Man teaches endangered birds a new migration path through the Alps to halt their extinction

When you have a passion for something, you choose to invest time and resources into it. When we say we love nature, we most likely are talking about the trees, greenery and beauty of the various species. However, Johannes Fritz, a biologist in his late 50s is passionate about nature. He has dedicated his life to doing something that is nothing short of incredible. There have been multiple stories about his work with the Northern Bald Ibis and what he has done for them is the pure definition of ‘passion.’

The Northern Bald Ibis, also known as Waldrapp, is a rare bird species that are known to be found in the European Alps. Since the last few years, there has been a threat to their existence due to the severe climate change around the world. Known for their migratory nature, these bald Ibis usually move over the Alps to the South before the freezing winter can cost them their lives. Of late, due to the severe weather conditions, these birds are delayed and unable to cross over the Alps and are trapped in the mountains freezing to death. 

Having founded the Waldrapp team, Fritz intended to save the Ibis and study them to better understand their requirements. In the process, he began to have a bond with these species which turned into a passion to save them. Initially, he built an aircraft and learned to fly the same so he can lead the birds to cross over safely in due time.

The idea was to teach these birds the path so that they were not affected by the dangerous weather and other factors. However, with the increasing global warming and other conditions, the route became difficult to keep up with. But Fritz didn’t give up. 

His burning desire to save the species forced him to find another way forward. He modified his aircraft with ultralight and continued his quest to find a safe path for the Northern Bald Ibis. Soon enough, with research and much effort, he and his team were able to find alternative routes. The birds are now a part of his life. Right from feeding and nurturing to nesting and more, the Waldrapp team pays careful attention to the precious lives of the Northern Ibis. 

Through their research and following up on the progress and updates, Fritz and his team are constantly rooting for the lives of these birds. More importantly, the aircraft built by the team is the supporting hero with Fritz. The trick of the aircraft which is responsible for guiding the bald Ibis to their safety is more or less just the noise. What Johannes has coupled with it is extensive research, study and much more. The team focuses on training and teaching the birds how to find their way out with the help of the aircraft. 

Looking at the progress of the Waldrapp team, there is no going back. Fritz has devoted his life and resources and managed to save an incredible species. The Waldrapp conservation is now a large project that will go further exploring more countries and spaces to rescue and save the Northern Bald Ibis. Fritz leaves us with an important message through his career: if you’re passionate about something, your hard work and the simplest of ideas can work together to create something life-saving.