Loire Valley - A natural destination

7/31/2019 Loire Valley - A natural destination

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A natural destination

I nternationally known for its historical and architecturalheritage, France's Rgion Centre also has a less wellknown but nonetheless remarkable natural heritage,recognized by many serious international bodies.

Rare species are there for those who know how to search,

look for and respect them: those who are genuinely interested.

The Rgion Centre's Tourist office invites everyone, whether they live here or are French or foreign

tourists, naturalists, competent or simply curious, to come and discover this wild and often secret

natural history, now looked after, thanks to three Natural Regional Parcs (Brenne, Loire-Anjou-

Touraine and Perche).

The banks of its many water courses, its woodlands, hedgerows and lakes, make for a great

diversity of habitats and that means that the Rgion Centre is home to a multitude of animalsof all sorts, where there are rare orchids and carnivorous plants... and even a wild tortoise from

the age of the dinosaurs.

Those with binoculars won't fail to see surprises form any one of a number of hides or during

a guided visit.

This brochure natural destination gives some idea of the variety of species, many rare, to be

found here, and how to see them.

For 260 km, between Sully-sur-Loire and Chlonnes-sur-Loire,

the exceptional beauty of the Loire Valley has meant its being

classed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Great white Egret

SUMMARY

> The natural history of Frances Region Centre

> The Brenne

> The Sologne

> Loire-Anjou-Touraine Natural Regional Parc

> The Val-de-Loire and the Orleans forest

> The Perche

Design and graphic artwork: Terranuva - Cover:Euro RSCG Compagnie - Cover illustrati on:Tomate - Cdrick Vannier - Editing: Terranuva with the collaboration of Tony Williams.Photographs:P.Aucante,A. Brisson,L. Charbonnier, S. Desprs, D.Duriez, J. Puyo,Y.Wemaere. Illustrations:Denis Chavigny.

With the kind collaboration of Alain Beignet,P resident of the CRT.

Although we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of all the information contained within these brochures, changes occur incessantly.We cannot therefore take responsibility for facts, prices,addresses and circumstances that are constantly subject to alteration.

INTRODUCTION

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The natural history of Frances

A

n hour's drive south of Paris, crossed by the meandering Loire river, France's Rgion Centre includes some distinct natural

areas: the Loire valley, Perche, Beauce,Vendmois, Sologne, Pays Fort, Champagne berrichonne, Brenne, Boischaut

It has one of the most varied and interesting natural histories of any of France's regions.The geological variation and different

climatical influences mean that some areas have vegetation of

Atlantic affinity, other areas Mediterranean, and yet others

mountain.This rare mix results in a diversity of interelated species,

especially related through the food chain.This variation can be

found from mosses, fungi and insects to mammals, and includes

amphibians, reptiles and birds. Plant species obviously largely

influenced the initial landscape, which has through the decades

been worked and changed by man according to his needs and

activities, sometimes to the advantage.

Region Centre

THE LOIRE,EUROPE'S LAST UNTAMED RIVER

The Loire, oncethe domain ofbargemen and

their vessels, the royal river, the river of chateaux:Chambord , B loi s , Chaumont , Ambo ise ,Chenonceau Who is not seduced by thislandscape, natural or architectural, with a lightthat has inspired artists, writers and poets ?This has led to the area being classed a WorldHeritage site by UNESCO. The Loire is alsoEurope's last natural river, forever changingshape with impressive rise and falls of waterlevels, despite its ancient embankments. TheIles de la Loire National Nature Reserve protects

the Berry part of the Loire with its manyislands where arms of the river flow between

often high banks. From Gien as far as theTouraine the valley floor widens to as much as8 km, opposite the abbey of Saint-Benot.Theriver slows down and meanders, islands dry inspring attract Common and Little Terns, LittleRinged Plover and Black-headed Gull Anoriginal flora grows on uncovered mudflatsand sand and gravel bars whereas Red-backedShrike, warblers, Linnet, Goldfinch occur in theflowering bushes that ornament the valley. Inthis part are the Saint-Pryv - Saint-Mesminnational nature reserve and several other pro-tected areas (Ile d'Ousson, Mandres de Guilly,Val de Beaugency, Val de Montlouis). Lastly

we come to the Touraine part of the Loire,with which can be included the lower sections

of the Cher and Vienne valleys. The wholequite exceptional in many ways, a part protectedin the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Natural regionalParc.

In the Rgion Centre, several rivers have formed distinct valleys, bringing about original landscapes:the Loir in the north; the Cher in the south with its tributaries,Yvre, Arnon and Fouzon. Bordered byflood meadows favoured by Curlew, Corncrake and Whinchat and plants such as CommonMeadow-rue, Great Burnet, as well as numerous butterflies.Other rivers such as the Cisse in Beauce,

the Sauldre in Sologne, the Indre, Claise or Creuse farther south have increased each areas biodiversitywithout having a large impact on the landscape. Some are home to Otter or White-clawed Crayfish andrare fish such as Bullhead, Bitterling or Brook Lamprey

WHERE RIVERS FLOW

Common Tern

Raft of Water Crowfoot

Little Ringed Plover

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In the Touraine Gtine and more especially in Sologne and Brenne the clearing of the original foresthas had unforseen consequences.

