angel dimov
Transcription
angel dimov
WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE Green Balkans Annual Report 19, Balgarsko Vazrazhdane Str., P.O.Box 27, Stara Zagora 6006 Tel./Fax: +359 42 607 741 e-mail: [email protected] www.greenbalkans-wrbc.org 2011 Message of His Excellency James Warlick, United states Ambassador to Bulgaria, written in the book for visitors following his visit to the Wildlife Rescue Centre. Donors and Partners The Wildlife Rescue Center is one of the We express our sincere gratitude to all who supported the development of Green Balkans’ Wildlife Rescue Centre, and most of all to: main units of Green Balkans nature-conservation NGO. In 1990, a group of enthusiasts came up with an idea of establishing a specialized wildlife hospital. This idea was gradually developed, and today, 21 years later, the Wildlife Rescue Center has built a reputation as the only institution of its kind, working for rehabilitation, medical treatment, recovery, and release of wild animals in distress – either rare or threatened with extinction, back into the wild. Hundreds of supporters from all over the country render their voluntary assistance and cooperation, while the real value is the significant change in people’s attitude. Enterprise for Management of Environment Protection Activities (EMEPA) Ministry of Environment and Water (MOEW) Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water – Stara Zagora Frankfurt Zoological Society (Germany) Trakia University – Stara Zagora LIFE+ financial instrument of the European Community (EU) Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt (DBU) Vocational High School of Veterinary Medicine – Stara Zagora Vulture Conservation Foundation (VCF) Pet Hospital Dr. Tzekov Main Areas of Activity of the Centre LUCRAT • Providing medical treatment and recovery for rare or threatened species in distress (injured or exhausted), and releasing them back into the wild; VIVACOM Walsrode Bird Park (Germany) Zlín ZOO (Czech Republic) Raptor Breeding Facility (Wales, Great Britain) Global Environmental Facility’s Small Grants Programme (GEF – SGP) M-Tel EcoGrant Operational Program Environment 2007–2013, Priority Axis 3, (OPE) «Workshop for Civil Initiatives» Foundation OPportunities for better life MATRA Program of the Netherlands Embassy Bulgarian Charities Aid Foundation Bulgarian Donors Forum The employees of Raiffeisenbank, who supported us through the donation program «Choose to help» Currently, the Wildlife Rescue Center has numerous facilities for rehabilitation, treatment, breeding, and raising of rare species, and, despite the huge difficulties, continues to pursue its mission – changing people’s attitudes to wildlife and the problems it faces today, and encouraging their responsibility. • Providing the necessary conditions and equipment for harboring confiscated rare animals of the Bulgarian fauna, which may be subject to illegal trade; • Breeding permanently disabled rare or threatened raptors that cannot be released back into the wild; • Developing reintroduction programs and supporting the populations of the following species: Bearded Vulture, Imperial Eagle, Black Vulture, Saker Falcon, and Lesser Kestrel; Results Achieved The number of patients increases every year, both as a result of the efforts for popularization of the activity of the Rescue Centre and the raised environmental awareness of the public. About 40% of these are successfully released back into the wild, including species of high conservation status such as eagles, vultures, falcons, herons, pelicans, storks, etc. • VISAGES Model Group Implementing environmental educational youth programs. Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research – BAS Toner Stream «Youth in Action» Program of the National Centre «European Youth Programs and Initiatives» (NCEYPI) Abu Dhabi Environmental Agency 1 Printed on recycled paper WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 The Team What is typical of the members of the team is that they are completely different kinds of people. Every signal related to a wounded animal or wildlife in distress involves different approach and a lot of ingenuity. Being extremely small, the team of the Wildlife Rescue Center has to combine numerous functions. The team members are specialized in specific areas of activity; however, they need to be familiar with the peculiarities of the rest of the activities, because in many cases their immediate reaction is of crucial significance. This, of course, requires information sharing and perfect coordination. Dr. Ivan Ivanov – Veterinarian The Doctor. Dr. Ivanov is responsible for treatment and rehabilitation of patients. His duties also include analysis of the reasons for their conditions and the possible complications that might occur as a result of their captive breeding, as well as recommendations for appropriate changes. Thanks to his amazing «inventions», many of our almost doomed patients are not only recovered and rehabilitated, but also released into the wild completely fit to survive in their natural environment. Ivan Ivanov – Technical Activities and Incubation Unit Coordinator Qualified engineer and born nature-lover, Ivan has successfully combined these sometimes extremely different areas of interest. Ivan has been a volunteer of Green Balkans actively involved in field activities for a long time. For several years now, he has held several positions at the Rescue Centre. As a member of the team of the breeding program, Ivan is in charge of the incubation and hatching premises. In addition, he contributes to the reintroduction and restocking programs, being also in charge of the maintenance of the facility. Karney Karneev – Breeding Program and Bird Training Coordinator Karney’s profound knowledge of his «children» – the birds of prey, accumulated during the long observations of their behavior and life in the wild will improve the living conditions for the temporarily hospitalized and the permanently disabled patients of the Rescue Center. This is exactly the approach we need in