The Circle of Life in the Rhodope Mountains | Documentary by Emmanuel Rondeau | Rewilding Rhodopes

Summary

The speaker, a former mining company director turned conservationist, reflects on the transformation of Bulgaria's Eastern Rhodopes region since the 1970s. He discusses the area's rich biodiversity, the impact of human migration to cities on the landscape, and efforts to reintroduce large herbivores like the European bison and wild horses to restore ecological balance. The script also touches on the potential of ecotourism and the importance of environmental education, particularly among the youth, for a sustainable future.

Takeaways

• 🌳 The speaker has been observing the Bulgarian landscape since 1970 and has witnessed significant changes in vegetation and biodiversity.
• 🐃 The reintroduction of the European bison is a complex process that requires adaptation to local conditions and is part of a broader vision to restore nature.
• 📈 The use of drones is being employed to measure the impact of grazing animals like bison and wild horses on the landscape over the past decade.
• 🌍 There is a noted lack of research on large grazing communities in Europe compared to African savannahs, highlighting a unique opportunity for study.
• 🏞️ The ecological role of large herbivores like bison, wild horses, and deer is crucial for maintaining open landscapes and supporting a diverse range of other species.
• 🦌 Red and fallow deer, once abundant, are important for ecosystem health by grazing and providing a food source for predators and scavengers.
• 🏡 The abandonment of villages and the decline of cattle have led to changes in the landscape, affecting the mosaic of habitats that support biodiversity.
• 🌿 The potential of ecotourism and nature-based tourism in the Eastern Rhodopes is seen as a way to revitalize the region and provide new opportunities for local development.
• 🦅 The speaker's work with black vultures, including their reintroduction, underscores the importance of conservation efforts and the emotional significance of releasing birds into the wild.
• 👨‍🏫 Environmental education is emphasized as a critical tool for fostering a love for nature and promoting sustainable development among the younger generation.

Q & A

How long has the speaker been involved in the area?

The speaker has been involved in the area since 1970.

What was the speaker's role until 2005?

The speaker was the director of a mining company until 2005.

What has changed in the speaker's perception of nature over time?

The speaker mentions that nature wasn't as appealing in the past, and they didn't see the beauty of nature as they do now.

Why is Bulgaria described as rich in biodiversity?

Bulgaria is rich in biodiversity because it has animal species representative of both Mediterranean and Continental climate zones, and a mosaic of pastures, grasslands, and forests.

What is the impact of people leaving villages on the local ecosystem?

The abandonment of villages leads to a lack of cattle that used to roam freely, which affects the mosaic landscape by not opening spaces and maintaining the ecosystem.

What is the vision for the reintroduction of wildlife in the area?

The vision is to bring back wild animals and herbivores, such as the European bison, to restore the natural balance and promote a cascading effect on the ecosystem.

How are drones being used in the conservation efforts?

Drones are used to measure the impact of grazing animals like bison and wild horses on the landscape and to study the changes over the last decade.

What is unique about the research happening in the area?

The research is unique because it focuses on the reintroduction of large herbivores in Europe, which is a recent phenomenon, and there is a lack of large grazing communities as subjects for research on the European continent.

Why is the ecological role of large herbivores important?

The ecological role of large herbivores is important because they maintain open landscapes by feeding on grass, shrubs, and trees, which are habitats for many other animals and plants, and they also serve as a food source for predators.

What is the significance of the black vultures' release in the adaptation aviary?

The release of black vultures from the adaptation aviary is significant as it marks a step in the conservation efforts and is an emotional and important day for the conservationists who have been working on the project.

How does the speaker view the future of the region in terms of tourism and conservation?

The speaker sees great potential in ecotourism and nature-based tourism, and believes that the region is just starting to develop its potential, with young entrepreneurs returning to the area.

What role does environmental education play according to the speaker?

Environmental education is seen as crucial for changing human society and inspiring the younger generation to continue conservation efforts and develop a love for nature.

