Andrea Rutigliano's environmental advocacy against bird poaching in Cyprus

As of late September 2026, Andrea Rutigliano, an investigations officer for the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS), continues his long-standing mission to protect avian species in Cyprus. Operating during peak migration seasons, Rutigliano, a Milan native, manages a rural property transformed into a sanctuary for local and migratory birds, focusing his efforts on combatting illegal poaching.

Rutigliano's dedication to wildlife conservation is rooted in his childhood experiences in Italy. Despite having a grandfather who was a hunter, he developed a deep affinity for birdwatching after receiving binoculars at a young age. He now describes his advocacy work in Cyprus as a personal "karma," framing his efforts to protect legally protected species as a way to address historical ecological debts. His presence in the media during the migration season has become a recurring point of public interest in the region, highlighting the ongoing tensions between conservationists and local poaching activities.