Türkiye rehabilitates and releases 4,732 wild animals in 2026

During the first seven months of 2026, teams from Türkiye's Nature Conservation and National Parks (DKMP) treated and released 4,732 injured wild animals back into their natural habitats. Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli shared the figures on social media, noting how central these rehabilitation efforts are to the country's biodiversity. One of the animals returned to the wild was a kestrel called "Cesur," meaning "brave," a name given by the children who first found the bird. The work reflects a long-standing government commitment to wildlife recovery.

These efforts are part of a program that saw 58,022 animals rehabilitated between 2021 and 2025. To manage this, the directorate runs specialized centers across Türkiye, with facilities in cities including Afyonkarahisar, Bursa, and Diyarbakir. These sites provide the medical care and space needed for different species to recover, ensuring they are strong enough to survive on their own before they are released. This sustained focus points to a priority for protecting the nation's natural heritage.

Much of the work begins with the public; local residents, police, and gendarmerie officers often report injured wildlife, especially in rural areas where encounters are more frequent. When an animal is brought in, it undergoes a health assessment to determine if it needs surgery or intensive care. Recovery is specific to the species, often including behavioral training to help the animal readjust to its environment. Every animal is also screened for parasites and infectious diseases to ensure it is healthy enough to thrive once it returns to the wild.

Beyond the immediate survival of the animals, these releases help maintain the balance of local ecosystems. When a rehabilitated animal returns home, it supports the biodiversity necessary for a healthy habitat. The process also involves the community, raising awareness of local wildlife and encouraging people to take an active interest in conservation. This shared effort does more than just help the animals; it builds a sense of collective responsibility for the natural world.

Moving forward, the Nature Conservation and National Parks teams intend to continue their rehabilitation and conservation programs. Continuous monitoring and support for these populations will remain a priority as environmental conditions change. By staying dedicated to the treatment of injured wildlife, Türkiye continues to demonstrate a practical approach to conservation, focusing on the protection of biodiversity and the relationship between people and the environment.