Aufbau und Umsetzung eines sozioökologischen Monitoring-Systems zum Schutz von Großsäugern im Südkaukasus

Safeguarding large mammal populations in human-dominated landscapes requires a better understanding of the distribution of these species and their interactions with humans. In the SoMo project, we will develop a socio-ecological monitoring system for the protection of large mammals in the southern Caucasus. Specifically, the project has four overarching goals: (1) Developing a unified monitoring protocol and data infrastructure. (2) Digitizing disparate and analogue wildlife and socio-economic data. (3) Demonstrating the value of our monitoring system in pilot studies. (4) Building scientific and technical expertise to guarantee long-term usage of the monitoring system in the southern Caucasus.

Our project will be inherently transdisciplinary, involving key conservation organizations in all project countries. Scientifically, SoMo will provide new insights into the distribution of large mammals, their interactions with humans, and their conservation in socio-ecological systems.