Bird on the Edge
Bringing the southern African bearded vulture back from the brink
Monarch of the Mountains
The bearded vulture is undoubtedly one of southern Africa's most fascinating and visually impressive vulture species.
As one of the largest of the nine vulture species found in southern Africa, weighing between 5-8 kg and boasting a wingspan of over 2 metres, vibrant copper-coloured plumage, a distinctive diamond-shaped tail, and characteristic red-rimmed eyes, it is no wonder these majestic birds have earned the title "Monarch of the Mountains."
Sadly, like many of Africa's vulture species, the southern bearded vulture faces an uncertain future. With less than 400 individuals left, this species is teetering on the brink of extinction. As a result of its sharp decline over the past three decades, the southern bearded vulture has been classified as critically endangered in southern Africa.
Population Crash
The bearded vulture population in the southern African region is currently estimated to range between 350-400 birds, with only about 100 breeding pairs. Within the last 53 years, equivalent to three generations, the population has experienced an alarming decline of approximately 82%.
This sharp decline has resulted in a confined population limited to the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountains due to the loss of range and declining population numbers caused by various persistent threats. As a result of these factors, the bearded vulture has been classified as "critically endangered" in the southern African region.
Why?
The bearded vulture's decline in southern Africa can be attributed to several factors. Unfortunately, the primary cause is poisoning from consuming carcasses laced with poison baits intended for predators, such as jackals. This is a common practice to protect farming livestock, but it poses a significant threat to vultures.
Long-term exposure to heavy metals, such as lead, is another contributing factor. Ingesting lead particles while feeding on carcasses containing lead shot or fragments of lead bullets is a common source of exposure.
Another significant threat to the bearded vulture is collisions with energy infrastructure. As new energy infrastructure is developed across the bird's range, it is expected to have an increasingly negative impact on the population.
In addition to these challenges, vultures are also targeted by the traditional medicine industry. They are prized for their perceived ability to provide clairvoyant powers, foresight, and increased intelligence, which has led to increased demand for their body parts.
Project Overview
This bearded vulture conservation project is committed to protecting and preserving this vulnerable species. To achieve our goals, we have developed a comprehensive plan that combines modern technology with traditional conservation practices.
Our approach leverages technological advances to monitor and protect the bearded vulture's habitat. At the same time, we recognise the importance of traditional conservation practices, such as habitat restoration and community engagement.
In addition to our on-the-ground conservation efforts, raising awareness about the bearded vulture's plight is essential to its long-term survival. We are committed to reaching a global audience and generating financial support for our conservation work. By working together and sharing information openly, we can ensure that the bearded vulture remains a cherished and protected species for generations to come.
Long-term Goals
The project aims to contribute to conserving the bearded vulture, a cliff-nesting vulture in South Africa and Lesotho, in line with the goals of the Bearded Vulture Task Force and the Bearded Vulture Recovery Programme. This involves diligent monitoring, conservation measures, and public engagement to ensure the long-term survival of this species.
Population Stabilisation
Stop the decreasing trend of the bearded vulture population and maintain it at approximately 100 breeding pairs within the next ten years.
Population Recovery
Maintain a positive population growth rate and increase the bearded vulture population to a sustainable carrying capacity of 150 breeding pairs.
Awareness & Support
Create and sustain public awareness and support for the conservation of bearded vultures both domestically and internationally.
Short-term Objectives
As we pursue our long-term goal of bearded vulture conservation, we have identified specific short-term objectives essential to our success. These objectives consist of a series of targeted tasks, actions, and activities that are critical to achieving our conservation goals.
We will carefully track, manage, and report on these tasks and activities to ensure transparency, engagement, and collaboration among all stakeholders. This will involve ongoing communication with our public and private funders and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that everyone is kept up to date on our progress.
Feeding Site
Provide uncontaminated food at a well-managed bearded vulture supplementary feeding station to help the species survive, especially during food shortages.
Real-time Observation
Develop and build a high-resolution, real-time streaming platform using HD cameras to capture bearded vultures during feeding and nesting periods and offer an immersive wildlife experience to a global audience.
GPS Tracking
Install GPS tracking devices on selected birds, thereby providing vital data on species movement, habitat use, and behaviour. This information will aid spatial mapping and activity analysis.
To Our Supporters
We are deeply grateful to the organisations and individuals who generously support our conservation vision. Your commitment to this cause is invaluable in enabling urgent and innovative conservation efforts. Without your support, our mission would not have been possible. Thank you for believing in our approach and for your trust in our ability to make a difference. Together, we can achieve our conservation goals and preserve Africa's natural heritage for generations to come.
About Us
At the heart of Indlovu Aerial Trust (I.A.T.) lies a burning passion for Africa's ecosystems and wildlife. Our founders have witnessed with increasing concern the degradation of this natural heritage, and we are committed to playing our part in reversing this trend through dedicated, high-impact grassroots conservation efforts.