Habitat Protection > Migratory Birds Protection

Kuwait falls on the migratory route for many birds, both passage migrants and species that breed in Kuwait. The migratory season lasts for two short spells each year – during spring (February to April) and around fall (October – November). Each season, Kuwait witnesses a large number of injured birds who are victimised by indiscriminate hunting and fierce sand-storms. Their numbers are already on a decline. While there’s little that one can do to avert casualties during dust-storms, we can take action on that which is within our control such as discouraging hunting.

In the spring of 2011, K’S PATH took in five injured raptors. We provide critical medical care, protection, nourishment and rehabilitation for birds. Each of our bird enclosures have been thoughtfully designed and built for the mental and physical wellbeing of their inmates. Once the birds convalesce, they are tested for flight and preying before being released in a suitable habitat in Kuwait. If they are unable to hunt and fly independently, the birds are provided sanctuary at our shelter and play a crucial role in our Migratory Birds education program.

In April, we successfully released one Steppe Eagle after he recovered from a disorienting and dehydrating sand-storm. Watch the captivating video of his release as he flew into the sunset. Another Eagle was not able to survive due to severe injuries suffered from being shot by a hunter.

K’S PATH sanctuary is presently housing an endangered Egyptian Vulture and a Short Toed Snake Eagle, both undergoing rehabilitation. The Eagle, when rescued, was found missing flight feathers on his wings which impairs the ability to fly. It is possible they were clipped off by hunters who trapped it. The Eagle will be observed closely to see if he moults flight feathers and is able to fly.

In late May, a Steppe Eagle arrived at our shelter after being treated for injuries at the Royal Animal Hospital. It is now recuperating.

What you can do to help?

• Help us build 3 new enclosures! The new birds, in addition to our existing two Steppe Eagles, place us short of space in the wild birds department. These magnificent birds deserve purpose-built enclosures to increase their chances of being released in the future or used for education if a release is not possible. It will cost 900 KD to build each enclosure as well as the associated fencing to keep the birds isolated from other forms of wildlife. If you can help, please contact our Chairman at  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit our donation page.

• Refrain from illegal activities such as hunting birds both during and off migratory season. Dissuade those who indulge in this behaviour by encouraging them to protect Kuwait’s rich birdlife.

• Kuwait’s islands – Umm Al Maradim, Kubbar and Garoh – are natural nesting grounds for many migratory birds. Plan your visits to such islands off migratory season. Birds nest in bushes and marshes and as nests are well camouflaged with the ground, they can be trampled upon. It’s best to stay off nesting grounds during nesting season to give our feathered friends a fair chance of survival.

• Contact K’S PATH if you come across any injured birds, particularly raptors during dust-storms and otherwise. Our staff is ever-ready to rescue the birds on field.

• Get in touch with us if you would like our staff to conduct an interactive educational session on Migratory Birds for your school or institution.