Spain's big environmental project - 2nd January 2023

A new environmental scheme organised by Rewilding Europe aims to dramatically change the Iberian Highlands, in eastern Spain. This is the 10th project from the ecological NGO (non-governmental organisation) and involves the reintroduction of animal species such as the lynx, as well as the protection of forests.

Covering 8,500 square kilometres of valleys and canyons, the Iberian Highlands is a rich and varied place, with pine, oak and juniper forests. The area's currently populated with animals like boar and deer, while humans are relatively scarce. There are just two inhabitants per square kilometre, making it ideal for the project, according to Pablo Schapira, team leader of Rewilding Spain. "It's very rare to find these kinds of places in Europe," he said.

The initial stages for boosting the area's ecology are to reintroduce birds of prey. It's also vital to ensure there are sufficient numbers of grass-grazing animals. Black vultures, with their massive wingspan of three metres across, are the chosen bird of prey and 15 of them will be released per year. They'll join the herds of wild horses and native-like cattle that have recently been freed there.

The NGO plans to safeguard the Highlands' old forests and within the next two years it will also release the Iberian lynx. As well as limiting the numbers of plant-eating creatures, these wild cats are considered less threatening than wolves by farmers.

The whole scheme hasn't been created simply for ecological reasons. Economically, the Iberian Highlands have suffered as local people have left in search of work. It's predicted that nature tourism will now take off, bringing much-needed finances to the region.

Director of the Endangered Landscapes Programme David Thomas said, "We believe the project has potential to benefit both nature and people."