The Col de Prat de Bouc on the
ridge between Plomb du Cantal and Sagnette provides a grand spectacle each
autumn. This is the dividing line between the Epi and the Lagnon. The migration
of post-breeding birds from the general direction of north/east to south/west,
funnel through the Alagnon Valley and the neighbouring planèzes. These are the
vast triangular basalt lava flows, of St Flour and Chalinargues.
The ridge crosses their line
of migration and provides abundant food for the birds of berries, fruit,
grasshoppers, frogs, lizards and small birds. The route followed was set by
their ancestors. They are motivated by the warm air masses coming from the
south, and the cold air from the north. The sun heating the Massif forests
explains the concentration of migration over several kilometres.
The major interest of the col
is in the large variety of species concerned and the quantity of the birds of
prey. Several million birds are counted each year, from the small passerines,
such as linnets and chaffinch, to the large birds of prey, such as honey
buzzards, marsh harriers short toed eagle and black and red kites. Sometimes
more rare birds are seen such as ospreys, peregrine falcons, black storks and
golden eagles. These bird movements are accompanied by migration of butterflies,
swarms of lady birds, flying ants and flies.
Walking in
the Cantal for information on walking and walks in France
and the Cantal, accommodation, food and wine.
