The arrival of new specimens from different European zoos promotes the creation of a stable population of Geronticus eremita in the territory
The projecte Ibis Ermità is experiencing a decisive moment for the conservation of this species with the arrival of new individuals from different European zoos . This incorporation of northern bald ibis ( Geronticus eremita ) that Europe is reinforcing, represents a transcendental appointment for the species reintroduction project and a firm step towards the creation of a stable and self-sustainable population in the Empordà.
A pivotal moment for northern bald ibis conservation
With the next scheduled arrivals, the maximum number of 59 individuals will be reached . On January 21, two specimens arrived from Austria , on Tuesday, February 3, 2 more from the Netherlands , and on Thursday, February 5, 2 more ibis arrived from the Czech Republic . It is expected that before the end of February, the remaining ibis will arrive.
The European network strengthens the northern bald ibis population
These additions are in addition to the specimens that are already part of the project: 18 ibis from Jerez , 1 from Almeria, 29 from assisted migration from Austria , 2 from the Vienna Zoo and 2 from the Netherlands . Additions that would not have been possible without the cooperation with other conservation centers and European zoos, which allow the population to be strengthened and place the Empordà as a
reference space in the recovery of one of the most endangered birds on the continent.
Preparation for a freedom life
In parallel, Alive Foundation is already working on preparing the release of the individuals , who have been living together in the Empordà aviary for between 5 and 8 months. The ultimate goal is for the northern bald ibis to be able to live, reproduce and maintain themselves naturally in the territory, fully integrated into the ecosystem. It is not just a matter of increasing the number of individuals, but of consolidating a viable population in the long term.
A firm commitment to natural heritage
With these new arrivals that Europe reinforces with its specimens, Catalonia takes a key step in the defense of natural heritage and reaffirms its commitment to the conservation of endangered species. A decisive milestone for the future of the Geronticus eremita and for the country’s biodiversity .
