Project Background & Objectives
This international raptor conservation project brought together leading conservation organisations from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Armenia to protect some of the most threatened birds of prey in Europe and the Caucasus region, including vultures and eagles. These species face increasing pressures from agricultural intensification, habitat loss, illegal poisoning, poaching, fatal collisions, and electrocution on power lines.
The project aimed to enhance the capacity of raptor conservationists through peer-to-peer exchanges of experience, fill critical knowledge gaps regarding the distribution and conservation status of target raptor species, strengthen responses to illegal poisoning incidents, and increase public awareness of the threats facing raptors and the importance of their conservation.
To achieve these objectives, the project was structured around three main components: the exchange of expertise between international conservation specialists, the implementation of conservation actions and preparatory planning measures, and research into the population status and migration routes of target raptor species.
International Cooperation & Conservation Action
Building on the VGP Foundation-funded project New Networks for the Eastern Imperial Eagle (2021–2023), the initiative focused on strengthening international cooperation among conservationists, improving on‑the‑ground protection measures, and addressing key knowledge gaps related to raptor populations, migration patterns, and threats.
Activities included international expert exchanges, anti‑poisoning interventions supported by specially trained dog units, the identification of high‑risk power lines, nest monitoring through webcams and camera traps, and GPS tracking of juvenile raptors.
Research & Monitoring Results
In Armenia, field research resulted in the discovery and monitoring of more than 100 raptor nests, including the first documented breeding records of Cinereous Vultures in parts of the country. GPS tracking provided valuable insights into migration routes and wintering areas extending as far as Saudi Arabia, highlighting the vulnerability of these birds throughout their migratory flyways.
Public Awareness & Project Impact
Alongside scientific research, the project placed a strong emphasis on public awareness through media outreach, environmental education initiatives, 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 national borders.