Outlines

00:00

🌳 Biodiversity and Bison Reintroduction in Bulgaria

The speaker reflects on their experience in Bulgaria since 1970, noting the significant changes in biodiversity and the environment. Initially, the area was less appealing due to lower vegetation and fewer trees. However, Bulgaria's rich biodiversity, influenced by both Mediterranean and Continental climates, has been recognized. The speaker discusses the mosaic landscape of pastures, grasslands, and forests, which supports this biodiversity. A decline in cattle due to village abandonment has led to a loss of the natural landscape. The solution proposed is the reintroduction of wild animals, specifically the European bison, which is a challenging and lengthy process. The use of drones to measure the impact of grazing animals like bison and wild horses on the landscape is highlighted. The speaker emphasizes the importance of large herbivores in maintaining open landscapes and their ecological role, which is crucial for the cascading effect on other life forms. The paragraph concludes with a mention of the past abundance of red and fallow deer in the region.

05:02

🐃 The Ecological and Economic Impact of Deer in Madzharovo

This paragraph delves into the role of deer in the ecosystem, particularly their function in maintaining open landscapes by feeding on grass, shrubs, and trees. These open spaces are essential habitats for a variety of other species. Deer also serve as a food source for predators and vultures. The speaker describes the scenery of Madzharovo, noting the contrast between the natural beauty and the post-communist town that, despite initial appearances, is not a ghost town. The return of nature and biodiversity is credited with attracting young entrepreneurs and offering new opportunities for the region. The potential for ecotourism and nature-based tourism in the Eastern Rhodopes is emphasized. The speaker shares their personal journey, from volunteering in 1995 to becoming a nature conservationist, and discusses the release of black vultures from an adaptation aviary. The importance of environmental education for the younger generation is highlighted as a means to instigate change in human society.

10:05

🌱 Local Perspective on Nature Conservation and Sustainable Development

The final paragraph is narrated from a local's perspective, emphasizing the personal growth and transformation from taking the environment for granted to actively participating in its conservation. The speaker expresses gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the sustainable development of their birthplace, Karzhali. They recount their experience with an eco club led by Hristo, which played a pivotal role in their environmental awareness. The speaker's involvement in the team has allowed them to give back to their community by promoting sustainable practices. The paragraph concludes with a reflection on the importance of engaging with the younger generation and the potential for nature conservation to inspire and motivate them.

Keywords

💡Biodiversity

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in all its forms and levels of organization, including the diversity within and between species, ecosystems, and the genetic variation within species. In the video, the speaker emphasizes Bulgaria's rich biodiversity, highlighting the presence of unique wildlife species that represent both Mediterranean and Continental climate zones. This concept is central to the video's theme of ecological conservation and the importance of preserving natural habitats for the sake of maintaining this diversity.

💡Ecosystem

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms in conjunction with the nonliving components of their environment, interacting as a system. The script discusses the mosaic of pastures, grasslands, and forests in Bulgaria, which contribute to its rich biodiversity. The video underscores the importance of these ecosystems in supporting a variety of life forms and the interconnectedness of all elements within them.

💡Herbivores

Herbivores are animals that eat only plants and are an essential part of the food chain. The video mentions the reintroduction of large herbivores like the European bison and wild horses, which play a crucial role in maintaining the landscape by grazing and creating open spaces. The speaker also talks about the ecological role of deer in the ecosystem, which is to feed on vegetation and maintain open landscapes that support other species.

💡Reintroduction

Reintroduction in the context of the video refers to the process of returning a species to an area where it has become extinct or locally extinct, with the aim of establishing a wild population. The script describes the challenging process of reintroducing the European bison to Bulgaria, which involves acclimatizing them to local conditions after being brought from different habitats and climates.

💡Ecotourism

Ecotourism is a form of sustainable travel that focuses on experiencing and conserving the natural environment and local culture. The speaker in the video sees great potential in ecotourism and nature-based tourism in the Eastern Rhodopes region, suggesting that these activities can provide economic opportunities while also promoting conservation and appreciation of the natural environment.

💡Vultures

Vultures are large birds of prey that play a critical role in ecosystems by scavenging carcasses and maintaining cleanliness. The video script mentions the work being done with black vultures, which are being reintroduced from Spain. The speaker's passion for vultures and their conservation is evident, and the video discusses the release of these birds into the wild as part of an environmental education and conservation effort.

