In Spain, a significant conservation effort is underway to re-establish the population of the northern bald ibis, a bird species that was driven out of the northern foothills of the Alps approximately 400 years ago due to poaching and climate change. The project, initiated by the Austrian conservation group Waldrappteam in 2004, involves hand-raising the birds and training them to follow ultralight aircraft, which helps guide them on their migratory journey. This year, the migration spans 2,800 kilometers from southeast Germany to southwest Spain, taking about 50 days to complete. Helena Wehner, a member of the Waldrappteam, plays a crucial role in this project by singing to the birds through a megaphone while flying in an ultralight aircraft. This unique method fosters a bond between the birds and their human caretakers, encouraging the birds to follow the aircraft during their migration. The project has garnered significant attention and support from local communities along the migration route, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in restoring endangered species. Gunnar Hartmann, a student from the University of Koblenz in Germany, volunteered with the Waldrappteam in 2024 and captured a stunning photograph of the birds in flight over the olive groves of Jaén, Spain. His photograph won the top prize in Nature's 2026 Scientist at Work photography competition, showcasing the beauty and significance of the migration project. Hartmann expressed that the image evokes strong emotions and memories of the day he took it, emphasizing the connection between humans and nature. The competition also featured other notable photographs, including images of scientists studying coral reefs in the Red Sea and analyzing algal blooms in Ontario, Canada. These winning entries reflect the diverse challenges faced by scientists in understanding and addressing the impacts of climate change on various ecosystems. The recognition of Hartmann's work not only highlights the importance of wildlife conservation but also inspires future generations to engage in environmental stewardship.