Full project title:
Climbing to New Heights for the Golden Eagle
Duration:
1.9.2025. – 30.8.2027.
Total budget:
32.600 EUR
European Outdoor Conservation Association – 27.200 EUR
Own contribution: 5.400 EUR
Lead partner:
Association Biom
Project goals
Protect sensitive nesting areas for golden eagles and other cliff-nesting bird species
Establishment and maintenance of a network of nest guards by engaging outdoor enthusiasts (mainly climbers, hikers and birdwatchers) to monitor the nests of cliff-nesting birds, patrol the area and report on their condition
Removal of illegal poison baits in illegal wildlife poisoning hotspots through proactive monitoring and campaigns
Project summary
Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is an apex predator and vital indicator of healthy ecosystem. In Croatia, their population is in drastic decline. Breeding population estimations from 2003. were 100 – 110 pairs (Radović et al 2003). Only 10 years after, estimates were reduced to 25-30 pairs (Tutiš et al 2013.). Most recent surveys show that merely 15 of 32 surveyed territories were active, and only 6 had confirmed breeding. Their population faces significant threats such as habitat disturbance and poisoning. Outdoor activities such as rock climbing, if done in vicinity of the nests can pose a significant threat. However, with proper education and engagement, outdoor communities can become a great asset in nature conservation as they can become conservationists “eyes and ears” in the field.
This project aims to protect Golden eagle nesting sites by engaging climbers and outdoor communities in conservation efforts. Goal of the project is to protect Golden eagle nesting sites from human disturbance by educating climbers on responsible practices near sensitive habitats and safely removing climbing routes near critical nesting areas in one pilot plot near Novi Vinodolski. Also, project aims remove illegal poison baits from over 100 hectars on islands of Krk and Rab with the help of a trained dog unit. Lastly, through a series of meetings, workshops and lectures, project aims to establish a volunteer network of “nest caretakers”, composed of members of outdoor communities such as climbers, hikers and birdwatchers. By integrating these communities into monitoring efforts, raising awareness, and fostering a culture of responsible outdoor recreation, this project seeks to balance human activity with the preservation of Croatia’s natural heritage and the protection of its golden eagles.
