Uniting for Pindos: A partnership giving new hope to the Egyptian vulture and traditional pastoralism

From September 2023 through to August 2025, the Hellenic Ornithological Society/ Bird Life Greece, together with the Eco Museum Zagori, implemented the project “Working to protect the common future of Egyptian vulture and traditional livestock farming” in the wider area of Pindos. This initiative was funded by the Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust (PONT), under its Connectivity Conservation Area (CCA) programme.

The project is built on HOS’s long-standing commitment of protecting the critically endangered Egyptian vulture while also supporting traditional livestock breeders whose way of life is deeply intertwined with the species’ survival. HOS joined forces with a local organisation, the Eco Museum Zagori, whose aim is to promote the natural and cultural heritage of Zagori through sustainable development, which entails strong involvement with local pastoralists. Together, the project partners implemented a wide range of activities addressing wildlife conflict as well as activities aiming to increase public awareness on the importance of traditional livestock farming and its essential contribution to biodiversity conservation.

Thanks to the project, more than 60 local stakeholders—primarily traditional livestock breeders—became actively engaged in the Stakeholders Network established by HOS in the region, which now includes over 100 members.The network aims to build a connected, well-informed community of stakeholders, increasing their awareness of wildlife conflict and the illegal use of poison baits. With this knowledge, stakeholders are better equipped to make informed decisions and protect themselves more effectively against predator attacks.

HOS distributed ‘deterrent methods’ amongst the network’s members, resulting in over 35 farms with increased protection against predator attacks. These methods ranged from fox lights and electric fences to solar panels providing electricity and light, and GPS collars for livestock. Since livestock-guarding dogs are essential for protecting herds from predators, anti-poison first-aid kits, vaccinations, and veterinary treatments were also provided to support the dogs’ health and overall fitness.

At the same time, thanks to the project, at least three individuals of Egyptian vultures – two of them a pair successfully breeding in Albania- have benefitted from the operation of two feeding sites in the areas of Konitsa and Pogoni. These feeding sites provide safe, regular food on which the birds can rely, saving them from extra energy expenditure and reducing the risk of poisoning.

HOS, particularly EMZ, implemented very successful public engagement, citizen science, and awareness-raising activities. Two old transhumance paths were restored and marked with the help of volunteers for use as new hiking paths, while three BioBlitz workshops were held to record local biodiversity, finding over 150 species, and involved over 380 students. A photo exhibition and a short documentary on the lives of women shepherdesses was presented which also toured in local villages – Zagori, Pogoni, and Konitsa. Highlighting the importance of traditional livestock breeding for biodiversity conservation and celebrating the key role of women in this way of life. The project’s reach was increased through social media and its internet presence, informing more than 150,000 people about its key messages and aims.

This initiative demonstrates the power of a holistic approach that integrates ecological measures with active stakeholders’ involvement, investing in pastoral resilience and cultural revitalization to protect not only the Egyptian vulture but also the unique landscape and heritage of Epirus. Thanks to PONT’s continued support, these efforts will extend for another three years, bringing renewed hope for the survival of the Egyptian vulture and traditional livestock breeding of the region.

By: Hellenic Ornithological Society (HOS)