Rare Hawk Released in Helmand as Return of Endangered Birds to Nature Increases

The Helmand Provincial Environmental Protection Authority announced that a rare hawk has been released back into the wild in the province. Officials from the authority stated that so far this year, a total of 18 rare birds—including 12 cranes, which are endangered species, and six hawks or eagles—have been guided back to their natural habitats. According to these officials, the return of rare birds to natural areas is on the rise. They also emphasized that hunting these birds is strictly prohibited under environmental protection law. This action comes amid the presence of the Taliban administration in Helmand and their conservation policies, which have had a significant impact on environmental and wildlife conditions. However, continued illegal hunting and weak oversight remain threats to the survival of these rare species.