BearWatch

BearWatch is the mobile wildlife observation and communication platform developed within the TusnadEcoBear community programme to support the harmonious coexistence of people and wildlife in the ecotourism destination "Băile Tușnad and Surroundings" (Băile Tușnad și Împrejurimile).

Originally designed as a bear reporting application, BearWatch has evolved into a broader citizen science and wildlife management platform. In addition to reporting bear sightings and bear-related observations, users can now record the presence of other wildlife species, as well as tracks, signs, and other evidence of wildlife activity. These observations provide valuable information for understanding local human–nature interactions and support science-based wildlife management and conservation decisions.

The application also serves as an educational tool. It can be used in biology, ecology, and environmental education classes to introduce students to wildlife monitoring, biodiversity, species identification, and responsible nature observation through real-world data collected by the community.

A key element of the successful Bear Smart Community approach implemented in Băile Tușnad is the existence of effective communication channels between citizens, visitors, experts, local authorities, and wildlife managers. BearWatch provides exactly this platform by facilitating two-way communication, improving transparency, supporting rapid information exchange, and strengthening cooperation between all stakeholders involved in managing human–wildlife coexistence.

The project addresses these challenges through a range of activities, including mapping wildlife presence, evaluating and improving conflict prevention methods, making reliable wildlife information available to the public, supporting local decision-making, and promoting community participation in conservation and sustainable tourism. BearWatch is the digital platform that connects these activities.

What you can do in the app:
* Report sightings of bears and other wildlife species.
* Record wildlife tracks, signs, and other evidence of animal presence.
* Upload photos, videos, GPS location, and observation details.
* Browse validated observations on an interactive map or in a list.
* Receive push notifications about wildlife activity in your area.
* Communicate directly with administrators and experts through your observation.

For administrators:
* Review, validate, or reject submitted observations.
* Communicate with users regarding submitted records.
* Send targeted alerts and public notifications.
* Support local wildlife management, conservation, education, and community engagement through real-time information.