The Ariege Pyrenees - A Diverse Bird Watching Habitat.
Little known
outside France and
to an extent the Low Countries, the Ariege Department
lies directly south of Toulouse, on the route to Andorra, rising
dramatically to the high Pyrenees mountain range on the border with Spain.
The Ariege offers a wonderful diversity of bird habitat from mud flats to the barren high peaks. Open farmland and woodland, rivers and streams, many lakes, all offering good breeding areas, food and protection. Because mainly traditional farming methods are employed here, few insecticides are used, there is a very abundant and varied insect, reptile and rodent population in the Ariege; hence the large number of birds of prey, raptors, Buzzards, Red & Black Kites, etc, which are commonly observed throughout the lowland areas. In my local area I regularly see Merlin, Hobbies and Hen Harriers. Kingfishers are commonly seen fishing in the local river, Bee-eaters nest in the riverbanks and Hoopoes call from the high trees by the river and in the local woods.
There are also many gravel pits, lakes and wetlands, including nesting sites for Storks, Great Egrets, many waders and waterfowl.
In the higher, open grasslands, where cattle and horses graze, the birds seen here reflect the change in terrain, with Griffons commonly seen congregating on the ridge lines, Short-toed eagles are summer visitors, plus marmots can be seen in the protected areas.
Higher still, and on the more remote crags, I have seen Bearded vultures , Choughs, Golden Eagles. The high mountain peaks are accessible and well marked paths easy to follow. In the Orlu National Park you can observe Izzards and the Marmots are easily seen from the path (tame but wild!).
Please contact me for more information on the best locations and areas for bird watching in the Ariege:
email: richinfrance@live.com
tel: 00 33 5 61 60 06 49
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