Presentation in Sarajevo on the problem of bird mortality - 'Be a friend to birds too'

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - More than two billion birds from central and northern Europe migrate across the European continent and the Mediterranean Sea every year to wintering grounds in northern or central Africa, using the so-called Adriatic migratory route or Adriatic Flyway, which also includes Bosnia and Herzegovina.

"Field research has shown that, in addition to the destruction of habitats that birds use for rest and feeding during migration, three causes of individual bird mortality clearly stand out: poaching, poisoning, and death from electric shock or collision with power lines," states the Ornithological Society 'Naše ptice' in a press release.

According to data from 'BirdLife International', more than 25 million birds are illegally killed or caught annually in the Mediterranean region. During the same period, hundreds of thousands of birds die from poisoning, with vultures and raptors being the most endangered.

"On the occasion of International Vulture Awareness Day, the Ornithological Society Naše ptice is organizing a public presentation titled 'Be a friend to birds too,' during which the problems of poaching, poisoning, and bird mortality due to electric shock or collision with power lines will be presented. Along with a series of informational materials that will be distributed, citizens will be able to learn more information about the problems of protecting birds and their habitats through discussions with the Association's members," the statement reads.

The event will be held in the square opposite Vijećnica on Saturday, September 5, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

It is also planned to follow the release of the griffon vulture Luka into the wild via video link, which will take place in Blagaj at 12:15 PM.

The Society notes that citizens will also have the opportunity to learn about the more pleasant aspects of interacting with birds, and two songs dedicated to bird protection will be premiered.

The Ornithological Society calls for civic responsibility in protecting birds and their habitats to create a healthier environment for people and birds, the statement concludes.