Fast-flowing rivers and streams, peatbogs, deciduous and conifer woodlands, uncultivated land, mountains and cliffs. Human activities include forestry, cattle-grazing, hunting and recreation.
Key biodiversity
The site is important for passage migrants, particularly raptors, Ciconia ciconia, C. nigra, Columba palumbus and Turdus torquatus. The site is a migratory bottleneck, where more than 3,000 raptors regularly pass (including Pernis apivorus 2,000; Milvus migrans 2,000; Milvus milvus 1,800).
Pressure/threats to key biodiversity
The site is threatened by plans to expand the existing ski-station and other development projects. Disturbance from trail bikes, four-wheel-drive vehicles and hunting activities are also major threats.
Protected areas
National Low International Partial1,500 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Monts et Plombs du Cantal, 1,500 ha).
