SHOQATA ORNITOLOGJIKE E SHQIPERISE

AOS

2022 Annual
Report
Prepared by
Besjana Shehu
Taulant Bino
AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

WORDS OF PRESIDENT
BY TAULANT BINO

OUR VISION: By 2030, we envision an Albania where birds and

nature are treasured, conserved, and restored contributing to a
thriving planet for the mutual advantage of all.

2022 has marked a period of exponential growth for the Albanian Ornithological Society (AOS).
I am genuinely honored to reflect upon our organization's myriad activities and notable
achievements.

The cornerstones of our membership based organization are unwaveringly anchored in

scientific excellence and community involvement. When we fuse top-tier research with the
enthusiasm and dedication of our staff members, the results of our long-term actions speak for
themselves – lasting conservation impacts for our avifauna and their natural habitats. We are
proud of our achievements in the conservation and enhancement of numerous species and
particularly the breeding population of the Dalmatian Pelican, Common, Tern, Little Tern,
Herons, White Stork, Egyptian Vulture etc. Our partnerships in research and monitoring
consistently fortify our foundation, guiding us towards impactful conservation initiatives and
advocacy.

At AOS, we recognize the irreplaceable role that governments play in environmental

conservation. We continuously cooperate with governmental authorities in mainstreaming bird
and biodiversity conservation in the governmental policies, but we are also a watchdog
organization. Therefore we continuously advocate for the safeguard of habitats and species and a
more pronounced governmental role in biodiversity conservation. Our efforts resonate deeply
with the European Commission's visionary 2030 Biodiversity Strategy, and considering
Albania's ambitions to integrate with the European Union, our collaboration with the Albanian
government has been steady since the beginning.
AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

The heart of our mission pulses with the desire to preserve and amplify the sanctity of Protected
Areas, Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs), Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs), Ramsar Sites,
Emerald Sites, and future NATURA 2000 sites. These sites are not just geographical markers but
essential sources of Albania's rich biodiversity. Recognizing their immense value, we have pressed
for a holistic, science-driven assessment of these areas. We believe this should be bolstered by good
governance that embodies both effectiveness and integrity.

Our commitment goes beyond advocacy. We have delved deep into sculpting a legislative
framework tailored for the Protected Areas, aiming to ensure they remain undisturbed havens for
the myriad of life they shelter. Meticulous planning, complemented by comprehensive data
collection, underpins our strategy. This meticulousness ensures that conservation efforts are well-
intentioned and, more importantly, impactful.

Further testifying to our commitment, we have consistently provided invaluable data support to
Birdlife, particularly focusing on Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs). These areas,
emblematic of avian diversity and vitality, stand testament to the importance of our collaborative
efforts.

A momentous for this year was the launching of the First Ornithological Conference in Albania, a
landmark event organized by AOS. This was succeeded by an international workshop of the
organization's members of BirdLife International, which graciously welcomed around 50 well-
known experts, and representatives of the organization's members of BirdLife Europe and Central
Asia, to discuss the pressing issues related to illegal hunting and trapping of wild birds along the
Adriatic Flyway.

Talking about community engagement, I'm inspired by the dedication of our students from the
Bird Identification Training Course, a collaboration with Nord University. Also, the Conservation
Youth Club Gjirokastra's landmark discovery of a new Egyptian Vulture territory in Gjirokastra is
truly remarkable.

With the horizon of 2030 not far off, AOS remains steadfast in its mission stipulated in AOS
Strategy 2022-2032, bridging the aspirations of Albania with the European Union's Biodiversity
Vision. We remain resolute, spirited, and hopeful for a greener Albania.

Finally, all the above would have been impossible without all our members' invaluable
contributions. On behalf of AOS, I wish to express my profound gratitude to them. Whether you're
monitoring avian communities, delving into research, or supporting conservation locally, your
efforts are paramount. Another greeting to our dedicated volunteers and coordinators; your
relentless efforts keep our mission alive and thriving.

Taulant Bino, President

 GLOBAL
AOS GEOMETRY
- ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2030
YEAR 2022

REMARKS FROM CO-FOUNDERS

As I look back on the milestones of 2022, I am deeply inspired and humbled by the relentless
dedication of the Albanian Ornithological Society. With experience in economic policy and
politics, I fully understand the intricate balance required to harmonize environmental priorities
with development goals. And the strides AOS has taken this past year exemplify just that.

Working hand in hand with our institutional partners, AOS has demonstrated an unwavering
commitment to drafting effective strategies and action plans. The organization has shown
resilience in the face of modern challenges, not least of which is the undeniable impact of
climate change on our bird populations. With a meticulous and scientific approach, they have
deeply understood the ecosystem services within our Protected Areas, ensuring these sanctuaries
remain resilient and sustainable.

