Ruppell’s vulture in the Mediterranean: a conservation dilemma

Abstract

The first successful breeding of Rüppell's vulture (Gyps rueppelli) within the Palearctic, occurring amidst a griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) colony in southern Spain has been documented recently. This breeding event involved a mixed pairing, indicating a notable shift in distribution of the Rüppell's vulture towards North Africa and southern Iberia. The species faces a critical decline in its native range, attributed to climate change, deforestation, and persecution. The surge in the griffon vulture population in Spain and the wintering of an important fraction of the juvenile population in the Sahelian area appear to be the primary driver force of the Rüppell's vulture's population movement. However, the establishment of a stable, self-sustaining population in Mediterranean area remains uncertain, necessitating urgent conservation measures. Conservation strategies must include establishing breeding nuclei in Spain and North Africa, rehabilitation programs, and captive breeding initiatives. While the integration of Rüppell's vulture into the Mediterranean avifauna presents conservation challenges, it also offers an opportunity to provide additional sanctuaries for critically endangered species. Urgent action within the Mediterranean region is crucial for the survival of Rüppell's vulture, complementing efforts aimed at conserving breeding populations in their native Sahelian habitats.