Alpine Rarities around the Gemmi Pass

I was delighted to see this Bearded Vulture even though it’s not a good shot. The sun was almost in my eyes and I suspect in his too. It’s not every day you see a Bearded Vulture flying directly towards you. This one was below the Gemmi Pass, then it dived and disappeared. I’d just put my camera on the tripod so was not ready at all. I waited 3 more hours but it did not return. 

Bearded Vulture Facts …
Overall Alpine Population: Around 250 bearded vultures are estimated in the entire Alpine region. 
Swiss Population: The reintroduction program in Switzerland has been successful, with 163 bearded vultures fledged. 
Breeding Pairs: There are currently 25 breeding pairs in Switzerland. 
Ongoing Efforts: The reintroduction program is still ongoing to improve genetic diversity and ensure the long-term health of the population. 
International Significance: The success of the reintroduction program in Switzerland is important because the bearded vulture is endangered or extinct in many other regions of Eurasia and North Africa. 


The other alpine rarity is Swiss Rock Jasmine (Androsace helvetica) in extras. I probably only came across it as I missed the path on the descent from watching the sun come up over the Plattenhorn (another extra). This species lives in high-alpine zones of the European Alps, growing only between 2,500m and 3,200m. It is vulnerable to climate change and human recreational activities. I know only 3 other single plants in 3 different areas but this is the prettiest I have seen. I put a second close up in extras so you can see the tiny drops of water caught in the miniature hairs on the petals. Water conservation is at a premium given the exposed habitat of these cushion flowers which have one long tap root anchoring it into the rock crevices. 

The Gemmi Pass is an easy place to visit by télécabine if you are in the Valais but then you have to explore away from the tourists who go there for the spectacular views. Thanks for bearing with me in my Alpine enthusiasms. I’m fortunate to still be fit enough to continue and I do rabbit on at times! Many, many thanks for enjoying yesterday’s Alpine combat. P.S. Altitude headache gone.