The LIFE project “Habitat Defragmentation for the brown bear in the Cantabrian Mountains” has been developed to ensure the long-term viability of the Cantabrian brown bear population.

The project LIFE “Habitat Defragmentation for the brown bear in the Cantabrian Mountains”. has been developed by the Brown Bear Foundation with the collaboration of the Biodiversity Foundation of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Food and Environment with the purpose of ensuring the long-term viability of the Cantabrian brown bear populationThis has defragmented the Cantabrian interpopulation corridor on its southern slope and consolidated the genetic and demographic exchange between the two subpopulations.

One of the actions that have been carried out to contribute to this goal is the demographic and genetic recovery of the eastern Cantabrian subpopulation , thanks to the consolidation of farms in some connectivity woodlands that are part of the most favorable corridors for the interpopulation corridor. The restoration of unique habitats has also contributed to this objective. Work has also been done to increase information and social awareness of local agents and professional groups on the importance of connectivity and brown bear conservation.

The actions carried out have contributed significantly to the conservation of Cantabrian bears by favoring the effective connection between the eastern and western subpopulations. Small patches of connectivity protected from herbivory have been created with native fruit-producing species. Hedge copses have also been created next to the main crossings of the AP-66 highway and 12.3 hectares of habitats of interest to the bear have been restored in strategic areas of the corridor. In total, more than 30,000 trees and shrubs have been planted.

On the other hand, the dissemination and awareness-raising actions carried out have reached more than 1,000 schoolchildren, local inhabitants and social actors through participatory activities, and many other people through the web and dissemination materials published and distributed. In addition, it has favored the involvement and awareness of the inhabitants of the territory and relevant social stakeholdersThe presence of the brown bear is an emblem of environmental quality and opportunities for the development and conservation of nature, with the support of local councils and organizations.