Furthermore, AOS's role has not been limited to research and advocacy alone. Their eagerness to
act and push government institutions to enhance their environmental capacities is
commendable. It reflects their holistic vision – one that encompasses knowledge sharing,
collaboration, and real-world impact.

The journey of 2022 is a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose—
eagerly anticipating meeting our new members for 2023.

With profound gratitude,

Gjergj Bojaxhi
 GLOBAL
AOS GEOMETRY
- ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2030
YEAR 2022

REMARKS FROM CO-FOUNDERS

Looking back on 2022, my heart is filled with immense pride and gratitude. This year has been a
testament to the Albanian Ornithological Society's dedication, achieving truly awe-inspiring
milestones.

Under the AOS banner, it's been more than just a celebration of birdwatching. It's been a merger
of science, policy, and heartfelt community engagement. Their focus wasn't limited to the
physical boundaries of our Protected Areas. It was about preserving their essence and
understanding the deep connection between nature and our community.

Recognizing the worth of our environmental gems is one thing; standing up to safeguard them is
another. AOS's commitment this year highlighted the need to maintain both the natural beauty
and the cultural significance of these areas.
AOS's relentless work has illuminated the importance of these Protected Areas. They're not just
lands; they're crucial parts of our heritage.

I, Ben Andoni, am deeply thankful for every effort made in 2022. The organization's dedication
has not only met our objectives but has also raised the bar for conservation efforts.

In sincere appreciation,

Ben Andoni
 AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

In 2022 we accomplished

BALKAN DETOX LIFE

Wildlife Crime Academy Training in Spain: Organized by the Vulture Conservation
Foundation in partnership with Junta de Andalucía, this training was attended by four
representatives from Albania. These individuals represent institutions crucial to the investigation
of wildlife crimes in Albania: two from the National Territorial Protection Inspectorate (IKMT),
one from the State Police, and one from the Veterinary Service. The training focused on forensic
and police investigation of wildlife crimes. All those trained in Spain are set to organize a similar
training in Albania, in collaboration with the Albanian Ornithological Society (AOS).

Drafting of an Action Plan Against Wildlife Poisoning: Prepared by AOS in collaboration with
the National Anti-Poisoning Working Group, established by AOS in 2018 to combat wildlife
poisoning in Albania. This working group consists of decision-making and law enforcement
institutions, such as the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, Ministry of Agriculture and
Rural Development, State Police, IKMT, Food Safety and Veterinary Institute, Faculty of
Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Natural Sciences, and environmental NGOs. The action plan was
open for consultation throughout 2022 and is currently awaiting to endorsed from the Ministry.

Creation of Protocols for Possible Poisoning Incidents Investigations: Drafted by AOS and the
Anti-Poisoning Working Group, these protocols were developed alongside the Action Plan
Against Poisoning and underwent the same consultation process. They are currently awaiting
approval from the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, alongside the Action Plan.

Report on Agricultural Chemical Legislation: This report analyzes the regulations on the use of
agricultural chemicals across seven Balkan countries where the “BalkanDetox LIFE” project is
being implemented – Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, North Macedonia, and
Serbia. The section on Albania was prepared by the Albanian Ornithological Society (AOS).

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 AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

In 2022 we accomplished

NGOS FOR BIODIVERSITY

CONSERVATION
Formalized a coalition with 21 Civil Society Organizations, reinforcing the protection of
Protected Areas (PAs) from boundary alterations.

Championed legal advocacy by filing two lawsuits with 11 CSOs against the revision of PA
borders in the Administrative Court of Appeal.

Amplified education and collaboration on PAs through six lectures across academic
institutions, engaging 190 participants.

Produced 10 in-depth technical and scientific reports by national experts on specific PAs.

Fostered local cooperation for PA conservation with two pivotal meetings in Shkoder and
Vlore with key stakeholders from public institutions.

The Swedish International Agency for Cooperation and Development (SIDA), Swedish
Government, Co-PLAN Institute for Habitat Development, CISP Sviluppo dei Popoli, VIS
Albania and COSV – Cooperazione per lo Sviluppo

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The project aims to safeguard Albania's Protected Areas' territorial and ecological integrity, which
10 encompass 22% of the nation's land. These areas are vital, hosting nearly all of Albania's wildlife
species. Many of these species and habitats are shielded under international conventions, European
Community Directives, and Albania's own nature conservation laws.
 AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY
YEAR 2022

In 2022 we accomplished

BIRDS WITHOUT BORDERS

Three scientific camps were organized in Albania, Serbia, and Montenegro

Waterbird Satellite Tracking Camp in Albania: 20 Students and bird enthusiasts from
Albania, Serbia, and Montenegro came together in Saranda, Albania, in the WST Camp,
organized by the AOS. The camp’s goal was to build the capacities of students and people
engaged in bird conservation in bird telemetry and GPS transmitter deployment and to
provide an environment of collaboration and experience sharing among the participants.
As a result, one White stork (Ciconia ciconia) was equipped with a GPS transmitter.

