About us

The Slovak Wildlife Society

SWS is a not-for-profit organisation specialising in carnivores such as the brown bear (Ursus arctos), grey wolf (Canis lupus) and Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx). By developing effective measures to reduce conflicts, SWS aims to foster greater understanding and acceptance of native predators. We provide expert knowledge and assistance to local communities in implementing non-lethal measures such as livestock guarding dogs, electric fences and bear-proof bins. Our scientific research provides authorities with a sound basis for management decisions as well as contributing information to education and awareness campaigns, in which we are also very active.

The involvement of local people has been integral to our work since our establishment in 1998. We work with volunteers and provide practical and financial help for those most affected by carnivores. We also operate one of the longest-running wildlife tourism programmes in Slovakia, benefiting people and wildlife since 2000. We are active members of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the International Association for Bear Research and Management (IBA) and the Large Carnivore Initiative for Europe (LCIE). For more information contact us or visit our home page: www.slovakwildlife.org