Study area

We will develop and test the WildINTEL system in four study areas representative of different ecosystems and European biogeographical regions and monitoring needs.

Study Sites

Doñana National Park

Doñana National Park is located in southwestern Spain at the mouth of the Guadalquivir River basin. The park presents a mosaic of ecosystems with a biodiversity unique in Europe. Its marshlands stand out, an important habitat for European and African migratory birds during their passage, breeding and wintering. Internationally recognized, this park has received awards such as Natura 2000 Network, Biosphere Reserve, UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ramsar Area. Among its iconic and endangered species are the Iberian Imperial Eagle and the Iberian Lynx. In addition, the park contains a variety of ecosystems, including beaches, mobile dunes, corrals, scrubland and temporary lagoons.

Hardangervidda National Park

Hardangervidda National Park is the largest national park in Norway. It is located on the largest high mountain plateau in Europe and covers an area of approximately 3,400 km². The topography and altitude of the park create an important environmental gradient that determines the distribution of different plant species. This gradient varies from a more oceanic to a more continental climate. The park is home to the largest population of wild reindeer in Europe, which migrate across the plateau. It is also a home to mountain and water birds such as snowy owls, golden eagles and different species of ducks. Thanks to its beautiful landscape, the park is a popular tourist destination for activities such as hiking and skiing. The current climate crisis and rising temperature, are putting the park under pressure, as these changes may affect snow patterns and, consequently, the area’s flora and fauna.

Oder River Valley

The Oder Delta is a natural area of great importance, comprising a transboundary Natura 2000 site on the border between Poland and Germany. This area comprises a mosaic of terrestrial, marine, and freshwater ecosystems, rich in biodiversity and with unique ecological characteristics. This habitat is essential for a wide variety of plants and animals, including migratory birds, aquatic mammals and fish. Thanks to the rewetting of Germany’s wet grasslands and the decline in forestry activities, the Oder delta has been recolonized by large mammals such as the wolf, Eurasian lynx and white-tailed eagle. In addition, various conservation efforts in the delta have led to increased populations of beavers, otters, and gray seals, among other species.

Tatra National Park

Situated in the southernmost part of the Malopolska province in Poland, Tatra National Park is an alpine ecosystem which is located in the western Carpathians and covers an area of approximately 21,000 hectares, making it one of Poland’s largest parks. Renowned for its mountainous landscape, the park features towering peaks, deep valleys, and glacial lakes. Beyond its natural beauty, the park harbors a unique diversity of flora and fauna, including endemic species such as the Tatra chamois, marmot, and alpine plants, alongside representative but non-endemic species like the brown bear, Eurasian lynx, and golden eagle. A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts (with ca 5 million visitors per year), the park offers opportunities for hiking, climbing, and wildlife observation.