BSPB Launches Regular Patrols to Combat Poisoned Baits

Picture: Volen Arkumarev - BSPB

The Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BSPB) anti-poison team, together with a specially trained detection dog, has begun conducting regular patrols to identify environmental crimes in bird-sensitive areas across the Sub-Balkan region and the Upper Thracian Plain. The patrols focus on locations where conflicts between birds of prey and pigeon breeders are known to be high, creating conditions for the illegal use of poisoned baits and other harmful practices. The patrols are expected to continue over the coming months.

These activities are carried out as part of the “Life for the Falcon” project (LIFE20 NAT/BG/1162), co-funded by the EU LIFE Programme. When violations are detected, the BSPB team will report them to the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Interior and the Regional Inspectorates of Environment and Water.

The initiative aims to reduce and prevent the use of poisoned baits in the wild—a practice that leads to the death of numerous animals, including endangered and protected species. Last year, a saker falcon from one of only three breeding pairs in the country was found dead after being poisoned with a baited pigeon. Such cases underline the seriousness of the issue and the need for stronger prevention and enforcement.

Beyond the threat to wildlife, the use of poison also poses risks to human health and domestic animals. Alongside the patrols, BSPB is working actively with pigeon breeders in the affected regions to promote effective, non-lethal solutions for reducing conflicts with birds of prey and to build long-term cooperation.

If you encounter a suspected poisoned bait in the wild, report it immediately to the authorities by calling 112.