A black vulture chick hatches in the Serra de Tramuntana
The new specimen, born on April 18th in a monitored nest, can be followed live as it begins a key stage for its survival
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PalmThe Tramontana Mountain Range has added a new specimen of black vulture (Aegypius monachus) in recent days. The chick was born on April 18th in a nest that is part of the Fundació Vida Silvestre's monitoring system, a fact that allows for live observation of the entire breeding process and detailed knowledge of the evolution of this emblematic species.
Although the first chicks of the 2026 season have already begun to hatch in different parts of the Sierra, this nest stands out because it is monitored with a video surveillance camera that transmits in real-time. According to the Fundació, this monitoring allows for the analysis of the parents' behavior without interfering with it, while also bringing citizens closer to the reality of the black vulture's life cycle.
The reproductive process began in December with the first copulations and courtship flights. The egg was laid on February 24th, and almost two months later, hatching has given way to a particularly demanding stage for the pair, which will have to protect and feed the chick until it is capable of flying and fending for itself within the Majorcan ecosystem.
A strong chicken and constant vigilance
According to the images disseminated by the Foundation, the new specimen is in good condition and shows signs of vitality. Through the entity's YouTube channel, anyone can follow the nest's activity live and observe how the adults take care of it in this initial, especially delicate phase.
The project leaders recall that a critical period for the chick's survival is now beginning, during which any disturbance could jeopardize its development. Therefore, they insist on the need to respect the protection zones of the Serra de Tramuntana, especially between January and September.
Hikers, residents, and tourists should avoid approaching these sensitive areas, as human presence can cause adult birds to abandon their nests. Furthermore, the Foundation reminds us that, in case of finding an injured vulture, one can contact Cofib or Environmental agents to ensure its care and recovery.
With this new birth, the black vulture population in Mallorca continues to consolidate, an example of the recovery of a species that was critically endangered on the island for decades.