The Vulture House

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Vultures in Aubrac

The vulture, an emblematic bird of the aera

The vulture is an integral part of the local biodiversity. Today, it is emblematic of the region and, far from its bad reputation as a scavenger, it is an example of successful preservation and reintroduction into its natural environment.

The Jonte Gorges

     The Jonte Gorges stretch for about twenty kilometers, straddling two departments: Lozère and Aveyron. It’s an ideal spot for hiking and climbing, and is designated a Grand Site de France.

As you explore the area, you’ll pass through charming villages such as Meyrueis, Peyreleau, Le Truel, and Les Douzes. The region is also home to the Maison des Vautours (House of Vultures), a must-see for observing these majestic birds of prey. From the viewpoints, enjoy breathtaking panoramas and admire four iconic species: the griffon vulture, the cinereous vulture, the Egyptian vulture, and the bearded vulture.

Diurnal birds of prey, vultures live in colonies. Essential to the balance of the ecosystem, they feed almost exclusively on carrion, thus contributing to the preservation of biodiversity.

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A species successfully reintroduced

     The griffon vulture, like all birds of prey, has been a protected species in France since the Nature Protection Act of July 10, 1976. This protection was strengthened by the decree of June 2009, which also covers eggs and the keeping of vultures in captivity.
 
In the Grands Causses region, these birds of prey had disappeared by the 1940s. They were successfully reintroduced in the 1980s: today, there are more than 820 pairs, recorded by the LPO (League for the Protection of Birds). In 2012, a new project was launched in the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park, with a program to reintroduce the bearded vulture, now the fourth vulture species observable in the area.
 
These mountains offer a particularly favorable environment for vultures: vast pastures and the presence of livestock. These birds of prey play an essential role as natural scavengers, a role they have gradually rediscovered. This has been made possible thanks to the interministerial decree of August 7, 1998, which regulates agropastoral practices and promotes coexistence between livestock farmers and vultures.
 
 

The Vulture House

The Vulture House offers:
 
• A fully renovated, three-story museum where you can discover the lifestyle of these birds of prey, their history, and their place in the Causses region today.
 
• An exceptional panoramic view of the Jonte Gorge, allowing you to admire vultures in their natural habitat, in complete freedom.
 
• A screening room showing a film shot in this unique location.
 
The establishment is certified for accessibility for people with disabilities: it has easy access from the parking lot and is equipped with an elevator. Dogs are welcome, provided they are kept on a leash.
 
 
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Practical information

October and november :

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm

May, june and september :

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6:30pm

In July and August:

Open every day from 10am to 7pm

Price :

  • Adult : 7,90€ (special: 7,10€)
  • Young people de 12 à 17 ans : 5€ (Réduit: 3,80€)
  • child 5-12 ans : 4,20€ (free -5ans)
  • Groups : contacts-us
  • Familly : 21,90€ (couple + child -12ans)

Contacts infos :