Let us introduce to you …… the Lesser Kestrel – the Rescue Center’s bird of the month – May 2013

We definitely need to get closely acquainted with this bird, since it has gone extinct in Bulgaria’s wildlife. Currently, the only place in the country, where Lesser Kestrels can be seen is Green Balkans’ Wildlife Rescue Center…

These small falcons, due to their dietary needs, feeding mostly on insects, are good allies to farmers in the combat against agricultural pests. The Lesser Kestrels represent a natural tool for protection of crops.

A total of eight Lesser Kestrels are bred at the Rescue Center. Four of these birds are pairs introduced from Germany. We are happy to share with you that this year each pair has laid four eggs, and, hopefully, the chicks will be hatched in May under the loving care of their parents.

For years, the Rescue Center has prepared for the moment when we will launch the release of juvenile Lesser Kestrels as a part of the initiative for recovery of the species in Bulgaria. We really hope we will release the first group of birds this year, including also the chicks hatched at the Rescue Center.

There are numerous reasons for the extinction of the species in Bulgaria, such as intensive farming, intensified application of chemicals in agriculture, abandonment of small settlements, overgrowing and abandonment of pastures and arable areas, non-insulated hazardous electric poles, etc.

Once considered one of the most numerous birds of prey in Bulgaria, breeding even in the very center of the city of Plovdiv, nowadays the future of the Lesser Kestrel is in our hands.

Enjoy the wonderful elegant falcons – our hope for the recovery of the species in Bulgaria.



HERE you can find further information about the Lesser Kestrels included in the adoption program of the Rescue Center.
The picture in a hand-made mount made entirely of recycled materials, which is sent to every donor, brings a piece of wildlife into our stressed daily routine.

For further information, please contact:
Hristina Klisurova
Veterinarian, PR
Wildlife Rescue Center
E-mail: hhristova@greenbalkans.org
Mobile: +359 886 57 00 53