Egyptian Vulture Conservation

The smallest of the five vulture species found in Europe, the Egyptian vulture is, together with the Rüppell’s vulture, also the most endangered of them. This is why Prague Zoo is pursuing and developing a project aimed at helping vultures in their southern European homeland.

Vultures under threat
To a greater or lesser degree, vultures are threatened on every continent where they live, including Europe. The main causes are poisoning from agrochemicals, veterinary drugs, and toxic baits. Power lines also pose a serious threat.

Breeding programme
Prague Zoo ranks among the most successful breeders of the Egyptian vulture. Since 2002, it has kept the species’ studbook, and since 2012, it has coordinated its EAZA Ex-situ Programme (EEP), a population management and conservation programme under the auspices of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).

Return to the wild
We take part in releasing captive-bred chicks back into the wild. We have also contributed to research on release methods designed to ensure the highest possible survival rate for young vultures.

Other activities
Prague Zoo provides financial support to the Bulgarian conservation organisation Green Balkans. Among other things, it has contributed to the construction of breeding aviaries and the establishment of a feeding site for the local wild vultures.