A Picture Worth a Thousand Birds
In June 2025, our Science and Conservation Director, Dr. Andrew Dixon, visited Khentii Province in Mongolia—where an inspiring ripple effect of our conservation efforts is taking flight. In a remote village, local district governors, moved by the work of MBZRCF, have begun taking action themselves. Partnering with the regional electricity distribution company, they retrofitted a previously hazardous powerline—serving a new monument site—with insulation equipment to protect raptors like the saker falcon.
While driving along the newly mitigated line, Andrew captured a photograph of a saker falcon perched atop one of the insulated poles. At first glance, it was a striking image of a magnificent bird. But upon closer inspection, he realized the falcon bore a leg ring—fitted by MBZRCF researchers during a 2023 survey of artificial nests. This very bird had fledged from one of over 25,000 artificial nests erected by the Fund and now stood safely atop one of 27,000 insulated poles. It is likely to breed nearby, in a nest erected by local leaders inspired by our model.
This single photograph tells a powerful story of science, stewardship, and the spark of community-led conservation. It’s not just a picture of a bird—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when knowledge inspires action, and when people take ownership of a shared mission. From science to policy to community empowerment, our impact is tangible—and it’s growing.