On impermeable clay soils, the disappearance of trees had undone a fragileequilibrium and vast marshy zones had resulted. It was in order to contain

these unhealthy marshes, that during the Middle Ages, the first lakes weremade.Added to this, these lakes provided a resource for local people, especiallythrough rearing fish.Through time reedbeds grew up around the lakes, they

were gradually invaded by wildlife of all kinds to such a point thatthey've become internationally

important wetlands foraquatic birds and contain amultitude of animals andplants.

MANMADE LAKES

Floating Water-plantain

A lake being fished

Forming a, sometimes dense,network of hedges around fields usually used for livestockrearing, they often create an harmonious landscape in rolling countryside. After havingsuffered due to the development of agricultural machinery, many farmers now seem tolook more favourably on hedges, especially stock rearers, some of who have gone back toancient styles of maintenance (pruning, laying, pollarding), so much the better ! The Perche

and Vron are both areas within Naturalregional Parcs, the Pays Fort, Germigny valley,and Boischaut Sud have all conservedremarkably well kept hedgerows, crossedby sunken lanes.Hoopoe, Little Owl andWryneck nest thanks to the presenceof old trees, where larvae of rareinsects develop: Cetonia aeruginosa,Oryctes nasicornis, Cerambyx cerdo, StagBeetle passerines, rodents (Garden,Fat and Hazel Dormice), reptiles(Western Whip Snake, AesculapianSnake, Green Lizard), and ferns are allnumerous in the hedges.

What would hedgerows be like without

old-fashionned management practices:

laying, pollarding, coppicing ?

Little Owl A LANDSCAPE OF HEDGEROWS, NATURE DOMESTICATED

The longhornbeetle Rosaliaalpina

Dominated by heathers and Silver Birch that

give a certain charm, a transitional habitat betweenabandoned agricultural land and forest, dryheath occurs mainly on sandy, acid or sometimeschalk soils. For a long time grazed by sheep, thebest are found in Sologne, Brenne and inTouraine (Ruchard Heath).

The prominent plants are Heather and BellHeather. There's also Spotted Rock-rose,Common Dodder and lichens (Cladonias) andmosses (Polytrichums) and Rabbits that maintainlow vegetation. Grasshoppers, crickets andTiger Beetles are abundant.Dry meadows (somewhat like the southdowns) are similar to the heaths but with grassesdominating rather than heathers.They can befound throughout the Rgion Centre, sometimescovering very small areas, are most abundant invalleys and the Berry region. Interesting speciesoccur, often of southern origin, and includemany orchids, also Juniper, Pasque Flower,Common Rock-rose, and numerous insects.Their biological interest is often due to grazing(by either goats or sheep).

On damp clay soils gorse and "brande" (localname for the tall Besom Heath) grow and attimes thickly cover extensive areas, home toWild Boar, deer, Hen Harrier and the iridescentDartford Warbler.In very wet, peaty areas, often found in valleybottoms, Cross-leaved Heath dominates alongwith Sphagnums.These bogs contain carnivorousplants, Cotton-grasses, Marsh Gentian, as wellas butterflies and dragonflies typical of thishabitat.

HEATHS, DRY MEADOWS AND PEAT BOGSAsp Viper

Largetortoisehell

The region Centre

Teal

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The region Centre

The whole of the Rgion Centre possesses aremarkable number of diverse forests. Beechand oakwoods of the Perche, well known fortheir mushrooms.Those of the Pays Fort whereit's somewhat surprising to find Whitebeam,Red-berried Elder, Martagon Lily among theeverpresent Holly. Some of these mountainspecies are also found along the Creuse amongMonkshood, Pyrenean Squill and PlantainLeopards bain. And in woodland coveringbanks of fast flowing rivers, numerous ferns.Forests are the home of Wild Cat, sometimesGenet. The Orleans forest is a biological andgeographical entity in its own right, the ancientoakwoods of King Louis XII (early 16th century)around Blois and Chambord, and the manyforests to the south of the Loire serve as biologicallungs. In some, pines were planted during the

18th

and 19th

centuries,some supplemented by moreexotic varieties (especially Douglas Fir),however,deciduous species are still dominant. Althoughmainly private, these forests are often crossed byhikers trails. Woodcock, woodpeckers, birds ofprey, and occasionally Black Stork occur. RedDeer and Wild Boar move from one forest toanother, and in the spring newts andSalamander move towards their ponds to breed.Effectively, the biological diversity of theseforests is also due to the heaths, peat bogs,rivers, lakes and meadows that they hide andthe habitat edge effect this means only serves toenhance this diversity.

Roe buck in velvet

Gtines,an ancient French word,means degraded

forests. They are often plateaus where forestand heath have been cleared to become areas ofmixed farming and stock-rearing with widelyspaced hedges, but where sizeable areas of theoriginal vegetation remain. We find StoneCurlew, and more locally Little Bustard. In thenorth is the Gtinais and its valleys (Essonne,Rimarde, Loing) with its typical flora(Carduncellus) and forests, notably atMontargis (Bilberry, Violet Helleborine) To

the west, between theTouraine Gtine and thataround Savign surLathan, once covered by

the "Mer des faluns"according to the museumat Savign, lies Rill lakethat has been set up forbird-watching. Lastly, inthe south, at the limit of

Touraine and of Berry, thegtines are in the form of a

long ribbon of forest, crossed by valleys that,once again, are rich in wildlife but here withoutany particularly rare species.The same is trueof the champagnes, which is the origin of the

French word campagne - coun-tryside , which denominates

areas of intense cerealproduction: Beauce,Champagne berri-chone Due tointensive farming,natural habitatsare few and farbetween and

trees are rare .However, the firstimpression ofmonotony of thel a n d s c a p eshouldn't stop a

closer look.

