Bioparc Valencia continues its active commitment for the fourth consecutive year with an ambitious international project to recover the ibis ermita, a species considered extinct in Europe since the 17th century. The effort, co-financed by European funds, combines rigorous research, active conservation and innovative reintroduction methods. Thirty young specimens embark on a journey of approximately 2,500 kilometers, from central Europe to Cádiz, guided by ultralight aircraft that simulate the role of their natural mothers. This process seeks to restore the migratory routes that disappeared centuries ago, allowing future generations to make these displacements autonomously.
The Bioparc Valencia team accompanies the operation from France to Cádiz, offering logistical support during the passage of the flock through the Valencian Community. In this edition, a weather alert forced the itinerary to be advanced. Due to the strong wind, the group landed in the province of Castellón, from where it was transported by road with adapted vehicles to the Olocau aerodrome, in Valencia. There, the camp was set up in advance, ensuring the safety of the animals and staff during the adverse weather conditions.
The stay in Olocau is expected until Friday, when the flight will resume when the conditions are safe. The operation includes a pilot, two adoptive mothers, researchers, veterinarians and volunteers. The LIFE project, led by ten institutions from Austria, Germany, Italy and Switzerland under the Vienna Zoo and the Waldrappteam, also has the Zoobotanical Biodiversity Conservation Center of Jerez as the coordinator in Spain. Bioparc Valencia officially joined the conservation program of the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA) in 2025, strengthening its role in the protection of this species.
Currently, the Valencian park houses four young pairs of ibis eremita, whose objective is to facilitate a controlled and scientific breeding. This effort seeks to build a stable population under human care, in order to increase the reintroduction into European territory. The ibis eremita is distinguished by its black plumage with metallic reflections, its long red and curved beak, and the characteristic crown of feathers that surrounds its head. Its presence in the park also includes other exotic species such as the Abdim stork, the hammerbird and the superb magpie.