# CE; # CON

Project Title: Contribution to the Protection of the Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus)

Partners: Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, City of Cres, Nature Public Institution, Association BIOM, Association Tramuntana, Faculty of Science

Project Commencement Year: 2001

Status: Active

Species: Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus)

IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC)

National Red List Status (Croatia): Endangered (EN)

This conservation project focuses on several key areas:

Ex situ Breeding and Population Reinforcement:
The project has successfully reintroduced two ex situ-bred individuals into the wild, helping to strengthen natural populations.

Griffon Vulture Visitor and Rehabilitation Centre, Beli, Cres:
The project has played a significant role in the development of this centre, progressing through multiple phases. During the opening and establishment, we contributed expert knowledge in creating and implementing educational programs, collaborated with architects on the design and construction of the vulture aviary, and assisted with obtaining necessary permits and registering the centre. Once the centre was operational, we supported the equipping of the aviary for vulture rehabilitation, conducted various DNA analyses, and are currently working together on improving animal husbandry practices and veterinary care.

Support for Nature Reserve Lake Cornino:
The project provided funding for the installation of cameras to monitor griffon vultures.

Management and Action Plan Development:
Active participation in the development of management and action plans for conservation efforts.

Conservation Education:
The project raises awareness through educational initiatives, including the organization of “Scavenger Day” to raise public understanding of the role scavengers play in ecosystems.

Summary

The project played a crucial role in strengthening natural populations by reintroducing ex situ-bred individuals into the wild. It also contributed significantly to the establishment of the Griffon Vulture Visitor and Rehabilitation Centre in Beli, Cres. Additionally, the project supported the development of management and action plans for Griffon Vultures. Today, it continues to collaborate with the centre on animal husbandry practices and veterinary care, while also raising awareness through educational initiatives such as “Scavenger Day