The Carpathian region of Romania, although it represents less than 2% of the surface of Europe, supports viable and stable bear populations: approximately 35% of the brown bear population of Europe, apart from Russia. These large animals are a symbol species for biodiversity conservation in Europe. They play an important role in the ecosystem through the “top-down” control they exercise over large areas of prey populations. Thus, the presence of this species indicates natural habitats with a high ecological value and functional ecosystems that can be a model for ecological reconstruction in other regions of Europe.

Currently, Romania is one of the few European countries where wild natural areas have been preserved. These areas are important tourist attractions in Romania.

In order to support the conservation of this species in Romania, the project is implemented:

Conservation of the Brown Bear (Ursus arctos) population in Romania 

LIFE FOR BEAR – LIFE13 NAT/RO/001154

Implementation period: oct 2014-oct2019 (prolonged: dec2021)