A new €1.95 million programme for monitoring bears and wolves in the Pyrenees will start this year, incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) to track the animals. The LoupO Coexistence project, set to last three years, will benefit Catalonia, France, and Andorra, with 65% of its funding coming from EU Poctefa funds.
This initiative will introduce new non-invasive genetic and ecological techniques, including advanced genomics and AI, to improve individual identification. Researchers will use new molecular markers to determine the lineage and hybridisation of individuals and study their diets, according to the Segre newspaper.
Studying Local Perceptions
For the first time, the programme will also study the perception of both species among the local Pyrenean population. This will help determine the level of acceptance for these carnivores through forums, experience exchanges, and specific studies, which may include surveys among residents.
Currently, the brown bear population in the Lleida Pyrenees exceeds 54, based on the last official count from late 2025. New cubs have been detected since hibernation, Ivan Afonso, a Natural Environment technician for the Conselh Generau d’Aran, confirmed. For wolves, the Ministry of Territory estimates there are between 8 and 10 individuals in Catalonia.
Preventing Attacks and Improving Coexistence
The new programme also includes prevention techniques for large predator attacks. These include the use of guardian dogs, training for shepherds, and the creation of manuals and specific materials on livestock management. The possible introduction of acoustic deterrents, previously used on other occasions, is also being considered. This tool could be used, for example, to protect beehives.
Measures will also be proposed to improve the system for assessing damage from attacks and for mediating conflicts. The goal is to improve the coexistence of predators with the agricultural and livestock sectors.
Partners in the LoupO Coexistence project include the Catalan government (Generalitat) and the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB). French partners include the genetic laboratory Antagene. Dr Natàlia Sastre from the UAB will coordinate the project.
