Coexistence Corridors

Juan Carlos Muñoz / Rewilding Europe

Coexistence Corridors

Damage Preventive Measures

Support will be directly provided to farmers to implement damage preventive measures and adopt best husbandry practices (i.e., use of native breeds, keeping livestock in small pastures, temporary enclosure of the most vulnerable individuals) in order to reduce the risk of wolf attacks. This is expected to create a positive example that could be followed by other farmers within the project area, reducing conflicts between wolves and the husbandry sector.

Within this action, Livestock Guard Dogs (LGDs) and fixed fences will be given to livestock owners to protect small ruminants and especially cattle. A native breed traditionally used in the project area will be selected (Serra de Estrela), although other breeds that are deemed to be more adequate protecting cattle can be also chosen.

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Surveillance Team

Some of the most important threats to wolves in the project area are illegal killing and human-made fires. In order to reduce these threats a mobile surveillance and protection team will be created.

A plan for replicability of mobile teams for surveillance and protection of wolf habitat will be written and three workshops will be organized in the other three regions that are part of the wolf’s range in Portugal: Peneda/Gerês, Alvão/Padrela and Bragança.

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Wildlife Ambassadors

Wildlife ambassadors will be people from local villages who will support their neighbours in solving doubts, concerns, or conflicts with wildlife. For example, wildlife ambassadors will inform livestock owners about the process of claiming compensation for damages and record sightings of rare or vulnerable species in the villages. They will be the link between local stakeholders and the project team, who will therefore be able to communicate promptly and more effectively with local communities.

Hunting Management Plans & Non-toxic Ammunition

Hunting management plans will be prepared for wolf prey species in Portugal through a participatory process. In addition, a more coordinated management of rabbit and partridge will be promoted for the core areas of the Côa Valley through collaborations with hunting associations. The goal is to promote a bigger abundance and health in the population of these species. Contacts with hunting association will also be made in order to pilot test the use of non-toxic ammunitions. Demonstrations and testing with hunter associations will also take place.