International Small Mammals Camp at Shebenik National Park 2025

Over the summer, from 19^th to 29^th August, Shebenik National Park hosted the International Small Mammals Research Camp, a living laboratory for researching these species. The camp brought together almost 50 participants from eight different countries, including students, researchers, experts, and young nature enthusiasts—all united by their passion for the conservation of small mammals.

The camp was organised by PPNEA (Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment Albania), with the support of PONT, and in cooperation with the Dutch Mammal Society and RAPA Elbasan. It was also collaboration with the regional network PrespaNet (including partners the Society for the Protection of Prespa (SPP, Greece), and the Macedonian Ecological Society (MES, North Macedonia).

The camp aimed to promote cross-border collaboration and scientific research in one of Albanian’s most biodiverse national parks. It kicked off with opening remarks from the Director of PPNEA, together with representatives from RAPA Elbasan. From the start, the students got involved with enthusiasm, creating a positive and motivating atmosphere that set the tone for the entire program. Young students introduced themselves, shared ideas, and learned alongside experienced researchers, building a spirit of connection and collaboration that grew stronger with time. Through their guidance and passion, the researchers and organisers inspired and informed the next generation of nature conservationists. The students took part in an intensive training program, gaining in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical experience in monitoring small mammals. Undertaking fieldwork and applying research methods, they became closely familiar with the process of data collection and analysis, contributing to a valuable database for the region.

Divided into working groups to carry out fieldwork, students engaged in setting up Sherman traps for small mammals and recording biological parameters. Through this method valuable information on species distribution and density is gathered, using small mammals as bio-indicators of ecosystem health. The evenings were focused on bats, participants learnt to set up mist-nets to capture and study these flying mammals, who play a crucial role in natural insect control. On the following days, student groups explored various mountainous areas, caves, tunnels, and abandoned buildings, identifying colonies of tens of bats. Newly installed mist nets were used to capture additional bat species, further enhancing knowledge about local biodiversity.

Participants used multiple monitoring methods, including traps for small terrestrial mammals, nets for bats, and checking camera traps for larger mammals. A special moment was the discovery of bat colonies in the caves, where students had the opportunity to observe them up close and experience handling them for the first time. The species identified during the monitoring were numerous, representing the region’s rich biodiversity, and included both small terrestrial mammals and bats. In addition to small mammals, monitoring was carried out for amphibians, reptiles, birds, and large mammals, making the camp a comprehensive, hands-on, and educational experience.

Another important component of the program was the checking of camera traps, which provided valuable information on the presence and activity of the brown bear (Ursus arctos) and an exciting moment with checking records of two individuals of the Balkan lynx (Lynx lynx balcanicus), offering a rare opportunity to see this elusive species documented by photos of camera traps.

Young members of the AlbNatyra’s Youth Organisation actively participated in setting and checking traps and nets, as well as conducting surveys on human–wildlife conflict with their involvement bringing fresh perspectives and helping to strengthen the connection between science, youth, and the local community.

At the end of the programme, students were awarded certificates from PPNEA and international partners recognising their dedication and achievements. The camp continued until 29^th August with the participation of researchers from the Dutch Mammal Society and other international experts, who focused on analysing the results and enriching a growing scientific database. This database will serve as an essential tool for better understanding the region’s biodiversity and for shaping future conservation measures.

As Shebenik National Park continues to serve as a hub for research and ecological learning, this initiative sets a shining example of how nature, science, and youth engagement can come together to protect our planet’s most vulnerable.

By: PPNEA