order to secure successful implementation of our raptor reintroduction programs. Raptor breeding involves good knowledge of birds’ behavior and preferences, since successful breeding depends on the provision of suitable living conditions. Venelin Hristov – Baby Ward Assistant He is a veterinary student at the Thracian University – one of the persons upon whom we have set our hopes for the future. His good knowledge of the breeding of Columbidae and songbirds, as well as his eager interest in mammals proves to be of particular significance at the Baby Ward. All baby squirrels raised at the facility grew healthy and frisky thanks to his efforts and devotion. Dr. Rusko Petrov – Supplies Coordinator, Patient Inflow and Intensive Care Unit Assistant, Volunteers’ Coordinator Veterinarian. Being a volunteer at the Rescue Center for years, Rusko is the newest member of our team. He is the one in charge of securing the varied menu of our patients, providing appropriate quantities of medicines and consumables needed for their medical treatment, as well as implementing all kinds of urgent deliveries. In addition, Rusko coordinates the work of our volunteers who help with the everyday caretaking of animals and supports the team of the intensive care unit. 2 WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 Ivaylo Klisurov – Manager Ivaylo Klisurov is in charge of: organizing and managing the work of the Wildlife Rescue Centre; managing the team; developing projects and raising funds; contributing actively to the personnel policy and the relations with the public, state and private institutions, and other NGOs; coordinating the development of breeding programs, as well as reintroduction and restocking programs, where the Rescue Centre plays a key role. Ivaylo Klisurov is responsible for the development of the Organization and its activities in Stara Zagora. Chair of the Managing Board of «Green Balkans – Stara Zagora» NGO. Dr. Hristina Klisurova – Public Relations and Document Management Veterinarian. Dr. Klisurova is responsible for receiving signals related to wild animals in distress. Also, Dr. Klisurova’s duties involve: maintenance of the Rescue Centre’s database and documentation regarding the Biological Diversity Act and the Veterinary Medicine Act; participation in information campaigns related to the Centre and the conservation of rare species; coordination of the relations with the public, media, and state institutions; development of new projects and coordination of the donation and adoption programs of the Wildlife Rescue Centre. WILDLIFE RESCUE CENTER – ANNUAL REPORT JANUARY–DECEMBER 2011 Receiving Animals in Distress A total of 1290 animals of 110 species, belonging to 3 classes – Birds, Reptiles, and Mammals, were received at the Centre during the period January-December 2011. More than 3,000 signals were processed, mainly related to animal-human conflicts, as well as domestic animals in distress, general poaching, felling within state-owned or municipal forests, etc. Received patients by Class MMALIA 37 – MA 56 – REPTILIA 2 – неизв. AVES – 1194 The most numerous were birds – 1,194. Reptiles were represented by orders Testudines and Squamata, and mammals – by orders Chiroptera, Insectivora, and Rodentida. Received patients by Order Nikolay Arabadzhiev – Hospitalized Patients and Post-treatment Release Coordinator Signals of animals in distress are received from all over the country on a daily basis. Most often, signals come via the Centre’s hot line. In some cases, the patients are brought directly to the Centre. On rare occasions, the team of the Centre has to make on-the-spot visits, especially in specific cases, natural disasters or other calamities involving numerous casualties. Nikolay has long experience as a volunteer of Green Balkans. Now, as an employee, he is the key figure creating good conditions for the birds in the Rescue Centre thanks to his inborn talent and intuition when working with animals. Nikolay is in charge of the daily caretaking of patients at the visitor’s and the breeding units. Nikolay decides whether the patients that have undergone medical treatment and rehabilitation are ready and fit to be released back into the wild. He is actively involved in the maintenance of the facility and construction of new cages and perches. Lyubomila Krivoshieva – Patient Inflow, Intensive Care Unit, Baby Ward, and Release Coordinator and Document Management Assistant Lyubomila has been a volunteer of Green Balkans and the Rescue Centre for many years, actively involved in the guarding of Imperial Eagle nests and the transportation of animals in distress from Sofia to the Rescue Centre. Wildlife photographer. Mila has a very special attitude to animals, which, combined with good knowledge of their behavior in the wild, allows for a better assessment of their behavior as patients and easier adaptation of the animals to their temporary captivity. She is in charge of the intensive care unit and the baby ward. Mila is the photographer of the Rescue Centre and never misses an opportunity to document both the patients’ lives and the happy and sad sides of their treatment and therapy. She decides whether the patients that have undergone medical treatment and rehabilitation are ready and fit to be released back into the wild. Krasen Lazarov – Baby Ward Assistant Working at the Baby Ward, Krasen gained specialized skills for caretaking of small species – swallows, swifts, songbirds, showing gentle tenderness and affection for his patients. In his spare time, he continues to exhance his knowledge and skills that will be then put into practice. Pavlina Nikolova – Hygiene, Disinfection, and Gardening Coordinator, Baby Ward Assistant Pavlina is one of the newest members of our team. She is in charge of the hygiene and comfort of the Rescue Center’s patients and team. She is the one who created the amazing flower garden – a beautiful vision meeting the visitors and guests of the Rescue Center. Since last spring, Pavlina has been actively involved in the extremely hard and responsible