“Using the alerting system of Sensing Clues, we could monitor bears in real-time and act before incidents occurred. This was crucial for reducing conflicts.”

HUMAN-WILDLIFE COEXISTENCECOMMUNITY-LED CONSERVATION
Written By Rebekka Stutz

WWF, Romania - Redefining Human-Bear Coexistence with advanced data collection tools, risk radars and strategic interventions

The Nature FIRST project has brought together cutting-edge technology and local expertise to tackle the pressing issue of human-wildlife conflict in Romania. WWF Romania, in collaboration with Sensing Clues and other Nature FIRST partners, has implemented groundbreaking solutions and tools to reduce human-bear conflicts in Baile Tusnad, while building a foundation for long-term coexistence. Through the use of Sensing Clues’ advanced data collection tools, risk radars and strategic interventions, the project has achieved remarkable success in minimising conflicts, restoring safety, and fostering coexistence between communities and large carnivores.

Transforming Baile Tusnad: zero damages in two years 

Baile Tusnad, the smallest town in the Carpathians, has long been a hotspot for bear-related incidents. In 2021, more than 40 damages were recorded. By 2023, however, this number had dropped to zero and remained zero in 2024 as well. This achievement was the result of a multifaceted approach enabled by Nature FIRST tools and local engagement. Cristian Papp, Wildlife and Landscapes National Manager of WWF Romania, explains: 

"The tools provided by Nature FIRST have been instrumental in this success. Using the alerting system of Sensing Clues, we could monitor bears in real-time and act before incidents occurred. This was crucial for reducing conflicts." 

Key measures included:  

Human-Bear Risk Radar for identifying conflict hotspots in real-time

  • Real-Time Alerts: Integrated into the Sensing Clues platform, an alerting system provided intervention teams with real-time notifications when collared bears entered predefined zones. This enabled swift, targeted responses.  

  • Behavioral Data and Analysis: Collars equipped with video capability captured valuable data on bear movements and feeding behaviors. The Sensing Clues platform allowed for efficient analysis, making the insights accessible even to non-specialists.  

  • Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) Mapping and Predictive Insights: Historical conflict data combined with a bear habitat suitability model and data from bear collars and camera traps fed into the Human-Bear Conflict Radar identifying conflict hotspots, enabling predictive strategies and more effective interventions.  

The technology supported practical measures implemented in the local community, with active involvement from the mayor. These measures included the installation of bear-proof bins, removal of fruit-bearing trees, and improved management of green spaces to decrease bear attractants. These efforts created a safer environment for both people and wildlife. The intervention team became more agile, and locals gained confidence knowing there was a system in place to prevent incidents. As Cristian emphasises: 

“In many cases, the locals did not even know that the bear was approaching the townby the time the intervention team took action.”

Scaling success: Maramures and beyond 

WWF Romania is applying these lessons to the Maramures pilot region of Nature FIRST. Though conflicts are less frequent, they are anticipated to increase due to climate change, combined with other  challenges in the region, such as habitat degradation and fragmentation. WWF Romania and Sensing Clues, as part of the Nature FIRST project, are supporting efforts to:  

  • Monitor bear movements using collars and camera traps.  

  • Collaborate with hunters, park administrators, forestry managers, environmental authorities, universities and research institutes, NGOs, etc., to address conservation challenges.  

  • Develop proactive intervention strategies informed by habitat mapping.  

"We aim to build a model for coexistence in Maramures, just as we did in Tusnad," says Cristian. "Tools of Nature FIRST, such as the Bear Risk Radar and the Sensing Clues platform, allow us to predict conflicts and intervene effectively, while fostering collaboration among stakeholders."

Beyond field interventions, WWF Romania has amplified the project’s success through education and outreach. As of most recently, Nature FIRST supported the Tusnad Eco Bear Conference and Festival, fostering dialogue among conservationists, stakeholders, and policymakers. Additionally, WWF Romania is exploring new applications for Sensing Clues tools, such as a proposed Bison Risk Radar to manage human-bison conflicts. This innovation, inspired by the Bear Risk Radar, underscores the adaptability and potential of the tools developed within the Nature FIRST program. 

A legacy of coexistence  

The impact of Nature FIRST extends beyond its immediate successes. The project has fostered a mind-shift among communities, authorities, and even hunters, demonstrating that coexistence can be a viable alternative to lethal control measures. Through its partnership with WWF Romania, Sensing Clues, and other stakeholders, Nature FIRST is leaving behind not just tools, but empowered communities and a roadmap for sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife. Cristian reflects on the broader significance:  

"The tools and strategies we’ve developed demonstrate what’s possible. Tusnad has become a model for other communities, and we’re already seeing growing interest from other regions and countries."  

Rebekka Stutz
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