Research and the development of best practices are cornerstones of the Wilderness mission.
Since the beginning, we have conducted multiple studies and provided land for research projects on airborne e-DNA, small mammals, bats, and insects.
Research Project 2024
Conducted by: Kristine Bohmann & Adam Søderdahl, Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen
Can DNA from the air be used to monitor birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles? Researchers and students from the University of Copenhagen are testing this in Saksfjed Wilderness. Using the largest-ever setup of DNA vacuum samplers, they are studying how airborne DNA can complement traditional monitoring methods.
Research Project 2024–2030
Conducted by: Professor Rasmus Ejrnæs, EcoScience, Aarhus University
In the DNI 2.0 research project, scientists from Aarhus University are developing a tool to measure how well areas contribute to biodiversity protection in Denmark. The DNI provides an overall score indicating nature value, protection level, and the presence of natural processes in a given area.
The tool will help guide biodiversity initiatives and set goals for nature projects across Denmark. Saksfjed Wilderness is part of the project's second phase, serving as a case study to determine which efforts can further enhance biodiversity in the area. As part of the project, Aarhus University surveyed 36 plots of 15-meter circles in the Wilderness during the summer of 2024 to record plant species.
Read more about the project: AU Ecoscience - DNI
Research Project 2024
Conducted by: Rasmus Havmøller & Sofie Nørgaard Konradsen, Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen
Using plastic boxes, drainage pipes, and cameras, researchers from the University of Copenhagen have developed a new type of camera trap designed to map the distribution of small mammals. When mice and mustelids pass through the pipes, the camera captures images that allow for species identification.
This method was tested in Saksfjed Wilderness, where camera traps recorded seven different mammal species during the summer of 2024.
Research Project 2024
Conducted by: Toke Thomas Høye & Jamie Alison, EcoScience, Aarhus University
New biodiversity monitoring technologies are emerging, and in this project, Aarhus University researchers have combined multiple technologies into one autonomous monitoring system.
Features of the system:
- Acoustic sensors record bats and birds
- Light traps attract and identify moths and other nocturnal insects using cameras and AI
During the summer and fall of 2024, a station was tested in Saksfjed Wilderness.
Research Project 2024
Conducted by: Toke Thomas Høye & Jamie Alison, EcoScience, Aarhus University
Can camera traps be used to monitor ground-dwelling insects? Aarhus University researchers are testing this method by comparing camera data with insects collected in pitfall traps.
At 20 locations in Saksfjed Wilderness, cameras and pitfall traps were used to map insect populations in September 2024.
Conducted by: WSP
To track nature's development in Saksfjed Wilderness, we systematically monitor selected species groups.
Plants are the most studied group in the Wilderness, as they are key indicators of ecosystem health.
Key monitoring aspects:
By repeating studies in the same locations, we can closely follow how the Wilderness becomes wilder over time.
Conducted by: WSP
To track nature's development in Saksfjed Wilderness, we systematically monitor bats, as the area has an exceptionally rich bat population.
Key findings from initial surveys:
Bat monitoring is conducted using automated listening devices.
Conducted by: Volunteers & Saksfjed Wilderness Team
Saksfjed-Hyllekrog is known as one of Denmark’s most important bird migration sites during the autumn migration. Large numbers of birds gather here as they head south.
Since 2023, birds in Saksfjed have been systematically counted three times a year along five transects, using standardised protocols developed by Dansk Ornitologisk Forening (Danish Ornithological Society).
By tracking bird populations annually, we can analyze how species composition and bird numbers change as the Wilderness becomes more and more wild.
Do you have an idea for a research or study project in the Wilderness? Don’t hesitate to reach out - we can assist with implementation, logistics, and communication for your project.