A quarter of the 202 terrestrial mammals in Europe are threatened or nearly threatened. More than a quarter (27%) of them have declining populations, 32% are stable, and 33% are of unknown population trend. Reliable information, supported with field data particularly on small mammals in Eastern and Southeastern Europe is absent. The knowledge and capacities to study and monitor the small mammals are stored within the few mammal experts there.
The capacities to study and monitor terrestrial mammals need to be extended. Up-to-date information, reliable equipment, good handling skills, species identification knowledge are of crucial importance to study them. Structured information enabling to know their distribution and population trends better will help to protect the mammals better.
The Habitat Foundation wants to address this in the most efficient way by developing a capacities building program that will enhance the abilities on mammal field study and conservation in Eastern and Southeastern Europe.