ACTION D.2 – Evaluation (monitoring) of the effectiveness of mitigation measures implemented to prevent traffic related bear mortality

Although efficiency of different mitigation measures for reducing the number of wildlife-vehicle collisions has already been confirmed, the lack of data on behaviour of bears around such structures still hampers their use. This makes this action essential for getting a better understanding of brown bear ethology and for confirmation of the efficiency of the mitigation measures used. Prior to measures implementation, locations along the highway will be monitored where higher incidence of collisions with animals, especially bears, were recorded. Wildlife surveillance motion-sensitive cameras will be used and based on the the results, jump-out ramps and one-way gates will be placed along the highway. After installation of the electric fence along the highway, IR surveillance cameras with recording systems will be set up to monitor the efficiency and to document changes in bear behaviour (crossing patterns).

In Croatia, 4 brown bears will be captured in Gorski Kotar region near Highway A6 and fitted with GPS telemetry collars. Approaching and eventual crossings of the highway on the crossing structures (including green bridges etc.) or by climbing the highway fence will be recorded. The effectiveness of all implemented mitigation measures on actual reduction of bear mortality will be statistically analysed. Prepared reports will enable sustainable planning of road/railway infrastructure in the future, considering also the issue of reducing bear traffic mortality.

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