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In an effort to save endangered life-saving vultures, a falconry center in mid Wales is embarking on a mission to breed rare African hooded vultures, which are on the brink of extinction. With fewer than 150,000 of these critically endangered birds left in the wild, the stakes are high. The decline in vulture populations, not just in Africa but also in Asia, has had devastating consequences, with experts attributing the deaths of half a million people in India to the disappearance of vultures that play a crucial role in preventing the spread of disease by cleaning up the carcasses of dead animals.
Luce Green, co-owner of Falconry Experience Wales, described the breeding of African hooded vultures as her life’s work, a labor of love that she hopes will make a significant impact in the conservation of these majestic birds. With the number of mature adults dwindling to 131,000, the situation is dire. Poisoning and the use of vulture parts in traditional medicine are among the main threats faced by these magnificent creatures, highlighting the urgency of conservation efforts.
The center has introduced a male named Togo to a female named Hope, with hopes of successfully breeding the vultures and contributing to the population. The ultimate aim is to eventually incorporate any chicks born into a release program, but for now, the focus is on increasing the number of vultures in captivity. Breeding vultures is crucial, according to experts, as they serve as indicators of ecosystem health and provide essential ecological services. By protecting these birds, researchers hope to safeguard the delicate balance of nature.
Efforts to save the vultures extend beyond Wales, with conservationists worldwide working tirelessly to prevent the decline of these vital species. The European Endangered Species Programme for hooded vultures, run by Adam Bloch and Holly Cale, aims to support breeding programs and serve as a safety net for the birds. As the vulture population faces numerous challenges, including persecution and habitat loss, the collaborative efforts of conservationists offer a glimmer of hope for these remarkable birds
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