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Bear,
Wolf and Lynx – The survival of the large carnivores in our hands (Olsi Qazimi)
Nobody knows how old exactly is the
conflict between large carnivores and humans in Albania, but it is a flat fact
that the massive persecution of these animals started at the beginning of the
20th century. From a study carried out by the society for the
Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania, for the conflict
between humans and large carnivores, till now results that in 46 villages
located in high mountain areas, in the last 12 months have been attacked or
killed 949 sheep, 48 cattle and 51 transport animals (horses, donkeys and
mules). If we also calculate the damage that bear causes to crops and those of
the fox in poultry the total damage would amount to near 170 000 euros.
By the other side, the human response has
not been merciful. During the last 5 years in the above mentioned villages have
been killed, trapped or poisoned 38 wolves and 23 bears. During our field
investigations we have noticed 17 stuffed bears in different restaurants or
bars as an ornament.
But is this a solution? These animals are of an
incredible value to the Albanian nature and bear important spiritual significance.
The best solution would be pacific co-existence. We have to take measures for
the mitigation of the conflicts in a way that the nature doesn’t loose values. |