Balearic Islands monitor colony of great shearwaters on Pantaleu islet

Balearic Islands monitor colony of great shearwaters on Pantaleu islet

Balearic Islands is monitoring the colony of great shearwaters on the Pantaleu islet. Image: Consell de Mallorca

The Balearic Islands are closely monitoring the population of great shearwaters, a vulnerable species of bird, on the islet of Pantaleu during their mating season.

From July 1, the Environmental Departments of the Consell de Mallorca and the Balearic Islands Government are monitoring the colony of great shearwaters, a type of bird, on the islet of Pantaleu in order to prevent disturbances during their breeding season. Signs have also been installed to inform people that disembarking on the islet is prohibited.

Pantaleu is an islet located off the west coast of Mallorca, in the municipality of Andrach, about 200 metres from Sant Elm. It forms part of the Sa Dragonera Natural Park, together with the island of Dragonera and the islet of Sa Mitjana.

The great shearwater (Calonectris diomedea) is a species classed as vulnerable and its population is declining on a national level. One of the most significant threats is the introduction of other species such as dogs or rats into the breeding areas. At the beginning of March, they arrive on the islet and lay a single egg. Both parents incubate the egg, and the fledglings begin to fly in the summer. Throughout the nesting period, their protection is vital.


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Written by

Tamsin Brown

Originally from London, Tamsin is based in Malaga and is a local reporter for the Euro Weekly News covering Spanish and international news. Got a news story you want to share? Then get in touch at editorial@euroweeklynews.com.

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