The Andalusian government is celebrating a significant resurgence of the Northern Bald Ibis (*Geronticus eremita*), a species that had vanished from the region. This remarkable comeback is largely attributed to the dedicated efforts of 'Proyecto Eremita'. The 2025 breeding season marked a pivotal moment, with 51 pairs actively breeding and 34 of these successfully raising 56 chicks in their natural habitat. This achievement stands in stark contrast to 2008, when only a single pair managed to fledge one chick.
The conservation initiatives, which commenced in 2004, have evolved from an experimental reintroduction program into a comprehensive strategy for native fauna. The primary objective of 'Proyecto Eremita' is to establish a self-sustaining population within the La Janda area of Cádiz. A crucial element of this success is the enduring collaboration with the 'Alberto Durán' Zoological Botanical Garden in Jerez de la Frontera. This institution has been instrumental in captive breeding, vital research, and raising public awareness.
Further strengthening these efforts, new protocols have been implemented involving regional environmental agencies and partner organizations, with the aim of expanding the species' territory. Efforts are also underway to formally reclassify the Northern Bald Ibis within the Andalusian Endangered Species Catalog and to promote the dissemination of scientific findings. The III International Symposium on the Northern Bald Ibis, held in Jerez de la Frontera in March 2025, convened international experts, underscoring Andalusia's leadership in the species' recovery.
Further cementing conservation advancements, agreements have been established with the Los Eremitas estate in Barbate, integrating its facilities into the reintroduction strategy. A significant alliance has also been forged with 'Waldrappteam Conservation & Research,' a European leader in Northern Bald Ibis conservation. This partnership facilitates pioneering guided migration experiences, where human teams guide young ibises on their migratory journeys using paramotors. These guided migrations, complemented by GPS tracking, are crucial for identifying safer routes and mitigating threats such as illegal hunting and electrocution, thereby significantly enhancing survival rates.
Knowledge exchange remains a key priority, evidenced by a recent agreement with Catalonia to share expertise in reintroduction processes. Joint working groups will focus on harmonizing protocols for acclimatization, release, and monitoring across both regions. These combined endeavors have positioned Andalusia as a benchmark for Northern Bald Ibis conservation, with the population now surpassing 300 individuals and 39 breeding pairs. This success story is a testament to the power of meticulous planning, continuous monitoring, and unwavering institutional commitment in the reintroduction of endangered species.
The species, once extinct in Europe for over 400 years, is now seeing a resurgence thanks to these dedicated efforts. The 'Proyecto Eremita' itself has been running for two decades, celebrating its success in reintroducing the species to Spain. The guided migration technique, pioneered by the Austrian 'Waldrappteam,' involves human teams guiding young ibises using ultralight aircraft, a method that has proven effective in teaching the birds migratory routes. This innovative approach has been instrumental in expanding the species' range and ensuring their survival.