Wolf den research experience, belarus
Additional Information
EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF PARTICIPATING IN CRUCIAL WOLF DEN RESEARCH
Destination: Naliboki Forest
Duration: 23rd - 29th April 2022
Group Size: 6-8 people; places still available
Age: 16+
Cost: 850 euros
On this 7 day trip safari guide Kristian de la Riva and local guide and zoologist Vadim Sidorovich will take you adventuring into the heart of Naliboki forest to search for denning wolf packs. Vadim's work is renowned throughout Europe and paves the way for stunning new observational behaviours into Europes wildest animal. On this trip we will actively be part of the research team and will assist in looking for wolf dens within the forest mosaic of Naliboki. Such a journey takes us through beavers swamps inhabited by birthing Moose, Bison and Red deer as well as peat bogs where European brown bears are actively hunting beaver lodges.
The registering of Wolf den construction types, pup counts and health checks are critical measurements that not only further our knowledge of this species but also help inform conservation policy across Europe.
Aligned with the wolf birthing and denning period this is also a time like no other in this wilderness area, as all the large herbivore species are also giving birth. It is a unique time to be in the forest and with the advent of spring the forest is awash with new life. If you are a true naturalist or just someone wishing to experience a wilder wildlife experience then this trip is for you.
Predators are present in abundance, with Naliboki recording the highest concentration of Lynx in Europe, multiple established Wolf territories and a Brown bear population that actively keeps both other predator species in check. (See attached link from Vadim's sensational trail-cam documentation https://sidorovich.blog/2021/05/28/brown-bear-attack-on-a-wolf-den-in-naliboki-forest-central-western-belarus/ )
On this trip will will mostly be based from a forest lodge deep in the heart of the forest, from which we will make wild-camp excursions to overnight in the forest in wolf territory alongside taking a 2 day kayak trip on the pristine Usa river.
There is no better place to leave behind our western amenities and experience a different pace of life. To feel true wilderness and experience a fully intact ecosystems that boosts the full spectrum of European fauna is unique. From the mighty European Bison to elk (European moose), red deer, wolf, lynx, brown bear, konik pony, beavers, otters, raccoon dogs, golden & white tailed eagles, the list goes on and on. All this animal life is supported by the complex forest mosaic of Naliboki. On this trip we will also learn about the interconnectedness of such an ecosystem and via the art of tracking and trailing we will begin to build a stronger connection to the natural world around us. Its powerful stuff!
-See photos of previous trips on image page
Please contact europeanwalkingsafari@gmail.com for more details and bookings