GTINESAND CHAMPAGNES,WHEAT GRANERIES

Cockchafer(or May-bug)

Natural SpacesCollection of brochures on certain sitesmanaged by the Conservatory.

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Nightjar

Conservatoire du Patrimoine Naturelde la Rgion CentreTel: 00 33 2 38 77 02 72E-mail: [email protected]://cahiersnaturalistes.free.fr/cpnrcFounded in 1990 as an association, the Conservatory gave itselfthe task of safeguarding natural environments that are remarkablefor their fauna, flora, landscape or geological interest.Its areas of work are as follows: knowledge of species and theirliving environments, protection, management and opening to thepublic of natural spaces, and information and coordination to pro-mote them.In 2008, the Conservatory manages more than 2400 hectarescovering 86 natural spaces, home to a variety of environments(fields, grassland, forest, riverbanks, lakes, marshes, peat bogs...)

THE FORESTS

NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETIESPROPOSING GUIDED VISITS

Natural History DocumentsIn the regionavailable at the Conservatoire du Patrimoine Naturel de la Rgion Centre. Information: 02 38 77 02 72

Around Blois and AmboiseAssociation Millire RabotonJean LEY15 rue Parmentier - 41000 BloisTel: 00 33 6 88 76 57 14www.milliere-raboton.netE-mail : [email protected] from Amboise and Chaumont-sur-Loire, traditionalboat trips to discover the Loire, an authentic encounter in

time with the river, looking at its wildlife. Various outingsare organised: looking at wildlife and searching for animals(especially the Beaver and the Loires birds), early morningand evening walks on the side of the Loire.

In the heart of the listed site of Le Becd'AllierThe Loire and Allier guides officeYvan DOIRIEUXQuai des Eduens - 58000 NeversTel: 00 33 3 86 57 69 76Or 00 33 6 71 62 44 09www.l-o-i-r-e.com E-mail: [email protected] organisation looks at the extraordinary diversity ofhabitat that the Loire and the Allier cross and theanimals to be found there. Outings of the naturalists spirit

accompanied by specialists of the different habitats that arelooked at, either on foot, by canoe or on a traditional boat.Equipment hire and logistics

Loire Nature DcouverteYvan THIBAUDATLe Crottet - 18300 Sens BeaujeuTel: 00 33 2 48 79 46 19www.loirenaturedecouverte.comE-Mail : [email protected] everybody no matter what your age come anddiscover, on foot, on horse back, or on the river, the lasttruly unspoilt river in Europe, the Loire.Without a sound,let yourself be taken along by the flow, passing untouchedislands and there sand banks, where animals and plants

occur in profusion.

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Calendars of Nature OutingsGuided tours on all the sites managedby the Conservatory.
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


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n the edge of the Berry region, the land of a thousand lakes is a wildlife paradise.The

Brenne's 80,000 ha holds an exceptional fauna and flora - it has been classed of international

importance for aquatic birds by the IUCN* - and is famous for its 2000 or so fishponds that occur

within a diverse mosaic of other natural habitats; meadows, heaths, hedgerows, woodland and scrub.

A Regional Natural Parc since late 1989, the area is now managed and protected in a way that facilitates

public awareness, with guided visits organized from the Parc visitor centre, nature trails, protected

areas and public hides.

* I.U.C.N.: International Union for the Council of

Nature

The Brenne,a land of unspoilt wildlife

Traditionallyused for fish-farming,

surrounded by reedbeds andmeadows used for non-

intensive cattle rearing, theBrenne's lakes have been, since

the Middle Ages, a wildlife haventhat offer an ever changing spectaclefor the visitor. Aquatic birds abound.

Shoveler, Gadwall, Pintail, Wigeon andTeal overwinter in their hundreds, along with

Pochard and Tufted Duck.The lakes are emptiedeach autumn for the annual fish harvest,exposing

mudflats that welcome migrant waders suchas Black-tailed Godwit, Snipe, Lapwing,Spotted Redshank and many rarer species,until the spring. It's then that many other speciesarrive, Black Kite and Night Heron are amongthe first, as Black-headed Gulls form nestingcolonies soon to be joined by WhiskeredTerns and Black-necked Grebes, the latter twospecies building their nests on floating mats ofWater Crowfoot or Bistort. As spring advancesactivity increases: Garganey pass in number,Purple Heron, Black-winged Stilt and manyother migrants arrive to nest, the songs ofMelodious and Cetti's Warblers andNightingales abound.

Within the larger reedbeds, where GreaterSpearwort and Flowering Rush still grow, the

distinctive calls of the Bittern or Little Bitternecho to a background of singing Reed, GreatReed and Sedge Warblers. A discerning earmay pick out the realing insect-like song of aSavi's Warbler, or those of some of the areasamphibians, the Natterjack Toad, Parsley Frogor even the very rare Spadefoot: but the loudcall of the diminutive and discrete Treefrog,perched in a willow, may drown them all out.

THE LAND OF A THOUSAND LAKESAND BIRDS !

The large leaves of White and Yellow Water-lilies in the centre of the lakesserve as diving boards for Green Frogs. And everywhere insects abound,dragonflies being among the more obvious.Of the 91 species of dragonflyfound in France, an amazing 63 have been recorded here.They are a favouriteprey of Hobby and Bee-eater, that catch them in flight.On the lake's edges

a knowledgeable botanist may find, Floating Water-plantain, Water Violet,Parnassus-leaved Water-plantain and Spring Quillwort among other rarities.

