After more than a decade of conservation efforts, the Cyprus vulture is showing signs of recovery, with successful breeding activity recorded for the first time since 2021, according to a joint announcement by BirdLife Cyprus and the Game and Fauna Service.
Five breeding pairs have been confirmed nesting in different areas across the island, marking a major milestone for the vulture population in Cyprus after five consecutive years without successful reproduction.
Conservation efforts begin to pay off
The development comes after the loss of the last breeding pairs in incidents linked to poisoning in 2022 and 2023, which had pushed the vulture into a critical conservation status.
Officials said the return of breeding activity demonstrates that long-term conservation measures are beginning to yield results.
Four of the five breeding pairs include birds brought from Spain under the LIFE project “Life with Vultures”, which have now reached breeding age.
Historic nesting sites used again
The pairs are nesting in traditional breeding areas, including one location not used for nesting in the past 15 years, suggesting a gradual return to historic habitats for the vulture in Cyprus.
The chicks will be ringed and fitted with GPS transmitters to monitor their movements and improve understanding of their behaviour after leaving the nest.
Authorities stressed that post-fledging survival will be critical for the species’ recovery.
Strict protection during breeding season
The breeding season of the vulture, which runs from late winter to summer, is considered extremely sensitive, with human disturbance posing a serious threat.
Even activities such as low-flying aircraft, helicopters or recreational access near nests can lead to abandonment of breeding sites.
Special protection zones have been established around two nests located within the British Bases, in cooperation with the SBA Administration, BirdLife Cyprus and the Game and Fauna Service.
Conservation challenge remains
Despite the positive development, the vulture remains one of the most endangered bird species in Cyprus.
Illegal poisoning and electrocution from power infrastructure continue to pose major threats to its survival.
Authorities stressed that continued protection of nesting areas and habitat conservation are essential for the long-term recovery of the species.
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