When their sonorous flight resonates in the countryside, you can't help but raise your eyes to the sky to observe them. As winter approaches, these great gray ladies leaving for the South do us the honor of flying over the Gironde lands. You will have understood it, the common cranes are back in Gironde. Hat, scarf, gloves, we let you choose, we take care of the rest!
Common cranes, remarkable birds
With its gray plumage highlighted with white and black, the common crane can be recognized by its small bare red area at the top of the skull. Its 1m20 height and 2m wingspan make it theone of the largest protected birds in Europe. Suffice to say that his observation leaves more than one speechless.
A show not to be missed
For years, common cranes have taken their habits in Gironde. After having reproduced in Europe and more particularly in Scandinavia, they begin a long journey which will lead them towards the South. Some end their journey in the Landes of Gascony where they will spend the winter while others continue their way to Spain.
In search of bogs and marshes to sleep in and harvested and cultivated fields to feed themselves, they particularly like it here (and we understand them!). In Gironde, this incredible ballet brings together more than 50 cranes and above all countless curious people. Our two regional natural parks are privileged places to admire the spectacle of these migratory birds.
Where to observe common cranes in Gironde?
In the Landes de Gascogne Regional Nature Park in Cazalis
A viewpoint with free access has been set up near agricultural fields to observe these " gray ladies » in the winter period. A brande palisade allows you to look at them discreetly with binoculars, without disturbing them. To get there, just follow the marked crane loop from the village inn. The cranes are waiting for you there… or not; indeed, nature remains unpredictable and mysterious, but the walk is regenerating and for that reason alone we recommend it!
When can we observe them?
To observe the common crane in winter, the opportunities and the animations are not lacking. You will be able to contemplate these great migratory birds but above all learn more about them and their environment.
Meetings with the cranes
Want to meet these ladies? Many activities await you. Young adventurers are welcome from 10 years old (or younger if they have already had a similar nature outing experience). Young and old, remember to bring seasonal equipment because a long time is devoted to observation in a static position and we don't want you to catch cold.
A family morning with the common crane
November 27, December 11 & 18, January 15 & 29 and February 12
Sabers or Captieux
Accompanied by a confirmed ornithologist, who has been observing cranes for more than 20 years, discover this incredible bird with your family.
Loan of binoculars and spotting scopes.
From 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., prices: €15 per adult and €10 per child (6-16 years old)
Information and reservations: 06 80 94 54 02
Taste with common cranes
November 27, December 11 & 18, January 15 & 29 and February 12
Sabers or Captieux
It's snack time ! After a time of observation and research of the cranes in their feeding areas, you will share a hot drink and a snack with the animators. Now is the time to ask all your questions! What do cranes eat? How long do they stay in Gironde? How to recognize them in the sky? … Something to delight the curious.
Loan of binoculars and spotting scopes.
From 14 a.m. to 18:00 p.m., prices: €20 per adult and €15 per child (6-16 years old)
Information and reservations: 06 80 94 54 02
Out and about with the “grey lady”
December 4 and January 22
Misleading
For more than 4 hours, follow in the footsteps of this incredible migratory bird with a guide from the Landes de Gascogne Regional Nature Park. Check out his habits: its gestures, its toilet, its parade and its habitat. Fauna and flora, will have no more secrets for you.
Mandatory reservation at the Maison de la Nature du Bassin d'Arcachon - +05 (24)73
The “Meetings with the Cranes” posted greetings
December 4, 18 & 24, January 8, 15, 22, 29 and February 5
Lacanau
From 15 p.m., the guards answer your questions, with educational tools for young and old, to better understand the crane and its history. Bring binoculars and a flashlight to return safely after dark.
From 15 p.m., free and free access. More info: Mathilde Pigeassou 07 68 87 81 12
Let's count the cranes
December 11
Cousseau pond nature reserve, Lacanau
The objective of the afternoon is not to “count” but to “count” the common cranes. To the rhythm of anecdotes, the mysteries of this large-scale bird are revealed, leaving room for observation and contemplation.
From 14:30 p.m. to 17:30 p.m., prices: €5 per adult, €2 per child (10-16 years old)
Registration with the Médoc Atlantique tourist office - +05 (56)03
Common crane and Landes gastronomy
January 14
Bourideys, Captieux
Observe the "grey ladies" before enjoying a delicious meal with local flavors at the Auberge de la Haute-Lande.
From 10 a.m., prices: 40€/pers
Compulsory registration at 05 56 91 33 81
Your weekend with the common crane
How about a nature parenthesis at the start of the year? On January 27, 28 and 29, girl's farm has reserved a program with small onions for you.
Day 1: Welcome at the end of the day at the farm with a naturalist leader from the PNR Landes de Gascogne to start the immersion well.
Day 2: You set off to discover maritime species with Christophe, your guide in the Teich Ornithological Reserve. And at the end of the day you will witness the return of the cranes to their dormitory in Captieux.
Day 3: At daybreak, the cranes take off for their big departure, don't miss them!
In this Airial Landes, in the heart of the Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park, time passes more slowly. Between the coast and the moors, your stay promises to be gentle and peaceful. Book your stay now.
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