Overview
This project monitors vulture populations in central and southern Armenia to support evidence-based conservation of key scavenger species. Implemented by the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC), the work focuses on the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge (CWR) and adjacent landscapes (around 35,000 ha of privately protected area) that provide important breeding and foraging habitats. The project identifies and tracks breeding sites, monitors nesting success and population dynamics, and maps priority habitats to guide protection measures. Field activities include nest searches, repeated monitoring visits, and threat assessment—particularly disturbance, poisoning, and electrocution risks. The initiative also engages rangers and local communities to reduce pressures on nesting areas and strengthen awareness of the ecological importance of vultures. Monitoring results are shared to support wider national efforts for vulture conservation.
Key facts
- Country/Area: Armenia — Ararat and Vayots Dzor regions
- Site(s): Caucasus Wildlife Refuge (CWR) and adjacent areas
- Activity type: Conservation; Research; Capacity building
- Themes: Satellite tagging; Habitat monitoring; Raptors; Education & outreach
- Target species/group: Vultures (Egyptian Vulture, Bearded Vulture, Griffon Vulture, Cinereous Vulture)
- Implementing organization: Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC)
- Timeline: Ongoing
- Donor/Budget: Approx. USD 3,000 (various donors over time, including BirdLife International; currently conducted by FPWC)
Key outcomes / expected outputs
- Reliable data on nesting success and population trends of four vulture species in CWR
- Mapping of key breeding and foraging habitats to guide protection measures
- Reduced disturbance and threats through ranger and community involvement
- Contribution of monitoring results to national vulture conservation initiatives
Links
Contact
Email: tsovinar@araves.org
Focal point: Tsovinar Hovhannisyan (FPWC)