The article discusses Jacques-Olivier Travers’ mission to reintroduce white-tailed sea eagles to France after a 130-year absence. Working with his eagle, Fletcher, he aims to educate the public and dispel fears surrounding the species. The innovative ‘parental cleat’ technique will aid in the release of captive-bred sea eagles back into the wild, hoping to replicate the successful reintroduction seen in Scotland.
A white-tailed sea eagle named Fletcher accompanies conservationist Jacques-Olivier Travers on a chairlift in the French Alps. Travers, who operates Les Aigles du Léman, aims to reintroduce sea eagles to France after a 130-year absence. He believes this species can flourish again, similar to its successful recovery in Scotland where over 130 breeding pairs currently exist.
As Travers ascends the mountain, he emphasizes the urgent need to combat biodiversity loss, highlighting the historical extinction of sea eagles in France due to persecution. Teaching Fletcher to fly in a natural environment was a three-year journey, fostering a bond that allows them to ski, paraglide, and kayak together as a duo representing conservation efforts.
The pair has showcased their talents globally, flying from landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Burj Khalifa to raise awareness for the species. Travers intends to change misconceptions surrounding sea eagles, which are often perceived as threats to livestock. Through public interaction with Fletcher, he hopes to demonstrate their non-threatening behavior to encourage support for conservation.
During ski sessions, they garner attention and initiate discussions on eagle conservation. Travers has created a narrative around Fletcher’s captivity and potential offspring, which helps to personalize and communicate the goals of his program. With six sea eagles set to be released by mid-2022, the initiative aims to enhance their presence in the Lake Geneva area, supported by a pre-established breeding program.
The reintroduction strategy involves a novel technique called ‘parental cleat’, which allows young birds to remain close to their parents, mitigating trauma during their transition to the wild. This method deviates from traditional ‘hacking’ methods that weaken survival rates due to abrupt separations.
Travers draws inspiration from Scotland’s successful sea eagle program led by Roy Dennis, which highlights the economic benefits these birds can bring to local communities. After years of research, he aims to replicate Scotland’s success in France, believing there is a viable habitat and support system to ensure the sea eagles thrive once more.
Fletcher’s story contributes to Travers’ lifelong dedication to birds of prey, culminating in this significant reintroduction project. The conservationist balances his work with operating a restaurant that funds their efforts, reflecting his long-term commitment to restoring the species’ habitat and presence.
Jacques-Olivier Travers is pioneering a conservation project aimed at reintroducing white-tailed sea eagles to France, following a successful model from Scotland. His efforts include using an innovative technique to raise young birds and foster a supportive community. As they prepare for the first reintroductions, the program underscores the importance of biodiversity and wildlife conservation in restoring natural ecosystems.
Original Source: www.muchbetteradventures.com
