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With Rosneft’s Support, Ornithologists Preserving White-Tailed Eagle Population in Samara Region
11 July 2025
Specialists from Rosneft’s Samara group of enterprises and ornithologists from Samara Luka National Park have summarised the results of the fieldwork stage of their joint project to study and protect the endangered white-tailed eagle within the reserve.
A key finding was data indicating that the population of this endangered bird had increased by more than a third in the Samara Luka National Park. Field studies conducted during the 2024–25 autumn and winter confirmed this positive trend. Scientists discovered new white-tailed eagle nesting sites in the park, suggesting that the nesting range is expanding. Monitoring of previously identified areas revealed the consistent presence of birds, active nest maintenance, and mating behaviour. Special measures have been introduced and patrols have been stepped up to protect key bird habitats in these areas.
The main indicator used to assess population dynamics was data from observations of reproduction. In 2024, all pairs successfully raised their young. The current activity of the birds, coupled with last year’s 100% nesting success, enables scientists to predict population growth within the reserve.
Raising awareness is an integral part of the strategy for conserving rare animals. As part of the project, information stands have been installed along the reserve’s walking trails to educate visitors about the distinctive features of the white-tailed eagle population. This species is the largest bird of prey in the Samara Region, and is listed in the regional, Russian and international Red Data Books.
Another important aspect of the conservation project is photographing and filming birds in their natural habitat. The material collected will be used to create a scientific archive, educational programmes, and further conservation initiatives. Additionally, plans are in place to organise a photo exhibition, The Orlan.
Protecting the environment is an integral part of Rosneft’s corporate culture and operating principles. The Company pays great attention to ornithological projects. Thanks to the support of its subsidiaries in various regions across the country, Rosneft is conducting research and implementing programmes to protect rare bird species such as white-shouldered eagles, wild geese and white gulls, etc.
For reference
Rosneft’s Samara Group enterprises have a long-standing partnership with Samara Luka National Park. For the second consecutive year, a grant project is being implemented to study and protect the white-tailed eagle. Another grant project has seen the development and launch of the Ekotropa 63 mobile app, which offers virtual tours of the national park. Thanks to the support of oil workers, the LukAmorye ecological and educational complex has opened in the city of Zhigulevsk, a visitor centre has been built in the village of Sosnovy Solonets, and an aviary has been built for birds that are unable to live in the wild.
Department of Information and Advertising
Rosneft
July 11, 2025