Once extinct in the region, these magnificent birds are now on a historic migration from Austria to Spain thanks to an innovative effort by scientists and conservationists. The northern bald ibis, with its bald red head and long curved beak, was once common across Europe, North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.  

Northern bald ibis breeding program(Image: Charlie/Waldrappteam Conservation & Research)

For over three centuries, this bird was only found in zoos as extensive hunting and habitat destruction led to its extinction in central Europe. Fortunately, dedicated breeding efforts over the past two decades began to restore its population.  

Birds on migration (Image: Laura Pahnke/Waldrappteam Conservation & Research)

The project, led by biologist Johannes Fritz and his team, uses a unique method to reintroduce the birds to their long-lost migration routes. Inspired by the 1996 film Fly Away Home and the work of “Father Goose” Bill Lishman, the team uses a small ultralight aircraft to guide the ibis along their migratory path. The aircraft, piloted by Fritz, is accompanied by human ‘foster parents’ who encourage the birds throughout their journey.  

The current flock began their 2,800 kilometre trek from Austria on August 13 and is expected to reach Spain by early October. This year marks the 17th journey with human guides, and the method has already shown promising results. Since the project began in 2002, the central European population of northern bald ibises has grown from zero to nearly 300.  

Although there were initial challenges with the birds straying off course, the method has proven to be successful, with the first generation of reintroduced ibises now migrating independently. However, the changing climate has made their journey more difficult, requiring ongoing guidance for each new generation. 

Birds on Migration (Image: Waldrappteam Conservation & Research)

Fritz and his team hope their work will pave the way for other threatened migratory species, demonstrating the potential of innovative conservation techniques.  

“This project is a flagship example of what’s possible,” Fritz told The Guardian. 

“We’re not just saving the northern bald ibis; we’re creating a model for helping other endangered migratory birds.” 

Images courtesy of Waldrappteam Conservation & Research.

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