UAE releases 81 falcons into wild in Kazakhstan
81 falcons were released into the wild in Kazakhstan’s Karaganda region under the Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme, Kazinform News Agency reports.
The release of 48 peregrine falcons and 33 saker falcons took place from May 15 through 17, the Forestry and Wildlife Committee of the Ministry of Ecology says.
The birds of prey were bred in the UAE nurseries.
"The abovementioned activities are being implemented as per the Cooperation Agreement between the Committee for Forestry and Wildlife of the Kazakh Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and the International Fund for Houbara Conservation (Kazakhstan), under the Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Program. The project is aimed at conservation of endangered bird species. The program also contributes to strengthening international cooperation in wildlife protection," the Committee says.
According to WAM, the total number of Saker and Peregrine falcons returned to the wild since the programme’s launch reached 2,355.
"For the ninth consecutive year, the programme saw 53 Peregrine falcons and 28 Saker falcons released in Kazakhstan – marking the initiative’s fourth decade of operation since it was established in 1995," the agency reported.
"Prior to release, all falcons underwent comprehensive veterinary checks, intensive training and were fitted with identification leg bands and implanted with electronic microchips. Ten falcons (five of each species) were equipped with solar-powered satellite-tracking devices to monitor survival rates, dispersion and migration routes. The data collected will be used to support the ongoing development of rehabilitation, training and release methods," WAM says.
Earlier it was reported that Karolina Wojtasik, a well-known photographer from the United States, visited Kazakhstan this year for the first time to shoot local qusbegilik or falconry traditions. Her works highlighting the unique ancient art of the Kazakh people were recognized with the international Communication Arts Awards of Excellence for achievements in documentary photography, she posted on her Instagram.
