Critically Endangered Hooded Vultures have found not just tolerance, but genuine protection

In the shadow of Rwanda’s imposing Volcanoes, a quiet drama is unfolding.

Here, where mountain gorillas capture the world’s imagination, an equally crucial but far less celebrated group of residents is fighting for survival: vultures.

Though they soar majestically across the skies, vultures remain one of the most misunderstood birds. They are nature’s most efficient cleanup crew, providing

indispensable ecosystem services that include preventing the spread of diseases like rabies and anthrax. Yet, these biological sanitation systems are in catastrophic decline globally.

In Rwanda, the stakes are incredibly high. Of the six vulture species found here, four are Critically Endangered and one is Endangered. Some populations have suffered a devastating 83% decline over the last three generations. The threat of losing them in our lifetime is real.

An Unlikely Sanctuary: The Gataraga Market Miracle

Caption: Gataraga Community Market located in the vicinity of the Volcanoes National Park.

Beyond the protected forests, a revolution in conservation is taking place in an unexpected place: the local market at Gataraga. Adjacent to the bustling stalls and a butchery, more than 30 Critically Endangered Hooded Vultures have found not just tolerance, but genuine protection.

This site stands as a testament to a transformed relationship. Where once these birds were viewed with suspicion, they are now seen as allies.

“Vultures have been associated with bad luck in all social contexts of life,” shares Odette Imaniraguha, a 48-year-old manager at the Gataraga butchery. “However, having them around us has proven this wrong. We interact with them daily… they are not harmful at all. Instead, they support our living by cleaning our market and abattoir surroundings.”

This shift in perception is no accident. It is the result of a groundbreaking, community-centric approach pioneered by Nature Rwanda (a nature conservation local organization based in Musanze) since 2020.

The Strategy: Mapping, Champions, and Changing Hearts

Facing threats from habitat loss to poisoning, the strategy was clear: meet the vultures where they live, and partner with the people who share their space. Nature Rwanda identified and mapped 15 key vulture locations across the country, with the Busaga Forest emerging as the sole confirmed breeding site for the Hooded Vulture—a site now internationally recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area.

At the heart of this success are the Vulture Champions—local community members who monitor the birds, report threats, and, most importantly, foster understanding.

“Communities are at the center of vulture conservation as their knowledge, actions, and stewardship ensure these majestic birds continue to soar for generations,” says Vincent Onyango, Senior Vulture Conservation Officer for BirdLife International.

The results speak for themselves. Where branches were once cut from roosting trees to drive the vultures away, there is now protection. The change is profound, as echoed by Hakizimana Anastase, a 68-year-old community member:

“Having them here is not only a chance to witness healthy lands, but also gives us the responsibility to protect them.”

Why Our Future Depends on Their Survival

The value of a vulture is not just ecological; it is economic. A single vulture is worth over US $11,000 for its cleaning services alone. By halting the spread of diseases, they save governments millions in healthcare costs.

The journey is far from over, but the blueprint for success is now clear.

“It has been a long journey to achieve this milestone,” says Elie Sinayitutse, Head of Species & Habitat Conservation at Nature Rwanda. “Our commitment now is to maintain and build upon this success through rigorous scientific research that will deepen our understanding of vulture ecology in Rwanda.”

The story of Rwanda’s vultures is evolving from one of peril to one of promise. It proves that the most critically endangered species can find sanctuary when people choose protection over persecution. It is a story of how a nation, known for its remarkable comeback, is now helping its most maligned birds do the same.

Janvier Mbabazi.