On 10 July 2026, in Limassol District, an important conservation action was carried out for the Griffon Vulture population in Cyprus. For the first time on the island, a Griffon Vulture chick was ringed and fitted with a GPS transmitter while still in the nest.

This moment is especially significant because the chick is the first offspring produced by Griffon Vultures transferred to Cyprus. Its parents, Molly and Ramon, were transported from Spain as part of efforts to reinforce the island’s small and vulnerable vulture population.

The chick’s presence in the nest provides tangible evidence that years of dedicated conservation work can make a real difference. For one of Cyprus’ most iconic and endangered species, this is an important milestone in the recovery of the population.

The operation was the result of months of careful planning and systematic nest monitoring, ensuring that the intervention took place at the appropriate stage of the chick’s development, around 90 days old. Prior site visits, access planning, detailed preparation and the necessary authorisation from the Sovereign Base Areas were also secured in advance.

The day began at 6 am. With the help of a professional climber, the field team safely accessed the cliff nest. The chick was carefully placed in a protective bag and brought down to the team on the ground, where the ringing and tagging process was carried out.

An officer from the Game and Fauna Service fitted the chick with a ring and a GPS transmitter. A collaborating veterinarian carried out a health check, which forms an integral part of the procedure, confirming that the chick was in excellent condition. Samples were also collected for genetic sex identification and toxicological analyses.

The GPS transmitter will provide invaluable information on the bird’s movements, survival and dispersal after fledging. This data will help improve understanding of Griffon Vulture ecology in Cyprus and support future conservation decisions.

Once the ringing, veterinary check, sampling and GPS tagging were completed, the chick was taken back to the nest and safely returned to its place.

The entire operation was completed in less than two hours to minimise disturbance. The team then moved away from the area and the nest was monitored discreetly. The parents successfully returned shortly afterwards.

The action was coordinated and funded by BirdLife Cyprus, with the necessary authorisation from the Sovereign Base Areas. The Chief Officer and members of the SBAA Environmental Service team were also present, while the procedure was carried out with the participation of the Game and Fauna Service and the support of a collaborating veterinarian.

The story of Molly and Ramon now continues through their first chick. When the time comes, its first flight will mark another important step for the future of Griffon Vultures in Cyprus.