Spanish griffon vultures are released into the wild in Cyprus to replenish the dwindling population

NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) — Wildlife authorities and conservationists in Cyprus are releasing seven imported griffon vultures into the wild after implanting tracking devices, in hopes of ensuring the survival of the birds that are threatened with extinction on the island nation. A further seven will be released a week later. All 14 birds arrived last March and spent several months acclimating. They were gifted to Cyprus by the autonomous community of Extremadura in Spain, which hosts 90-95% of all vultures in Europe. Cyprus’ griffon vulture population has dwindled to dangerously low numbers because the birds avoid traveling large distances over water.