work at the Baby Ward. This is a new field of activity for her, where she will continue to enhance her skills and abilities in the future. Signals of animals in distress are received from all over the country on a daily basis. Most often, signals come via the Centre’s hot line. In some cases, the patients are brought directly to the Centre. On rare occasions, the team of the Centre has to make onthe-spot visits, especially in specific cases, natural disasters or other calamities involving numerous casualties. Animals, sent by various institutions and private entities The team of the Centre has established a broad network of voluntary supporters in more than 50 settlements throughout the country. These volunteers receive signals on a local level and render assistance for the transportation of the animals to the Rescue Center, as in many cases this is done by public transport. In many cases, the people sending signals of animals in distress assist with their transportation to the Center. Thus, the patients get faster to the recue facility and have much bigger chances to survive. In our everyday efforts we maintain successful and fruitful partnership with all Regional Inspectorates of Environment and Water to whom we refer all cases related to protected species. Every year, as a result of the activity of the Rescue Centre, the number of people and institutions sending or assisting with the sending of animals in distress to Stara Zagora grows, reaching more than 1,000 individuals in 2011. 3 WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 Received animals from all over the country – by sites of finding In more serious cases, such as gun shot wounds or heavy bleeding from an accident, specialists from the Centre give instructions for applying first aid and stabilizing the patient on the spot. In some towns we get qualified first aid and stabilization of animals in distress from veterinary clinics prior to their transportation to Stara Zagora. Veterinary clinics actively supporting our work are: Pet Hospitals Dr.Tzekov in the towns of Kazanlak, Burgas and Haskovo, Central Veterinary Clinic – Sofia, AVICENA Veterinary Clinic – Sofia, ANIMO Veterinary Clinics – Sofia, BIVET Veterinary Clinic – Burgas, «Sante Vita» Veterinary Clinic – Kozloduy, «Blue Cross 24/7» Veterinary Clinic – Sofia, «Dobro hrumvane» Veterinary Clinic – Sofia, SILISTRA Veterinary Clinic – Silistra, «Dr. Kodzhabashev» Veterinary Clinic – Russe. Received animals from all over the country – by MoEW territorial division (see below) List of private entities and institutions which have sent animals GREFA SPAIN YAVENA Real Estate Ltd. Adrian Apostolov Adriana Petkova Adriana Petrova Albena Karaslavova Albena Popova Alexandra Nikolaeva Alexandrina Stoycheva Alexandar Alexandrov Alexandar Boev Alexandar Zhelev Alexandar Kunev Alexandar Mechev Alexandar Nedev Alexandar Predoev Alexandar Solunov Alexandar Staykov Alexandar Todorov Alexandar Hitrov Ana Placheva Anelia Krasteva Angel Angelov Angel Dimov Angel Dorosiev Angel Panayotov Angelina Georgieva Andrey Dolinski Anita Kutsarova Anitsa Ruseva Anna Gospodinova Antoaneta Stoeva Anton Antonov Anton Ivanov Anton Kehayov Antonia Godfi Antoniya Mitova Asparouch Momchilov Assya Kosacheva Atanas Angeliev Atanas Atanasov Balyo Ivanov BSPB – Plovdiv BSPB – Burgas BSPB – Svishtov BSPB – Haskovo Bilyana Blagoeva Bilyana Daskalova Blagoy Dimitrov Boyka Bakalova Boncho Bonev Boris Borisov Boris Ivanov Boris Topalov Borislav Borisov Borislav Georgiev Borislav Popov Borislav Uzunov Boryana Ivanova Boryana Filipova Boyan Boev Boyan Boyanov Boyan Georgiev Boyan Iliev Bjulent Mjumjun Valentin Dimov Valentin Lyutskanov Valentina Hristova Vanya Georgieva Vasil Zlatov Vasil Iliev Vasil Kadrinov Vasil Kostadinov Vasilena Slavova Velina Krasteva Venelin Hristov Veneta Raykova Venilina Pilafova Ventur Volen Vera Popova Vesela Stayska Vesela Choleva Veselin Bekirski Veselina Vuteva Veselina Todorova Veska Kirilova BEST VET Pet hospital DOBRO HRUMVANE Pet hospital FENICS Pet hospital Pet hospitals (unknown) Viktoria Kovacheva Violeta Paorpulova Violeta Todorova Virginia Petrova Vladi Boyadzhiev Vladimir Vasilev Vladimir Detrev Vladimir Dimitrov Valko Valkov Viara Todorova Gabriela Tzenkova 4 10 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 6 1 9 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 8 2 1 1 2 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 2 Galin Penkov Galina Bineva Galina Georgieva Galina Grozeva Galina Mincheva Galya Angelova Geovri Denkov Georgi Vasev Georgi Voynov Georgi Georgiev Georgi Gotchev Georgi Dimitrov Georgi Dulev Georgi Zafirov Georgi Kirev Georgi Koychev Georgi Kostadinov Georgi Krastev Georgi Mihaylov Georgi Penchev Georgi Rachov Georgi Rubev Georgi Stoyanov Georgi Hristozov Gergana Vitanova Gergina Daskalova Gergina Toneva Gospodin Ashikov Gosho Gospodinov Gradimir Gradev Dr. Grancharov Dr. Dinev Dr. Draganov Dr. Kodzhabashev Dr. Megle Kungelova Dr. Mitko Dochev Dr. Nedelchev Dr. Hristova Damian Manolov Damiana Karasteneva Daniel Mitev Daniela Doneva Daniela Miteva Daniela Petrova Daniela Chimshirova Dancho Nikolov Darina Biberova Darinka Tasheva Dafina Dzhelepova State Forest Agency Karlovo State Forest Agency Klisura State Forest Agency Stara Zagora David Valchev Delka Tocheva Delcho Kirev Denitsa Kovacheva Dencho Dimitrov Desimira Grozeva Deyan Stefanov Diana Valcheva Diana Georgieva Diana Ilieva Diana Ingilieva Diana Koleva Diliana Miteva Dimitrina Dimitrova Dimitrinka Svilenova Dimitar Adamski Dimitar Aleksiev Dimitar Angelov Dimitar Atanasov Dimitar Georgiev Dimitar Dimitrov Dimitar Iliev Dimitar Kmetov Dimitar Konev Dimitar Kuzmanov Dimitar Mihalev Dimitar Ragiov Dimitar Razkaliev Dimitar Tenev Dinko Gospodinov Dinko Dinev Dinko Kozhuharov Diniyo Dinev Dian Petrov Dobrinka Mihailova Dobromir Gadzhev Dobromir Dobrinov Dobromira Gencheva Dolya Chikakchieva Donika Boleva Donika Petkova Donka Lazarcheva Doncho Grozev Dora Atanasova Dragan Draganov Dragomir Moskov Eva Ivanova Evgeni Genov Evgeni Raychev Evgenia Angelova 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 