13 owls released on Toro Mountain

PalmThe Wildlife Recovery Center has released 13 owl lice (Otus scops) on Toro Mountain, in Menorca. This action, which marks the end of this year's wild bird breeding season, has had the participation of technicians from the Consortium for the Recovery of Fauna of the Balearic Islands (COFIB) and volunteers from the GOB Menorca.

This season, a total of 25 owl lice have arrived at the center, 13 of which have been released after making a full recovery. Spring and summer are critical periods for many nesting species, as chicks often fall from the nest prematurely, jeopardizing their survival. Thanks to the collaboration of citizens and volunteers, these lice have been cared for, fed, and raised until they are ready to return to their natural habitat.

The center, located in Ciutadella, is managed through an agreement between the COFIB (Cofib) and the Menorca Regional Government (GOB), with direct support from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Natural Environment. The Director General of the Natural Environment and Forest Management, Anna Torres, highlighted the work of the Government's recovery centers, which she considers "a tool for conserving the archipelago's biodiversity." Torres also emphasized that "the existence of these spaces allows a second chance to be given to wildlife specimens that, otherwise, would likely not have survived."

Furthermore, he reminded everyone that if a sick or injured wild animal is detected, it is important to call 112, the COFIB (National Institute of Biodiversity), or the Regional Ministry's Species Protection Service.

The smallest of the nocturnal raptors

The little owl is a protected species and is the smallest nocturnal bird of prey in the Balearic Islands. It flies silently and feeds on a diet based on insects and small mammals, making it an efficient and discreet predator. It feeds on many species that can be annoying to humans, such as beetles, weevils, and locusts. It is present year-round in rural, agricultural, and urban areas, and in summer receives a population boost from migratory birds from Africa.

The Wildlife Recovery Center also houses other species such as the house sparrow, vinjols, greenfinches, goldfinches, owls, and choricos, among others.