European Treefrog

DRAGONFLIES AMONG THE FLOWERS

Blizon lake

Whiskered Tern

Parnassus-leavedWater-pla

ntain

The Brenne included in the Ramsar Convention list of wetlands

Azure Damselfly6

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At the Etang Mass reserve near Rosnay, inspring, all of Europe's nesting herons can beobserved. Nesting in the taller willows are:Grey, Purple, Night and Squacco Herons,Great White, Cattle and Little Egrets

Here heathland is an intermediate habitat, oftenon abandoned farm land or meadows.The sameplant community often occurs on the buttons.And, as in Sologne, among the commonerplant species can be found: Alpine Sandwort,Umbellate Halimum, and occasionally WildGladiolus. It's here that the Nightjar nests, itscurious song filling the warm summer nights,and that the Short-toed Eagle searches forsnakes and lizards.The Brenne has some quiteextensive areas of Besom Heath, locally called"brande" where Dartford Warblers may befound. At the southern end of the

p r o te c t ed p u bl i cBellebouche lake,most types of heathcan be found,includinga fine peat heath.

Other than Sphagnumm o s s e s i t ' spossible to find theL o u s e w o r t ,C o m m o n a n dO b l o n g - l e a v e dSundews - relics ofthe last Iceage, PaleB u tt e r wo r t a ndMarsh Gentiane.

To understand the reason for theBrenne's diversity, we need lookno further than the ground,withits mixture of sands, clays and redsandstone, with here and thereoutcrops of limstone covering afew square metres or larger areasas along the Creuse valley,where

there's also ochre sandstone andschistes.The vegetation and com-ponent species vary according tosoil type and amount of humidity:lush meadows on the lake shores,poor meadows, dry heather heath,chalk grassland around PoulignySaint-Pierre, alcaline marshes inthe north of the ParcBut there are also the buttons.Some hundred small red sandstonehillocks shaped by the elementsadd interest to an otherwise flatlandscape.Legend has it that the

buttons were made by Rabelais'giant "Gargantua", as he crossedthe Brenne his footprints formedlakes and the mud shaken fromhis boots fell to the ground toform hillocks.

On the Brennes tallest button- 133 m -

sits the Bouchet chateau, looking over

the Mer Rouge lake like a lighthouse.

Nearby, the Park visitor centre supplies

information for visitors and proposes

several local products (smoked carp,

goats cheese, honey, cherry liqueur)

HEATHS

The Curlew often sings over the meadowsbordering the flowered lakeside vegetation,where the Grass Snake and Viperine WaterSnake hide. Here the Lapwing gives its aerialdisplay, alternating looping and diving beforestalling to a halt infront of its calling mate.Andit's here among the Meadow Thistle andRagged Robin that we find Gratiola andAdder's Tongue. The splendid common atRosnay has Loose-flowered, Green-wingedand Tongue Orchids. In the Ozance marshthere are Marsh Orchid, Marsh Helleborine,

the rare Bug Orchid and the Brenne Orchid,of course ! In all, with those species occuringon the limestone soils along the Creuse valley,Brenne is home to no less than 36 species oforchid. At the right time of year there areguided walks to see some of them, led by localnaturalists. The meadows are also home tomany species of butterfly: Pearl-borderedFritillary, Large Copper, Swallowtail, ScarceSwallowtail, Camberwell Beauty,Marbled White of all colours andsizes. Perched on the top of a thicket,

the Red-backed Shrike has the strange habit ofsometimes piercing its prey live on to the spikesof a blackthorn.

MEADOWS, BUTTERFLIES AND ORCHIDS

Burntorchid

LargeCopper

THE HERON FAMILYCOMPLETE !

A remarkable natural heritage

In the Brenne there are more than a thousand species of higher plant, including 36 orchids;nearly 300 bird species of which150 nest; 11 species of reptile and 15 amphibians.The 59 speciesof mammal include Genet and Wild Cat.As for insects, they are still being looked at, but it isestimated that there are more than 15 000 species including 63 dragonflies (of 91 present inFrance), more than100 butterflies, and many rare species whose habitat is either lakes or oldmature trees.

adiolus

BRENNE'S OWN HILLOCKS,BUTTONSThe Brenne

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Purple Heron

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The Mud Tortoise , as it's called locally, is about 15 cm long and easily

recognised from its dark brown tortoise shell, spotted with a little yellow,

like its skin. Inhabitant of the lakes, its a carnivore eating insects, tadpoles,

and even dead fish. The only time it strays far from water is in latespring, to lay its eggs on nearby meadows. If the nest isn't robbed by

Wild Boar, the eggs,buried in the soil,will hatch on average after seventy

days.The young Pond Tortoises then head straight for the nearest lake.

Shy, the Pond Tortoise is

quite easily seen in

Brenne when it warms itself in the sun, sitting on a

floating log or a patch of broken reeds, at least for

those who are quiet.

THE EUROPEAN POND TORTOISE

As well as Chrine national nature reserve,

there are other protected areas within the

Parc, some with public hides.These are Etangs

Foucault, Etang Mass, Domaine de Plessis,

Etang de Bellebouche, Bois des Roches at

Pouligny Saint-Pierre Guided visits are arranged

by the organisations concerned, as well as at

Etangs de la Touche, Marais de l'Ozance and

the common at Rosnay. There are also many

marked hikers trails and two nature trails: the

Beauregard trail near Saint-Michel en Brenne

and at the Blizon near Rosnay.

