The Largest Vulture in Armenia: Population Shows Positive Trend

A rare black vulture (/Aegypius monachus/) is captured in the photograph taken by Khoren Ghazaryan, a ranger at the Caucasian Biodiversity Reserve (CWR). The unique avifauna found in Armenia has always remained the focus of attention for the ‘ArAves’ NGO (Ar=Armenia, Aves=Birds) and the rangers of the Caucasian Biodiversity Reserve. ‘ArAves’ NGO is actively engaged in studying the various bird species of Armenia, emphasizing the sustainability of vulture populations as a matter of great importance.

Four species of vultures can be found in Armenia: the black vulture, the griffon vulture (/Gyps fulvus/), the bearded vulture (/Gypaetus barbatus Linnaeus/), and the Egyptian vulture (/Neophron percnopterus Linnaeus/), with the largest being the black vulture. It is believed that Armenia is relatively rich in vulture species considering its land area, and preserving this species is vital on a global scale.

The bird species photographed is included in the Armenian Red Book of Animals, recognized as a scarce and endangered species. The Red Book notes a significant decline in its population; however, in recent years, specialists argue that the numbers have stabilized and show signs of positive growth. The species is also listed in the IUCN Red List (version 3.1) with a ‘Near Threatened’ status. According to the IUCN criteria, it is assessed as ‘Vulnerable’ (END), and it is classified among Armenia's resident breeding birds.

The black vulture inhabits slopes of relatively small gradients within mountain forests transitioning into dry oak forests, typically at elevations of 1200-2000 m above sea level. The breeding sites have significantly deteriorated due to intensive land use for grazing.

The Caucasian Biodiversity Reserve is a privately protected area where hunting is prohibited, as is any illegal action against nature. The territory is under constant supervision and attention from rangers and camera traps. This is why the CWR area is home to various rare animal species, such as the black vulture. The reserve is managed by the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC).

According to educational data, the main threats to the black vulture population are likely the degradation of the food supply related to the decline in wild ungulate populations, alongside illegal hunting and trapping.