In northern Spain, a flock of bald ibises has expanded with the recent addition of fifteen new birds, which were guided to their new home by human migration guides flying ultralight aircraft.
These ibises contribute to the burgeoning population of the northern bald ibis (Geronticus eremita) in Europe, a remarkable species that had been absent from the continent for three centuries.
By the late 20th century, the last significant population in Morocco dwindled from 9,000 to just 250 individuals in the wild. However, initiatives for captive breeding and reintroduction began in various European locations, starting in Austria and Jerez, Andalucía. The current initiative in Alt Empordà, Catalonia, has recently received these birds from Austria, adding them to an already established group.
Bernat Garrigós, a biologist overseeing the Alt Empordà project, remarked on the birds’ intelligence and social nature, stating, “They exhibit distinct personalities and are very curious. They investigate everything that enters their space with their beaks, from your socks to their food.”
The ibises exhibit no fear of humans, as Garrigós pointed out, since they are unfamiliar with predators and remain inquisitive and trusting.
“We initiated the project in 2024, and by the following year, we had a first generation consisting of nearly 60 ibises,” he explained. “They were released on March 26 at Torre d’en Mornau, a repurposed military stable. Currently, our team includes two full-time and two part-time staff members, along with 20 volunteers, all dedicated to managing the flock and the site.”
Collaboration with Aiguamolls Park, a protected coastal wetland and nature reserve, is integral to the project, as it aims to reduce breeding risks and mortality rates until a self-sustaining population is established.
With hopes for success, Garrigós anticipates the emergence of the first breeding pair within the next couple of years, as ibises typically do not breed until they reach three or four years of age. The objective is to create a breeding colony with nests situated on towers around the stables, with the team assisting in nest construction, akin to teaching teenagers how to tidy their rooms.
The Alt Empordà team maintains ongoing communication with initiatives in Austria and Jerez, as the birds migrate between these locations under the guidance of the human “foster parents” from the Waldrapp team, who use ultralight aircraft to steer their migration. With two decades of experience, they have helped Garrigós’ team avoid early mistakes, resulting in a significantly lower mortality rate.
Over the next decade, Garrigós plans to release his ibises into the Alt Empordà region, targeting a minimum of 50 breeding pairs and approximately 300 wild individuals. This comarca, situated halfway between Austria and Jerez, serves as an ideal stopover for migrating birds. The collective aim of the three projects is to establish interconnected colonies across Europe, facilitating genetic diversity and promoting a robust gene pool for the species’ survival.
The initiative in northern Spain is part of a larger European endeavor aimed at conserving a species that has faced severe threats globally. The charm of the ibis, coupled with the dedication of the team, plays a crucial role in fostering environmental education, raising awareness among younger generations, and highlighting the necessity of active conservation efforts.
Furthermore, the charisma of the ibises has proven effective in garnering support. Recently, representatives from Endesa, a major electric utility company, visited the project and were so impressed that they began modifying their pylons to enhance visibility and reduce hazards for birds, particularly the ibises.
“Merely halting environmental destruction is insufficient,” Garrigós stressed. “We must actively endeavor to prevent extinctions and protect habitats that support this and numerous other species. Ultimately, the focus should be on building diverse, resilient ecosystems that provide necessary services for both the environment and humanity.”
