Russian field ecologist visiting Species Conservation Research Lab at Tallinn Zoo and Hiiumaa Island release site.

11. -12. of July leading Russian field-ecologist Alexander Saveljev, the Head of the Department of Animal Ecology at Russian Research Institute of Game Management and Fur Farming of Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences. The researchers (esp. Dr. Dmitri Skumatov) in his team have conducted the most comprehensive studies on the status and distribution of the European mink in Russia.

Dr. Saveljev visited the European mink breeding facility in the Lab and was given review about the European mink research and conservation actions in Estonia. The second day of his visit was devoted to Hiiumaa Island and the release operation there.

Hopefully this visit has established a good ground for future collaboration on European mink conservation and research between the Russian and Estonian experts.