More than 30 young griffon vultures have been brought in for care in the past two weeks as high summer temperatures take their toll on Crete’s wildlife.
The latest warning comes from Greek wildlife protection organisation ANIMA, which said on Monday, August 24, that it has been receiving between one and five exhausted and dehydrated young vultures almost every day. ANIMA also reported rescuing 20 exhausted young Griffon Vultures earlier this month.
More than 30 of the birds have arrived over the past two weeks, with cases referred by the Natural History Museum of Crete and the Chania Forestry Service.
The young vultures arrive in poor condition, requiring intensive care before they can begin the much longer process of rehabilitation.
Six Months Before Returning to the Wild
According to ANIMA, the birds first receive intensive medical care. Once they are strong enough, they are moved to an outdoor enclosure where they can eat and drink and gradually regain their strength.
The rehabilitation process takes time. The young vultures remain in the enclosure for at least six months before they can be considered for release back into the wild.
It is a striking reminder that rescuing a wild animal is rarely as simple as treating an injury and opening a cage.
Crete Is a Stronghold for Griffon Vultures
Crete is one of the most important strongholds of the Eurasian griffon vulture, with the large scavenging birds particularly associated with the island’s mountainous landscapes.
The species can reach a wingspan of approximately 2.8 metres and weigh more than 10 kilograms. Greece’s mainland population is much smaller, with an estimated 50 breeding pairs.
The birds are also increasingly turning up in unusual places when they become exhausted.
In recent weeks, several incidents have been reported in Crete involving weakened vultures landing on beaches and other unexpected locations, including an incident that caused a delay involving a parked aircraft.
For young birds struggling in the intense summer heat, finding somewhere safe to rest can become a matter of survival.
ANIMA says it cares for around 7,000 wild birds and animals every year, making the current influx of young vultures another significant demand on its resources.
The organisation is appealing for public support to continue its work, with donations helping provide care, treatment and rehabilitation for injured and exhausted wildlife.
The little vultures arriving now face months of recovery before they can return to the mountains where they belong.
