Bird conservation in the Alpilles, Southern France

Abstract

Situated in Southern France, the hills of the Alpilles feature a central limestone massif and are recognized for the diversity of their habitats and landscapes, which include forest and garrigue, rocky habitats, dry grasslands, wetlands and traditional farmland. The LIFE Alpilles project (2013-2019) was developed and managed by the Alpilles Regional Natural Park. The project sought to favour 13 bird species found in this range, some of which, such as Bonelli's Eagle and the Egyptian Vulture, are among the rarest and most threatened species in France. The project's undertakings are focused as much on the promotion of human activities, including tourism, agriculture and livestock farming, which contribute to the presence of these species in the Park, as on the conservation of birdlife itself.