We held a photo contest on the theme ‘The Connection Between Velebit and the Adriatic,’ through which we wanted to emphasize the link between the Velebit Mountains and the Adriatic Sea as one of the rare ecological systems in Europe that connects mountains and the sea at such close proximity. We received beautiful and interesting photographs that showcase their strong connection and interdependence.
We organised the Nature Based Art colony, which brought together ten artists of diverse interests and styles. They all shared one thing in common: inspired by nature, they created various artworks about it, proving that nature also offers this profouns ecological service—inspiring artists.
We conducted a study on the European beech seed crop in the Velebit to determine its connection with climate and its importance for wildlife nutrition. A high degree of seed importance was established, as well as variability, which is linked to climatic factors.
We conducted a study on the morphological and relief features of brown bear dens in the Velebit region to determine their locations, aspect, most common elevation, and other data. In addition, we carried out the first study of den microclimates in the Dinarides to establish the differences in air temperature and relative humidity between dens and their immediate surroundings.
Do you see yourself as a member of an ambitious team working on making an impact in nature protection? We are looking for a motivated person to join our team at the position of Communications Officer.
The mean annual air temperature in the period from 2011 to 2023 increased by 1.0 to 1.4 °C, according to an analysis of measurements in Gospić, Gračac, and at Zavižan. Potential evapotranspiration for this period also showed a statistically significant increase compared to the reference series.
Velebit has been enriched with new red deer; we monitored another section of the mountain, set up new wildlife observation hides, and surpassed the milestone of one thousand children participating in our workshops—2025 was a year of action and progress for Rewilding Velebit. Here are some of the most significant activities carried out this year.
It is recommended to improve forestry legislation by adopting a regulation on tree protection during forest harvesting operations and the compensation for damage to trees caused during timber skidding.
The selection of trees for sanitary felling (or sanitary logging) in the Republic of Croatia encompasses all dry trees and trees with a crown defoliation degree above 60%. It is recommended that the criterion be changed, and that a criterion of 80% crown defoliation be applied for sanitary felling.
Traffic accidents are a major cause of human-induced wildlife mortality, but this negative human impact on nature can be significantly reduced, for the good of both people and animals. The road prisms we have been installing on roads in Velebit and its foothills for two years are highly effective in reducing the number of accidents, as well as in mitigating habitat fragmentation.
