The area of this study is located within the Bieszczady Mountains, part of the Carpathian range which borders the the Ukraine and Slovakia in southeastern Poland. It is a region of pristine wilderness by European standards. Woodlands and meadows are the sites of numerous razed villages. Prior to World War II there were 60 people per square kilometer living in this region. After the war, there was continued fighting in an effort to establish an independent Ukraine. In response, the Polish Communist government. ordered the removal of all inhabitants. As a result, the entire human population was relocated. In the 1950's and 60's the Communists began an effort to repopulate the area, although original inhabitants were not permitted to return to their homeland, and the population density has never reached its original numbers. Today, there are approximately 10 people per square kilometer. There is sheep and cattle grazing, forestry activity, hunting and tourism, but in some areas human activity is limited.The higher peaks in this range rise to about 1300 meters. Over 70% of the land is covered by forest, predominately beech-fir.

Many European large mammal species thrive in this region. The wildlife that now roams these ancient mountains includes the European bison Bison bonasus, moose Alces alces, roe deer Capreolus capreolus, red deer Cervus elaphus, wild boar Sus scrofa, beaver Castor castor otter,brown bear Ursus arctos, wolf Canis lupus, lynx Lynx lynx, wildcat Felis rufus, martin Martes martes, badger Meles meles and fox Vulpes vulpes.

There are three species of snakes including a viper. Some of the birds found in the mountains are the stork, golden eagle, hawk, buzzard, raven and many others.

In 1973, The Bieszczady National Park was established encompassing over 12,000 acres. Much of the region has also been declared an "International Biosphere Reserve".

Hikers visit the mountains in May through September. In the summer families come to vacation on Solina Lake, a man-made lake created in the 1960's.

In September and October during the rut season, the impressive roar of stags announcing their presence to competitors creates a special attraction to naturalists and hunters from around Europe.

In the winter months there is a growing interest in skiing.

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