Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Alpine Chough
Scientific name: Pyrrhocorax graculus
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: CORVIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Not very shy
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: N/A
Gestation: N/A
Births: N/A
Habitat:
rocky areas, alpine pastures, cliffs
Description:
The Alpine Chough, or Pyrrhocorax graculus, is a mountain bird from the Corvidae family. It is recognized by its glossy black plumage, bright yellow bill, and red legs. This bird is often seen in the Alps and the Pyrenees, where it moves in noisy flocks. Exceptionally agile in flight, it can skillfully maneuver in updrafts. Opportunistic, it feeds mainly on insects, fruits, and food scraps left by hikers. The chough is a sociable bird, often not very shy, and easily approaches humans. It nests in rock crevices and cliffs, usually laying three to five eggs.
Recommended lens:
>=400mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Alpine Chough, focus on mountain areas where it is often found. Use a 400mm or longer telephoto lens to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. Look for spots where choughs gather, such as cliffs or alpine pastures. Be patient and discreet to get natural shots. Sunny mornings provide beautiful light to highlight the bird's glossy black plumage.
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