The “Life for the Lesser Kestrel” project (LIFE19 NAT/BG/001017) has come to a successful conclusion – with restored habitats, birds returned to the wild, new knowledge and, above all, hope for the future of one of Bulgaria’s rarest falcons. Years ago, the Lesser Kestrel (Falco naumanni) had disappeared from the Bulgarian skies. Today, we can tell a different story – a story of how perseverance, science, partnership and care for nature can change the fate of a species.
The project achieved many significant results, including:
The project achieved many significant results, including:
- 3 Lesser Kestrel breeding colonies were established;
- More than 1,330 birds were ringed and/or tracked, helping us learn more about their behaviour, movements and survival;
- More than 100,000 people took part in training sessions, educational initiatives and events dedicated to nature conservation and the benefits it brings to society;
- More than 300 information and educational initiatives were organised, reaching thousands of people.
But behind every number are people. People who worked from early morning until late at night. People who watched the skies, installed nest boxes, monitored birds, processed data, organised events, engaged with local communities, educated children, and helped more and more people understand why every single bird matters.
That is why today we want to say a big THANK YOU!
To all participants and partners — the University of Thessaly (Laboratory of Ecosystem and Biodiversity Management) and the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN) — who turned this project into a truly joint effort. Green Balkans applied its experience in restoring and strengthening populations in selected Natura 2000 sites and across Northern Greece in collaboration with the Greek partners. Together, we showed that nature conservation knows no borders and that meaningful change is possible only through partnership.
To the volunteers – to everyone who gave their time and energy to help. Your contribution is proof that nature conservation is not only the work of specialists. It is a cause in which everyone can take part.
To the donors and everyone who supported the cause – financially, with materials, through their work, by spreading the message, or simply by believing that the Lesser Kestrel deserves a place in Southeastern Balkans skies.
And last but certainly not least, our sincere gratitude goes to the LIFE Programme of the European Union. Without LIFE support, many of these achievements would not have been possible. The European LIFE Programme for environment and climate action demonstrates in practice how investing in nature means investing in the future – and how European solidarity can give rare and threatened species a new chance.
“Life for the Lesser Kestrel” comes to an end as a project, but not as a cause. Nature does not work according to deadlines. A project may come to an end, but our commitment to protecting species, habitats and the places we call home continues.
And one day, when we look up and see a Lesser Kestrel soaring over the Bulgarian landscape, we will know that behind that flight stands the dedication and hard work of many people.
One project has come to a successful end. A Bulgarian species has been given a new chance. And the story of the Lesser Kestrel continues. Because there is a future for the Lesser Kestrel. And we are all part of it.
That is why today we want to say a big THANK YOU!
To all participants and partners — the University of Thessaly (Laboratory of Ecosystem and Biodiversity Management) and the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN) — who turned this project into a truly joint effort. Green Balkans applied its experience in restoring and strengthening populations in selected Natura 2000 sites and across Northern Greece in collaboration with the Greek partners. Together, we showed that nature conservation knows no borders and that meaningful change is possible only through partnership.
To the volunteers – to everyone who gave their time and energy to help. Your contribution is proof that nature conservation is not only the work of specialists. It is a cause in which everyone can take part.
To the donors and everyone who supported the cause – financially, with materials, through their work, by spreading the message, or simply by believing that the Lesser Kestrel deserves a place in Southeastern Balkans skies.
And last but certainly not least, our sincere gratitude goes to the LIFE Programme of the European Union. Without LIFE support, many of these achievements would not have been possible. The European LIFE Programme for environment and climate action demonstrates in practice how investing in nature means investing in the future – and how European solidarity can give rare and threatened species a new chance.
“Life for the Lesser Kestrel” comes to an end as a project, but not as a cause. Nature does not work according to deadlines. A project may come to an end, but our commitment to protecting species, habitats and the places we call home continues.
And one day, when we look up and see a Lesser Kestrel soaring over the Bulgarian landscape, we will know that behind that flight stands the dedication and hard work of many people.
One project has come to a successful end. A Bulgarian species has been given a new chance. And the story of the Lesser Kestrel continues. Because there is a future for the Lesser Kestrel. And we are all part of it.
