A study conducted by ARKTOUROS, a Greek wildlife conservation organization, between 2007 and 2010 found that the number of bears in Greece has increased.
“At this moment, there are 360 registered bears, which indicates a population increase, compared to the last count of 250 bears. Based on the number of registered individuals, the ARKTOUROS scientific team estimated that the number of bears in Greece is estimated to be at least 450,” the organization’s report notes.
The study was conducted around the mountain range of Pindos, located in Northern Greece. Researchers collected genetic material from bears by attaching small harmless wires on electricity poles, against which bears tend to scratch themselves, the reports explains. Similar to humans, bear DNA is unique for each bear.
“The recovery of the bear population in Greece is a practical reaffirmation of the effectiveness of ARKTOUROS activities. However, it should not lead to a false conclusion, as bears continue to be a strictly endangered species and their protection must continue with the same pace,” ARKTOUROS clarifies.
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