Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001770/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Pietro Fiocchi (ECR)
In recent years, two non-native species of ibis – the African sacred ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus) and the black-headed ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) – have been found in some parts of the European Union.
The African sacred ibis, initially introduced into Europe (mainly in France and Italy) for ornamental purposes or in wildlife parks, has given rise to stable wild populations, which are considered invasive in several wetlands. Containment plans have already been put in place in some Member States due to the risk that the species poses to native birds, in particular to species that nest on the ground or in sensitive environments.
Regarding the black-headed ibis, a species classified as ‘Near Threatened’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, there are reports of sightings in the wild due to escapes from private collections or zoos. Its rapid expansion in European habitats is having a similar impact.
In the light of the above:
- 1.Is the Commission aware of the presence and expansionary dynamics of the African sacred ibis and the black-headed ibis in Europe, and of the containment measures already in place in some Member States?
- 2.Does it intend to promote European coordination for managing potentially invasive alien species, including monitoring of the black-headed ibis?
- 3.Does it believe that the lists of alien species monitored at European level need to be updated to also include emerging alien bird species that could threaten native biodiversity?
Supporter[1]
Submitted: 30.4.2025
- [1] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Carlo Fidanza (ECR)