Experiences from the volunteers of an initiative to reintroduce a unique bird: the Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita), returning to the Empordà through the power of teamwork.
At the Fundació Alive, we wanted to create a dedicated space for our volunteers: a place where they can share their experiences, reflections, and emotions surrounding the Projecte Ibis Ermità. Because if there is one thing we have learned throughout this first year of the project, it is that our volunteers are not merely a support, they are essential.
Without their commitment, dedication, and love for the northern bald ibises (Geronticus eremita), this reintroduction project would never have been possible. This section is therefore a small tribute to all the people who, week after week, have come to the foundation’s aviary to help turn a shared dream into reality: seeing the northern bald ibises fly free over the lands of the Empordà.
Nearly a year of partnership in a historic reintroduction
It will soon be a year since I joined the Fundació Alive’s Projecte Ibis Ermità, right from its very beginning.
Now, as we stand on the threshold of releasing the first generation of northern bald ibises into the Empordà, it is deeply moving to live through these days and to look back on everything I have been fortunate enough to share with the other volunteers, the coordinators, and the project leads.
Being part of this project helps you feel like a fellow traveller in a particular way of understanding our role in this world and what we do within it. You feel part of something bold and invigorating.
Taking part in any volunteering, but especially in this one, allows you to see just how vital it is to pool our efforts and our will. It is the coming together of a group of kindred spirits that makes it possible to carry forward wonderful ideas such as this one.
Joan Morales, 11/03/2026
A University placement that became a calling
My name is Paula, and I first got involved in the project as a university placement student.. During those months, I discovered a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere and an immensely enriching experience caring for the northern bald ibises. I enjoyed it so much that I decided that, whenever my schedule allowed, I would continue contributing to the project as a volunteer.
For me, coming in as a volunteer is also a space to disconnect from the worries of everyday life. It is a moment to be in contact with nature, to contribute to the care of the ibises, and to enjoy an activity that makes me feel good and happy.
Paula, 14/03/2026
International volunteers at the heart of a unique project
We are so glad to be volunteering with the Fundació Alive and the Projecte Ibis Ermità. The opportunity to work with birds as rare as the hermit ibis, and to contribute to their future, is a tremendous privilege.
We thoroughly enjoy working alongside the staff and fellow volunteers at Torre Mornau. As English nationals, volunteering here has allowed us to develop practical skills related to bird care, as well as to improve our language abilities.
We are eagerly looking forward to the release of the birds this year and to welcoming the newest arrival. Being part of the Projecte Ibis Ermità is a truly special opportunity.
Carole and Adrian Rowe, 16/03/2026
