Project Start Date: 01-06-2016
Project End Date: 01.12.2016
Batumi Bottleneck is a spectacular destination and flight here is very diverse. At least 35 different species of raptors have been observed migrating through the region. Unfortunately this migration process is impacted by massive killing of birds and indiscriminate hunting and falconry, a deeply rooted tradition in the rural communities. Based on monitoring and regular field surveys done annually since 2012, it has been highly valuable data collected, shown that over 12000 raptors get shot every year during spring and autumn migration seasons. The tradition of killing raptors, which is illegal according to the international and national legislation, has long been prevalent in the region, but the scale, impacts and drivers of this activity is yet poorly understood.
For the prevention of this conflict between human and nature, we have chosen a method of cooperation and work with local communities, rather than confrontation, which is a most effective approach that delivers win-win situation in long-term outlook.
