Birds
New initiative launched to protect vultures in Chad
Efforts led by Sahara Conservation seek to combat illegal poisoning and wildlife trafficking to preserve declining raptor populations across the country.
Reported by Mongabay · · 2 min read
A fresh conservation initiative has been introduced in Chad to defend collapsing vulture colonies against poisoning and unlawful hunting. Overseen by the non-governmental group Sahara Conservation, the venture forms a component of the European Union-backed LIFE EV Safe Return initiative, which concentrates on shielding endangered Egyptian vultures.
Egyptian vultures undertake lengthy journeys from nesting grounds situated across southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia to spend winter feeding months in sub-Saharan regions, including Chadian territory. Field activities will primarily target Lake Fitri alongside the Ouadi Rimé–Ouadi Achim Faunal Reserve, two critical landscapes that also provide breeding habitats for Rüppell’s vultures, which are critically endangered, as well as endangered lappet-faced vultures.
According to project officials, raptor numbers across Chad are diminishing rapidly due to pressures similar to those observed throughout West Africa. A major driver is the trade linked to traditional beliefs, where individuals slaughter birds under the assumption that specific anatomical elements bring fortune or ward off adversity.
Poisoning incidents have exacted a heavy toll on native scavengers. During the previous year, more than one hundred Rüppell’s vultures perished across three separate poisoning events in Chad. Inquiries conducted with local residents revealed that cross-border poachers harvested parts from dead birds to supply commercial markets in neighboring Niger and Nigeria.
Mitigating conflict and poison threats
The birds face additional danger through incidental poison consumption. Herders regularly place toxic substances on livestock remains to eliminate predatory jackals or leopards, which inadvertently wipes out feeding scavengers. An external avian specialist noted that proactive intervention by conservationists is crucial for halting further regional losses.
To address these perils, team organizers plan to deliver specialized instruction to environmental officers and wildlife protectors to boost enforcement against toxic substances. Project leaders also intend to survey market routes to comprehend the illicit supply chains fueling the bird trade.
The strategy additionally emphasizes community outreach to correct widespread misconceptions regarding the ecological role of vultures. Conservationists plan to furnish livestock keepers with affordable deterrents, including fencing and visual scare methods, to minimize predator encounters and discourage reliance on lethal poisons before local populations vanish entirely.
