Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park launches first mammal atlas project

The Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park has launched a three-year project to create the first mammal atlas for the region. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice and the Giancarlo Ligabue Natural History Museum of the Venetian Civic Museums Foundation.

Researchers will employ various methodologies to study species with limited existing data, specifically focusing on elusive animals such as the wildcat. In the Pedavena area, scientists are monitoring micromammals through temporary capture, weighing, and identification to determine species, sex, and reproductive status before releasing them.

The project aims to increase environmental knowledge and includes citizen science components, inviting the local population to participate in data collection and educational activities.