Large Carnivore Management Plans of Protection: Best Practices in EU Member States

Studie 15-02-2018

This study was commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Citizens’ Rights and Constitutional Affairs at the request of the PETI Committee. This paper analyses the legal framework on large carnivores – brown bear (Ursus arctos), Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), wolf (Canis lupus), wolverine (Gulo gulo) - and their current management within the EU are presented. Additionally, the best coexistence methods obtained from research and EU-funded projects are compiled. A thorough analysis of the conditions for derogations under the Habitats Directive is followed by the implications of the current management. A general review and recommendations are made.