Study and conservation of the Balkan chamois in Greece, Balkan Chamois Society
With the support of the A. G. Leventis Foundation, the Balkan Chamois Society is working to record the genetic profile of chamois populations in Greece and is helping to protect this rare mammal sub- species. The Balkan chamois is endemic in the high mountains of the Balkan Peninsula and is one of the most threatened animals in the Balkans, largely due to extensive poaching. Automated recording equipment was installed in about 20 strategic locations on mounts Tymfi, Trapezitsa, Smolikas, Grammos, Rodopi (Frakto), Arachthos and Mitsikeli, offering, through thousands of photographs and videos, important information on the status of the local Balkan chamois populations, the appearance and development of diseases (such as a visible skin condition in the population of the Aoös gorge), species behaviour, the presence of sympatric species and predators as well as the presence and threat posed by poachers. With the help of 20 skilled volunteers – scientists/naturalists with extensive mountaineering experience – work was undertaken in the recording of the genetic profile of the Balkan chamois populations in Greece and the laboratory analysis of the samples.
Grants given:
2017, 2018
