Montenegro hunters trained for brown bear genetic monitoring

More than 150 hunters and members of hunting societies across Montenegro have completed training for the non-invasive collection of genetic samples from brown bears. This initiative aims to establish a wide network of trained collaborators to begin field monitoring of this protected species.

The training sessions were organized by the Center for Protection and Study of Birds (CZIP) and the Agency for Environmental Protection as part of the LIFE DinPin Bear project. Workshops were held in Cetinje, Danilovgrad, Nikšić, Plužine, Pljevlja, Bijelo Polje, and Kolašin, with participation from the Hunting Association of Montenegro and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management.

The methodology focuses on collecting genetic material left by bears in nature without capturing or disturbing the animals. This approach allows for genetic analysis to identify individual bears, confirm their presence in specific areas, and provide precise data on population size and distribution, which is essential for planning conservation measures.