Abu dhabi: The Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme reached a significant milestone with the release of 81 falcons in the Republic of Kazakhstan in May 2025, marking its fourth decade of operation. According to Emirates News Agency, this recent activity has increased the total number of Saker and Peregrine falcons returned to the wild to 2,355 since the programme began.
The programme aims to bolster falcon populations and safeguard them from threats that contribute to their endangered status. These threats include expanding human activities that encroach on natural habitats, unsustainable breeding practices, and climate change. This year marked the ninth consecutive release in Kazakhstan, with 53 Peregrine falcons and 28 Saker falcons being set free.
The natural migratory range of these falcons covers regions in Kazakhstan, Russia, China, Mongolia, and neighboring countries, characterized by rugged mountains and vast plains. These areas provide ideal habitats rich in prey. Before their release, the falcons underwent comprehensive veterinary checks and intensive training. Each falcon was fitted with identification leg bands and implanted with electronic microchips. Additionally, ten falcons were equipped with solar-powered satellite-tracking devices to monitor their survival rates, dispersion, and migration routes. The data collected is intended to support the ongoing development of rehabilitation, training, and release methods.
Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of EAD Board of Directors and Vice Chairman of the International Fund for Houbara Conservation, expressed his gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his patronage and continuous support of the programme. He highlighted the programme's status as a leading global initiative for the restoration of endangered wildlife species, reflecting Abu Dhabi's and the UAE's commitment to nature conservation and biodiversity protection.
Al Bowardi also praised the successful partnerships that have contributed to the programme's achievements. Key partners include the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Mohamed bin Zayed Raptor Conservation Fund, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation, and the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. Additionally, he acknowledged the support from the Office of the Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs and the UAE Embassy in Kazakhstan.
He expressed appreciation for the Committee on Forestry and Wildlife of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the relevant Kazakhstani authorities for their cooperation in facilitating the work of the joint team implementing this programme.