A milestone in conservation has been achieved at Sa Dragonera Natural Park: two osprey (Pandion haliaetus) chicks have hatched for the first time in over 70 years. The species, considered “Vulnerable,” had not successfully reproduced on the island for decades.

Joan Simonet, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment, emphasised that this success reflects “the excellent work being done in the conservation and recovery of emblematic species in the Balearic Islands.”

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Although nesting activity was confirmed in 2024 without successful breeding, this year the pair managed to raise two chicks. Authorities highlight that ospreys are highly sensitive to human disturbance, boat traffic, and food scarcity, which makes constant monitoring essential.

Mallorca currently hosts 12 territorial pairs, with six breeding successfully last year, producing nine chicks. Across the Balearic Islands, the population totals 21 pairs and 24 fledglings.

Pedro Bestard, Vice President of the Consell de Mallorca, thanked all organisations involved, stressing that “with commitment, the recovery of threatened species is possible.”

Sa Dragonera, a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA), is also home to other remarkable species such as Eleonora’s falcon and the Balearic shearwater. Conservation plans for diurnal raptors continue to guide protection measures in the archipelago.