Endangered Egyptian vultures typically reach the Balkans in large numbers by April to nest, but experts say current conflicts are making that annual migration harder. Researchers tracking the birds report that local teams are finding only a handful of vultures in recent weeks instead of the dozens that would normally arrive. The species faces risks along its journey from Africa, and experts say war-related disruptions add to those pressures. Nikolai Petkov, project manager at the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds, says the war increases dangers already present on the migration route. The concerns focus on reduced numbers arriving in breeding areas, which could affect breeding success if the trend continues into the nesting period. The reports describe the vultures’ distinctive appearance—yellow facial skin and white plumes—and emphasize that the current pattern of sightings is lower than expected. Overall, the outlets conclude that regional and Middle East conflicts are likely further disrupting a migration that is already considered perilous for the species.