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October 2008 The Pyrenees support about 120 pairs of Lammergeier or Lammergeyer (both correct spellings), with about 40 pairs in the Aragonese Pyrenees. Also known as Bearded vultures they are actively preserved today after years of persecution that almost wiped them out completely. Artificial nests have been built on the cliffs to encourage breeding and feeding stations are run in several locations.
Griffon vulture At one of these photographers are allowed access in a purpose built wooden hide. The best way to book it is through the Boletas Birdwatching Centre in northern Spain. Josele J Saiz, the owner will arrange the whole trip for you, including accommodation and transport. I was in my own car, but otherwise he will collect you from Barcelona Airport.
Griffon vulture The trip is usually for four days, three of which are spent in the hide, with the 4th day reserved as a bad weather day. Josele will take you birdwatching on the extra day, mainly for wallcreeper.
Lammergeier Each day a 4 wheel drive vehicle took Philip Newman and myself up to 2000 metres in the mountains, which is about a 10 miles drive. From here it is a 10 minute walk to the hide. Bones, that the lammergeier feed on are thrown out in front of the hide. . Lammergeier The hide is designed for two photographers and wind proof. It can get very cold however and warm clothing needed. In the past photographers used to enter the hide before dark and stay in all day. These days that is not required and we usually got in about 0930 and stayed until dusk. First thing in the morning you are facing a rising sun in the east. At the end of the day the light is almost behind the hide. Bright cloudy days are best.
Lammergeier We had as many as three birds down at one time, with others in the air. Mostly they were juveniles, but we did photograph adults too. Flight shots are possible as well as pictures on the rocky outcrop. On two of the days wardens put out meat for the griffon vultures too. A large number quickly came in and devoured all the food. They do not hang around long after the food is gone. Perhaps 20 minutes in total.
Lammergeier A 500mm lens was the most useful with a full sized chipped camera and I often put a 1.4 extender on.
Lammergeier
Lammergeier
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