Once wrongly accused of being a dangerous predator, the Bearded Vulture was persecuted to the point of extinction in the Alps by the early 20th century. Yet this bone-eating scavenger plays an irreplaceable ecological role: by cleaning up carcasses, it helps prevent the spread of disease and maintains the balance of Alpine ecosystems.
- Enable the return of the Bearded Vulture to the Alps by creating the conditions necessary for a viable population
- Ensure rigorous scientific monitoring and inform the public to foster broad acceptance of the species
- Select and release a sufficient number of Bearded Vultures with appropriate genetic diversity
- Conduct comprehensive population monitoring: satellite telemetry, nest monitoring, coordinated counts, population genetics
- Raise awareness: protect against disturbance, prevent lead poisoning
- Work in close collaboration with partners across Alpine countries
Established in 1999, the Foundation Pro Bearded Vulture succeeded the Bearded Vulture Reintroduction Society (GWB), founded in 1989 by a group of passionate conservationists determined to bring the species back to the Alps. Working closely with partners across Alpine countries and numerous national and regional organizations, the Foundation leads vital efforts to reintroduce and protect the bearded vulture in its natural habitat.