Ministry of Agriculture Releases 10 Rare Falcons Into The Wild

Ten rare falcons were released into the Suez Canal waterway after being rescued from illegal trade. The Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation said the operation was carried out by the General Organisation for Veterinary Services in coordination with the Ministry of Environment, following directives from Minister Alaa Farouk and within Egypt’s efforts to protect biodiversity and apply international rules.

The ministry added that the collaboration involved the General Organisation for Veterinary Services, represented by the General Administration for Wildlife at the Central Administration of Zoos and Wildlife, and the Nature Reserves Sector at the Ministry of Environment.

Dr Hamed Al Aqnas, head of the General Organisation for Veterinary Services, said Border Guard forces in the Abu Ramad area confiscated the birds because they lacked official approvals, permits under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), or veterinary health certificates, which constitutes a violation of Egyptian law and international agreements governing trade in threatened species.

Following the seizure, a specialist committee from the General Administration for Wildlife classified the falcons and transferred them to Alexandria Zoo.

The birds underwent an intensive care programme focused on restoring overall health, therapeutic feeding to recover flight and hunting ability, and full veterinary oversight to ensure they were free of disease prior to release.

The Suez Canal waterway was selected as the release site because it is one of the world’s major bird migration routes, enabling the falcons to return to their natural pathways.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation affirmed its commitment to implementing CITES provisions, safeguarding Egypt’s natural resources from the risk of extinction, and taking firm action against illegal hunting and trade in protected species.