Project code: 0410-2SC-BIO-PC2-005

Project title: Safeguarding Biodiversity: Improving Conditions for the Rescue of Key Animal Species in Muránska Planina National Park

Call: Call for Strengthening Biodiversity in Protected Areas (BIO02)

Title of the support measure: Promoting Sustainable Tourism and Strengthening Biodiversity in Protected Areas

Specific Objective: 1. Protecting the environment and climate

Beneficiary: Lesmír

Website:  www.lesmir.sk

Project grant: 499 968,00 €

Project start date: 2.10.2025

Estimated date of project completion: 31.12.2028

Partneri: Muránska planina National Park Administration , village of Pohronská Polhora, Living plain

Project summary: The main goal of the project is to improve the long-term deteriorating of habitat conditions of three rare and endangered invertebrate species: the Apollo butterfly (Parnassius apollo), the narrow-headed ant (Formica exsecta), and the Carpathian longhorn beetle (Pseudogaurotina excellens). Through active conservation management measures in the field, the project aims to enhance the habitat quality for these selected species and at the same time support overall biodiversity in the target areas. By cooperating with local experts and the community, the project seeks to raise public awareness about the need for active species protection and to engage children and youth in volunteer activities through experiential learning. A set of interactive educational materials will be created for local schools to improve knowledge about the natural features of Muránska Planina National Park and its surroundings. Proterrae, a cooperating Swiss organization, is the key partner for best practice sharing.

Project outcomes: Improved ecosystem protection and increased resilience to biodiversity loss

Project outputs:

2.1 Environmental education and awareness-raising activities about biodiversity conservation and sustainable forms of tourist services developed

2.2 Local people involved in activities for ecosystem and biodiversity protection

2.3 Pilot initiatives and measures for the biodiversity protection mapped, developed, tested and implemented

Project activities:

  • Improving conditions for the conservation of the Apollo butterfly (Parnassius apollo)
  • Improving conditions to ensure the long-term survival of the narrow-headed ant (Formica exsecta)
  • Improving conditions for the conservation of the Carpathian longhorn beetle (Pseudogaurotina excellens)
  • Education and awareness-raising of local communities

Project contract:

Link to the published document:  Project contract in Central register of contracts