Raivo Mänd, a distinguished figure in Estonian ornithology, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of impactful work in the field. He served as a leading zoologist at the University of Tartu until 2021 and was a key player in the Estonian Ornithological Society during its foundational years. His contributions were particularly vital during the heritage of the organization in the early 1990s when it underwent reestablishment after Estonia regained independence.

Mänd was born in 1954 and graduated with honors in biology from Tartu State University in 1978. He continued his academic journey at the same institution, where he earned his PhD in 1986 with a dissertation focusing on the ecological factors influencing the morphological variability of bird eggs. His career spanned various prestigious roles within the Estonian Academy of Sciences, including researcher and head of departments, and he left an indelible mark on both academic and ornithological communities in Estonia.

In remembrance, the Estonian Ornithological Society acknowledged his central role in shaping the organization's foundation and operational principles, reflecting on his leadership as chairman during the early 1990s and his ongoing influence in ornithological research throughout his career. As a respected figure, Mänd's passing is not just a loss to ornithology but also a significant moment for the broader scientific community in Estonia.