Driver Rescues Exhausted Vulture on Crete Highway, Offering Water and Food

A driver on Crete's V.O.A.K. highway came to the rescue of an exhausted young vulture found wandering dangerously close to traffic. The incident highlights a growing problem of dehydrated and weakened vultures appearing in unusual locations across the island, including highways, beaches, and urban areas. Experts suggest that extreme heat and exhaustion are preventing these young birds from flying properly, leading them to seek refuge in unexpected places. In this latest case, radio producer and activist Thanasis Gounaris spotted the vulture struggling on the roadway near Rethymno. He immediately stopped to protect the bird from passing vehicles, offering it water and cat food he had in his car. Gounaris stayed with the vulture until the Forestry Service arrived. The service took the bird to provide necessary care, including hydration and electrolytes, with the aim of releasing it back into the wild once it recovers. Gounaris shared his experience online, emphasizing the importance of intervening to save a life, even with simple actions. He noted that while the exact cause of the vulture's condition remains unknown, factors like heat, lack of water, disorientation, or even recent fires in the region could be contributing. The rescue was a collaborative effort, with Gounaris thanking other bystanders and the swift response of the Forestry Service.

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TODAY, ON THE V.O.A.K., WE STOPPED TO SAVE A LIFE.