The Bearded Vulture release season has ended, but we have an exciting, unexpected development to share with you. 

 

We successfully bred 35 Bearded Vulture chicks within our captive breeding network this season. To ensure genetic diversity and long-term pair renewal within the network, we have decided to keep 14 chicks in captivity. This step is crucial to continue breeding the species in captivity, ultimately supporting their populations in the wild. 

 

As for the remaining birds, they are now living in the wild, and many have already taken their first flights! In collaboration with our partners, we have released 21 young Bearded Vultures across multiple reintroduction sites: 

 

4 in Sierras de Cazorla Segura y las Villas Natural Park

2 in Sierra de Castril Natural Park

 

3 in Tinença de Benifassà  

 

4 in the Grands Causses

2 in Baronnies 

2 in Vercors 

 

2 in Berchtesgaden, Germany

2 in Melchsee-Frutt, Switzerland  

 

But there's more! We have an exciting surprise release coming up. Keep an eye out for further updates to stay tuned.

 

The scientific programme of the European Vulture Conference 2023 is brimming with potential!

 

With around 200 abstract submissions, this collaborative gathering of conservationists and researchers will uncover insights into vulture behaviour and ecology across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Topics span diverse vulture species and will focus on diverse research areas and conservation issues, including population status and monitoring, poisoning, energy infrastructure impacts, movement ecology, vulture health/emerging diseases or ex-situ conservation. We will unveil the first draft programme of presentations, posters and workshops by August after finalising the blind review process by the scientific committee.

Take advantage of the unique opportunity to connect with experts, stay up-to-date with the latest developments, learn from leaders in the field, and contribute to vulture conservation efforts. You will also have the chance to enjoy the distinct culture and nature of Cáceres and the vulture-rich region of Extremadura.

 

 

We hope to see you in Cáceres, Spain, between 14-17 November to shape the future of vultures together!

 

We often get asked: why are vultures important? As keystone species, vultures are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and providing services benefiting both nature and society. Their free carcass disposal service saves significant costs and helps reduce CO2 emissions. By safeguarding vultures and their mountain habitats, we also protect other wildlife. In certain countries, vultures hold cultural significance spanning thousands of years. And let's not forget the potential economic contributions vultures bring through ecotourism activities to local communities. These are just a few of the valuable ecosystem services they provide.

 

Sadly, their importance often becomes apparent only after their disappearance. A working paper highlights the dire consequences of a 95% decline in vulture populations in India caused by diclofenac. This collapse had severe ecological and socio-economic impacts. The absence of vultures was associated with higher human death rates, increased spread of diseases like rabies, and heightened water pollution. These findings emphasise the crucial connection between biodiversity and human welfare, further reinforcing the urgency of preserving vulture populations. In Europe, we are committed to restoring vulture populations and preserving the invaluable ecosystem services they provide. Your support is crucial in sustaining our vital efforts. Please consider donating to our cause and sharing our work on social media to help us raise awareness!