Rescue of a young bear by OFYPEKA, Callisto and Forest Service
An operation to free a young bear, which was trapped in a rainwater tank in the Local Community of Metamorphosis of the Municipality of Zitsa Ioannina, in the mountainous area of Mitsikeli, on the borders of the North Pindos National Park, took place on Friday, June 28, 2024.
The North Pindos National Park Management Unit of OFYPEKA was informed about the incident by residents of Metamorfosi, whom we thank warmly. Officials of the Unit, the Forestry Department of Ioannina and the Environmental Organization Callisto, along with a specialized veterinarian, were on the spot.
As it was found, the rainwater tank was full of water almost up to the height of the animal, which was quite stressed and was swimming, in vain, to be able to find a way to escape. To free it, the Emergency Response Team (ERT) emptied the tank and constructed a makeshift escape ramp with wood, which the young bear used to escape and return to its habitat.
The rescue operation of the young bear was carried out with due care, taking all the necessary safety measures by the specialized staff of the above-mentioned agencies, who cooperated within the operation of the Immediate Intervention Team. An important role in the success of the business was the immediate mobilization and coordination of the competent bodies, as well as the immediate information from the local community.
It is noted that in the area of the Northern Pindos National Park, the project “LIFE ARCPROM” (https://lifearcprom.uowm.gr/) is implemented with the participation of OFYPEKA and Kallisto, which aims to improve the conditions of coexistence of the brown bear and of man in the National Parks of the Rhodope Mountains, Prespon, B. Pindos (Greece) and Maiella (in Italy). The project strengthens, among other things, the operation, equipment and improvement of the operational capacity of the Immediate Intervention Teams for the bear.
Open rainwater tanks, especially when their fencing is incomplete or damaged, are a potential danger to all fauna. As part of addressing the problem, Callisto is working to modify water reservoirs that may pose a risk to bears, through the “Life Bear Smart Corridors” project (https://rewilding-apennines.com/life-bear-smart -corridors/).
OFYPEKA
OFYPEKA The Natural Environment and Climate Change Organization (OFYPEKA) is a Private Law Entity supervised by the Ministry of Environment and Energy, with the mission of managing protected areas in Greece, preserving biodiversity, promoting and implementing sustainable development actions and dealing with climate change. More information: www.necca.gr
Callisto Wildlife and Nature Environmental Organization
Callisto, Environmental Organization for Wildlife and Nature, is an Urban Non-Profit Society created in 2004. Its actions concern the conservation of wild life, emphasizing large mammals, but also the coexistence of these species with humans . More information: www.callisto.gr