Captive breeding of Falco sp. (Lesser Kestrel, Common Kestrel, Red-footed Falcon) with permanent disabilities in Bulgaria

Captive breeding of different species of birds offers conservationists a viable option when it comes to boosting wild populations of rare endangered species. Including non-releasable animals with permanent injuries can increase the breeding flock and breeding output. In addition, it provides an opportunity for birds that cannot be released to be included in conservation activities by rearing offspring for release in the wild. Between 2013 and 2024, in Bulgaria in the Wildlife Rehabilitation and Breeding Centre, part of Green Balkans - Stara Zagora NGO, individuals from three species of small falcons were paired for breeding - the pairs included birds with permanent disabilities of Lesser Kestrels, Common Kestrels and Red-footed Falcons. For the study period, 34 Lesser Kestrels - offspring to injured pairs, were reared and released into the wild in the country, together with 172 Common Kestrels and two Red-footed Falcons. The breed-and-release activities contributed to reinforcing the wild populations of the falcon species and to improving the skills and knowledge of aviculturists and veterinarians in Bulgaria dealing with birds of prey.