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!
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.
Your weekend with the common crane
How about a nature parenthesis at the start of the year? On January 19, 20 and 21, 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.
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.