Bearded Vulture – Switzerland

The Bearded Vulture in Switzerland: The Return of a Sky King

The bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus), also known as the “bone breaker,” is one of the most spectacular and iconic birds of prey in Europe. After disappearing from the Swiss Alps in the early 20th century due to hunting and poisoning, it has made a remarkable comeback thanks to exceptional conservation efforts.

A Unique Bird of Prey

The bearded vulture is notable for its majestic and somewhat peculiar appearance. With an impressive wingspan of up to 2.8 meters, it features orange and black plumage, colored by bathing in iron-rich dust. Its head is adorned with a characteristic beard under its beak, giving the bird its name.

This raptor is a unique specialist: it feeds primarily on bones, which it breaks by dropping them onto rocks from great heights. This strategy allows it to access bone marrow, a highly nutritious resource.

Bearded vulture over the Swiss mountains
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO400, Canon EOS R5

Bearded vulture in flight in the Swiss sky
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO500, Canon EOS R5

Bearded vulture in flight, taking advantage of the thermals
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO800, Canon EOS R5

Three young bearded vultures play with the winds in the swiss mountains
F8, 1/1250 sec, 500 mm, ISO400, Canon EOS R5

Young bearded vulture in the air
F8, 1/1600 sec, 500 mm, ISO1600, Canon EOS R5

Juvenile bearded vulture with a bone in its talons
F7.1, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO1600, Canon EOS R5

A Conservation Success Story

The bearded vulture was reintroduced to the Swiss Alps in the 1980s through international captive breeding programs. Today, viable populations are established in several alpine regions, including Graubünden, Valais, and the Pre-Alps. These conservation efforts are the result of collaboration between local and international organizations.

Raising Awareness and Ensuring Protection

Despite these advancements, the bearded vulture remains vulnerable. Threats such as collisions with human infrastructure, accidental poisoning, and disturbances caused by recreational activities still pose challenges. Public awareness is essential to ensure the long-term survival of this fascinating species.

The return of the bearded vulture is a shining example of how conservation can correct past mistakes. By caring for its habitats and respecting its needs, we can hope to see this majestic “bone breaker” reign over Swiss skies once again for generations to come.

Close-up portrait of a bearded vulture
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO800, Canon EOS R5

Bearded vulture in the air, seen from below
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO800, Canon EOS R5

Two young bearded vultures are playing in the air
F8, 1/1600 sec, 500 mm, ISO500, Canon EOS R5

Bearded vulture searching for food
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO640, Canon EOS R5

Bearded vulture in flight during a nearby passage
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO400, Canon EOS R5

Majestic bearded vulture in Switzerland
F8, 1/2500 sec, 500 mm, ISO800, Canon EOS R5

Bearded vultures over the Swiss snow-capped mountains
F8, 1/1600 sec, 500 mm, ISO500, Canon EOS R5

For nature enthusiasts, spotting a bearded vulture in flight is an unforgettable experience. Bring binoculars and be patient: its graceful and silent flight is well worth the wait.

Interested in vultures ? You can also check this article about the Griffon Vulture in Fribourg.