Conservation success Fog causes flights to cancel

CONSERVATIONISTS in Mallorca are celebrating a new feat ­ the recovery of the black vulture.

Also known as Aegypius monachus, the black vulture is a large bird of prey that is found primarily in Europe and Asia. In recent years, the population of black vultures in Mallorca has seen a remarkable increase, thanks to the tireless efforts of conservationists and recovery measures.

Four decades ago, the black vulture population in Mallorca consisted of just 19 individuals and a single breeding pair. Today, the population has grown to more than 300 birds, with 45 breeding pairs on the island.

This significant increase in population is largely thanks to the efforts of the Fundació Voltor, also known as the Black Vulture Conservation Foundation (BVCF).

The foundation’s work in­ cludes protecting the vultures from harm, fighting against the use of poison in the natural environment, conserving the Serra de Tramuntana natural park, introducing land stewardship as a management tool, and promoting environmental education and citizen participation through volunteering.

“The future looks bright for the black vulture and with continued conservation efforts, we can ensure that this bird of prey remains a part of our natural heritage,” according to the Mallorca Preservation Foundation.