Description

We're back in the heart of the Tatra mountain range in Slovakia for year two of our five year survey of the Tatra chamois population. Our work will find us ranging far on foot into the mountains, logging sightings and evidence of this characterful goat-antelope species, and some of its main predators: wolves, bears and lynx.

This is a paradise for lovers of wilderness and wildlife: marmots, golden eagles, wolves, lynx, bears, red and roe deer and wild boar all roam, and our work gives us the best chance of seeing any or all of these.

It's a tough project which will involve mountain trekking on steep slopes in remote areas. A real conservation challenge!

Who we are working with
The Slovak Wildlife Society (SWS) is a not-for-profit organisation specialising in carnivores such as the brown bear (Ursus arctos), grey wolf (Canis lupus) and Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx).

By developing effective measures to reduce conflicts, particularly between people, often farmers, and these large carnivores, SWS aims to foster greater understanding and acceptance of native predators. The organisation provides expert knowledge and assistance to local communities in implementing non-lethal measures such as livestock guarding dogs, electric fences and bear-proof bins. Scientific research provides authorities with a sound basis for management decisions as well as contributing information to education and awareness campaigns, in which SWS is also very active.

Where we're working
Nízke Tatry or Low Tatras National Park (NAPANT) is one of Slovakia's largest national parks, at around 1,800 square kilometres (695 square miles) including a large buffer zone.

Almost 90% of the area is forested, with beech-dominated forests predominating on the south side and more coniferous forests to the north. However, the main ridge rises above these with the highest peaks, Dumbier and Chopok, exceeding 2,000m (6,500 feet) above sea level and affording fantastic views of almost half of Slovakia, from Poland to Hungary.

The majority of this project will take place in subalpine and alpine habitats, where as well as chamois there are also marmots, golden eagles, wolves, lynx, bears, red and roe deer and wild boar.

What we'll be doing
This is a wildlife-orientated holiday during which we'll be assisting with ecological survey work. The main focus is on the Tatra chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra tatrica), a sub-species of the goat-antelope that is unique to the Tatra Mountains, and its potential predators and threats to their survival.

Between 2001 and 2005 the Slovak Wildlife Society together with BTCV and national park staff conducted an annual census of the chamois in the Low Tatras National Park and analysed the diets of wolves and bears in the area. We found that, following a previous observed decline, numbers of chamois had stabilised at around 100 individuals. Because the population is so small, it is important to monitor it closely for changes.

In 2011 we started a repeat of the 5-year monitoring programme to see how the population is faring. We are also using the opportunity to conduct behavioural observations of the chamois and assess threats to them. Our work to date has also shown that, contrary to the claims of many hunters calling for a predator cull, predation pressure does not seem to have been reducing chamois numbers.

After training and instruction, we'll be working in pairs or threes to search for and observe chamois from prescribed locations using binoculars or spotting scopes. Standardised data sheets will be used to record observations of chamois, their predators and other species in the area.

This is a tough and physically demanding project: you should be able to walk 10-20km per day over rough and steep terrain in a mountain environment. On the arrival and departure dates we will have to carry all our belongings between the chairlift (our route up the mountain) and the accommodation - a walk of approximately 6km taking 2-3 hrs.

The Low Tatras National Park is a beautiful area to work in and volunteers who took part in the previous survey saw a great deal of wildlife including, for the lucky ones, both wolves and bears.

Benefits of our work
Repeating the initial survey after an interval of five years allows us to assess whether there have been changes which require action. Having reliable information on population size and trend (increasing/declining/stable) is vitally important for the conservation of this unique animal. The main threats to chamois will also be assessed.

Where we'll be staying
Most of the time we'll be staying high in the heart of the mountains in the Chata M.R. Stefanika pod Dumbierom - a walkers' hostel originally dating from 1924 and located at an altitude of 1740m, with spectacular views and wildlife all around. It is the perfect place to get away from it all and get back to nature.

That doesn't mean we'll have to rough it though, as the resident staff provide cooked meals and there's even a bar serving the highest tapped beer in Slovakia. All supplies are still carried in by porters - 40 tons a year!

In addition, we'll spend a couple of nights en route and to extend our surveying range in another, smaller and even more charming walkers hostel, the Kamenná Chata. Conditions here are basic - shared dormitories, no running water - but an unforgettable experience.

Highlights

Because of the remoteness of the project, we've scheduled a full day and a half off in the middle. For those relishing the isolation however, there's limitless wilderness wandering to be done and an optional trip to the limestone Cave of the Dead Bats an hour's walk away.

Or make a break for civilisation: there will be enough time off to walk to the Jasna resort where there are several activities including paragliding, Tarzania, mountain bikes and scooters, as well as more relaxing pursuits such as a spa and sauna. You could even choose to spend Friday night at the Hotel Grand and freshen up for the rest of the fieldwork by indulging in one of their wellness centre packages. Further afield, but still reachable, is Tatralandia aqua park. All the above activities are available, but not included in the project price.

Qualifications

No qualifications is needed for this holiday.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

690 GBP

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• Medical insurance

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Conservation
• Environment
• Research
• Volunteering
• Wildlife Surveying

Age Range

18-80

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 12

Application Process Involves

• Other

Typically The Application Process Time is

n/a

BTCV's Mission Statement

A better environment where people are valued, included and involved. Mission: To create a more sustainable future by inspiring people and improving places. Values: BTCV's values are integral to all our work. They have been developed through four decades of a 'hands-on' approach to conservation activities. During this time we have adapted to meet the changing needs of communities, we care about people, the communities in which they live and the quality of their environment.

Year Founded

1959