Project coordinator: Lithuanian Fund for Nature

Project partners: Lithuanian Zoological Garden (Lithuania), Lithuania Kauno miesto savivaldybė (Lithuania), Daugavpils University Nature Studies and Environmental Education Centre (Latvia)

Project aims:

• To develop a cross-border Lithuania-Latvia ecological network plan and identify the functional ecological network for the beetle and other saproxylic invertebrates (dependent on dead or decaying wood) from Kaunas oak forest to the slope of the Neris river by Verkiai;
• To prepare the necessary documentation for implementation of practical conservation actions in the area of the ecological network and ensure long-term conservation of restored habitat sites;
• To prepare a methodology for reintroduction of the beetle and to restore a viable population;
• To create favourable conditions for the hermit beetle and other saproxylics in core project areas by suitable management of the areas of old-growth forests/woodlands, creation of migratory corridors and eradication of alien species;
• To create stepping stones between these project areas and other potential areas, or creation of temporary artificial habitats;
• To improve monitoring techniques and equipment;
• To raise public awareness on the importance of these older, hardwood tree species for biodiversity conservation, socioeconomic impacts and ecosystem functions; and
• To share knowledge about conservation strategies for the beetle species and practical experience on habitat restoration among experts, and ensure the transfer and replicability of the project methods.