Treasured tradition remains of releasing falcons back into the wild (page 2 of 2)

Only birds found to be free of infection were included in the final release programme, to guarantee that there is no chance of infecting the wild falcon population. To ensure their flight would be swift and efficient, each falcon underwent several weeks of specific training in a special camp and was fed a special diet to increase its weight, and thus improve its chances of survival during the crucial first two weeks of re-adaptation to life in the wild. The birds needed substantial reserves to fight against the elements and accomplish the extraordinary journey.

To facilitate subsequent identification in the case of recapture or being found dead, a microchip carrying a special identification number known as a PIT (passive induced transponder), weighing about 0.1 grams, was implanted under the skin of each bird. Moreover, each bird had a numbered ring (band) fitted around its leg, which was provided by ERWDA, as part of the Emirates Bird Ringing Scheme. Finally, the permit certificates from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES) were obtained to allow the birds to be exported from the UAE and to be imported into Pakistan.

The late President's falcon release programme first began back in April 1995, when 107 falcons were released in the Kharan District of Pakistan's western province of Baluchistan. In the years to follow, the releases were carried out in the Gilgit District in north Pakistan in 1996 and in the Lake Issyk-kul area of Kyrgyzstan. In 1999, 79 falcons were released again in Gilgit District. In 2000, 111 Saker and Peregrine falcons were released near the Chinese and Pakistani borders. The following year, 75 falcons were released in Chitral District near the Pakistani-Afghani borders, while in 2002; the same area witnessed the release of 102 falcons. In 2003, 95 falcons were released in the skies over Gurgan Province, Iran, and last year, 76 were released near the Chinese-Pakistani borders bringing the total number of falcons released to around 1,000 falcons.