Scientists are helping the once-extinct northern bald ibis learn to fly again

Scientists are helping the once-extinct northern bald ibis learn to fly again

    By Ashmeeta Subra  September 12th, 2024

    For the first time in 300 years, 36 northern bald ibises are migrating from Austria to Spain, guided by an ultralight aircraft and ‘foster humans’.

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    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)

    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)

    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)

    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.

    Planet Ark does not take responsibility for the accuracy of the original information and encourages readers to check the references before using this information for their own purposes.

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    Ashmeeta Subra

    With background in international relations and marketing communications, Ashmeeta is excited to use her skills to encourage positive environmental actions through Planet Ark. She believes that by taking small actions, we can help make a big difference and be good stewards of our planet. Outside of work, she loves spending time in nature and enjoying downtime at the beach.

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