The website of the Middle East Falcon Research Group

Southeast Europe

Saker Falcon studies in Southeast Europe are co-ordinated by Dimitar Ragyov of the Central Laboratory of General Ecology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences.  Currently we are exploring the possibility of developing a Saker Falcon reintroduction programme in Bulgaria. A feasibility study is underway that will:

  1. Determine if reintroduction is an appropriate management option
  2. Identify potential donor stock
  3. Identify suitable release sites
  4. Identify the best strategy for reintroduction
  5. Establish working partnerships

The current breeding population of Sakers in Bulgaria is thought to be very small, if not extinct. Various reasons for this are linked to habitat loss, loss of suitable prey species as well as the use of pesticides and direct persecution of raptors. Recent surveys have failed to confirm any breeding pairs at any of the former nesting sites in the country. Current conditions in Bulgaria are generally considered favorable for raptors, with many other raptor species increasing. Harmful pesticides are now banned and persecution is no longer commonplace. In addition, there is now greater legislation and enforcement to reduce nest robbery, suitable prey is now available, and there has been an increase in the area of protected habitat (National Parks, Nature Parks and NATURA 2000 network).

The loss of the Saker Falcon in Bulgaria is undoubtedly a result of human activities and the reintroduction of the species could have potential wider benefits for conservation in the country. Careful planning, implementation and monitoring is the key to a successful reintroduction programme and the feasibility study is the first step along this road.
 
Saker reintroduction in Bulgaria: feasibility study (3.4mb)