4 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 9 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 5 2 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 7 1 Elena Vasileva 1 Elena Kmetova 1 Elena Noneva 1 Elena Sirakova 1 Elena Tumbalova 1 Elena Tsanova 2 Eliza Rangelova 1 Elitsa 1 Elitsa Kovacheva 1 Emil Avramov 1 Emil Markov 1 Emil Mihailov 2 Emil Nikolov 1 Emilia 1 Zheliazko Ilchev 1 Zhivka Gincheva 1 Zhivka Krasteva 1 Zhivko Zhekov 1 Joro Tcvetkov 1 Zdravka Popova 1 Zlatomir Krastev 1 Sofia Zoo 1 Diern Zoo – Nederland 2 Gabrovo Zoo 1 Zlín Zoo – Czech Republic 1 Pleven Zoo 4 Stara Zagora Zoo 1 Zoo – Spain 29 Zornitsa Dermendzhieva 2 Zornitsa Dragoeva 1 Zornitsa Todorova 1 Zoya Konsulova 1 IBER – BAS 2 Iva Dikova 1 Ivailo Angelov 1 Ivan Barzinski 1 Ivan Genchev 2 Ivan Georgiev 1 Ivan Ivanov 6 Ivan Yonkov 1 Ivan Kaishev 1 Ivan Mirchev 1 Ivan Pavlov 1 Ivan Rusev 1 Ivan Semerdzhiev 1 Ivan Stoev 1 Ivanka Angelova 1 Ivelina Gerganova 1 Ivelina Nedkova 1 Ivelina Petkova 1 Ivelina Radeva 1 Ivelina Todorova 1 Ivelina Hristova 2 Iveta Pirovska 1 Ivo Genov 1 Ivo Ivanov 2 Ivo Nikolov 1 Ivon Andonov 1 Ignat Mitkov 2 Iliana Ilieva 1 Iliya Ignatov 1 Iliya Mitev 1 Iliyan Stoev 1 Iliyan Stoyanov 1 Iliyan Todorov 1 Iliyan Hristov 1 Iliyana Ilieva 1 Iman Ivanov 1 Ina Ahmedova 1 Ina Gencheva 1 Irena Ivanova 1 Iskra Ivanova 2 Yoan Stavchev 1 Yoahim Lang 1 Yordan Bladzhiev 1 Yordan Dimitrov 1 Yordanka Vasileva 1 Yordanka Stamatova 1 Kalin Bakalov 2 Kalina 1 Kalina Penkova 1 Kalinka Moneva 1 Kamelia Spasova 1 Katerina Draganova 3 Katya Anestieva 1 Katya Kavaldzhieva 2 Katya Petrova 1 Katya Stoyanova 1 Kiril Tonev 1 AVICENA Veterinary Clinic 2 Kolyo Kolev 1 Konstantin Dimitrov 1 Kostadin Dimitrov 1 Kostantin Stoilov 1 Krasen Kanev 1 Krasimir Bozhkov 1 Krasimir Boyakov 1 Krasimir Mirchev 1 Krasimir Hristov 1 Krasimira Georgieva 1 Kristina Atanasova 1 Kristina Mineva 2 Krum Yordanov Lazar Aleksiev Lidia Zaharieva Liza Muraf Lili Tcvetkova Lina Lyubomirova Lyubomir Yotsov Lyudmil Kotovski Lyudmil Leshinski Magdalena Gospodinova Maya Ilieva Malina Kostadinova Manol Manolov Mari Georgieva Mariana Angelova Mariana Petkova Mariana Petrova Mariana Sarieva Marin Marinov Marin Mitev Marina Gorbanova Marina Uzunova Mario Markov Maria Maria Maria Badzhakova Maria Vasileva Maria Grudeva Maria Dobreva Maria Ivanova Maria Kancheva Maria Radeva Maria Stoimenova Mariana Petrova Martin Argirov Martin Evtimov Martina Marcheva Martina Mincheva Marchela Stoycheva Metodi Neykov Milan Todorov Milen Kalnov Milena Znakovska Milena Makedonska Milka Avramova Milcho Milev Minko Karaminkov Miroslav Kamburov Miroslav Petrov Miroslav Todorov Miroslava Dimitrova Miroslava Padeva Michaela Michaela Kasabova Michail Grigorov Michail Mihov Michail Chipev Mladen Petkov Momchil Dimitrov Nadezhda Koleva Nadezhda Radkova Natalia Nedialkova Natalia Tcvetanova Nevan Keshishan Nedko Bozadzhiev Nedialko Petrov Kodzhabashev Lenkov Luchev Neli Izvorska Neli Kirilova Neli Nikova Neli Stankova Nencho Balabanov Nikolai Apostolov Nikolai Dimitrov Nikolai Dushkov Nikolai Ivanov Nikolai Kolev Nikolai Nikolov Nikolina Koleva Nina Lazarova Nina Noykova Nia Stoeva Nia Toshkova Nia Tzvetkova Central Balkan National Park United Pet Hospital Ognian Stefanov Pavel Petrov Pavlin Petkov Pavlin Stoyanov Pavlina Nikolova Paola Ivanova Penka Dimova Pencho Dimitrov Pepo Marinov Petko Boychev Petko Petkov Petrov Petar Petar Boyadzhiev 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 7 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 4 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 Petar Gadzhenov 1 Petar Georgiev 1 Petar Karagiozov 1 Petar Kerimidchiev 1 Petar Mehandzhiev 1 Petar Mitev 1 Petar Petrov 1 Petar Saksarov 1 Petar Tzankov 1 Petyo Iliev 4 Petia Dimitrova 2 Petia Merdzhova 2 Plamen Dimitrov 1 Plamen Kirov 1 Plamen Krastev 1 Plamen Mitkov 1 Plamen Penev 1 Plamen Petrov 1 Plamen Stoyanov 1 Plamen Tenev 1 Presia Petkova 1 Balgarka NP 3 Radoslav Dichev 1 Radostina Lyutzkanova 1 Radostina Popova 1 Radostina Racheva 2 Rayna Tzeneva 1 Ralitsa Georgieva 3 Kardzali Regional vet service 1 Reneta Nenova 1 RIEW Blagoevgrad 11 Sender Unknown 154 Slavi Vidolov 1 Slavi Todorov 1 Snezhina Velichkova 1 GREEN BALKANS – Central Office Plovdiv 14 GREEN BALKANS – Stara Zagora 117 Sonya Tasheva 1 Stanimir Stoyanov 1 Stanimir Todorov 1 Stanimira Pachalova 1 Stanislava Dicheva 1 Stanka Ivanova 1 Stefan 1 Stefan Alamanov 1 Stefan Vashtinski 1 Stefan Ivanov 1 Stefan Samarinov 1 Stefan Stefanov 1 Stefan Stoyanov 11 Stefka Borisova 1 Stefka Zdravkova 2 Stilian Paskalev 4 Stoyan Bakalov 1 Stoyan Enev 1 Stoyan Moraliev 1 Stoyan Nikolov 1 Stoyan Stoyanov 3 Stoyan Tzvetkov 1 Stoyanka Yordanova 1 Stoyanka Klisurova 1 Tanyo Benev 1 Tanyo Marinov 1 Tanya Boyadzhieva 1 Tanya Vangelova 2 Tanya Pavlova 1 Tatiana Akimova 1 Tatiana Veleva 1 Tatiana Katcay 1 Tenyo Penev 1 Tina Hristova 2 Todor Petkov 1 Todor Todorov 1 Toni Zhekov 1 Toshko Delev 1 Troycho Dimitrov 1 Wild Flora&Fauna Fund 6 FOUR PAWS Pet Foundation – Sofia 1 Helene Peeva 1 Hristina Klisurova 1 Hristina Sazonova 1 Hristina Hristova 1 Hristian Ivanov 1 Hristo Avramov 1 Hristo Ivanov 1 Hristo Kolev 2 Hristo Nishtielkov 1 Hristo Stoimenov 1 Hristo Haydzhiev 1 Hristo Hristov 1 Tzvetan Simeonov 1 Tzveton Peshev 1 Shaban Hasan 1 Yulia Dimitrova 1 Yulian Stramski 2 Jan Arnaudov 1 Yanita Ivanova 1 Yanko Georgiev 1 Yassin Assil 1 Received animals by administrative division of RIEW in Bulgaria Monthly dynamics of arrival Nature conservation status and dynamics of the patient flow throughout the year Most of the patients are animals of high nature conservation status. Almost all of the animals received at the Centre are listed in Annex 3 of the Biological Diversity Act (BDA) and the Bern Convention. Some of the species are also included in CITES and the Bonn Convention, as well as the IUCN Red List. Most of the animals are received in the summer. On the average, 3 to 4 animals are received on a daily basis. As in previous years, these peaks coincide with the birds’ breeding period and the beginning of the hunting season for small local and migratory game, which begins at the end of the calendar year. During the winter peak period, most of the patients are victims of shooting or collision with vehicles. 