Strong Networks for Raptor Conservation in Eastern Europe

This international raptor conservation project brought together expert organisations from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Armenia to protect some of Europe’s and the Caucasus region’s most threatened birds of prey, including vultures and eagles. These species face growing pressures from agricultural intensification, habitat loss, illegal poisoning, poaching, and fatal collisions and electrocution on power lines.

The project aims to:

- Enhance the capacity of raptor conservationists through peer-to-peer exchange of experience;

- Fill knowledge gaps on the distribution and conservation status of target raptor species;

- Improve responses to illegal poisoning incidents, and

- Increase public awareness and understanding of threats to raptors and the importance of raptor conservation.

The project consists of three components:

- Exchange of experience between international experts;

- Conservation actions and preparatory planning, and

- Research on population status and migration routes of the target raptor species.

Building on the VGP Foundation-funded project “New Networks for the Eastern Imperial Eagle” (2021–2023), the initiative focused on strengthening cooperation and knowledge exchange between conservationists, improving on‑the‑ground protection measures, and closing critical knowledge gaps on raptor populations, migration routes and threats. Activities included international expert exchanges, anti‑poisoning actions supported by trained dog units, identification of high‑risk power lines, nest monitoring using webcams and camera traps, and GPS tracking of juvenile raptors.

Field research in Armenia led to the discovery and monitoring of over 100 raptor nests, including the first documented breeding of Cinereous Vultures in parts of the country. GPS tracking revealed important migration routes and wintering areas as far as Saudi Arabia, highlighting the birds’ vulnerability along their flyways. Alongside scientific research, the project placed strong emphasis on public awareness through media outreach, environmental education and social media engagement.

Overall, the project successfully strengthened international conservation networks, delivered tangible conservation outcomes, and significantly increased awareness of the urgent need to protect raptors and their habitats across borders.