How can we protect fragile species?

In Haute-Savoie the need for protection is essential. This is the purpose of ASTERS, the Nature Conservancy from Haute Savoie, whose role is to preserve and raise awareness of flora and fauna.

The Contamines-Montjoie Nature Reserve attracts a significant number of visitors. Every summer and winter, 200,000 people come to admire the magnificent landscapes and peaks reaching up to 3,892 meters above sea level.

A nature reserve is fragile and subject to very strict protection measures to safeguard biodiversity.  The nature reserve is home to small inhabitants such as the black grouse (tétras lyre in French), a bird species that is under threat. The black grouse nests in fresh snow, creating small “igloos” to keep warm. It can stay in its makeshift shelter for up to 22 hours, which allows it to conserve its energy.

Markings to raise awareness

Mailys Cochard and Christelle Bakhache, from ASTERS, mark the nature reserve in order to restrict access. “The idea is that, in this particular area, skiers will know not to enter so they don’t disturb the birds.”

“You can go ski touring in the mountains. But you need to have a few good habits and know what to do. Don’t leave lots of tracks, don’t go into quiet areas, don’t spread out when you enter a forest area—these are the things that make a difference,” adds Mailys Cochard.

The important thing is to make collective decisions and share research and work between different stakeholders in the field in order to achieve specific biodiversity protection objectives.