Strong Winds Halt Waldrapp Migration Flight to Spain

The first attempt to migrate 30 young Waldrapp birds from Germany to their wintering grounds in Spain has been postponed due to adverse weather. The birds, part of a conservation effort by the Waldrappteam, were set to fly from Lake Constance to Andalusia, following an ultralight aircraft.

Despite a promising start from Binningen in the Konstanz district, the flight had to be aborted when the wind proved significantly stronger than anticipated. Barbara Steininger of the Waldrappteam confirmed the decision, stating that safety precautions necessitated the cancellation. The team remains optimistic, however, and plans to reschedule the flight for a day with more favorable conditions.

“

The birds had started well in Binningen, but the wind proved to be significantly stronger than expected. For safety reasons, the start was then aborted.

These hand-reared Waldrapps are a crucial part of efforts to reintroduce the critically endangered species to Europe. After being raised by humans and bonded to them, the young birds learn to follow an ultralight aircraft along the migration route. The goal is for them to be released in Spain and eventually return to Lake Constance independently after a few years. The Waldrappteam has refined its methods over time, enabling the birds to cover up to 300 kilometers per day when weather permits. The Waldrapp, or Northern Bald Ibis, was once widespread in the Alps and Mediterranean regions but faced near extinction due to hunting.

“

We are sure it will come. We are optimistic that we will be able to leave soon.