2014 – 2015 Rufford Foundation
During 2014 and 2015, Montenegrin Ecologists Society, in cooperation with colleagues from the Natural History Museum of Montenegro, implemented the project “Research, Conservation, and Promotion of Endemic Balkan Lizards (Dinarolacerta spp.) in Montenegro,” supported by the Rufford Foundation.
Dinarolacerta mosorensis (Mosor rock lizard) and D. montenegrina (Accursed Mountains rock lizard) are endemic species of the western part of the Balkan Peninsula, primarily associated with rocky habitats near beech and Bosnian pine (Pinus heldreichii) forests at high altitudes. In Montenegro, they have been found only on certain mountain ranges. Since mountain species like these are among the first to be significantly affected by the negative consequences of global climate change, studying their population size and habitat conditions can tell us a lot about the current status of their populations, as well as the future outlook for their survival—and the survival of Montenegrin high-mountain forests more broadly.
During field research on Lovćen, Prekornica, and in the area surrounding Bukumirsko Lake, numerous threats to the habitats and populations of these lizards were identified: logging, accidental or deliberate fires, improper disposal of bulky waste, and unregulated urbanisation. Preliminary population status assessments were also conducted, providing a starting point for future long-term monitoring of Dinarolacerta lizards and their habitats.
As part of a public awareness and education campaign about the importance of protecting these lizards and their environments, several outreach activities were carried out: lectures in local primary and secondary schools, the publication of brochures, posters, articles, and scientific papers, media appearances, participation in a science festival, and the organization of a roundtable discussion.
