Northern Bald Ibis

Human-led Reintroduction of the Northern Bald Ibis

The Reintroduction of the Northern Bald Ibis of the most remarkable species conservation initiatives in recent history. Once extinct in Europe, this iconic bird is now making a comeback thanks to dedicated conservation efforts.

The project began in 2001 when Austrian scientists launched a feasibility study study to assess the potential for reintroducing the species, that was extinct in Europe. After 13 years of research and planning, the first phase of reintroduction was implemented in 2014 as part of a LIFE project.

By the end of 2019, a population of 142 Northern Bald Ibises had been successfully established in three breeding colonies north of the Alps. Each year, these birds migrate together to their winter grounds in Tuscany.

Building on this success, a second seven-year LIFE project was initiated in 2022. Led by Schönbrunn Zoo, this project is being carried out by ten partners from Austria, Germany, Italy and Switzerland under the leadership of Schönbrunn Zoo.  The goal is to further expand the population by establishing four additional breeding colonies. Ultimately achieving a stable population of at least 314 individuals.

Human-led Migration: A Groundbreaking Approach

A key component of the project, carried out by Waldrappteam Conservation & Research and Förderverein Waldrappteam, is human-led migration. This innovative method involves raising young ibises under the care of zoo birds and human foster parents, who train them to follow ultralight aircraft. During fall migration, the young birds follow their human-led guides to their wintering areas.. This pioneering project marks the world’s first attempt to reintroduce a migratory bird species using this technique. Today, the population has grown to more than 250 birds across both sides of the Alps.

Challenges of Climate Change and Adaptive Strategies

Climate change has introduced new challenges to the birds' migration patterns. Warmer fall temperatures delay the start of migration, making it harder for the birds to cross the Alps due to insufficient thermal updrafts, making it harder for the birds to reach a sufficient flight altitude. In 2023, 40 birds were unable to complete their migration and had to be captured and relocated further south.,

To address this issue, an alternative migration route to Andalusia was tested in 2023. For the first time, 32 juveniles were guided along this new path, which offers a safer route around the Alps and the Pyrenees. Over the coming  years, four to five more human-led migrationsalong this route are planned.

To support these complex migrations, an electric vehicle, co-financed by Stiftung Artenschutz, was introduced in 2024. This vehicle accompanied the birds along their journey, enabling rapid responses to potential risks via radio communication. Equipped with a mobile power station, it ensures a self-sufficient energy supply, in line with the project's climate conservation goals.

The Northern Bald Ibis team documented the ongoing migration to Andalusia in a diary: www.waldrappteam.at.