PROTECTED AREAS

A naturalist's hot spot, with several hides open to the public, the 145 ha of the Chrine

reserve, created in 1985, encompasses an example of most of the richer habitats ofBrenne. Most importantly several lakes and an extensive reedbed where Purple Heron,

Bittern, Marsh Harrier, Savi's warbler and many other species nest. It's one of the best

places to see Pond Tortoise , Little Bittern and Black Tern (the Brenne's only colony).This

reserve, along with other protected sites, participates in a conservation research program

looking at the impact of grazing animals of ancient breeds on open habitats: here the

Camargue horse and Casta cattle (from the Pyrenean foothills); elsewhere other

breeds of horse, cattle and sheep. At the naturalists visitor centre there is up-to-date

information about all of the Brenne's natural history.

EuropeanPondTortoise

Curlew

Marsh Harrier

The reserves rich wildlife is watched from

one of the hidesPolecat

The Brenne

CHRINE NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE

Natural History DocumentsIn Brenne available from the Maison du Parc

Brenne NaturePresents the areas various

reserves and other protected

sites with hides and the

calendar of guided outings

organised for that year

within the Parc.

The Parc naturelrgional de la BrennePractical guideA 82 page booklet giving preciseand extensive information to help

guarantee a good holiday : accom-

modation, restaurants, things to do,

places to visit, local products

Guide to flora328 species presented on description

sheets with, for each plant:

photo, description, ecology,

distribution in the park

The most picturesque walksin the Parc naturel rgional

de la Brenne(Dakota Guide)20 walks, between 3

and 18 km (2 and 11

miles) long to see the

best of the Brenne ;

12,80

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Information SitesMaison de la natureet de la Rserve

Saint-Michel-en-BrenneA place to visit and to obtain information aboutthe Brennes wildlife. Permanent exhibition :Mission Guifette MoustacTel: 00 33 2 54 28 11 00

e-mail :[email protected]

Maison du ParcHameau du Bouchet - Rosnay

A place to visit and obtain general informationabout the Brenne, slide presentations, interactive

screen, boutique, etc.Tel : 00 33 2 54 28 12 13

Website : www.parc-naturel-brenne.fr

e-mail : [email protected]

Observation sites

Cistude lake hideBetter watching in the afternoon in summer; greyheron, Purple heron, Little Egret, Black-winged Stilt,European Pond tortoise;Whiskered Tern, MarshHarrier in flight; Great White Egret,Teal, in winter.

Foucault lakes - RosnayIn winter possibility of Wigeon,Teal, Great WhiteEgret;Osprey during April,August and September;Whiskered Tern in May; Shoveler, Pochard and LittleRinged Plover in June; Black Kite from April toJuly, various species of heron use the site (Nightand Purple Herons, Little and Cattle Egrets).Large hide at Bnisme lake

Bnisme Lake is undergoing water management proces-ses,observation is possible on Foucault Lake.Small hide at Bnisme lakebest used in the evening.

5P

1

Cistudelake hide

Maisonde la

Nature1

P

P

2Foucaultlakes

P

3Chrinenationalnaturereserve

P

4Masslake

P

Bellebouchelake

6 P

tangNeuf

Mign

7

Beauregardinterpretation

trail

P

8

Blizonintrepretation

trail

P

Venduvres

D925

Mzires-en-Brenne

D21

Saint-Michelen-Brenne

D44

D15D

17

D78

D43

Douadic

Douadic

D32

Rosnay

D27D

15

D44

D17a

D17a

Chrine national nature reserveSaint-Michel-en-Brenne

Possibility of seeing many wild and rare species of animalor plant: Bittern, Little Bittern, Purple Heron, Black Tern,as well as the European Pond Tortoise and plants such asWater Violet as well as some species of orchid.

Ricot hide lakeBest watching in the morning and late afternoon;a very good place for European Pond Tortoise.Essarts lake hideBest watching in the afternoon.

Mass lake - RosnayPresence of a large heron colony, many species of duck,herons, egrets, Savis Warbler and the European pondturtleHideBest watching in the morning and evening.The observatory is open 1 st April to 30 September.

Bellebouche lakeMzires-en-BrenneSome forty species of rare or protected plant specieshave been found on the site: Marsh Gentian, UmbellateHalimium, Jersey Buttercup Interesting birds are alsopresent, theres a Purple Heron colony at the back ofthe lake, Nightjar breed; and European Pond Tortoiseis common.Three hidesBest watching in the morning (a) and afternoon (b and c).

Etang Neuf (Plessis estate)MignHide - Best watching early in the morning or lateafternoon.

Beauregard interpretation trailSaint-Michel-en-BrenneRunning alongside Beauregard lake, interesting birds mayinclude Black-necked Grebe, Black-headed Gull, Pochard,Tufted Duck or Marsh Harrier

Blizon interpretation trail RosnayThe theme of the trail alongside the Blizon lake,dragonflies and frogs.

