The capercaillie, also called the grouse, should make its comeback in the Vosges. The prefecture signed an order on Monday April 15 providing for the reintroduction of the bird into the massif. The emblematic species of the Vosges massif is on the “verge of extinction”, underlines the prefecture which has been trying to “stop its decline” for 30 years.
As part of this project led by the Ballons Regional Natural Park, forty capercaillie will first be captured in Norway before being released in France. The system could continue until 2029, subject to good results.
“During the steering committees that we will hold, we will be able to know whether, yes or no, we are continuing or if it is a failure, in which case the situation would be very serious”, estimated the prefect Valérie Michel-Mor in comments relayed by France Bleu Sud Lorraine.
The threat of global warming
Environmental defense associations are doubtful about the success of the operation. Two scientific committees have estimated that global warming no longer guarantees a favorable habitat for the capercaillie, which likes cold winters. The prefecture believes that the bird can tolerate climates that are not those of the “boreal arc”.
The other point that raises questions is the growth of tourism: it constitutes a threat to the animal, which is naturally discreet and fierce. On this side, associations are calling on the authorities to focus more on preserving forests.
The population of the capercaillie is also closely followed in the Pyrenees, which has the largest numbers, with 1,600 roosters in 2021. “Winter tranquility zones have been installed in its favor in the Néouvielle nature reserve, in Gavarnie and at the Col du Somport, specifies the national park. Surveillance takes place at the singing places to limit disturbance. » There are only 278 left in the Jura and a few individuals in the Cévennes and the Vosges.