The situation for wildlife in our mountains seems to be taking a very hopeful turn. After decades of constant work and great effort on the part of experts, the Bearded vulture reclaims its place in the skies over much of Spain. Efforts are now focused on to ensure that populations are self-sustaining and that these unique animals, known for their diet of bone remains, can thrive without depending so much on direct human intervention.
It's not an easy task, since we're talking about a species that was on the brink of extinction and requires a very specific habitat to survive. However, the latest news coming from different parts of the peninsula indicates that The recovery project is working Better than many expected. From north to south, a network of biological corridors is being woven that allows these birds to move more freely, connecting territories that years ago were completely devoid of their presence.
A historic landmark in the heart of the Picos de Europa
In the Cantabrian Mountains, a truly breathtaking moment has recently taken place, one that sends shivers down the spines of nature lovers. For the first time, nests located on sheer cliffs have been accessed to carry out the scientific tagging of two wild-born cubsIt was a surgically precise operation involving mountain specialists from the Civil Guard and environmental agents, demonstrating that teamwork leads to excellent results. The chicks, belonging to pairs already established on the Cantabrian and Asturian slopes, underwent a complete medical check-up to ensure they are as strong as oaks.
This step is crucial because it allows researchers to know what these birds do once they leave the nest. One of the chicks has been fitted with a... state-of-the-art GPS transmitterThis will allow us to monitor their flights and better understand how they cope during their first years of life, which are usually the most critical. Understanding their dispersal patterns and the threats they face is, ultimately, the best tool for guide future management measures throughout the Cantabrian Mountains.
Sierra Nevada and the drive of the Andalusian lands
Further south, things are also brimming with good news. In Sierra Nevada, the twentieth anniversary of the start of the reintroduction program has been celebrated in grand style. Three new females, named in homage to the area, have been released using a technique known as hacking. This system consists of place them in artificial nests at height so that they adapt to the environment naturally and believe that this is their birthplace. The aim is to harness this instinct that drives them to return to their origin when it's time to raise their young.
The most curious thing is that these specimens don't just come from national centers, but there is a very powerful international collaboration with countries like Austria or the Czech Republic. This helps to increase the genetic diversity of the population, which is key to preventing long-term health problems. Some nesting attempts have already been observed on the Granada peaks, indicating that, although they are still young and lack some experience, The generational handover is guaranteed And it's only a matter of time before we see new natural births there.
New neighbors in Gredos and Maestrazgo
In the Central System, specifically in the Sierra de Gredos, the bearded vulture population continues to grow with the arrival of birds from Aragon. Although there are always some setbacks in the form of natural losses, the survival rate is quite high and the specimens They are already moving throughout the Central Systemeven reaching as far as Portugal. It's a long-term project where patience is the mother of all sciences, since these Birds of prey take many years in reaching sexual maturity and starting to form their own families.
Meanwhile, in the Tinença de Benifassà , in the Valencian Community, environmental education continues to be a priority, fostering a sense of ownership among local residents towards these animals. Two new chicks have been released in an area historically inhabited by bearded vultures, thus reinforcing the biodiversity of the Spanish LevantThe best part is that dangers such as the use of illegal poisons are being eliminated, allowing these birds to fly peacefully while experts continue to monitor the situation to ensure everything runs smoothly.
The sum of all these actions in different parts of our country confirms that the chosen path is the right one to ensure this jewel of our fauna does not disappear. Thanks to the combination of satellite technology, controlled breeding, and strict habitat protection, we have gone from fearing its extinction to celebrating. births in the wild and new colonizations in historical territories. The commitment of institutions and the support of civil society are allowing the flight of the bearded vulture to once again become a common sight in the highest peaks of Europe, ensuring an enviable natural legacy for future generations.
