Europe's Largest Wild Bird Reintroduced in Vosges Mountains After Near Disappearance

Seventeen capercaillies, identified as Europe's largest wild bird, have been released into the Vosges Massif in France, marking a new phase in a delicate conservation effort. The initiative, announced by the Regional Natural Park, seeks to bolster the population of this iconic game bird, also known as the wood grouse, which has become critically scarce in the region.

This release represents the third "translocation" since the program's inception two years ago. Previous efforts have been hampered by a high mortality rate among the reintroduced birds, largely attributed to predation by pine martens. The seventeen new specimens, captured in Norway, thirteen males and four females, were released between April 13 and May 8.

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the individuals introduced have quickly adapted to their new environment

Equipped with GPS tags, these birds join the estimated three to five individuals previously present. The GPS tracking will monitor their movements, reproductive success, and survival rates. The park notes that the newly introduced birds have adapted quickly to their environment, though predation remains a significant concern based on the experiences of the past two years.

Despite the park's efforts, several environmental associations have legally challenged the reintroduction permits, arguing for the recognition of ecological damage from the capture and death of some birds in Norway. The park confirmed that four males died during the recent capture. These groups also criticize public authorities, asserting that the birds are being released into an environment not yet suitable for their survival.

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The risk of predation remains a determining factor based on the lessons of the first two years