Two Days of Dialogue and Action for Human-Wolf Coexistence in Mount Parnitha

In late April, the LIFE Wild Wolf project brought together local stakeholders, experts, and residents in a two-day series of events in Mount Parnitha to foster informed dialogue on the role of the wolf in the local ecosystem and promote coexistence.

Last week, the environmental NGO CALLISTO, in collaboration with the Management Unit of Parnitha & Schinias National Parks and the Saronic Gulf Protected Areas of the Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency (NECCA), organized a series of events under the LIFE Wild Wolf project.

These three targeted actions brought together local authorities, institutions, volunteers, and citizens to discuss and explore the future of human-wolf coexistence in the Parnitha region.

📍 Friday 26 April – 3rd Meeting of the Coexistence Platform

The two-day program kicked off with the 3rd official meeting of the Human-Wolf Coexistence Platform, held at the Town Hall of Fyli. The event brought together representatives from the local government, professional and community stakeholders, the Ministry of Environment and Energy, the Green Fund, and WWF Greece.

The project team presented the latest developments of LIFE Wild Wolf, with a special focus on actions related to the management of stray animals.

📍 Friday Evening – Awareness Meeting at the Offices of Volunteer Action of Parnitha

Later the same day, an open awareness meeting was held at the premises of Volunteer Action of Parnitha (EDPA). Participants included active citizens, local associations, and volunteers who are engaged in the region.

The group participated in a vivid and meaningful discussion around the role of the wolf in the Parnitha ecosystem, particularly its dynamic interaction with the deer population. Emphasis was placed on the importance of evidence-based information and strong collaboration between scientists and the public, to counter misinformation and foster acceptance of the wolf’s presence on the mountain.

📍 Saturday 27 April – Open Event in Avlonas

On Saturday morning, the event “The Wolf of Parnitha: From Nature to People – A Conversation for the Future” took place at Lobby Café in Avlonas.

The turnout from local residents was remarkable, and the discussions were rich and constructive.

Dr. George Iliopoulos and Dr. George Chatzinakos (CALLISTO) highlighted the ecological significance of the wolf and the importance of coexistence with wildlife.

Through an interactive exchange, the team gathered local knowledge, experiences, concerns, and proposals from the community.