Griffon Vulture – Fribourg Region

The Griffon Vulture in the Fribourg Region: A Remarkable Summer Visitor

Every summer, the skies of the Fribourg region are graced by the majestic presence of the Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus), one of Europe’s largest birds of prey. Native to mountain ranges such as the Pyrenees and the Alps, this migratory bird finds ideal hunting grounds in Switzerland during its summer journeys.

An Iconic Silhouette

With an impressive wingspan of up to 2.8 meters, the Griffon Vulture is easily recognizable. Its light brown plumage contrasts with a white ruff around its neck, and its soaring flight, aided by broad wings and dark flight feathers, is a breathtaking sight.

In the mountainous regions of Fribourg, such as the Pre-Alps, these birds often glide over valleys, taking advantage of thermal updrafts. They play a vital ecological role by scavenging animal carcasses, thus contributing to the health of local ecosystems.

Large group of griffon vultures in the canton of Fribourg
F8, 1/640 sec, 500 mm, ISO400, Canon EOS R5

Griffon vulture in flight with a rock face in the background
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO1600, Canon EOS R5

A griffon vulture plays with the winds among the cliffs
F8, 1/2000 sec, 500 mm, ISO640, Canon EOS R5

Close-up portrait of a griffon vulture
F8, 1/8000 sec, 500 mm, ISO1250, Canon EOS R5

Griffon vulture in flight in the Swiss sky, Fribourg
F9, 1/2000 sec, 500 mm, ISO500, Canon EOS R5

Vulture perched behind a rock
F8, 1/400 sec, 500 mm, ISO800, Canon EOS R5

Vulture in the Fribourg sky
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO1600, Canon EOS R5

Griffon vulture in the air, flies over the valley
F8, 1/1600 sec, 500 mm, ISO1250, Canon EOS R5

A griffon vulture watches from the mountaintop
F9, 1/4000 sec, 499 mm, ISO800, Canon EOS 90D

A Promising Comeback

Once threatened by hunting and a decline in wild ungulate populations, the Griffon Vulture has experienced a remarkable resurgence thanks to conservation efforts. Reintroduction programs in France have enabled these birds to claim habitats in Switzerland.

For nature enthusiasts, observing them is an unforgettable experience. Bring binoculars and head to mountain tops to catch a glimpse of their soaring majesty.

A Delicate Coexistence

Despite their growing numbers, Griffon Vultures sometimes encounter conflicts with human activities. Farmers may express concerns about their presence, even though these birds do not attack live animals. Greater awareness and dialogue among stakeholders are crucial to ensuring harmonious coexistence.

Griffon vulture over the Swiss mountains
F8, 1/8000 sec, 500 mm, ISO1600, Canon EOS R5

Majestic vulture soaring among the Swiss mountains
F7.1, 1/3200 sec, 500 mm, ISO1250, Canon EOS R5

Free as a bird, a griffon vulture explores the canton of Fribourg
F8, 1/2000 sec, 500 mm, ISO640, Canon EOS R5

Two griffon vultures searching for food
F7.1, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO640, Canon EOS R5

Among the rocks, perhaps this griffon vulture's meal is to be found
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO1000, Canon EOS R5

Vulture in flight, taking advantage of the thermals
F7.1, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO500, Canon EOS R5

Vulture in flight during a nearby passage
F7.1, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO640, Canon EOS R5

A vulture soars above the valley
F9, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO2000, Canon EOS R5

Griffon vulture taking advantage of the sun to spot a carcass
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO1250, Canon EOS R5

I hope you enjoyed these photos of griffon vultures in the canton of Fribourg in Switzerland and that they will help you appreciate this magnificent bird that remains little known and sometimes unloved.