Nature’s drama on northern migration

A Griffon vulture is attacked by a Peregrine falcon near Europa point, in a stunning photo that captures the drama of the annual northern migration across the Strait of Gibraltar.

Thousands of raptors make the treacherous journey every spring as they hear from their winter grounds in Africa to spend the summer in Europe and breed before heading back south in the autumn.

The birds of prey are often attacked by seagulls as they reach the Rock but it is rare to see falcons join the fray too.

Local ornithologists suggest the Peregrine falcon was likely protecting its nest.

The GONHS Raptor Unit has carried out breeding programmes to help the falcon and other smaller birds of prey remain established on the Rock.

Photo: David Parody