GPS Tagging Lesser Kestrels

This project involves tracking the migration patterns of a unique species which has been facing a dramatic population decline. In July 2022, the team has already tagged two juvenile birds, one of which is named Lumi, after inlumi.

The Lesser Kestrel (Falco naumanni) is a small falcon that historically, was one of the most abundant birds of prey in Europe. The latter half of the 20th century saw the bird fall from grace as their numbers dramatically declined. Over the last 30 years, there’s been a huge effort to conserve the species in Europe and now populations are recovering. Still, there is a lack of data, especially on the high rate of juvenile mortalities, which is why Mossy Earth is funding the GPS tagging of juvenile Lesser Kestrels.

Learn more about the project here.

Radio Tagging Atlantic Salmon

According to the Atlantic Salmon Trust, for every 100 Atlantic salmon that leave Scotland’s rivers for the sea, fewer than five return. This represents a decline of nearly 70% in 25 years. This project aims to track Atlantic Salmon through radio tags, focusing on the River Carron and its tributaries. The project will fund the tagging of 10 salmon and provides valuable data for the conservation of this iconic species, including identifying any barriers to spawning that may be exacerbating their decline.

Learn more about the project here.

Building eagle nest platform

Mossy Earth has built two eagle nest platforms in the Scottish Highlands to encourage rare white-tailed and golden eagles to breed on the reserve. Through this intervention, Mossy hopes to encourage eagles to breed in the mature woodland on the reserve to support the local population of golden eagles and support the return of white-tailed eagles to the area.

Watch the video to learn more about this project.

Learn more about the project here.

Protecting Turtle Eggs & Nests

With only two known viable populations, the European pond turtle is on the brink of disappearing from Slovakia’s landscapes. Conversion of suitable breeding sites to agricultural land, and destruction of nests and accidental killing of turtles by agricultural machinery threatens the survival of this little turtle.

With access to one of the breeding areas, Mossy Earth’s project partners survey the site with specially trained dogs and erect fences around active nests to protect them from predation. In doing so, the project would help to maximise the breeding success of one of the last remaining populations of European pond turtles in Slovakia.

Learn more about the project here.

Building a Vulture Restaurant

Three species of vulture that were once found in Namibia are now locally extinct and endangered globally. Among the threats are poisoning through contaminated livestock and a lack of wild prey. To provide a safe and reliable source of food, and to encourage the return of these magnificent and ecologically important species, our sustainability partner Mossy Earth has built a vulture restaurant where the vultures can find a safe and reliable source of food.

Learn more about the project here.