role brown bears have in ecosystems, with focus on trophic interactions and associated ecosystem services.
Objective 3
Assess the effectiveness of the existing system of ecological networks for supporting the resilience of brown bear populations and associated ecosystem services.
Objective 4
Provide spatially explicit guidelines for the improvement of ecological networks to be used in landscape connectivity planning for the conservation of brown bears and other species in Europe.
