Sunset at La Dôle / Private Tour with Johanne & Thibault

Meet with Thibault and Johanne on the crests of the Jura, at La Dôle, for a sunny afternoon above the stratus. As soon as our walk has begun, we come across a group of at least 200 Common Chaffinches feeding on the ground, a good start for our wildlife tour.

Photo Loris Bono

Approaching the agricultural building under the Dôle cliff, a Common Kestrel is perched on top of a spruce tree. We observe it in detail with a long view. A few Black Redstarts squabble and catch the eye. Alongside them, at least three Gray Wagtails and two pipits take advantage of the insects circling above the roof.

We decide to reach the summit of La Dôle from the East side. On the way up we will have the chance to see some Chamois grazing, not so worried by our presence. This is an opportunity to observe the distinctive and sexual characteristics of this species as the rutting period approaches.

The sky is still very blue and a light breeze carries the migrating birds, probably a few thousand will have passed overhead during the afternoon. We try to train our ears to recognize, or at least differentiate, the cries of finches; linnets, siskins, crossbills and goldfinches make up the bulk of the migratory procession.

Once the pass is reached, a few thrushes and Ring Ouzels appear distinctly!

Then at the top, a splendid view of Lake Geneva is offered to us, but we won't wait too long, a nice group of Chamois below attracts us and the wind (a little cool) encourages us to start walking down.

On the descent we will have the chance to come across two Chamois males in close proximity, we then remain motionless and silent to observe them secretly.

Photo Loris Bono

Photo Loris Bono

The sun starts to fade, so it's time for us to leave and this is whem many Crested Tits, Black Tits and even Willow Tits choose to return to their roosts.

Loris
Guide Salva Fauna