Improved ecological connectivity for the Balkan Chamois

The CHAMOIS project aimed to enhance the ecological connectivity of Balkan chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica) within the Pindos–Prespes Connectivity Conservation Area (PP-CCA) by producing an updated scientific baseline, validating ecological corridors, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and promoting public participation in conservation. All planned activities were completed, and the project delivered its expected results.

Ecological research and core-area mapping

Field surveys carried out during 2023 produced 1,200 new chamois observations. These data were used to develop an updated, high-resolution understanding of habitat suitability and to identify 34 core areas for the species (836.36 km²).

Connectivity assessment and corridor and core-area validation

A network of ecological corridors connecting the core areas was identified through cost-surface analysis. Because cost-paths overlap spatially, corridor predictions were converted to the 2×2 km EEA grid, resulting in a corridor network of 460 cells (1,840 km²). Field validation covered 34% of this network. Chamois presence was confirmed in 77 cells and classified as probable in an additional 72 cells (≤1 km from cell boundaries), resulting in a combined use rate of 32.4%. This value represents a systematic, field-based baseline for long-term monitoring of movement patterns across the PP-CCA.

Moreover, to evaluate the presence of the species within the identified core use areas derived from the model, the project conducted field validation using the same 2×2 km EEA grid system. Chamois presence was confirmed in 94 grid cells, providing a robust, ground-validated assessment of core chamois habitats within the PP-CCA.

In total, field surveys carried out during 2023–2025 resulted in 2,308 new chamois observations across the PP-CCA, collected through vantage-point monitoring, biosign identification, and systematic camera trapping (75 stations, 4,078 trap-nights).

Conservation Plan development

A comprehensive “Conservation Plan for the Balkan Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica) in Northwestern Greece”. was prepared by Pindos Perivallontiki, the Biodiversity Conservation Laboratory (University of Ioannina), and the Balkan Chamois Society. The Plan is aligned with the National Action Plan (NAP) and incorporates refined indicators for long-term monitoring. It was presented at the final seminar in Ioannina (16 October 2025) and received positive feedback from NECCA, Management Units, Forest Services, and other stakeholders.

Public awareness and citizen science

The project delivered extensive awareness activities, including lectures in local communities, a public seminar, and a large educational field excursion on Mount Tymfi with 47 participants. The excursion yielded strong educational outcomes and measurable positive shifts in knowledge and attitudes. Additional dissemination was achieved through printed materials, calendars, a project webpage, and videos produced in Greek and English. The first citizen-science mobile application for the chamois in Greece (Agriogido) was developed for Android and iOS.

Stakeholder and transboundary engagement

Stakeholder participation was strengthened through a dedicated seminar in Greece and a transboundary workshop co-organised with PPNEA (Albania) in Korçë, laying the groundwork for future cross-border cooperation on chamois conservation and poaching mitigation.

Overall achievements

All activities were completed at 100%, all outputs were delivered, and most indicators met or exceeded targets. The project established a solid ecological baseline, delivered a regionally relevant Conservation Plan, improved public and institutional engagement, and significantly strengthened transboundary collaboration.

By: Pindos Perivallontiki, the Biodiversity Conservation Laboratory (University of Ioannina), and the Balkan Chamois Society