The International Vulture Awareness Day is tomorrow!
Vulture conservationists and fans alike know how truly amazing these birds are and how vital they are to functioning ecosystems. We are also acutely aware of the various and serious threats these birds face across Europe and the world, from poisoning to electrocution and poaching. Every year, the International Vulture Awareness Day (IVAD) encourages us to share our passion for these birds collectively and highlight the important work carried out by the world's vulture conservationists. So, join us tomorrow on Saturday, 4 September to celebrate vultures together. Here are five ways to get involved and show you support for these magnificent birds.
1. Join an event
On the occasion of IVAD, we are hosting an online talk and Q&A session tomorrow where you will learn all you need to know about Europe’s vultures. We will discuss why we need vultures, how vultures returned to Europe from the brink of extinction and what we at the Vulture Conservation Foundation are doing to conserve them. Of course, you will also get the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.
The event is free and open to all. Register on Zoom to take part in the interactive Q&A session.
Other organisations across the world are also planning several events that you can find on IVAD's website.
2. Raise Awareness
One of the best ways to raise awareness during IVAD is through social media. So, on the day, share your passion for vultures! You can write a post about your favourite vulture species or why you are fascinated by these birds. You are also free to use the Infographics we prepared for the Bearded, Cinereous, Egyptian and Griffon Vultures. Please use #IVAD2021 and tag us on social media!
3. Organise a family activity
With the pool of available material, families can easily organise educational activities for their children to celebrate vultures in the comforts of their homes or out in nature. These materials vary, but they can all be easily printed off and carried out. From a Vulture Maze to Colouring Pages and the VCF’s Vulture Scavenger Hunt, check out these resources on IVAD’s Downloads Page.
4. Make a pledge
Pledge to become a vulture citizen scientist. You can help us monitor vulture populations in the Alps through the International Bearded Vulture Monitoring Network, the International Observation Day in October and the annual Balkan Vulture counts. Stay tuned to the VCF to be notified of these events.
5. Support vulture conservation
Many organisations work diligently and dedicatedly to protect and conserve vulture species, and there are different ways you can support them. It is always important to highlight the important work carried out by vulture conservationists and you can simply do that by spreading the message about their work and activities among your close friends and relatives. If you can, another way to support vulture conservation is by donating to the cause.
If you would like to support us at the VCF we would greatly appreciate it! You can share the news we post on our website and social media, and donate to us through our website to help us continue our work protecting vultures.
