Sardinia's griffon vultures were on the brink of extinction at the beginning of 2010. The population of the birds had been plummeting due to indirect poisoning, including from pesticides and chemicals ingested by animals they fed on.
A Soaring Recovery
Through dedicated conservation efforts—including the establishment of safe feeding stations, intense monitoring, and a crack-down on illegal poisoned baits—the population has seen a miraculous recovery. Today, the Italian island is home to more than 500 individuals.
This resurgence is not only a triumph for the majestic griffon vulture but also for the overall ecosystem of Sardinia, as these birds play a critical role in cleaning up the environment. It now stands as one of Italy’s most impressive and inspiring conservation success stories.
