Lammergeier  (Gypaetus barbatus)

Despite being widespread, the lammergeier occurs in low densities and is considered to be uncommon or rare across significant parts of its range (3). Furthermore, most populations appear to be declining due to a range of factors including hunting, poisoning, habitat degradation and disturbance (3) (7) (8). Fortunately, however, there are some areas, such as the Himalayas, where the lammergeier remains abundant (6) (7).

At the global level, the lammergeier’s rate of decline is not currently thought to be sufficiently rapid, or the population size sufficiently small, for this species to warrant classification under a threatened category on the IUCN Red List (1) (8). However, because the lammergeier is extremely vulnerable in some regions such as Europe and Southern Africa, there are a several conservation projects being undertaken for this species. This includes an ambitious and highly successful reintroduction program in the European Alps which has been in operation since the late 1970s under the direction of the Foundation for the Conservation of the Bearded Vulture (7).