With its rich natural heritage and unique ecosystems, Prespa serves as an ideal field laboratory for the next generation of conservationists. As part of the Young Ecologists Programme, the Macedonian Ecological Society engages students who actively participate in ongoing conservation activities implemented by the international network of ecological organizations, PrespaNet.
Last week, a group of students took part in research on the Balkan endemic species—the Macedonian crested newt (Triturus macedonicus), contributing to the monitoring and protection of its habitats in Galichica National Park. The monitoring process includes capturing and counting individuals using special nets, determining their sex and age, and recording their markings to identify individuals in the future. Such studies provide valuable data and reports for scientists, while also giving students hands-on experience in fieldwork and conservation science.
The Macedonian crested newt is a species of tailed amphibian found only in the southwestern parts of the Balkan Peninsula, including the transboundary Prespa region. It prefers clean, still water bodies such as ponds and marshes, surrounded by moist terrestrial habitats like forests and meadows. The species is considered vulnerable due to habitat loss, water pollution, and the effects of climate change. Monitoring its population helps guide the planning of effective conservation measures to protect the broader biodiversity of the Prespa region.
These activities are part of the “Project PrespaNet III – Conserving the Biodiversity of Transboundary Prespa,” supported by the Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust (PONT), the Aage V. Jensen Foundation, and EuroNatur.
