Wildlife oasis: Bears, lynx and wildcats quench their thirst

The footage in the video above was captured by our project partners at Bioterra using a trail camera in Northern Velebit National Park, Croatia. The Velebit mountains are home to a stunning variety of species, including brown bears, lynx, wolves, wildcats, martens, deer, eagles, owls and more.

Depending on the time of year, water can be a scarce resource in Northern Velebit National Park. Standing water, such as the pool in the video above, is needed by many species. This makes it an excellent location for a trail camera, recording a broad diversity of wildlife all in one place.

Why is water scare in Northern Velebit National Park?

There are several reasons why water can be hard to come by in the Velebit mountains:

Unique Geology: The karst nature of the region, primarily composed of limestone, contributes to water scarcity. Limestone is highly soluble, allowing water to infiltrate and flow through underground channels. As a result, surface water is often scarce or limited, as it quickly drains into the subsurface through sinkholes, caves, and underground rivers. This underground water flow may not resurface within the park boundaries, leading to reduced availability of visible water sources.

Climate: Northern Velebit National Park experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and relatively low annual precipitation. The combination of high temperatures, limited rainfall, and increased evaporation rates leads to water scarcity. The arid conditions result in reduced soil moisture and contribute to the drying of streams and springs during prolonged periods of little rainfall.

Seasonal Variations: Water scarcity in Northern Velebit National Park can be more pronounced during certain seasons. In summer, when temperatures are at their highest and rainfall is limited, water sources may become even scarcer. Snowmelt during the winter and spring months can temporarily increase water availability.

Depending on the habitat and geology of an area, there are a variety of places where wildlife may find a drink in a forest, including:

Where do animals drink in a forest?

Rivers and Streams: Forests often have flowing rivers and streams, which provide a natural water source for animals. These bodies of water can be a reliable place for animals to drink and quench their thirst.

Ponds and Lakes: Forests may contain ponds or small lakes that are formed by rainwater or natural springs.

Rainwater Puddles: During rainy periods, animals can find water in temporary puddles formed on the forest floor. These puddles can serve as a source of hydration for animals until the water evaporates or seeps into the ground.

Natural Springs: Forests often have underground water sources that emerge as natural springs. Animals may come across these springs and drink from them directly or from the streams that flow out of them.

Tree Holes: Some animals, such as birds and small mammals, can access water by drinking from tree holes. These are cavities in trees that may contain rainwater or condensation, providing a localised water source.

NatureSpy has been supporting the brilliant work of Bioterra since 2018, learn more about Bioterra's conservation work focussing on wolves, bears, lynx and more on our Project Pages.

Article by Ed Snell