As I looked through these beautiful black-and-white photos, I came across them in an old archive, almost by surprise, and they instantly transported me back to a time when dedicated individuals quietly worked to protect and monitor the Dalmatian Pelicans in Divjaka-Karavasta Far removed from politics, crisis, wars, and hunger strikes, their focus was solely on research, monitoring, conservation, and professionalism. I am filled with admiration and gratitude for the dedicated conservationists who, over 30 years ago, worked tirelessly to protect and monitor the Dalmatian Pelicans in Divjaka-Karavasta, and challenged every day by difficulties of time they went through. Their faces tell stories of passion, commitment, hard work and a sincere love for nature—a legacy that continues to this day.
These images capture the very moments of early efforts on protecting one of the most iconic species in Albania, the Dalmatian Pelican. From quiet monitoring days to hands-on protection, the spirit of these heroes remains alive and true through individuals like Sotir, Taulant, and many others who have continued this work with unwavering dedication. The work done back then has grown into a movement, one that today continues with the same depth of sincerity, devotion, and love for the natural dimension.
The Dalmatian Pelican Island in Divjaka-Karavasta remains a symbol of successful conservation—thanks to the hearts and hands of those who never gave up, despite every obstacle thrown their way. This is more than just 30 years of conservation; it is 30 years of love for the land, the birds, the wetlands, the national parks, the protected areas, and for future generations who will inherit this fragile ecosystem.
Thank you to the heroes of yesterday, today, and tomorrow for keeping this flame burning. Here’s to many more decades of passionate, dedicated, and true conservation in Divjaka! #DalmatianPelican #DivjakaKaravasta #ConservationHeroes #SotirMoncja #TaulantBino #AOSALB #ProtectedAreas #PelikaniKacurrel #ParkKombetar #ZoneMbrojtur
