Rare Egyptian vulture filmed at Paphos feeding unit
A rare Egyptian vulture was recorded at a forestry department feeding unit in Ayios Ioannis, Paphos, highlighting the site’s role in supporting vultures.
Ayios Ioannis, Cyprus. A rare Egyptian vulture was filmed at a forestry department feeding unit in Paphos on Monday. The bird was recorded by forestry employee and naturalist Georgios Papapetrou.
Protected migratory species
The Egyptian vulture is Europe’s smallest and most endangered vulture species. It is identifiable by its white plumage, black wingtips and bright yellow face.
The species migrates between Europe and Africa each autumn, with Cyprus serving as a stopover point for birds to rest and resupply.
Feeding unit
The forestry department said the sighting reflected the success of its vulture feeding unit, which has operated continuously since 1992.
It said the facility was the first initiative of its kind on the island aimed at protecting the species. For more than three decades, the unit has been supplied with checked, poison-free carcasses to provide safe supplementary food for vultures.
The department described the site as a refuge and lifeline for resident griffon vultures and exhausted migratory birds, including Egyptian vultures.
Threats to griffon vultures
Cyprus’s resident griffon vulture population currently numbers about 37 birds. Poisoned bait and frequent deaths caused by electricity wires have been identified as the main threats to the species’ survival.
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