A scientific journey into the 'mysterious world of vultures' in Karaman

Within the scope of the Science Talks program, implemented in line with TÜBİTAK's mission of "Bringing Science to Society, Bringing Society to Science," an impressive event was held in Karaman. On May 16, 2025, at the event hosted by Prof. Dr. Ömer Dinçer Anadolu İmam Hatip High School, Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Yasemin Özdemir, Director of Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University Wildlife Conservation, Rehabilitation Application and Research Center, met with students.

Addressing participants with her presentation titled “The Mysterious World of Vultures,” Dr. Özdemir conveyed many topics from the biological characteristics of vultures to species diversity, their vital roles in the ecosystem, and their habitats in Turkey in the light of scientific data. The presentation also highlighted the indispensable role of vultures in wildlife conservation.

The field images, visuals, and interactive presentation techniques used during the event attracted the attention of the students, and in the question-and-answer session held at the end of the talk, comprehensive answers were given to the participants' questions. Dr. Özdemir explained the cyclical functions of vultures in nature and the threats they face to the students in an understandable language, providing examples from both her academic studies and field experiences.

This event, where scientific awareness met with young individuals at the high school level, served as an important example in terms of creating ecological awareness among students. At the end of the event, School Principal Murat Şen presented certificates of appreciation to Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Yasemin Özdemir and Seher Ceylan, who coordinated the program at the school, for their contributions.

The continuation and widespread implementation of such events, where wildlife science is integrated with education, seem to make a significant contribution to raising nature-sensitive generations.