5 WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 Main Reasons For Receiving Patients Most of the animals received at the Centre during the peak summer period were young inexperienced birds fallen out of the nests. In 2011, they numbered 504 of a total of 1,290 received patients. Number of patients by cause of arrival In total, in 2011, in terms of the frequency of reasons for being received at the Rescue Centre, the patients were: young birds fallen out of the nests; birds hatched at the Rescue Center; animals reintroduced within specific programs. Many of the patients received at the Center had traumas of unknown origin – either because there were no eyewitnesses or direct evidence of the accident or because the victim was found after it had happened. Quite often, the animals received at the Centre are in extremely poor condition – animals with serious fractures caused by collisions with vehicles, shot animals, patients injured by high-voltage electricity, heavily parasitized, fallen in petrol substances, etc. Unfortunately, as in previous years, there were numerous cases of poisoned animals. Such cases most commonly appear in the period before sowing. Farmers have started to use treated seeds not only for sowing but also against rodents. In many of the cases the various poisonous substances are overdosed for guaranteeing more effective extermination of voles and other rodents. These activities usually result in mass poisoning of seed-eating and raptor birds. Veterinary Caretaking Veterinary specialists take care of the animals after being transported to the Centre in Stara Zagora – first, saving their lives, then securing proper rehabilitation. Every day, our veterinary specialists carry out numerous examinations, make diagnoses, perform surgical procedures and X-ray examinations. With some animals, the process of treatment and overall rehabilitation can take more than 6 to 8 months. During this period, depending on the case, there are often numerous complications related mainly to the animals’ wild origin and the shock and stress they get when taken into captivity. In most cases, this hampers the specialists’ work and the whole recovery process of the patient. The cases of keeping wild protected species at home have multiplied in the recent years too. In some of the cases this is not deliberate but rather a result of occasional finding of animals in distress. Unfortunately the permanent taming of these individuals is almost always fatal for a great deal of them. As for the shooting of protected species, the general picture raises even more concerns. More and more animals with gun-shot-wounds arrive in the Rescue Centre every year. Very low percentage of them recovers successfully, especially among birds. Despite the enforced European agreements and various regulations, poachers continue shooting on all sorts of animals with almost no control. The hatred for birds of prey not only still exists but also increases. Although it is absolutely illegal, poachers shoot on raptors birds, swans, and pelicans just for fun. In 2011, there was an increase in the number of electrocuted birds – mainly vultures, pelicans, and eagle owls. The electrocution was caused by the hazardous poles of the power supply network. 6 WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 In 2011 we carried out 58 surgical interventions, many of which involving osteosynthesis. In addition, we implemented hundreds of manipulations including wound treatment, suturing, bandaging, etc. There were also numerous fractures fixed through external immobilization without osteosynthesis. This method proved particularly adequate and many of the patients were subsequently released. Half of the patients with surgical interventions (28 ind.) survived the reanimation, and 18 of them (approximately 2/3) were released into the wild. Patients by condition Patents by prescribed therapy Feeding Proper feeding is of crucial significance for the recovery of the wild animals, patients of the Rescue Center. Introducing new, more nutritious food, such as duck necks, quails, rats, veal hearts, chicken gizzards, as well as various insects, enhanced our efforts to save our wild patients. 7 WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 Patients by treatment outcomes (2011) Release sites (2011) Results of the Activities of the Centre During the period January-December 2011, a total of 1,290 wild animals in distress were received at the Rescue Centre. After a period of treatment and rehabilitation, 35,8 % of the patients were recovered and released back into the wild. The rest of the animals were either put in aviaries for captive breeding or had a lethal outcome. The monthly dynamics of the patient flow reveals specific periods. Thus, April-August is identified as the period of fluffy babies, which, for one reason or another, fall out of their nests. September and October are the migrants’ months. Often, those that have not stored enough energy for the long migration are found exhausted or in distress. October-January is the period of shot animals. Not surprisingly, this period coincides with the hunting season, hence the problems for wild animals. Release Back Into the Wild Prior to the selection of the sites where the animals that have undergone successful treatment and/or rehabilitation will be released back into the wild, the specialists of the Centre coordinate their activities with the Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Waters in Stara Zagora. Mainly, the criteria for the selection of the sites are protected areas, providing protection and conditions to monitor the released animals during their adaptation to the new environment. All birds are marked with special rings provided by the Bulgarian Ornithological Centre. This year again, to support the storks, we applied the method that involves placing the grown-up