The Spanish griffon vulture is preparing for release — toxicology tests are negative

The Cyprus Ornithological Society reported that the case involving the Spanish griffon vulture (Spanish Griffon Vulture) found about a month ago is not related to poisoning. The bird, which has been in a private wildlife care centre in Northern Cyprus since 21 October, is recovering and is expected to be released back into the wild in the coming days.

During transmitter monitoring, specialists noticed that the vulture remained motionless in one place for an extended period — first the signal came from a rooftop in Ammochostos (Famagusta), then from an area near a wetland. The bird was found emaciated and dehydrated; following a decision by the Ornithological Society, it received veterinary care and was taken to the centre.

Samples taken from the bird were sent to the General Chemistry Laboratory of the Republic of Cyprus for toxicological analysis, to the Veterinary Services for disease testing, and to a private laboratory in the free area for lead-level testing (in case the bird had fed on hunted carcasses). The latest results — including tests for organophosphate and carbamate compounds — turned out to be negative. No external injuries were found during inspection.

According to the director of the Ornithological Society, the vulture has gained weight and has been moved to a more spacious aviary, where muscle tone is being restored. According to expert observations, it has mostly recovered and is preparing to regain flight condition; the release date is now a matter of days.

It is worth noting that this vulture is one of the birds released after being brought from Andalusia (Andalusia, Spain) as part of a programme to strengthen the population of the Pyrocrested vulture; it was released in July 2024 after an adaptation period in special aviaries. Currently, 45 vultures introduced in recent years as part of the joint programme of the Andalusian regional authorities and local services are flying freely over Cyprus.