We've already told you about the different islands that can be seen on Lake Geneva. One of them is special, because it helps to preserve the birdlife that Lake Geneva takes under its wing: it's the bird island of Préverenges. Zoom in on a wild setting shaped by man. 🏝️
For many of the migratory birds returning from Africa in spring, Lake Geneva offers a choice stopover on their journey. The Baie de Préverenges is one of these, offering a stopover area whose proximity to the mouth of the Venoge and shallow water are of interest to many migratory birds. They are often tempted to stop here to refuel and rest, before resuming their journey of several thousand kilometres to their distant summer quarters in the Arctic tundra. 🌎
Before the island was built, the birds were constantly disturbed by passers-by, dogs and land predators (rats, foxes, etc.). They would then continue on their way at the risk of not being able to reach the promised land. It was in 1986, at the Centre Ornithologique de Lausanne, that Lionel Maumary initiated the idea of an island to welcome migratory birds. After 15 years of field studies, the island was developed in 2001 by the Centre Ornithologique de Lausanne in collaboration with @pronatura_vaud. Its purpose is to provide a resting place for waders, larids and other migratory birds.
Far from the shore and surrounded by shallows, the island offers a haven of peace and is off-limits to all visitors. A special platform on stilts has been built for the nesting of common terns, which can then breed away from predators. 💙
Since its creation, more than 230 species, including 60 waders and larids, have been identified here. A "House of Birds" has been built on the riverbank to raise awareness of this important Swiss ornithological site.
Stanley Maumary - Mink.ch
