First workshop on genetic monitoring of the brown bear held at Pelister National Park
Park staff trained in a non‑invasive scat‑sampling method to improve estimates of brown bear numbers and distribution in North Macedonia.
Pelister National Park (NP) hosted the first workshop on genetic monitoring of the brown bear, marking a step toward obtaining more precise data on the species' abundance and distribution in North Macedonia.
How the monitoring will be carried out
Park staff were introduced to a non‑invasive monitoring method based on collecting scat samples. The training covered proper collection, labeling, storage and recording of samples to ensure that material gathered in the field can be used reliably for genetic analyses.
Specialized field equipment for sample collection and handling was provided to support the monitoring effort and to standardize work across teams operating in the park.
Genetic analysis allows researchers to identify individual animals because the genetic profile is unique to each bear. That individual identification can be used to estimate population size, map movements and clarify how bears are distributed across the landscape.
Organizers say the workshop is the first phase of a broader plan to expand genetic monitoring to additional parts of the country, improving long‑term conservation planning for the brown bear.
Photo: NP
