Bulgaria preserves one of the richest fauna in the Balkans, combining centuries-old populations of predators, endemics and an impressive number of birds. A key event for conservationists is the successful reintroduction of one of the rarest birds of prey in Europe - the bearded vulture. After half a century of absence, the species returned to Pirin and the Rhodopes; experts comment: "Bulgaria can be proud. The bearded vulture is extremely useful - it cleans nature from corpses and bones, and the restoration of its population is proof of sustainable conservation efforts".
The country is increasing the scale of protected areas - national and natural parks occupy about 5% of the area, and they are home to: wolves, brown bears, deer, wild cats, deer, as well as more than 269 species of birds and over 70 species of cave animals. In the Pirin reserve "Yulen" scientists enumerate: "Swift eagles, woodpeckers, capercaillie and rare capercaillie, as well as exquisite species of trout in the lakes and rivers". The wolf and the bear are crown predators, and the restored populations of deer and wild boar are a sign of balanced ecological management.
Zoos and specialized centers, for example the one in Dobrich, are an example of care for local and exotic animals - both local species and injured exotic birds and mammals are treated and rehabilitated there.
Bulgaria remains one of the most attractive countries for observing animals and birds in the Balkans. Its flora and fauna enjoy the support of local conservationists, the state administration and volunteers from all over Europe. Experts note: "We still have work to do, but Bulgaria shows that a sustainable future for the animal world is possible".