Eastern Imperial Eagles Make a Comeback in Serbia

The eastern imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca) is experiencing a resurgence in Serbia, where the Bird Protection and Study Society of Serbia (BPSSS) has documented an increase from a single breeding pair in 2017 to 19 pairs in 2022, with 10 successfully raising young. This recovery is attributed to concerted conservation efforts, particularly following the EU-funded PannonEagle Life project, which mobilized volunteers to protect nests and rehabilitate injured eagles.

The Guardian

The decline of the eastern imperial eagle in Serbia can be traced back to several factors, including habitat destruction due to intensified agriculture, which has left vast areas devoid of trees. Milan Ružic, executive director of BPSSS, notes that the region has become one of Europe’s least forested, with tree cover dropping below 1% in some municipalities. Additionally, historical persecution, including widespread poisoning campaigns initiated by the Yugoslav state after World War II, significantly impacted raptor populations. Ružic explains that the poisoning of livestock carcasses inadvertently harmed eagles and other birds of prey.

The Guardian

To combat these challenges, BPSSS has engaged local communities in conservation efforts. Ružic emphasizes the importance of community awareness, stating that highlighting the presence of eagles has transformed them into a local symbol, reducing instances of shooting and poisoning. The organization has also implemented monitoring programs and educational campaigns to foster a protective attitude towards the species.

The Guardian

Despite these positive developments, the recovery of the eastern imperial eagle remains fragile. The scarcity of nesting trees and the slow adaptation of eagles to artificial nesting platforms pose significant challenges. Ružic notes that while the population is expanding southwards at a rate of 15-20 kilometers per year, many of the birds are still young and may take years to establish breeding pairs. Furthermore, the persistence of wildlife poisoning and conflicts with agricultural interests complicate conservation efforts. Ružic describes a mentality problem, where poisoning is seen as a quick solution to conflicts with wildlife.

The Guardian

The BPSSS has been proactive in addressing the threats to the eastern imperial eagle, with Ružic stating, “The trend has turned. Unless something dramatic happens, they will keep coming back.” The organization continues to advocate for the protection of the species while navigating the complexities of local attitudes and agricultural practices.

The Guardian

• “You can drive here for an hour and a half and not see a single tree taller than five metres,” — Milan Ružic, BPSSS

The Guardian

• “If you poison a sheep carcass in the open, eagles and vultures will be the first to find it,” — Milan Ružic, BPSSS

The Guardian

• “When you tell people there is an eagle nesting nearby, it becomes a brand: ‘our village has the eagle’.” — Milan Ružic, BPSSS

The Guardian

• “It often starts with a neighbour’s barking dog or a fox taking chickens.” — Milan Ružic, BPSSS

The Guardian

The future of the eastern imperial eagle in Serbia hinges on continued conservation efforts and community engagement. As the population stabilizes, BPSSS aims to expand its monitoring and rehabilitation programs while addressing the ongoing threats posed by habitat loss and poisoning.

The Guardian