youngsters in nests we have built in suitable areas, using their nest fidelity. Thus, the young birds leave the nests to forage in the abundant marshes and meadows, and then return to the nests to roost. Although they have no parents, they behave as a family and when it is time for autumn migration they join the flocks migrating southward. This method cannot be applied with young storks that were kept in captivity for longer periods of time. The youngsters get easily tamed and imprinted. Thus, seeking the company of humans rather than other members of their own species, these birds do not migrate southward. They usually winter in Bulgaria, which considerably reduces their chances to survive. Release sites (2011) 8 RELEASED 35,8% TRANSFERRED 11,2% LETHAL 35,2% AVIARY KEEPING EUTHANASIA 5,4% 12,4% Summarized results of the activity of the Rescue Centre in the period 1992–2011 Summarized data on the dynamics of the number of patients in the period 1992-2011 Another method we use is release through hack boxes. Special cages, called «hack boxes», provide temporary accommodation for the birds fit to be released in the wild. On the release day, we carefully open the door of the hack box and the birds leave the cage when they feel ready to do this. For the next few days, we provide food in the hack box in case their first attempts to hunt prove to be unsuccessful. We applied this method with Common Kestrels, Barn Owls, Little Owls, and Scops Owls. In 2011, we used another release method – adaptation aviaries constructed within the territories of nature parks. Prior to release, the birds are kept in such adaptation aviaries for a week or two to get used to the new environment. When ready, they leave the cage through a special door. For a couple of days the birds can return to the aviary to feed. We applied this method with Buzzards, Long-eared Owls, Eagle Owls, and Tawny owls. Breeding Program As in previous years, in 2011 we used and further equipped the incubation unit of the Center. Lesser Kestrels, White Storks, Common Kestrels, and Mallards hatched there. This is one of the activities to be further developed in the coming years, so that it could be applied with greater effectiveness in the reintroduction programs. During the spring-summer season of 2011 the Wildlife Rescue Center took the first steps towards the breeding of some globally threatened bird species. The Lesser Kestrel is an extinct species in Bulgaria. Two pairs of Lesser Kestrels breed at the Rescue Center as part of the activities within the reintroduction program. In April, the female individuals laid five eggs each. In mid-May, one of the birds hatched 5 chicks, and raised successfully 4 of them. The rest of the pairs breeding at the Rescue Center consist of birds that have undergone medical treatment but remained permanently disabled. The Eagle Owls, inhabiting the Center for years, raised one chick. As to the Barn Owls, there were 14 eggs from 2 broods, 10 hatchlings and 5 chicks released into the wild for the entire breeding season. The pair of Levant Sparrowhawks made a serious attempt to breed, laying 3 eggs. Unfortunately, we did not get the chance to raise their chicks. Only one of the five pairs of Common Kestrels raised offspring – 7 chicks that were released into the wild. 9 WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 PROGRAMS FOR REINTRODUCTION AND RESTOCKING OF ENDANGERED OR EXTINCT BIRD SPECIES Restocking of Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus) in the Balkan Mountains later, following the quarantine period, the birds were accommodated in four adaptation aviaries in the Balkan Mountains. Reintroduction of Lesser Kestrel (Falco naumanni) in Bulgaria The team of the Center rescued 5 birds in distress after the first coordinated release and assisted with the analysis of the reasons for the lethal outcome of 5 individuals. The project activities continue till 2012. The activities under the program for reintroduction of the Lesser Kestrel in Bulgaria continued in 2011. This once common falcon went extinct as a breeding species in Bulgaria in the early 1960s. In general, the main reasons are related to human activity. We continued implementing the activities under the project «Conservation measures for target species of the EU Birds Directive – Lesser Kestrel, Black Vulture, and Imperial Eagle in their main habitats in Bulgaria» funded by Operational Program Environment (OPE), which began at the end of 2009. Within this project, a big new vivarium was constructed at the Rescue Center to secure live prey for the birds. The future activities include construction of cages to accommodate 5 new pairs from Spain, as well as identification of suitable territories for subsequent release of birds into the wild. In 2011, The Wildlife Rescue Center continued their involvement in the Balkan Vulture Action Plan. Green Balkans launched the implementation of a large-scale 5-year project «Recovery of the Populations of Large European Vultures in Bulgaria» LIFE08 NAT/BG/278, through the financial support of the LIFE+ financial instrument of the European Community, the Frankfurt Zoological Society (FZS), and Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt (DBU). The project envisages import of 150–200 Griffon Vultures (Gyps fulvus) from Spain, which will be subsequently accommodated in four adaptation aviaries in the Balkan Mountains. Other implemented projects A total of 50 Griffon Vultures, marked with microchips, metal rings, wingtags, and the appropriate PVC rings were put under quarantine in the specialized aviary constructed within the project. A month Reintroduction of Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug) in Bulgaria In 2006 the Central Laboratory of General Ecology (CLGE) at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, currently Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research (IBES), started a 4-year research on the status and ecology of the Saker Falcon in Bulgaria. At the end of 2009, a team involving Bulgarian and foreign organizations (Central