Charognards translates to "scavengers" or "carrion-eaters". It's a strong and somewhat uncommon word in everyday French, making it stand out in the lyrics.
In the song, Renaud uses this word with a dark, almost vengeful tone. He wishes that these scavengers would come for the "restes blafards" (pale remains) of those who torture animals, highlighting his deep disgust for animal cruelty. This powerful imagery makes it a memorable and impactful word.
Renaud’s “Les Animals” is a cheeky love letter to the entire animal kingdom. The singer lists a joyful parade of creatures—from cuddly kittens and majestic phoenixes to lumbering cachalots—sprinkling in playful made-up plurals like chevals and narveaux. His whimsical roll call feels like a child’s picture book come to life, showing pure affection and curiosity for every species, no matter how big, small, common, or mythical.
Yet tucked beneath the humor is a sharp environmental message. After celebrating owls, dolphins, and even slugs, Renaud flips the spotlight onto humans, labeling us the “worst animals” for the cruelty we inflict through bullfights, trophy hunting, and other blood sports. The contrast is stark: animals simply are, while people choose violence. By the end, the song urges listeners to swap brutality for compassion and to protect the very creatures that make our world so vibrant.