Migratory Raptor Bird Camp in Serbia: the participants (20 students) were acquainted with
a whole new group of birds – Raptors. The camp was dedicated to tagging the Eastern
Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca), a species categorized as Vulnerable by the IUCN.

Nocturnal Migratory Bird Tracking Camp in Montenegro: this camp aimed to build
capacity in telemetry for avian research. The camp's nocturnal birds were the focus,
namely the Eurasian stone-curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus).

An Memorandum of Understanding was singed: in order to achieve greater efficiency on a

regional scale for the protection of the birdlife on the Adriatic Flyway through the joint
intervention of Montenegro, Albania, Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia. This
aim will be achieved through empowerment, strengthening, capacity building, and cross-
border cooperation of environmental civil society organizations working in the Western
Balkans.

Birds Without Borders - Phase II project funded by the

Western Balkans Fund and European Union, under the
Call for Regional Project Proposals to the Promotion of
Civil Society regional activities in the Western Balkans.

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 AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY
YEAR 2022

In 2022 we accomplished

MAINTAINING THE
ECOLOGICAL INTEGRITY AND
BIODIVERSITY OF DIVJAKA-
KARAVASTA NATIONAL PARK
Rehabilitation of the breeding beds in the Pelican
Island, Divjaka-Karavasta National Park: Before the start
of the Dalmatian pelican’s (Pelecanus crispus) breeding
season in January, a team from the AOS and rangers from
the Regional Administration for Protected Areas Fier
organized the annual rehabilitation of the breeding beds
on the Pelican Island in Divjaka-Karavasta National Park.

Maintaining the Ecological Integrity and Biodiversity of

Divjaka-Karavasta National Park project was funded by
the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund and Birdlife
International.

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 AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

In 2022 we accomplished

COMBATING ILLEGAL KILLING

AND TAKING OF BIRDS IN
ALBANIA
The First Ornithological Conference in Albania (June
2022)
- was organized by AOS in cooperation with the Faculty of
Natural Sciences. The aim of the conference was to
present the studies carried out in Albania during the last
20 years and to promote research in the field of
ornithology in the future, as well as to strengthen
conservation measures for birds and their critical habitats.
About 40 participants (local and foreign) took part in the
conference and about 17 speakers (local and foreign, with
contribution to the study and protection of avifauna in
Albania) presented their works at the conference.

4th Adriatic Flyway Conference in Croatia: The Adriatic

Flyway, located along the Balkan Peninsula, is one of the
major migratory routes for birds of Europe as well as one
of the most dangerous ones considering the high rates of
bird mortality during migration. To address the situation,
the 4th conference was held in Zadar, Croatia, aiming to
discuss the progress, milestones, challenges, lessons
learned and future opportunities regarding the illegal
killing and capturing of birds along the Adriatic Flyway,
with the participation of NGOs from the following
countries: Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia,
Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Slovenia.
Euronatur, Mava and Birdlife International

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 AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

In 2022 we accomplished

EGYPTIAN VULTURE NEW LIFE

Safe Feed Station: An Egyptian Vulture Safe Feed Station was established in Carcova to provide
safe food. This initiative was managed in collaboration with the local authority, RAPA
Gjirokastër.
Safety Measures: 24 dangerous poles in the Drino Valley were insulated to prevent harm to the
birds, especially near their breeding territories, in partnership with OSHEE Gjirokastra.
Monitoring Expeditions: Three expeditions were conducted to monitor the territories of the
Egyptian Vulture in Albania. A new territory was also discovered near Gjirokastra.
Youth Engagement: The Gjirokaster Youth Conservation Club expanded to 60 members, and a
new club, CYC Tepelena, was initiated with 25 active members. Collaborative efforts were
established with local educational bodies.
Educational Programs: An environmental education program was introduced at the "Abaz
Shehu" School in Tepelena, focusing on habitat and bird protection In the Vjosa Valley.
Tourist Trail: A new tourist trail, "The Egyptian Vulture Trail", was established and promoted in
Gjirokastra.
Summer School: A summer school in Kardhiq was organized for members of CYC Gjirokastra
and CYC Tepelena, with about 60 participants.
Environmental Events: Four major environmental events were organized in 2022, including
WMD and IVAD.
Outreach: Over the last two years, 480,000 participants were reached, both directly and
indirectly, through awareness activities.
Research Contribution: Two scientific papers on the Egyptian Vulture in Albania have been
written and are pending publication, marking a significant achievement in 2022.

