After decades of conservation efforts to restore this species, which vanished from the area in the mid-19th century, the resident population has grown to 66 individuals. Data from the Trenca Foundation and Endesa shows that 19 breeding pairs were recorded last year, achieving a 71% survival rate for the chicks.
These birds serve as vital environmental 'sanitarians' in the Pre-Pyrenees. By consuming carcasses, they prevent disease spread and reduce the need for animal incineration, saving 4,301 kg of CO2 emissions in 2025 alone.
Strategic Supplementary Feeding Points (PAS) in locations such as Cal Roger and Siall have been essential for this growth. These sites also provide a safe haven for other endangered species like the bearded vulture and the red kite.
