Scientists Teach Once-Extinct Bird to Migrate: The Northern Bald Ibis Story

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Introduction

Once a common sight across Europe and North Africa, the Northern Bald Ibis, known as the Waldrapp, faced near extinction due to hunting and habitat loss. After centuries of absence from Central Europe, dedicated conservation efforts have reintroduced this unique bird to the region. However, the challenge remains: teaching these birds how to migrate, as they lack the instinctual knowledge passed down from previous generations.

The Comeback of the Northern Bald Ibis

The Northern Bald Ibis was declared extinct in Europe by the 17th century, with only a few remaining colonies in other parts of the world. Thanks to extensive breeding programs, biologists have managed to cultivate a captive population. Johannes Fritz, a biologist and leader of the Waldrappteam, explains, “We don’t have any birds from the historical European population, but we can work with these captive birds to reintroduce them into the wild.”

Since its start in 2002, the Waldrappteam has successfully boosted the Central European population from none to almost 300 birds. This achievement not only highlights the species' recovery but also marks the first attempt to reintroduce a continentally extinct migratory bird species.

Teaching Migration: The Unique Approach

Why Migration Needs Teaching

Usually, younger birds acquire their migration paths by observing older, more experienced individuals. In the case of the Northern Bald Ibis, the absence of wild-born elders means that these birds have no instinctual knowledge of where to fly for winter. Early attempts at reintroducing the species saw many birds getting lost and dying, leading the Waldrappteam to innovate a unique teaching method.

The Role of Foster Parents

To guide the young ibises, the team employs human foster parents who mimic the nurturing role of wild elders. These foster parents engage with the chicks from a young age, fostering trust and teaching them to follow. "It's a learning mechanism," Fritz says, describing how the chicks imprint on their human caretakers. When the birds are ready for migration, they follow the microlight aircraft piloted by Fritz, who is accompanied by a foster parent in the back, encouraging the birds to stay on course.

The Migration Journey

The Flight Mechanics

The Waldrappteam employs a microlight aircraft that looks like a compact, open-go-kart equipped with a large parachute. As the aircraft soars through the sky, foster parents wave and shout encouragement through megaphones. This creative approach aims to keep the birds motivated and on track during their long journey from Bavaria, Germany, to Andalusia, Spain.

Challenges Along the Route

This year’s migration covers approximately 2,800 kilometers, roughly 300 kilometers longer than the previous year’s route. The journey, which could take up to 50 days, presents various challenges, including navigating over the Alps during colder weather—conditions that can be dangerous without the benefit of warm air currents that assist in soaring.

Climate Change Impacts

Climate change has significantly altered the migratory patterns and timelines for the Northern Bald Ibis. As temperatures fluctuate, these birds are now migrating later in the season, making their journey more perilous. Fritz notes, “We are piloting a new route in response to these changes,” emphasizing the need for adaptability in conservation strategies.

Emotional Bonds and Farewells

The culmination of the migration journey is emotional for both the foster parents and the scientists. After guiding the birds through challenging terrains, the final release into the wild marks a bittersweet farewell. Foster parent Barbara Steininger reflects on her experience: “We take good care of them and interact with them... but when the time comes to let them go, it’s a special moment.”

The Bigger Picture

While the project focuses on the Northern Bald Ibis, it also sets a precedent for conserving other threatened migratory species. By developing successful strategies for teaching migration, the Waldrappteam aims to pave the way for future conservation efforts.

Conclusion

The story of the Northern Bald Ibis exemplifies the intersection of science, conservation, and emotional connection. Through innovative techniques and dedicated efforts, this once-extinct bird species is learning to navigate the skies once more. The ongoing journey of these remarkable birds serves as a testament to the resilience of nature and the critical role humans play in safeguarding it.

Sources

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