From 24 to 27 June 2026, the International Balkan Chamois Conference was held in Konitsa, Greece, within the Vikos–Aoos UNESCO Global Geopark, bringing together researchers, conservation organisations, institutions and wildlife experts from across the Balkans.
The conference aimed to strengthen regional cooperation for the conservation of the Balkan chamois, one of the most characteristic mountain species of the region. Discussions covered the current status of Balkan chamois populations, conservation challenges, genetic diversity, ecological connectivity, wildlife health, population recovery and transboundary cooperation. The Balkan chamois is also an important potential prey species for the Balkan lynx, and its monitoring follows a specific protocol, carried out mainly in transboundary habitats shared by neighbouring countries.
PPNEA represented Albania with the presentation “The Balkan Chamois in Albania”, delivered by Bledi Hoxha, Program Manager, and Ilir Shyti, Project Assistant. The presentation highlighted the current status of the species in Albania and the ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts.
The programme also included discussions on standardizing monitoring protocols, strengthening capacities, reinforcing regional networks and implementing joint conservation actions for the protection of Balkan chamois populations.
The conference concluded with a field excursion to the eastern slopes of Mount Tymfi, where participants explored Balkan chamois habitats and ecological corridors within the Vikos–Aoos UNESCO Global Geopark.
