Saudi Guide Sets Rules for Vulture Feeding Stations

Saudi Arabia has issued a new internationally accredited national guide for vulture feeding stations — known as "vulture restaurants" — in September 2026, as part of wider biodiversity protection programs led by the National Center for Wildlife.

The guide defines these stations as safe, controlled food sources designed to reduce poisoning risks from toxins, veterinary drugs, and pollutants, while supporting both resident and migratory vultures along their migration routes across the Kingdom.

It sets clear technical and operational requirements. Sites must be selected near major vulture colonies and breeding cliffs in arid areas, and kept at minimum distances from aerodromes, roads, power lines, and windfarms to reduce collision and electrocution risks. Operators are also required to monitor and document vulture numbers and behavior regularly.

For feeding frequency, the guide recommends supplementary feeding at least twice and daily for large stations serving big colonies, with food usually placed in the early morning. Food must be screened and free of harmful veterinary NSAIDs such as diclofenac, and contaminated meat is prohibited.

Permits and contacts

Establishing a vulture restaurant requires a permit from the National Center for Wildlife to ensure best practices and proper documentation. Interested parties can call +966 11 441 8700 or 011 520 7450, email info@ncw.gov.sa, or write to P.O. Box 4508, Riyadh 12411. No specific fees for permits or operation are stated in the current documentation.

The initiative builds on wider Saudi commitments to biodiversity and raptor conservation, including the establishment of the first vulture restaurant within King Salman Royal Natural Reserve — near the largest Griffon Vulture colony and Egyptian Vulture breeding sites — alongside efforts to control diclofenac use. For residents, the effort reflects a growing national focus on protecting the Kingdom's natural heritage.

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