Bois-des-Roches Natural ReservePouligny-Saint-PierreOn the site, among other interesting species, are morethan 250 plant species including 5 orchids, 23 species ofcrickets and grasshoppers, 3 species of reptile (includingWall Lizard) and 37 butterflies including OberthursGrizzled Skipper, Glanville Fritillary

HideInterpretation trailAccess

2Maison du Parc

9Le Boisdes Roches

A

BC

Saulnay

MrignyE

F

G

H

K

L

M

Azay-le-Ferron

N

1

2

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Nature outings in the Brenne region

a

b

c

D

9

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AccommodationBed and Breakfast

La Presle36290Mzires-en-BrenneTel: 00 33 2 54 38 12 36

Chteau du Pin36300 Douadic

Tel: 00 33 2 54 37 40 55http://lepinenbrenne.free.fr

Domainede la Crapaudine36300 RosnayTel: 00 33 2 54 37 77 12www.lacrapaudine.fr.st

La Marchandire et36290 SaulnayTel: 00 33 2 54 38 42 [email protected]

Ferme du Bois d'Haut(Accueil Paysan)36220 MrignyTel: 00 33 2 54 37 36 52www.phytobrenne.com

[email protected]

Mme Coulon36800 MignTel: 00 33 2 54 27 58 61

La Chaume36300 RosnayTel: 00 33 2 54 37 65 74

La Bonnire(Gtes Panda)36800 MignTel: 00 33 2 54 37 80 22(in the evening)

La coule de Blbre36300 RosnayTel: 00 33 2 54 28 08 [email protected]

Htel** Restaurantle Saumur36800 ChitrayTel: 00 33 2 54 47 04 00

Camping municipal Les Millots36300 Rosnay

Tel: 00 33 2 54 37 80 [email protected]

Village Vacances Nature36290 Mzires-en-BrenneTel:00 33 2 54 38 28 28

CPIE Brenne Pays d'Azay36290 Azay-le-FerronTel: 00 33 2 54 39 23 43www.cpiebrenne.org

La Grange de Claise36290 St Michel-en-BrenneTel: 00 33 2 54 38 14 45

[email protected]

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10/23

The Sologne,a land of forest and lakes

The Sologne, an area of some 500 000 ha, lies within a large meander of the Loire river between Gien and Blois, on the edges

of three French provinces, the Orleanais, Berry and Touraine. More forested and thus more secret than the Brenne, it has, of

all the inland wetlands of France, the greatest area of water. Apart from thousands of lakes, the eastern part has many small rivers

flowing between flood-meadows and peat bogs. Its dry heaths, once grazed by innumerable

flocks of sheep,offer a pastoral scene of an exceptional habitat. In order to assure the future

of its natural heritage and without disassociating itself from its past, after much reflection

the Sologne may one day become a Natural regional Parc.

Golden-ringed Dragonfly

The Sauldre and its tributaries in the east of Sologne is a vast networkof streams where Bog Myrtle and Royal Fern grow. These streams arepopulated with Bitterling, Spined Loach, Brook Lamprey, Bullhead andWhite-clawed Crayfish as well as many dragonfly species (Beautiful

Demoiselle, Crepuscular Hawker, Golden-ringed and Green-eyedHook-tailed Dragonflies) and still have Otters.The Purple Moor-grass,Cross-leaved Heath and Sphagnum carpeted, peaty valley bottomsconceal Cotton-grass, Common and Oblong-leaved Sundews, PaleButterwort, Marsh Gentian, Marsh Clubmoss and other rarities that canbe found at the Tourbire de la Guette at Neuvy sur Barengeon. Inplaces these heaths give way to large flood meadows where Lapwing,Curlew and many Butterflies may be found. Interesting plants occur:

Meadow Thistle, Great Burnet,Common Meadow-rue, andless commonly AdderstongueSpearwort, Hartmans SedgePentectes - a local namegiven to orchids flowering atthat time of the year - alsooc c u r : Loo se -f l ower ed ,Broad-leaved Marsh, Green-winged, Lesser buttrfly andSpotted Orchids

Criss-crossed by many hikers trails, the forest is dotted with many clearings,extensive heaths and some of the last remaining farmland that still exists

on the infertile soil. Other than a few ancient stands of oak growing onpoorsoil where the're Peucidanum galicum, Sawwort, most of the forestis open with Silver Birch and Bracken due to sandy, well-drained, acidsoils.Red and Roe Deer abound, as do Wild Boar. Pines appeared at theend of the 18th century and in some places cover a wide area wherebirds of prey nest (Goshawk, Buzzard, Honey Buzzard, Booted Eagle,Short-toed Eagle)The Osprey nests at Chambord and there are indications that tend tolend weight to the idea that Black Stork nests in Sologne, but as with thebest places to find mushrooms, the precise locality is a closely kept secret.

RIVERS, MEADOWSAND WET HEATHS

THE OMNIPRESENT BUT NEVEROPPRESSIVE FOREST

Red Deer hind and fawn

AnEmpistrapped

onaCommonSundew

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11/23

The Sologne

The heaths are one of the major components ofSologne: areas dominated by Besom Heath andGorse on clay soils support Heath Lobelia, Dyer'sGreenweed, Pyramidal Bugle; dry heaths of BellHeather and Heather on well drained sand cover alarge part of south-east Sologne (Pierrefitte,Souesmes, Mntrol) which during spring reveal abeautiful landscape dominated by Silver Birch. Other

than heathers, we find Mountain Sandwort, Halimum

and Umbelate Halimum,as well as the delicate SheepbitScabious, Jersey Buttercup It's the prefered habitat ofGreen Lizard and Asp Viper, as well as Woodlark andNightjar.

