The project lays the foundations for the creation of the first genetic bank and the adaptation of specific serological techniques for the diagnosis of diseases of birds in the National Catalogue, starting with the Iberian imperial eagle, to progressively continue with the bearded vulture or the capercaillie.

The project lays the foundations for the creation of the first genetic bank and the adaptation of specific serological techniques for the diagnosis of diseases of birds in the National Catalogue, starting with the Iberian imperial eagle, to progressively continue with the bearded vulture or the capercaillie. The birds in the Spanish Catalogue of Threatened Species have reduced genetic variability, the maintenance of which over time is crucial for their survival. The National Strategy for the Conservation of the Imperial Eagle, and its counterparts of the Bearded Vulture and the Capercaillie, together with the recovery plans, contemplate the ex situ creation of viable self-sufficient populations, containing 90% of the variability as “genetic reserves” in the face of epidemics or catastrophes. They also refer to the convenience of investigating and diagnosing their diseases. The optimization of reproductive techniques for gamete management, rescue and cryogenics are tools of recognized value for this purpose. The initiative addresses the entire process of working with imprinted donors of imperial eagles of high genetic value, in order to investigate and optimize management protocols. A centre will be created with the equipment, facilities and basic specialised personnel, for the research and development of management techniques and cryogenic banks specific to the bird species in the catalogue. The centre will have a communication and awareness programme, which will implement corporate volunteering, environmental education and interpretive actions to make it sustainable in the future. In addition to the creation of the centre, the specific objectives of the project are:

• To create the first nucleus of high-yielding donor founders for the imperial eagle, as an efficient model for the rest of the species.

This action gives continuity to the research and captive reproduction program of the Iberian imperial eagle in Castilla-La Mancha, directed and executed by the Aquila Foundation at the Center for the Study of Iberian Raptors (CERI), through the agreement signed between the Aquila Foundation and the Ministry of Agriculture of Castilla-La Mancha.

• To investigate and improve ex situ reproductive behavioural management techniques aimed at imprinted birds for an increase in the effectiveness of reproductive success through the training and maintenance of donors of high genetic value.
• Design and develop preliminary protocols for the rescue, collection and cryopreservation of gametes for endangered bird species, and create the corresponding gene bank.
• To launch an offer of innovative training and experiential experiences, in order to offer a place where society participates and contributes to the maintenance of the centre and its programmes. All this through formulas such as corporate volunteering, guided tours and environmental education programmes, in order to ensure the sustainability of the centre.
• To transfer methodology and experience for application in conservation projects of endangered bird species around the world, through the establishment of international collaborations, including training cycles for professionals.
• Carry out a correct and exhaustive evaluation of the results by international experts.