A grand duke released between Vienne and Indre-et-Loire

It took off without asking for its rest, at dusk, Monday January 20, 2025, between two rows of large cedars. Without even a goodbye to Lydia Bourdeau who took care of it for two months. “It hurts my heart”explains the head of the Poitevine wildlife care center, based in the Châtelleraudaise region, which collects animals from many departments. “But it’s always magical when you feel the desire he had to take flight. I just hope he can feed himself. »

The owl was found by a resident of Barrou, at the bottom of her garden… and in the mouth of her dog. “She called us immediately and I asked to see a photo since I knew there were no eagle owls in this area”continues Lydia Bourdeau. It had not been seen in the region since the 1980s, with only specimens existing beyond Vicq-sur-Gartempe.

“When we protect, it can pay off!” »

Very weakened, the Grand Duke was kept warm and cared for in the Châtelleraudais center. “We don't really know what happened to him. explains Lydia Bourdeau. He was very dehydrated and hadn't eaten enough. After a few days, he was eating on his own and four times more than normal! »

Undoubtedly one of the effects of current weather conditions. “The rains may have delayed the breeding periods, says Philippe Gauthier, environmental inspector at the French Biodiversity Office. By the time they were old enough to hunt on their own, there wasn't enough available. »

1,700 in France

But the environmental specialist is delighted to see the return of such an animal to the region. “There are only 1,700 in France. This is a relatively rare population. We can see the benefits of the protection measures (1) and the change in outlook on this species which has long been criticized. The improvement of agricultural practices, which are more respectful of the environment, has a lot to do with it. When you protect, it can pay off! »

The proof will be provided again, probably next April, when the Poitevin wildlife care center will once again release, this time that of forest cats near Descartes. Here too, a species that has disappeared from the region.