Naturally very rich

Naturalists in Sologne have identifiedsome 1 200 higher plant species (as manyas in the whole of England), 220 speciesof bird of which 140 nest,some 50 mammals,ten reptiles and as many amphibians.

Insects are still being researched butmany interesting surprises have alreadybeen found (56 species of dragonfly).

THE HEATHS

Natural History Documents

In Sologne Sologne Natural History GuidePhotos and text presenting the Solognestypical habitats. Price : 15Information : SNE.Tel : 00 33 2 54 76 27 18

Chamina guide to walks andhikes in SolognePresents walkers trails of natural or culturalinterest throughout the Sologne.Price : 14,33Information : UCPS.Tel: 00 33 2 54 88 71 09

After a visit to the Lakes visitor centre, at Saint-Vitre, it's time to see the real thing: at Beaumont,Malzon, les Brosses, Favelle, Marcilly The Loire river is a migration flyway for many aquatic birds(waders, ducks, Osprey), many make a stopover in Sologne. Great White Egret and Cormorant

spend the winter. Grebes (Great crested and Dabchick), Marsh Harrier, ducks (Mallard, Shoveler,Gadwall, Pochard,Tufted Duck), Black-headed Gull and Water Rail occurthroughout the year.They are joined in the spring by Black-necked Grebe,Whiskered Tern, Garganey, Purple heron and a few pair s of Black Tern andMediterranean Gull.Grey and Night Herons and Little Egret nest in floodedclumps of large willow, where the Marsh fern grows and Teal sometimesraise broods. Reedbeds hide Bittern and Little Bittern from where severalwetland warblers (Reed, Sedge, Savi's, Cetti's) sing, the often acid waterat their edge is good for : Floating and Lesser Water-plantains, Star-fruit,WaterChestnut, Frogbit

MORE THAN 3000 LAKES, LARGE AND SMALL

In Beaumont lake, Neung-sur-Beuvron common,a new public hide has been built.

Grebe Black-nacked

Aheath

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Schedule of Nature Discovery outingsDiscover nature in Sologne all year round via outings accompaniedby a nature guide with Sologne Nature Environment qualification.Information : SNE,Tel: 00 33 2 54 76 27 18

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Information sites

Sologne NatureEnvironnement (SNE)Organizes guided visits throughout the year.41200 Romorantin Lanthenay

Tel: 00 33 2 54 76 27 18

http://www.sologne-nature.org

Union pour la CulturePopulaire en Sologne (UCPS)

Nouan-le-FuzelierTel: 00 33 2 54 88 71 09

www.ucps.fr.st

Visitor centres witha Sologne theme :

Maison des tangs - St VitreA museum dedicated to the lakes of Sologne, sothat this internationally important wetland can bebetter known.Themes include: wildlife, associatedskills and crafts, fish farming and gastronomy.Tel: 00 33 2 54 88 23 00

Maison du braconnage - ChaonNew architecture for a very ancient pastime poaching.The museum will change any preconceived ideas thevisitor might have about poaching.A way of finding outmore about the Sologne, the people that live there andits connection with the mythical character of Raboliot

the poacher:history,customs,and imagination on the menu.Tel: 00 33 2 54 88 68 68

Maison du Cerf - VillenyA typical Sologne house within which the visitor will discoverthe secrets of the magnificent Red Deer, the king of theSologne forests.Tel: 00 33 2 54 98 23 10

Observation sitesBeaumont lake

Neung-sur-BeuvronA protected lake with hide for watching: Black-neckedGrebe, diving duck, egrets, Marsh Harrier Reception on3 May, 7 June, 5 July and 2 August.Free entry, open throughout the year. Fishing in the lake inmid October. Information at the Loire Valley NaturalHeritage Conservatory.Tel : 00 33 2 38 77 02 72

Fouzon meadows - CouffyFlood meadows of great faunal and floral interest: wildorchids, red-backed shrike, curlew

Access information Tel: 00 33 2 38 77 02 72

Chambord national estatewildlife reserve

Free access to the park, throughout the year.

Access information Tel : 00 33 2 54 50 50 00

A forest with a marked history, with remarkable wildlife(especially dear) including forest birds; Osprey and Short-toed Eagle that breed.A marked circular trail, free access, open year-round.

Access information,Tel: 00 33 2 54 50 40 00

La Guette peat-bogNeuvy-sur-Barangeon

A rare and special wetland as much in the way that itsformed as in the wildlife, especially plants, it shelters: MarshGentian, carnivorous species, and heathland withNightjars.A board-walk interpretation trail, open year-round.

Access information Tel: 00 33 2 54 76 27 18

Ciran estateMnestreau-en-Villette

Many of the special plants and animals of the Solognecan be seen on the 300 hectare Ciran estate.

Access information - Tel: 00 33 2 38 76 90 93

Open year-round. Entrance fee.