💡Environmental Education

Environmental education involves teaching people about the environment and sustainable practices, with the goal of promoting awareness and responsible behavior. The video emphasizes the importance of educating the younger generation about nature and biodiversity, as seen in the International Vulture Awareness Day event organized at the Vulture centre. The speaker believes that educating children about the environment can lead to significant changes in human society.

💡Sustainability

Sustainability refers to meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The script touches on the idea of sustainable development in the region, where the speaker expresses a desire for the area to grow in a way that supports both the local economy and the environment, preventing people from leaving due to a lack of opportunities.

💡Adaptation

Adaptation in an ecological context refers to the process by which an organism or species becomes better suited to its environment. The video discusses the adaptation of the European bison to the local conditions in Bulgaria after being reintroduced from different climates. This process is crucial for the success of reintroduction efforts and the long-term survival of the species in their new habitat.

💡Wildlife Conservation

Wildlife conservation is the practice of protecting and preserving the habitats and ecosystems of wild animals. The video script focuses on various conservation efforts, including the reintroduction of large herbivores and the protection of vultures. These efforts are part of a broader theme of wildlife conservation aimed at preserving biodiversity and maintaining the health of ecosystems.

💡Landscape Mosaic

A landscape mosaic refers to a pattern of different ecosystems or land uses that are intermixed in a particular area. The video mentions the importance of maintaining a mosaic of pastures, grasslands, and forests in Bulgaria for supporting biodiversity. This mosaic is created and maintained through natural processes and the activities of large herbivores, which graze and create open spaces that support a variety of species.

Highlights

The speaker has been observing the area since 1970 and noticed significant changes in nature's appeal over time.

Bulgaria's biodiversity is rich, with unique wildlife species representing both Mediterranean and Continental climate zones.

The country's landscape is a mosaic of pastures, grasslands, and forests, contributing to its biodiversity.

Abandonment of villages and the resulting lack of grazing cattle have affected the traditional landscape.

The vision is to reintroduce wild animals and herbivores to restore the natural landscape.

The European bison reintroduction is a complex process requiring adaptation to local conditions.

Drones are used to measure the impact of grazing animals like bison and wild horses on the landscape.

Research on large grazing communities in Europe is limited, unlike in African savannahs.

The reintroduction of large herbivores is crucial for the ecological function and cascading effects on the ecosystem.

Wild horses live in harems and protect their territories, playing a role in the ecosystem.

The ecological role of large herbivores like bison, wild horses, and deer is essential for maintaining open landscapes.

Deer are important for the ecosystem, maintaining open landscapes and serving as a food source for predators.

The scenery and cliffs of Madzharovo's volcanic crater are striking, contrasting with the post-communist town.

Nature and biodiversity are revitalizing the region, attracting young entrepreneurs and offering new opportunities.

Ecotourism and nature-based tourism in the Eastern Rhodopes have vast potential for development.

The speaker's personal connection to the Eastern Rhodopes and Madzharovo is rooted in a love for birds and vultures.

The adaptation aviary for black vultures from Spain is a significant step in their reintroduction to the wild.

The emotional release of vultures into the wild is a culmination of months of care and preparation.

Environmental education is crucial for changing human society's relationship with nature.

International Vulture Awareness Day at the Vulture centre in Madzharovo raises awareness and inspires the younger generation.

The speaker's local roots and involvement in the eco club have shaped their commitment to sustainable regional development.

Transcripts

I have been here since 1970.

I was director of the mining company until 2005.

Nature then wasn`t so appealing.

The vegetation was lower,

the trees were not so beautiful.

But maybe back in those days we didn`t see the beauty of nature.

Bulgaria is very rich in biodiversity.

The country is rich in wildlife species, unique actually.

We have animal species that are representative of both Mediterranean

and Continental climate zones,

and a country therefore very rich with species.

Here you can see a mosaic of

pastures and grasslands and forests

and this is another reason why we have this rich biodiversity

attached to the area.

