Project “Bats and Natura 2000 in Serbia”

All bat species found in Serbia are under strict legal protection and according to the EU Habitats Directive they are all listed in Annex IV [1], with 13 species listed in Annex II [2].  This Directive represents a cornerstone for establishment and management of a network of protected areas in EU Member States – better known as Natura2000.

However, data regarding bat species distribution, abundance, important roosts and habitats in majority of protected areas in Serbia is very scarce or does not exist. There is a great need to implement inventory and monitoring practices based on scientific methods and good expert practices found in Europe and all around the world.

Project “Bats and Natura 2000 in Serbia” aims to conduct an inventory and establish a monitoring system within the region of exceptional characteristics “Ovčar-Kablar Gorge” in Central Serbia. Through cooperation with protected area managers, activities are going to include inventory of bat species and their important roosts and habitats on the territory of this protected area.

In addition to field research, project includes developing and dissemination of educational and promotional materials for relevant stakeholders, experts and general public.

Project main activities:

  • Inventory of bat species, important roosts and habitats within the region of exceptional characteristics “Ovčar-Kablar Gorge”
  • Developing and dissemination promotional and educational materials
  • Networking with CSOs, scientific and professional institutions and decision makers who are relevant for carrying out project activities

Project will be implemented during 2015 and 2016 and is supported by Rufford foundation.

Find more information about the project on the Rufford foundation page.

[1] species of community interest – species which require strict protection
[2] species of communityinterest – whose conservation requires the designation of special areas of conservation.