LA MIGRATION DES GRUES CENDRÉES

Did you know? The grey crane is one of Europe's largest protected birds. And the phenomenon of migration in the Landes de Gascogne dates back to the ^18th century, as attested by Landes ethnologist and poet Félix Arnaudin (1844-1921). Noble and graceful, with a wingspan of 2 meters and a weight of 4 to 5 kg, cranes have a lifespan of 25 years. They breed in northern Europe, then begin their migration over France in early autumn. The systematic planting of pine trees under Napoleon III reduced the wetlands, destroying the cranes' habitat. Some continue on to Spain. Every winter, depending on weather conditions, between 30,000 and 60,000 cranes stay in the Landes de Gascogne. The major sites are the Arjuzanx nature reserve - the freely accessible "People of the Cranes" trail, on the Menjuc shore of Lac d'Arjuzanx, promises a beautiful stroll - and the Camp du Poteau in Captieux. From November to February, you can follow the movements of these great birds on guided tours led by ornithologists: watch the cranes take flight from a tower, lift the cranes, enjoy a storyteller's animation... Treat yourself to on-site accommodation to make the most of the region and its ornithological riches. The Grus Gascogna collective brings together accommodation providers and entertainers committed to responsible tourism.