NORTHERN BALD IBIS : ENVIRONMENT

NORTHERN BALD IBIS : ENVIRONMENT

NEWS : This bird species was extinct in Europe. Now it’s back, and humans must help it migrate for winter

WHATS IN THE NEW’S ?

The northern bald ibis, or the Waldrapp, once soared over North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and much of Europe

Species: Northern bald ibis, known for black-and-iridescent green plumage, bald red head, and long curved beak.

Historical Range: Found in North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Europe; extinct in Europe by the 17th century due to hunting.

IUCN Status: Downlisted from Critically Endangered to Endangered in 2018.

Conservation Efforts:

• Breeding and Rewilding: Initiated by biologist Johannes Fritz and the Waldrappteam in Austria in 2002.
• Human Intervention: Birds lack instinctive migratory knowledge; trained to follow a microlight aircraft for migration.
• Current Population: Nearly 300 northern bald ibises in Central Europe, with a goal to exceed 350 by 2028 to establish a self-sustaining population.

Source : https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/northern-bald-ibis-rewilding-conservation-human-led-migration-climate-change/article68571742.ece