Jacques-Olivier Travers is reintroducing white-tailed sea eagles to Lake Geneva, France, after they went extinct 130 years ago. Collaborating with his trained eagle, Fletcher, he aims to promote public awareness and support for conservation efforts. The innovative reintroduction program, utilizing the ‘parental cleat’ technique, plans to release several eagles into the wild, with ongoing scientific research planned to monitor their success.
In the stunning backdrop of the French Alps, Jacques-Olivier Travers is embarking on an ambitious conservation effort to reintroduce white-tailed sea eagles to Lake Geneva after they became extinct in France 130 years ago. Alongside his trained eagle, Fletcher, Travers aims to raise awareness about the species and restore its population in the region.
Topographically, the white-tailed sea eagle was historically prevalent in France for approximately one million years, succumbing to intense hunting pressures in the late 19th century. Currently, Scotland boasts over 130 pairs of this species, showcasing the potential for rebuilding populations in France.
Travers shares how he raised his eagle, Fletcher, from a young age and trained him to fly in the mountains, effectively turning him into an ambassador for the reintroduction program. Through their joint activities, such as skiing and paragliding, they attract public attention and initiate conversations about conservation.
To combat misconceptions about sea eagles being a threat to local wildlife, Travers engages in numerous public displays with Fletcher, demonstrating that eagles can coexist with humans and not pose risks to pets or livestock. This interactive approach aims to foster a positive perception of the species.
The reintroduction plan will start with six eagles born in captivity, intended for release in 2022, followed by an additional 80 by 2030. This high-impact program aims to reinforce existing populations and explore new habitats for future generations.
Comparatively, the project draws on reintroduction strategies implemented in Scotland, which provides insights into creating a sustainable population. Travers integrated a novel technique called ‘parental cleat,’ allowing young eagles to acclimatize in their natural environment under parental supervision,
Continued scientific research will undergird the program, tracking the eagles’ adaptation and survival rates. This data will help refine the reintroduction methods and contribute to broader conservation strategies across Europe.
The financial viability of the project transitions through profits from Travers’s restaurant, Les Aigles du Léman, underscoring the importance of community engagement in conservation efforts. Through his lifelong commitment to birds of prey, Travers reinforces the significance of restoring the white-tailed sea eagle in France while galvanizing local interest in biodiversity.
Original Source: www.muchbetteradventures.com
