Sunset at La Dôle / Private Tour
Visiting a corner of the Jura well known to the Lake Geneva region, this time we are going to La Dôle for a new edition of our nature excursion, this time in private. I meet Andrea and her friend Kyle there to observe the chamois at the end of the day.
The sun is quite high above us and the cliffs are still illuminated. This is an opportunity to observe some migratory birds heading towards Fort l’Écluse in search of their wintering areas in the Mediterranean or sub-Saharan zone depending on the species.
We first cross an area of wooded pasture with numerous anthills. In the shade of a few spruce trees, a few sparrows are active. A few Black Redstarts and Coal Tits are seen. Other birds with long-distance migration can also be observed while hunting; Willow Warbler, Whinchat and Common Redstart.
As we advance towards the foot of the cliff, screams attract our attention. In the foliage we see European Pied Flycatchers and a Common Chiffchaff. A few shadows fly over us, almost a dozen birds of prey. The majority of them belong to Common Kestrels, probably a family with young in flight.
We will have the chance to observe two Honey Buzzards with very distinct morphs gaining altitude, with a very light shape and another darker one. A buzzard is also here.
As we approach the ascent, a lonely chamois reassures us of the presence of the species today.
Photo Loris Bono
Photo Loris Bono
He feeds about fifty meters from the path. We settle down to observe from a fixed point and hope to see a nice group of chamois arriving in the cliff. Unfortunately the chamois do not choose the northern access to reach it.
After an hour of passive observation, during which we observed a Green Woodpecker, hundreds of Common House-Martins, and a few Pipits, Andrea has only seen a single chamois. We then choose to turn back towards the other access to the cliff. Bingo, a group of around ten individuals is present. We decide to move in their direction... they are about 800 meters away. We will wait for them under the cliff to observe between 5 and 10 at a time with a telescope. It is ultimately a group of just under 40 individuals who will wander between the rocks and the vegetation. Something to delight our guests.
Photo Loris Bono
The light is fading gently and it is time to leave the place, we will hear some Mistle Thrushes and Goldcrests on the way back.
Loris
Guide Salva Fauna