First black vulture nest located outside the Serra de Tramuntana

The Balearic Government has confirmed for the first time the existence of a black vulture nest (Aegypius monachus) outside the Serra de Tramuntana. It is a breeding pair located in the municipality of Artà, within the Parc Natural de la Península de Llevant.

Nest of black vulture in the Parc Natural de la Península de Llevant. / Author: Toni Muñoz

The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment, Joan Simonet, described the discovery as “a historic milestone in species conservation“. He noted that although there are ancient testimonies placing this large bird of prey in the area, until now there had been no documented evidence of a breeding attempt. “This new nest in the east of the island opens a new chapter of hope for the species and consolidates Mallorca as a key territory for its recovery in the western Mediterranean, with the unique distinction of hosting the only insular population of black vulture in the world,” he added.

Mallorca Global Mag already dedicated a feature in its spring-summer edition to the recovery of the black vulture on the island. Read it at this link.

Meanwhile, the Director General of Natural Environment and Forest Management, Anna Torres, stated that monitoring carried out in 2025 “confirms the consolidation of this emblematic species on the island”. Provisional data collected by the Environmental Agents indicate that this year there were 49 territories with signs of occupation, 35 breeding pairs, 35 chicks hatched and 32 chicks fledged, figures that keep the population stable compared to previous seasons.

Key factors in the expansion of the black vulture in the Llevant

The Government highlights that the breeding success in Artà has been made possible thanks to the maintenance of extensive mountain livestock, with the presence of native breeds such as the Mallorcan sheep, Balearic donkey, and Mallorcan cow, which provide food and maintain open habitats. In addition, the control of feral goats in the park has been crucial in improving the conditions of the environment.

The black vulture has now left behind the “Endangered” category in Mallorca, although it is still considered “Vulnerable”. The Government stresses the importance of respecting the tranquility of the nests and avoiding human interactions that could affect the species.