Laboratory of General Ecology, Green Balkans, International Wildlife Consultants, National Museum of Natural History, Institute of Zoology – BAS, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research) came up with a draft document discussing the need for reintroduction of Saker Falcons in the country and the possibilities for implementation of such a project. Green Balkans participated both in the field surveys and the elaboration of ex-situ measures for conservation of the species – breeding birds in captivity for the purpose of introducing their offspring in the wild. In 2011, experts of Green Balkans and IBES took part in the third international Festival of Falconry held in Al Ain, UAE, where the representative of Green Balkans presented the activities of the Wildlife Rescue Center before participants in the festival. WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 breeding facilities in Europe. Six young birds were released under a special methodology (hacking) in 2011 within the project for reintroduction of Saker Falcons in Bulgaria. The birds were tagged with satellite transmitters to secure daily observation of their movements and survival. The purpose of the project is supporting the restoration of the species in Bulgaria and identifying the unknown negative factors that hamper the natural recovery of the species in the country. The sustainable use of natural resources and renewable energy sources is a new area of activity of the Rescue Center. This was the focus of the project «Green ideas for green actions – promoting, establishing, and developing an emblematic model of sustainable natural resource use», funded by the Global Environmental Facility’s Small Grants Programme. Within this project, solar systems providing warm water were installed in the two buildings of the Rescue Center, while numerous educational and awareness raising campaigns and initiatives promoted the «green» way of life among more than 5,000 people, mainly youth. Educational and Public Campaigns. Visits to the Centre In 2011, our team was involved in numerous educational and public campaigns. Green Balkans’ volunteers popularized and promoted various environment protection and nature conservation activities all over the country. Lots of campaigns and workshops about wild animals, victims to human impact, were organized. Every day our specialists share their opinion on topics related to wildlife rehabilitation and medical treatment in various social networks and electronic forums. This raises the awareness of active citizens regarding the problems related to nature conservation in Bulgaria and the negative human impact. Green Balkans and IBES implemented two projects related to the conservation of the Saker Falcon in Bulgaria and the program for reintroduction of the species in Central Balkan National Park. The first project aimed at improving the hunting conditions and the food base, while the second one was intended to assess the risk of electrocution of reintroduced Saker Falcons. For the second year in succession, the Rescue Center implemented the Saker Falcon Breeding Program that was launched in 2010 with the purchase of two pairs of the European race of this species, together with Spatia Wildlife. In 2011, there were already three pairs. We constructed a special breeding aviary, following the example of the best 10 11 WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 In 2011, 1,040 people in total – students, undergraduates, participants in events held at the Facility, were organized in group visits to the Rescue Center. In addition, there were many official guests, media, and partners visiting us. This year again, the Center was part of the programs of the school excursions organized by tourist agencies. Thus, the Centre became a preferred destination of excursions of students from all over the country. Here, in addition to nice emotions and close encounters with animals in distress, the children had the chance to get closely acquainted with the biology of the species, the stories of some of the patients, and the negative human impact on nature. Many public persons visited the Wildlife Rescue Centre, namely: Mrs. Nona Karadzhova – Minister of Environment and Water, Mr. James Warlick – the United States Ambassador to Bulgaria, politicians, and public figures. WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 Donation campaigns In 2011, we continued implementing various donation campaigns. Traditionally, the Adoption program was carried out troughout the year, involving a total of 41 adoptions of patients by individual and group donors. The Christmas initiative called «My Christmas, my small green step» recruited more than 40 supporters. Within this initiative, a cloth bag was given in return for every BGN 10 donated to the Center, thus promoting the use of eco-friendly reusable bags. «Choose to help» campaign initiated by Raiffeisenbank in 2010, continued through the first couple of months of 2011. The campaign raised donations from citizens, employees of the Bank, and the Bank itself. Four major campaigns and public events focusing on the Rescue Center were carried out in 2011, including development and dissemination of the Report of the Rescue Center; «Green energy for green actions» as part of the project funded by the Global Environmental Facility’s Small Grants Programme; implementation of a competition for cloth bag image and text, involving 60 individual and group participants. Another campaign launched in 2010 that continued in 2011 was the SMS donation program at the unified charitable number DMS. The realization of another fund raising campaign – «Second chance for wild animals», continued in 2011 as well. The campaign was implemented in partnership with VIVACOM. Fighting crimes against wildlife, confiscation, and cooperation with institutions and citizens Since 2003, by order RD 242/14.03.2003, the Wildlife Rescue Centre has been acknowledged as a specialized unit rendering assistance to state institutions in charge of the enforcement of nature conservation legislation. The