Vulture spotted in Oroklini: experts fear the bird may be injured

Local residents in the Oroklini area noticed a vulture perched on a road sign. The bird’s unusual behavior raised concern and prompted intervention from wildlife authorities.

Experts suggest that the vulture may be injured or experiencing health problems. The Wildlife and Animal Protection Service has started monitoring the bird and is preparing an operation for its safe capture to provide veterinary care.

Petros Anaiotos, a representative of the Hunting Service, confirmed that the vulture is under constant observation. He noted that during the first capture attempt, the bird moved toward the highway, so the operation had to be temporarily suspended until it moves to a safer area.

It is reported that the vulture is fitted with a GPS tracker and a vital signs monitoring system, including body temperature. Data indicate that in recent days the bird has been moving through areas with limited food resources. Specialists estimate that it has only a few days left to properly restore its nutrition.

The services are preparing the necessary equipment and do not rule out another capture attempt, including at night, if conditions allow for a safe operation.

The vulture population in Cyprus remains critically low — about 40 individuals. Special programs are being implemented on the island to protect the species from poisoning and other threats to these rare birds.