The bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus)

With its 2.80m wingspan, you might be surprised by the enormous profile of the bearded vulture during your hike. It has made the Gorges du Doron its territory and a couple has reproduced there since 2003. This area, which was ill-treated by man, disappeared from the Alps in the early 20th century. The bearded vulture was falsely accused of stealing children and cattle. This vulture now feeds mainly on bones from carcasses. Thanks to a reintroduction programme carried out since 1986 in the European Alps, some breeding pairs naturally settled in Vanoise in the early 2000s. In adults, the contrast of its slate grey wings and orange head and belly and cuneiform tail ensure it won’t be confused with other vultures.