Status: Ongoing

Project Duration: Sept 2025- August 2026

 

Challenge

The endangered Fish Owl (Ketupa zeylonensis), one of Türkiye’s rarest bird species, faces threats from poaching, habitat destruction, and negative cultural perceptions. Despite progress in Phase I, including mapping habitats and reducing persecution, long-term protection requires formal recognition through a Species Action Plan.

Solution

Phase II will combine community awareness, school education, cultural events, and policy advocacy to secure the Fish Owl’s survival. By mobilizing local communities, engaging media, and lobbying the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the project seeks to ensure that Fish Owl habitats are granted official protection and that Türkiye’s first owl species action plan is adopted.

 Project Deliverables

• Visits to at least 10 institutions and decision-makers with tailored awareness materials.

• Scientific reporting of breeding, feeding, and ecological data to the Ministry as input for the Species Action Plan.

• Awareness programs in 5 rural schools reaching 250 students.

• Public exhibitions in 3 shopping centers and a Balık Baykuşu Festival.

• Direct lobbying with national and regional authorities for official adoption of the Species Action Plan.

 

About the organisation: The Slow Food Earth Market Association supports disadvantaged groups, women, youth, and children by encouraging their participation in production processes. It carries out initiatives to protect biodiversity, natural and cultural heritage, and social life, while also contributing to the research and conservation of natural resources. When necessary, the association engages in legal action to defend environmental and cultural values.