Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme Releases 63 Falcons into Kazakhstan Wilderness

Photo : Abu Dhabi Media Office

After marking the successful 30th anniversary in May, the Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme (SZFRP) has reached a milestone of releasing 2,274 falcons back into the wild. Established in 1995 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and continued under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the programme aims to conserve falcon species vulnerable to environmental pressures.

In its latest edition, the SZFRP released 63 falcons, including 38 Peregrine falcons and 25 Saker falcons, under the supervision of Kazakhstan's Forestry and Wildlife Committee. These releases occurred across the falcons' migratory areas spanning Kazakhstan, Russia, China, Mongolia, and neighboring regions known for their rugged terrains and abundant prey.

His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Vice Chairman of the International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC), emphasized Abu Dhabi's commitment to wildlife conservation. He highlighted Sheikh Zayed's vision of reviving and institutionalizing the tradition of releasing falcons post-hunting season to preserve species and prevent extinction.

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Under Sheikh Zayed's legacy, initiatives led by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan continue to protect wildlife and maintain ecological balance. Efforts include reducing electrocution risks for birds of prey in Mongolia and promoting Saker falcon reproduction through artificial nests in Bulgaria.

The programme ensures the falcons' readiness for wilderness survival through veterinary care, intensive training, and advanced tracking technologies. Each falcon is equipped with electronic chips and satellite-linked tracking devices powered by solar energy to monitor their survival, migration patterns, and habitat selection.

His Excellency praised the collaborative efforts with Kazakh authorities and thanked them for facilitating the programme's implementation. These partnerships strengthen Abu Dhabi's commitment to biodiversity protection, environmental sustainability, and wildlife preservation on a global scale.