The LIFE ARCPROM project aims at improving human-bear coexistence in three National Parks of Greece (Prespa, Northern Pindos, Rhodope Mountain range) and one in Italy (Majella). The brown bear (Ursus arctos) is an endangered species and is considered a “priority species”, being fully protected by European law. The species conservation regime in Greece falls into the “endangered” category, while the subspecies of the Apennine brown bear (Ursus arctos marsicanus) found in the National Park of Majella falls into the “critically endangered” category.
The main objectives of the LIFE ARCPROM project include:
- Dealing with bear approaches in residential areas,
- minimizing illegal practices such as the use of poisoned baits,
- implementing effective measures to prevent damage, such as electric fences, bear-proof refuse containers and livestock guarding dogs.