In various regions of Europe, species that have disappeared for decades have been the target of conservation programs they seek to bring them back to the natural habitat. The breakthrough, one of the most imposing birds on the continent and considered an extinct animal in Portugal, may be on the way to return. The strong possibility of his return is pointed out by experts and echoes in recent videos shared on social networks, at a time when France and Spain reinforce the programs of reintroduction of this rare species.
A threatened prey on the continent
The Break (Gypaetus beard) It is a large vulture that has practically disappeared from the Iberian Peninsula due to human persecution, the reduction of wild herbivores, and changes in agricultural practices. Today, it is estimated that there are just over 200 couples across Europe, 130 of them in Spain, according to Nature Wilder magazine.
In Portugal, the animal is considered extinct. However, there are more and more records of copies in flight in the border regions and, according to the biologist, who has been documenting the theme on social networks, there is a strong possibility of inhabiting national territory.
France leads reintroduction
Since the 1980s, France has played a central role in the recovery of the species. More than 420 funds have already been reintroduced in the Alps, the Central Massif and the Pyrenees, where some individuals resisted until the late 1960s.
The current effort is led by the Life Gyp’act Project (2022-2028), which seeks to consolidate wild populations in France and reinforce the ecological balance of European mountains, according to the above source.
Season marked by difficulties
This year, only five birds were released in France, a lower number than usual. Three young people were released in the Avenron region between May 27 and June 10, and two in Drôme on June 12.
According to the French League for the protection of birds, cited by the same source, 2025 was marked by a time of reproduction in “complicated” captivity, with high rates of infertility. About 40% of eggs produced throughout the European network were infertile, a problem that even affected even the most experienced centers.
The struggle for survival
Despite the difficulties, each liberation represents a crucial step. France also has less than 100 stable reproductive couples, which maintains the population extremely vulnerable.
In addition to the limitations of reproduction, the breakthroughs remain exposed to threats such as stealth hunting, collisions with electric lines, the impact of wind farms and the pressure of mountain tourism.
The story of a symbol
Among the specimens reintroduced, stood out the male known as King Del Causse, released in 2022. This bird traveled thousands of kilometers across Europe and was found sold out in Germany and Poland before returning to France.
However, his early death in January 2025 evidenced the fragility of the species. GPS data revealed an abnormal stop and the body was found in Lozère, without being possible to determine the cause, as referred to in.
What to wait in Portugal?
Proximity to Spain, where most of the European population lives, and recent movements in border zones increase the expectation that this extinct animal will regularly cross the Portuguese skies.
According to experts, if Spanish and French populations strengthen themselves, the return to Portugal may no longer be a possibility to come true.
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