Situated in Southeast Europe, Kosovo, officially named the Republic of Kosovo, occupies a central position within the Balkans, entirely landlocked. It shares borders with Serbia to the north and east, North Macedonia to the southeast, Albania to the southwest, and Montenegro to the west. With a population of approximately 1.8 million inhabitants, Kosovo is predominantly Albanian, constituting 92% of the populace, while the Serbian community makes up only 6%.

The country’s diverse landscape showcases natural wonders like the rugged mountains and deep canyons of the Rugova Mountains, the historical charm of Prizren with its ancient architecture and Ottoman-era streets, and the tranquil Gazivoda Lake enveloped by verdant foliage, offering serene vistas for contemplation and relaxation.

Four pillars elaborated:

Land Management

Kosovo has taken measures to preserve its rich biodiversity and ecosystems by establishing two national parks, Bjeshkët e Nemuna and Sharri Mountains. These parks protect the country’s diverse range of species by encompassing broadleaf and conifer forests, pastures, and wetlands. Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park covers an area of 63,008 hectares (630 km²) and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including brown bears, wolves, and the rare Balkan lynx. On the other hand, Sharri Mountains National Park spans an area of 53,241 hectares (532 km²) and features glacial valleys and peaks, such as the highest peak in Kosovo, Mount Gjeravica.

Threats to Biodiversity

Kosovo’s natural wealth faces multiple challenges, including habitat loss due to urbanization and infrastructure development. Conservationists work to combat illegal hunting and logging, which further threatens the country’s natural resources. Additionally, Kosovo’s ecosystems are vulnerable to climate shifts, highlighting the need for sustainable practices to protect the country’s biodiversity.

Capacity and Governance

The Government of Kosovo has implemented numerous measures to preserve its abundant biodiversity. Kosovo crafted a Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan spanning from 2011 to 2020, delineating precise steps for conserving and responsibly utilizing its biological wealth. Additionally, the establishment of two national parks, namely the Sharri National Park and the Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park, stands as a significant stride in protecting vital habitats and species.

Ensuring the conservation of unique ecosystems within Kosovo’s forests is underscored by specific laws enshrined in the country’s Constitution. Moreover, through the UNDP’s global Climate Promise initiative, Kosovo actively confronts climate change issues, with a focus on energy, adaptation, resilience, and fostering a green transition.

Future Trends

The inaugural National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) of Kosovo was executed between 2011 and 2020 with the objective of conserving and responsibly overseeing the nation’s abundant biodiversity, encompassing both endemic and rare flora and fauna. Although the NBSAP spanning from 2011 to 2020 has reached its conclusion, Kosovo is anticipated to formulate and execute subsequent biodiversity action plans to persist in its endeavors to conserve and manage its natural assets.

Biodiversity

Kosovo, though small in size, boasts a rich and diverse biodiversity due to its varied topography and climate. The country’s landscapes range from high mountains to fertile valleys, each supporting distinct ecosystems. The Sharr Mountains and the Bjeshkët e Nemuna (Accursed Mountains) are notable for their high-altitude flora and fauna. These mountainous regions are home to species such as the Balkan lynx, chamois, and brown bear. The rich biodiversity of these areas is also evident in the variety of plant species, including many endemics and rare orchids.

Kosovo’s river valleys and wetlands are important habitats for birds, amphibians, and fish. The Drini i Bardhë (White Drin) and Ibër rivers, along with numerous smaller streams and lakes, support species such as the otter, trout, and various waterfowl. The country’s forests, primarily composed of beech, oak, and pine, provide shelter for a variety of mammals, birds, and insects.

In the table below are the number of known species in several main groups, how many of these species are Threatened with extinction, and how many of them are Endemic (unique to Kosovo only):