Eurasian Hoopoe
The Pfyn-Finges Nature Park stands out for its ornithological wealth. As part of the national "Birds of the Park" project, we chose the hoopoe as the emblematic bird of our region.
To strengthen and develop the hoopoe population in the Valais, you can join us in :
- install nesting boxes in your garden,
- take part in our birdwatching outings,
- take part in our biotope/natural environment maintenance days,
- get advice on how to create a garden that's closer to nature.
The hoopoe is particularly fond of the landscapes of the Rhône valley. Despite relatively low numbers nationwide, the Valais is home to the largest nesting population. Through this project, the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park is committed to promoting this magnificent species and developing various measures. While it is true that this species already nests regularly in the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park, the Rhône plain and its hillsides still offer numerous opportunities to encourage its presence.
As partner organizations, the Swiss Parks Network and the Swiss Ornithological Institute have launched the national "Bird of the Park" project for 2022.
The aim of this joint project is to promote landscape-typical and/or rare bird species, preserve and enhance their habitats, and exploit synergies to promote biodiversity.
© Heinz Müller
Species portrait
In the second half of the 20th century, the hoopoe came close to disappearing from our landscapes as...
The hoopoe frequents semi-open cultivated environments such as orchards, vineyards, pastures and hed...
© Christian Pfammatter
Vineyards and birdlife
The sunny, warm and dry conditions in the vineyards of the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park provide an ideal habitat for rare and specialized species such as the hoopoe. This charismatic bird finds food and nesting opportunities here, provided there are enough structures close to the natural state.
To promote biodiversity in the vineyards, the Nature Park is focusing on targeted ecological measure...
Get involved
With its remarkable plumage, the hoopoe is a fascinating bird. It is also a rare inhabitant of our cultivated landscapes. To preserve and promote its population in the Valais, there are a number of ways to take action.
Every action counts, whether it's hanging a nesting box, creating nature-friendly gardens or supporting our projects. After all, a safe nesting place isn't enough - you also need a suitable habitat: open spaces on the ground, landscapes rich in structure, hedges, fruit trees and respectful, pesticide-free farming.
The Pfyn-Finges Nature Park is committed to helping the hoopoe through targeted measures?
- plant...
