Over the last two decades, Dalmatian pelicans have staged a remarkable comeback in Montenegro’s Lake Skadar National Park. As part of the Wilder Parks initiative, Rewilding Europe and a coalition of partners are now building on this success, stepping up efforts to restore natural processes, strengthen wildlife populations, and create new opportunities for local communities.
Over the past six years, multi-partner rewilding efforts have supported the recovery of endangered Dalmatian pelican populations across southeastern Europe. Coordinated by Rewilding Europe and supported by the European Commission, the “Pelican Way of LIFE” initiative has secured a brighter future for this majestic bird and emphasised the importance of wetland restoration.
A Danube Delta-based educational camp held in June saw over 50 participants from four countries come together to learn more about Dalmatian pelicans – and the important role that rewilding can play in recovering populations of this iconic bird across Europe.
The Danube Delta is one of Europe’s largest and most important wetlands. Efforts by the Rewilding Ukraine team to restore natural water flow here are great news for Dalmatian pelicans and great news for local communities.
The Dalmatian pelican continue to show signs of recovery within their range in southeast Europe, including the Danube Delta rewilding area. Yet, their fragmented populations pose a problem for the species’ long-term stability. Here’s an overview of our actions and results so far, to support the comeback of these gentle giants.
Recent surveys indicate that the Dalmatian pelican is making a tentative comeback in Europe. This is good news for ongoing rewilding efforts, which are playing a supportive role in the recovery.
