Towards large-scale wolf population monitoring
Challenges and perspectives
On 19 September 2023, the fifth international conference of LIFE WolfAlps EU will be held, entitled: “Towards large-scale wolf population monitoring- Challenges and perspectives”. The conference aims to create an opportunity for discussion on estimating the status of large-scale wolf populations and examining the pros and cons of current statistical and genetic data analysis techniques.
The conference can be followed on-line filling this form
Obtaining an accurate and robust estimate of wolf populations is fundamental for defining the interventions required for the conservation and management of the species. Estimating the numbers of an animal population is complex, particularly in cases such as that of the wolf, which is an elusive species, that makes extensive movements and occupies vast territories. Data collection requires intensive fieldwork and the adoption of coordinated monitoring protocols aimed at collecting genetic samples as efficiently as possible. The numerical and spatial expansion of the species in Europe makes it even more challenging to perform estimates at the level of the entire population (which in many cases, such as the Alpine species, extends beyond the administrative borders of individual states). The development of increasingly sophisticated genetic analysis methods and statistical models makes it possible to obtain increasingly accurate estimates, which overcome the difficulties of collecting data in the field. The conference will provide an opportunity to discuss Europe’s experiences with large-scale monitoring of wolf populations and future prospects, including the use of the latest genetic techniques.
Read the conference program HERE
