BearConnect

BearConnect is an international research project focused on the brown bear as a model species for studying ecological connectivity and sustainability across Europe. Funded through BiodivERsA, the project ran from 2017 to 2020 and brought together researchers working in different parts of the brown bear’s European range. In collaboration with national funding agencies and stakeholders, the team pooled data to examine whether ecological networks—including national protected areas and the Natura 2000 network—support functional connections between landscapes and contribute to ecological sustainability.

The project’s aim is not only to assess these networks, but also to develop practical recommendations for improving them. BearConnect shares information about its objectives, work packages, study areas, partners, stakeholders, and findings through its website. Its project outputs include publications, presentations, workshop materials, and media resources, alongside a stakeholder platform and links to related information. The project was coordinated by Marta De Barba and Wilfried Thuiller, and welcomed questions from people interested in its research and outcomes.