Video: Camera Captures Several Predator Species in Vayots Dzor, Including Wolves, Bears, and Lynxes

The presence of a healthy predator population indicates a robust and sustainable ecosystem. This is affirmed by experts from the World Land Trust, an international partner of the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Values (FPWC), who recently commented on the footage of predators filmed in Armenia.

Notably and delightfully, this applies to Vayots Dzor in Armenia, where several predator species, including wolves, bears, and lynxes, have been captured on camera in a recently managed private protected area overseen by FPWC. The presence of these animal species in the same footage indicates a crucial component of the food chain in this area, which is the availability of prey. Predators play a vital role in maintaining the balance of nature; where there is a stable population of predators, there is also a presence of species that serve as prey, which in turn supports the sustainability of the natural cycle.

The international World Land Trust considers the recorded figures a significant achievement and appreciates the work done on the ground. “Such a stable ecosystem has been created in Armenia – the Caucasus biodiversity refuge,” stated in the article. In a natural ecosystem, everything is interconnected; the stable population of predators also creates a favorable environment for scavengers, as they have the opportunity to feed on the remains left by predators.

The brown bears found in Armenia are included in the Red Book of Animals of the Republic. Fortunately, CWR camera traps regularly capture images of their cubs as well. After bears and wolves, the lynx is Europe’s largest predator. Interestingly, this wild cat can consume more than 2 kg of meat per day and can take down opponents that are 3-4 times its size.

Thus, the Caucasus biodiversity refuge, covering approximately 30,000 hectares, is the first private protected area in the South Caucasus. The refuge is managed by the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Values (FPWC). The CWR and surrounding areas are crucial for the conservation of South Caucasian biodiversity and are already demonstrating their effectiveness.