BSPB, EU's LIFE Programme Union and the co-financing

AG Leventis Foundation, Green Fund, and the MAVA Foundation

Florjan Binaj

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AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

From the Political Front

VLORA AIRPORT IN
COURT
Environmental groups (including AOS) sued the Vlora International Airport
construction contract, citing legal discrepancies and violations. The ongoing
development threatens the Vjosë-Nartë Protected Area.

PROTECTED AREAS IN
COURT
AOS led the legal advocacy by filing two lawsuits with 11 CSOs against the
revision of Protected Areas boundaries in the Administrative Court of
Appeal.
 ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

SCIENTIFIC SEMINARS
INTERNATIONAL WATERBIRD
SCIENTIFIC PAPERS
CENSUS
9 3
SCIENTIFIC CAMPS
11
EVENTS
5
12
CONFERENCES
CONSERVATION YOUTH

5
MEMBERS

90
PEOPLE REACHED TRAININGS

4
800K
6
WORKSHOPS AND ASSEMBLIES

A COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION OF AOS'S

ANNUAL METRICS FOR 2022
 ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

AOS 2022 ACHIEVEMENTS & KEY

INDICATORS

International Waterbird Census (IWC) - 9th Edition: Successfully led by AOS in

collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment and the National
Agency of Protected Areas, involving 100 participants

Conferences:
1. First Ornithological Conference, Tirana, Albania
2. Adriatic Flyway 4, Tirana, Albania
3. 4th Adriatic Flyway Conference, Zadar, Croatia
4. Egyptian Vulture New Life Online
5. Egyptian Vulture New Life in Bulgaria

Scientific & Bird Banding Camps:

1. Waterbird Satellite Tracking, Albania

2. Migratory Raptor Bird, Serbia
3. Nocturnal Migratory Bird Tracking, Montenegro
4. Spring & Fall Banding, Orikum, involving 100 participants

Open Lectures Series:

1. Polis University
2. Faculty of Natural Sciences,
3. Faculty of Environmental and Architecture Landscape, drawing an audience
of 120

Scientific Seminars:
1. Endangered Species of Ornithofauna"
2. The impact of "Wildlife and Pesticides." Partnered with Public Institutions
and the National Working Group of the Anti-Poisoning Strategy, benefiting
90 participants

Workshops:
1. Mobile Pastoralism & Vultures in North Macedonia,
2. Powerlines & Birds in Cairo, Egypt
3. Lesser Kestrels Balkan Experts in Bulgaria, engaging 170 participants

Bird Identification Course:

1. Bird ID Albania 2022, with 15 dedicated participants.
 ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

AOS 2022 ACHIEVEMENTS & KEY

INDICATORS

Birdwatching Training: In partnership with RAPAs in

Divjaka-Karavasta, Shkodra, and Orikum, benefiting 30
enthusiasts

Special Events: This included a series of national and

international events like "Run for the Egyptian Vulture,"
"World Migratory Bird Day," "Global Birding Day," and
thematic exhibitions and campaigns for sustainability and
bird conservation, lights pollution for birds, climate change,
etc., involving more than 300 people.

Infrastructure Enhancements: Safeguarded avian life by

insulating 24 hazardous pylons in Drino Valley

Conservation Initiatives: Established a supplementary

feeding station in Carshova for the Egyptian Vulture

Wildlife Surveys: Conducted a focused Pelican Census on

yearly bases with national and international partners

Advocacy:
1. Balkan Wildlife Crime Academy
2. A national coalition for the protection of Protected Areas
led by AOS
3. A joint declaration for the protection of Protected Areas
in Albania compiled by AOS and signed by 53 NGOs and
experts

Research Initiatives:
1. 1 Strategy on Anti-Poisoning of Wildlife
2. 1 National Manual for monitoring wintering waterbirds
3. 1 Balkan Vultures Poison Study
4. Protocols for Poisoning Incidents Investigation
5. Ten technical/scientific reports for specific PAs
6. Seven abstracts were compiled for bird species and
threats
7. Management Plans for Protected Areas

Species Monitoring: Organized four expeditions for

monitoring Egyptian Vulture and other expeditions for the
Pelicans, European Roller, Terns, Lesser Kestrel, etc.
 AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY YEAR 2022

From the Global Front

DIVJAKA KARAVASTA AND AOS IN

CEPF GLOBAL IMPACT REPORT 2022
AOS - ALBANIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2022

A Year's Overview

AOS IN FIGURES

132,100
In 2022, the total income for AOS
amounted to 132,100 EUR
121,920
In 2022, the total revenue for AOS
from grants and projects amounted
to €121,920, constituting 92.2% of the
income.

137,000 10,180
In 2022, the revenue for AOS from
In 2022 the total expenses amounted contracts and services amounted to
to 137,000 EUR €10,180, constituting 7.7% of the
income.

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