Study finds Poland-Belarus border barrier affects larger mammals but not smaller predators; also examines invasive plant species risks.
Researchers studying the new border barrier between Poland and Belarus have found that it effectively prevents larger mammals from crossing but fails to stop smaller predators like foxes, raccoons, and martens. These smaller animals are attracted to the border area, especially near military posts, due to the availability of food.
Human Activity and Wildlife Avoidance
The study, conducted by scientists from the University of Warsaw’s Białowieża Geobotanical Station and other institutions, used camera traps and transects to monitor animal and human presence. Results indicate that human activity is more intense along the border than in forest paths, causing wild animals to avoid the border more than forest edges.
Barriers and Invasive Species
The barrier may also facilitate the spread of invasive plant species along the border. The ongoing study aims to assess these impacts and provide recommendations for mitigating the ecological effects of border militarization on the Białowieża Forest ecosystem.
More detailed findings from this study will be released in 2025.