France is filled with numerous birds of prey. Its variable habitat from the mountains of the Alps to its rural areas, France is home to many birds of prey. Here is a list of the most popular types of birds of prey, however, this article does not include them all.
This article will provide a description, pictures, and sounds of the birds of prey in France, enjoy.
1. Golden Eagle (Aigle royal)
The golden eagle is a powerful bird of prey that is found in mountainous regions throughout France. They are known for their sharp talons and powerful beaks, which they use to hunt small mammals and birds.
In France, golden eagles are considered to be a symbol of strength and courage.
2. Eurasian sparrowhawk (Épervier d’Europe)
The Eurasian sparrowhawk is a small bird of prey that is found throughout France. They are known for their sharp talons and keen eyesight, which they use to hunt small birds and mammals.
In France, Eurasian sparrowhawks are a common sight in urban areas, where they hunt small birds like sparrows and pigeons.
3. Northern goshawk (Autour des palombes)
The northern goshawk is a large bird of prey that is found in forested regions throughout France. They are known for their sharp talons and powerful beak, which they use to hunt larger birds and mammals.
In France, northern goshawks are sometimes used in falconry, a traditional hunting method that has been practiced in the country for centuries.
4. Common Buzzard (Buse variable)
The common buzzard is a medium-sized bird of prey that is found throughout France. They are known for their broad wings and distinctive call, which sounds like a mewing cat.
Common buzzards are often seen soaring high in the sky, where they hunt for small mammals and birds.
5. Peregrine Falcon (Faucon pèlerin)
he peregrine falcon is one of the fastest birds in the world, capable of reaching speeds of up to 240 miles per hour. They are found throughout France and are known for their agility and hunting skills.
Peregrine falcons were once endangered in France, but thanks to conservation efforts, their populations have rebounded in recent years.
6. Griffon Vulture (Vautour fauve)
The griffon vulture is a large bird of prey that is found in mountainous regions throughout France. They have a wingspan of up to 2.8 meters (9 feet) and are known for their distinctive bald heads and fluffy white necks.
In France, griffon vultures are an important part of the ecosystem, as they help to control the population of carrion animals by feeding on carcasses.
7. Montagu’s Harrier (Busard cendré)
Montagu’s harrier is a medium-sized bird of prey that is found in grasslands and agricultural areas throughout France. They are known for their distinctive long wings and tail, which enable them to soar for long periods of time without flapping their wings.
Montagu’s harriers are a threatened species in France, with a declining population due to habitat loss and hunting.
8. Red Kite (Milan royal)
The red kite is a medium-sized bird of prey that is found throughout France.
They are known for their striking red color and distinctive forked tail. In France, red kites are a protected species, and their populations have rebounded in recent years due to conservation efforts.
9. Short-toed Snake Eagle (Circaète Jean-le-Blanc)
The short-toed snake eagle is a medium-sized bird of prey that is found in forested regions throughout France. They are known for their distinctive yellow eyes and pale plumage.
Short-toed snake eagles are specialized hunters, and they feed primarily on snakes and other reptiles.
10. Common Kestrel (Faucon crécerelle)
The common kestrel is a small bird of prey that is found throughout France.
They are known for their distinctive hovering flight, which they use to hunt small mammals and birds. Common kestrels are a common sight in urban areas in France, where they hunt for small birds and rodents in parks and gardens.
