A baby boy was born aboard a crowded migrant dinghy traveling from Africa to the Canary Islands this week, according to the Spanish coast guard.
A photo shared by the coast guard shows the newborn, who was rescued along with his mother and dozens of other migrants. The inflatable boat, packed with people, was first spotted on January 6 near the island of Lanzarote.
Rescue teams believe the baby was born shortly before they reached the vessel, on the day Spain celebrated the Epiphany—a Christian holiday where children traditionally receive gifts.
Domingo Trujillo, the captain of the rescue boat, said they were aware a pregnant woman was on board but were stunned to find “a completely naked baby who had been born just 10, 15, or 20 minutes earlier.” When they arrived, the mother was lying on the floor of the raft, while another passenger held the baby.
Following medical advice, the mother and baby were airlifted to a hospital in Lanzarote. Authorities reported no further complications.
Álvaro Serrano Pérez, the commander of the rescue helicopter, described the moment as extraordinary, saying, “On Three Kings Day, this was the best gift we could have received.”
The journey from Africa to the Canary Islands is one of the most perilous migration routes. Last year, over 46,800 undocumented migrants attempted the crossing, according to Spanish government statistics.
The Epiphany, or “El Día de los Reyes” (Day of the Kings), is a widely celebrated Christian feast in Spain, marking the visit of the Magi to baby Jesus. On its eve, children polish their shoes and leave them out for the Three Kings—Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar—to fill with gifts.