Unfortunately, in recent years we can see

evidence for abandoning the villages

because people are going to the big cities

and that means we don't have cattle anymore

that are breeding freely and roaming around by themselves

finding food and opening spaces

which is actually one of the prerequisites to have this mosaic landscape here.

So, the solution that we see and our vision

is that we are bringing back the nature

the wild animals and the wild herbivores.

The European bison reintroduction process

is a difficult and long process, taking many years.

The bison come from afar – Germany, Poland

from completely different habitats and climates

and they need to adapt again to the local conditions.

So, today we are measuring the impact of grazing animals

such as bison and wild horses with the use of drones

and we are trying to discover the changes in the landscape over the last 10 years.

So, what’s interesting is that

there is tons of research happening in the African savannahs

but not here in the European continent yet

because simply there is no large grazing communities to have as a subject.

So, that opportunity only came to exist in the last 10, 20 years

when the comeback of these large herbivores is happening.

So, it's just not about bringing back an iconic species.

Of course, it is beautiful to have bison roaming

and to have this kind of nice nostalgic idea of beautiful animals in the landscape

but more importantly, it is the function of the animal

in the landscape that would promote

a cascading effect on all kinds of life in the landscape.

The wild horses live in harems.

Each harem protects their territory.

Оnly the reintroduction of all large herbivores

such as bison, wild horses, deer,

actually several deer species,

can complete the whole picture of large herbivores

and so we can see their ecological role.

In the past, thousands of red and fallow deer

lived in this part of Bulgaria.

They play a very important role in the ecosystem

by feeding on grass, shrubs and trees,

and in this way they are maintaining the open landscapes

that are habitats for thousands of other animals and plants

that would die without them.

In the meantime, the deer are a food source for predators and vultures.

The first thing that you see when you pass the sign of Madzharovo

is the great scenery and the great cliffs in the crater of the volcano.

Then, in the middle of it you see this old communist, post-communist town that

at first glance looks like it’s a ghost town

but actually it's not

and not like in many other places in Bulgaria and the old Eastern Bloc.

All of this is because nature and biodiversity is coming back and

it offers people as well as nature itself lots of new possibilities.

I see young entrepreneurs coming back

and for the future I hope there are more and more

coming here and developing the region.

I believe that the potential of Madzharovo

and the Eastern Rhodopes is just starting to develop.

I believe ecotourism, nature-based tourism

and in general the tourism connected to nature have unlimited possibilities.

Here, come now to see them.

I first came to Eastern Rhodopes in 1995 as a volunteer.

Then I fell in love with Eastern Rhodopes and especially Madzharovo.

And because I've loved birds and vultures since I was a kid,

this is the reason we are here.

First of all, we are nature conservationists

but the tourism provides our income.

At the moment we are travelling to the adaptation aviary of the black vultures

that arrived from Spain in the middle of May.

They spent almost six months in this adaptation aviary.

Today we will open the doors to release them into the wild.

The aviary is made in such a way

that the birds don’t see people.

The doors are opened from the back using a special mechanism

and without any stress, they can leave when they decide.

After so many years of work,

months of aviary construction,

after so many months of taking care of the birds inside

now is a very emotional and important day to see how the first ones will be freed

and how they would react outside.

I have been in nature conservation for more than 25 years

and a lot has changed.

And what I see now is that the most important work

is the environmental educational of the young generation

because that would deeply change human society.

The last couple of days we were organising

International Vulture Awareness Day here in Madzharovo,

аt the Vulture centre. This is how we call it and what the centre is famous for.

For me personally, what I have experienced here during the festival

and the work with kids, this is something that really inspires me

because yesterday we had a lot of lectures with small kids

and I am just amazed how much they know about nature.

It’s really fascinating how much information they have

and they are willing to share it

and this love for nature is something that really inspires me to keep going.

When I was young,

because I am local and I was born in the town of Karzhali,

up until some point I could not see what really is around me.

I was just taking it as granted

but when I entered teenagehood I started going to this eco club

where Hristo was our leader and was taking us everywhere

and being part of that team now I feel gratitude

and opportunity for me and for what I have already as experience

so I can help my region,

the place that I have been born in

to develop in a more sustainable way

and people don’t escape this place

just because they don’t have opportunity.