Long-distance dispersal connects Dinaric-Balkan and Alpine grey wolf ( Canis lupus ) populations

摘要: In the last two centuries, persecution and deforestation caused grey wolf Canis lupus populations in Europe to decline. Recently, their numbers started recover although most still remain isolated from one another. This study presents first documented evidence of successful reconnection Dinaric-Balkan Alpine via long-distance dispersal subsequent reproduction. A young male radiocollared Dinaric Mountains July 2011 travelled through Slovenia Austria Italian Alps, where he settled March 2012. During 98 days period, has a cumulative line distance 1176 km crossing multiple anthropogenic natural barriers, successfully hunting wild prey until 233 km straight its natal territory. Camera trapping, snow tracking genetic new territory confirmed pairing with female neighbouring population. following year, pair produced “mixed” litter between wolves populations. case demonstrates potential for future merging European even human-dominated landscapes highlights importance transboundary cooperation research management.