The Species Conservation Programme is dedicated to the conservation of South Africa’s terrestrial birds through the implementation of innovative research and conservation initiatives. In collaboration with a variety of stakeholders, the programme aims to identify and mitigate pertinent threats to South Africa’s terrestrial bird species. The programme currently encompasses the Vulture Project, the Raptor and Large Terrestrial Birds Project (most notably the Secretarybird Project), as well as the new Birds and Agrochemicals Project. Through the implementation of Vulture Safe Zones and advocating for the use of lead-free ammunition (Vulture Project), promoting responsible grassland stewardship programmes (the Secretarybird Project) or mitigating the impact of pesticides on agricultural birds, these projects ultimately benefit not only the flagship species themselves, but also many other species that are threatened by the same suit of threats. The outcomes will result in lasting benefits for South Africa’s iconic avifauna.