Andalusian Junta frees three critically endangered birds (cernicalos) and a wild horse (carraca) following their recovery in Vélez-Blanco, Almería.

Common Kestrels and European Hoopoe Released in Vélez-Blanco as Part of Conservation Efforts

In a significant step towards the preservation of local biodiversity, three common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) and one European hoopoe (Coracias garrulus) were released in Vélez-Blanco, Almería, last Thursday.

The birds, rescued and rehabilitated due to falls from the nest, were cared for at the Center for the Recovery of Endangered Species (CREA) Las Almohallas. They were fed and monitored until they completed their plumage at the centre.

The release event was attended by the delegate of the Andalusian government in Almería, Aranzazu Martín, the territorial delegate of Sustainability, Environment, and Blue Economy, Manuel de la Torre, the mayor of Vélez-Blanco, Ana María López, staff of the CREA Las Almohallas, and minors from the protection centre in Chirivel (Almería).

Martín emphasized the role of the technical and veterinary team of the centre, which registered 690 admissions in 2024. A total of 612 individuals were recovered: 449 birds, 22 mammals, and 141 reptiles.

The common kestrels released came from Carboneras (Almería), Almería capital, and Huércal-Overa (Almería). The hoopoe was admitted on July 4 from Vera (Almería).

Aranzazu Martín stated that the release was a "very special day for biodiversity conservation" and thanked the staff of the CREA. She reaffirmed the commitment of the Andalusian government to the protection of wild fauna and environmental education.

The event is an example of the work done in these spaces that contribute to reducing the extinction of species, restoring natural populations, and maintaining biodiversity, as well as fostering scientific research and environmental awareness. The release of these birds is related to the work done in Centers for the Recovery of Threatened Species.

The birds released are examples of species that are the focus of recovery efforts by Centers for the Recovery of Threatened Species. The common kestrel and the European hoopoe have seen their natural habitats dwindle in recent years.

The name of the veterinarian working at the Centre for the Revival of Endangered Species Las Almohallas is not publicly available. However, the commitment and dedication of the team are evident in their successful rehabilitation and release of these birds.

This release marks a positive step forward in the conservation of these species and the preservation of Almería's biodiversity. As more efforts are made to protect and rehabilitate threatened species, we can hope for a future where these birds, and many others, can thrive in their natural habitats.

Andalusian Junta frees three critically endangered birds (cernicalos) and a wild horse (carraca) following their recovery in Vélez-Blanco, Almería.