main laws and regulations related to this activity include the Hunting and Game Protection Act (HGPA) and the Biological Diversity Act (BDA), chapters III and IV («Protection of Plant and Animal Species» and «Trade in threatened species of wild flora and fauna»). In addition to direct accommodation of confiscated animals and parts thereof, the Rescue Center also provides important consultations in complicated cases. In the period 1992–2011, a total of 28 confiscated birds and 31 confiscated tortoises – Testudo hermanni and Testudo graeca, were received at the Rescue Center. In 2011, we continued our work on the case of 2010 related to the forestalling of the Another interesting case was sheltering a confiscated bird of prey that had been kept illegally in a private home in Sofia. Similarly, our friends from «Lyuben Karavelov» Primary School – Nova Zagora continued their campaign «For another flight with the wind», supporting the Imperial Eagles – Kalin and Kalina. The people that supported our work through their donations: Yavor Tsolov, Ivo Naev, Mariyana Germanova, Ralitsa Koleva, Svetoslav Stanchev, Zhenya Tincheva, Marco Balhause, Evgeniya Koeva and the OPE group, Antoniya Ivanova, Lora Traykova, Iliyan Iliev, Lilyana Mancheva, Zlatko Georgiev, Liliya Hadzhiyska, Milena Simova, Velina Kamburova, Preslava Terzieva, Milena Simeonova, Vasil Stefanov, Neli Kalneva, Alegrina Zhak Lilova, Ivaylo Ivanov, Ivan Ivanov, Valeri Lyubenov, Victor Andreev, «Slanchova lyulka» preschool group at 66th Day Nursery, Martin Hristov, Tsvetoslav Netsovski, Yana Grozeva, Boryana Petrova, Dobromira Petrova, Alexandra Gergova, Iva Grigorova, Kalina Stoyanova, Desislava Pateva, Danail Tsankov, Nikolina Milusheva, Vera Petkanchin, Zlatko and his friends, Hristina and Georgi, Dimitar Engibarov, Yordan Georgiev, Neshka Kostova, Desislava Terzieva, Yordanka Atanasova. Our thanks also go to the students of «P.R.Slaveykov» 2nd Secondary School – Stara Zagora for the traditional charity bazaar organized for the Christmas holidays We thank you from the bottom of our hearts! Your support gives us the strength we need to continue! Voluntary Efforts Plamenova Velichkova, Veronika Taneva Orlova, Teodora Kirilova Valcheva, Lora Todorova Peneva, Tsonko Nenkov Istilyanov, Vihrena Nikolaeva Ninova, Martin Milenov Mitev, Ruslana Lyubomilova Boyadzhieva, Moariya Kostadinova Kostova, Svetla Dimcheva Dimova, Dimitar Angelov Dimitrov, Mihail Georgiev Vasilev, Kameliya Dimitrova Boshnakova, Yavor Georgiev Ivanov, Mihail Marinov Marinov, Mustafa Mehmed, Marian Georgiev Kostadinov, Presian Mladenov Alexandrov, Dr. Kirkova, Dr. Kostov, Dr. Petrov, Dr. Slavi Tzekov, the team of Pet Hospitals Dr.Tzekov, Elena Kmetova, Elena Stoeva, Ivan Ivanov, Ivan Rumenov, Iliyan Stoev, Rumyana Ivanova, Tanyo Markov, Yavor Madzharov, Hristina Taseva, Petar Gyudzhenov, Nikolay Dobrev, Lidia Alexandrova. In 2011, the daily work at the Rescue Centre involved mainly volunteers from Bulgaria – students, undergraduates, workers – both from Stara Zagora and other settlements. attempt at smuggling 2 individuals of Bonelli’s Eagle (Hieraaetus fasciatus), which is extremely rare in Bulgaria. The export of the birds was prevented by officials of Vidin Ferry Border Checkpoint. The documentation needed for the birds was forged. Finally, in 2011, an accusation was brought against the perpetrator as provided by Art. 278(v) of the Penal Code. Hopefully, the case will be solved in 2012 with the most serious penalty imposed on the perpetrator. in support of the activities implemented by the Rescue Center. Being a volunteer at the Rescue Center is both interesting and responsible. The volunteers made their valuable contribution to the everyday caretaking of patients (food preparation, feeding, cleaning, monitoring) and the various activities related to the maintenance of the facility (grass mowing, disinfection, gardening, etc.). More than 30 volunteers, aged 15-45, contributed a total of 700 hours of voluntary work. We express our most sincere appreciation of the efforts of these volunteers who supported the Wildlife Rescue Center in 2011: Anton Georgiev Stoychev, Desislava Todorova Valcheva, Alexander Dimov Genov, Alexandrina Vasileva Vasileva, Radost Filipova Filipova, Kristiana Todorova Gerdzhikova, Kristina Dimitrova Yorgova, Lora Stankova Petrova, Stoyanka Yordanova Yordanova, Teodora Ivanova Todorova, Denitsa Experts of the Rescue Center were involved as consultants in two cases of birds – Toucans and Parrots, confiscated at Svilengrad Border Checkpoint. However, the case that stirred the strongest public interest was the accommodation of 33 tortoises of the two species found in Bulgaria confiscated from a private home in the village of Katunitsa. 12 13 WILDLIFE REHABILITATION and BREEDING CENTRE – Annual Report 2011 The Media about us Being an organization of public benefit that helps wild animals in distress, the Rescue Centre is often popularized and promoted through numerous media events. The purpose of these events is not gaining popularity, but reaching a wider range of people, encouraging them to protect nature and environment. In this regard, the activity of the Rescue Centre was reported more than 196 times by TV channels, newspapers, and magazines at regional and national level. The number of publications in the national media is continuously increasing. Funding Fundraising for a facility like the Wildlife Rescue Centre is a difficult and complicated process consuming lots of energy, time, and patience. There are various sources of funding, including donations from private persons and companies, donations from specialized campaigns, projects funded by international donors, annual maintenance support provided by the Enterprise for Management of Environment Protection Activities (EMEPA) of the Ministry of Environment and Water. In 2011, the Wildlife Rescue Center raised BGN 355,199.04, listed in details in the graphics below. Expenses of the Wildlife Rescue Center for 2011 (by categories) 14 Incomes of the Wildlife Rescue Center for 2011 – BGN 355,199.04