Bulgarian Academy of Science, Bulgaria - Tackle bear conservation challenges with innovation

The Nature FIRST project is redefining how science, technology, and local collaboration can address the challenges of bear conservation in Bulgaria. Through a partnership with the Bulgarian Academy of Science and the integration of tools like project partner Sensing Clues’ data collection app Cluey, Focus 360 Situational Awareness and the Analytical Toolbox, as well as the co-development of a Bear Digital Twin with Wageningen University & Research, the project is driving innovative, data-driven approaches to monitor bear populations, tackle poaching, and reduce human-wildlife conflict.

From data collection to action: streamlining conservation in National Parks

For researchers and rangers in Bulgaria, collecting and utilising data about wildlife has historically been labour-intensive and prone to gaps. Nikola Doykin, ​​fauna expert at Vitosha Nature Park Directorate and a researcher of the Bulgarian Academy of Science, recounts how Sensing Clues’ Cluey data collection app revolutionised field data collection: 

"Before, recording a single observation could take minutes, followed by hours of transcription and data entry at the office. With Cluey, it takes just 15 seconds to record, visualise, and store data safely. This efficiency saves days of work and ensures data integrity and safety, even in challenging field conditions."  

Cluey’s real-time synchronisation and user-friendly interface have empowered field teams, including older rangers with limited technical skills, to embrace modern conservation technologies seamlessly. By providing immediate access to data, the combination of Sensing Clues’  Cluey and Analytical Toolbox enable researchers to identify patterns and hotspots quickly, driving immediate action and strategic planning.  

Tackling poaching and illegal activities with technology

A key success has been the effective use of camera traps, supported by Nature FIRST and Sensing Clues’ Likelihood Maps, to combat poaching and other illegal activities in the Central Balkan National Park. Camera traps, strategically placed using Sensing Clues’ Analytical Likelihood Map predictions, have been instrumental in identifying unauthorised activities. Nikola shares a striking example:  

"We placed camera traps at key locations identified through the generated likelihood maps. When an unauthorised vehicle entered the park, we alerted rangers, who apprehended the violators. This real-time monitoring allows us to act immediately, combining predictive modelling with on-the-ground enforcement."  

This integration of data-driven tools with ranger expertise has curbed illegal activities, strengthened compliance, and enhanced the park’s ability to protect its wildlife.  

Building a Digital Twin for comprehensive conservation  

The Nature FIRST project is also pioneering the development of a digital twin for bears in Bulgaria. This virtual model integrates data from Cluey, camera traps, and historical records to predict bear movements and behaviours based on environmental factors. By mapping population densities, conflict hotspots, and movement patterns, the digital twin provides a foundation for both scientific research and practical solutions, such as guiding conflict mitigation efforts and improving park management.

Collaboration across stakeholders  

The Nature FIRST project has fostered collaboration between researchers, rangers, and local stakeholders, including national park administrations, hunting organisations, and the Bulgarian Ministry of Environment for example through a stakeholder workshop held in Gabrovo in 2024. While institutional bureaucracy poses challenges, Nikola highlights progress:  

"Rangers are enthusiastic about using these tools, but the broader adoption requires navigating administrative hurdles. Still, the ministry is interested in scaling up these solutions, seeing their potential to improve biodiversity monitoring and conservation."  

Towards sustainable coexistence  

The multifaceted approach supported by Nature FIRST is addressing Bulgaria’s unique conservation challenges. With bear populations under scrutiny, rising human-wildlife conflicts, and lingering issues like poaching, the tools and strategies deployed by the project are proving invaluable.  

"It’s not just about science," Nikola emphasises, "but creating practical solutions for rangers, policymakers, and local communities. We are seeing real results in protecting habitats and wildlife."