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Maisondes tangs

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Mennetou-sur-Cher

Pierrefitte-sur-Sauldre

Solognedes tangs

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AccommodationHotels

Htel Saint Cyr **41220 La Fert-Saint-CyrTel:00 33 2 54 87 90 51www.hotel-st-cyr.com

Htel de la Pyramide ***41200 Romorantin

LanthenayTel:00 33 2 54 76 26 [email protected]

Htel du Parc ***41300 SalbrisTel:00 33 2 54 97 18 53www.leparcsalbris.com

Gtes de la Griveaudire41210 La Marolle-en-SologneTel:00 33 2 54 58 81 [email protected]

Ferme des Barres

41320 Mennetou-sur-CherTel:00 33 2 54 98 03 77www.fermedesbarres.com

Domaine du Ciran et45240 Mnestreau-en-VilletteTel:00 33 2 38 76 90 93www.domaineduciran.com

Yelloh ! Village SologneParc des Alicourts41300 Pierrefitte-sur-SauldreTel:00 33 2 54 88 63 34

www.sologne-parc-alicourts.com

Domaine de Chales41600 Nouan-le-FuzelierTel:00 33 2 54 95 68 [email protected]

Azureva Sainte Montaine

18700 Sainte-MontaineTel:00 33 2 48 58 08 08

[email protected]

Village Vacances Sologne LVT41600 Nouan-le-FuzelierTel:00 33 2 54 96 17 06

www.lvt-fermedecourcimont.com

Centre Jean MonnetEthicEtapes41200 Romorantin-Lanthenay

Tel:00 33 2 54 76 15 13www.jmonnet-romorantin.com

Ferme des Foucault45240 Menestreau en Villette

Tel: 00 33 2 38 76 94 41www.ferme-des-foucault.com

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Loire-Anjou-TouraineNatural Regional Parc

In the heart of the Loire, a World Heritage Site

Between the cities of Angers and Tours, the confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers influences much of the area of the

Loire-Anjou-Touraine Parc, created in 1996 it is one of the jewels of the Loire Valley and classed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Other than its architectural and historical treasures, the Parc encompasses landscapes and diverse natural habitats of great value.Other

smaller tributaries play their part, the Indre, as well as the Thouet and the Authion where it crosses the Anjou region.There's also the

Vron hedgerows, chalk downs,heaths, forests and even a plain with Little Bustard and Stone Curlew (Champagne de Mron at

Montreuil-Bellay) The Parc organises tourist activities, has various sites open to the public and marked footpaths which help unveil

this natural heritage.

THE ATTRACTIVE VRON

HEDGEROWS

Ancient and extensive forests cover especially the heights of the TouraineSologne plateau, the heathland of Saint-Martin, Breille to the north-eastand Chinon public forest between the Loire and Vienne. Although theforests have been greatly modified by the planting of extensive areas ofconifers, some quite old, it is still of great ecological interest, especiallytrue for the first mentioned that contains many wet areas (lakes, marshes,"mardelles", peat bogs).This particularly explains the presence of breedingBlack Stork, there are also many birds of prey.There is an interesting naturetrail in the parishes of Gizeau and Continvoir. Not far away (outside theParc), the Rill lake (aquatic birds) and the quarry museum at Savign-sur-Lathan (concerned with the "Mer des faluns") are worth the detour.

Both Genet and Wild Cat are present and Red Deer is common hereand in Chinon forest.The latter is however better known for its botanicalinterest, its enclosed, peaty valleys contain rare plant formations dominatedby Ash with Maples where among others are: Herb Paris, Royal Fern

Between the Loire and the Vienne, the hedgerow landscape of Vrondates from the Middle Ages, when the flood meadows were used toadvantage once the river had receded to produce excellent hay for sheepand especially cattle. Despite agricultural decline and planting of stands ofpoplar, these rich meadows are still attractive to an abundant wildlife. Inspring, Pike follow larger drains, full of insects and amphibians, to theirspawning grounds. Black-tailed Godwit,Snipe, Lapwing regularly stop duringtheir migrations. And, from late March, there's an explosion of colour asvarious plants, some rare, come into flower: Fritillary, Common Meadow-rue,Gratiola, Great Burnet which attract many butterflies Whinchat,Grasshopper Warbler, Corn Bunting, Quail, Short-eared Owl, all nest inthe tall grass that is also frequented by the now nationally very rareCorncrake.The Polecat is a frequent host of the hedgerows of Narrow-leaved Ash, English Oak, White Willow and sometimes European WhiteElm, which add to the biodiversity, being used by Little Owl, Hoopoe,Red-backed Shrike and insects such as the rare Rosalia alpina, a beautifullonghorn beetle.

Most of the Loire's natural habitats are found within the Parc,with someinteresting viewpoints,particularly between Brhmont and La Chapelle-sur-loire, at Langeais: sand and gravel banks, tern islands, riparian forests(Noizay), chalk meadows (Bertignolles) There's a good population ofBeaver here that don't hesitate to manage the willows, particularly thelarger trees that otherwise serve as perches for Cormorant and Osprey.There can be as many as 3000 duck and many Cormorants during thewinter between Langeais and Cinq-Mars-La-Pile. The islands are used byduck, waders, gulls (Black-headed, Mediterranean, Common, Herring andYellow-legged) and numerous passerines pass on migration. In summerterns and Little Ringed Plover nest,Grey Heron,Little Egret and Kingfisherfind fish in the puddles left by the receding waters, sometimes making fora comical spectacle. Other than trails set up by the Parc, the"Conservatoire du Patrimoine

Naturel de la Rgion Centre"

owns various sites, parti-cularly in the Langeaisvalley and at Bertignolleswhere it's easy to get toknow plants of the Loireriverside. The banks ofthe Vienne and lowervalley of the Indre arealso of some interest.

THE LOIRE IN TOURAINEAND ANJOU

Bertignolles

FORESTS WHERE

BLACK STORK NESTS

Vron hedgerow

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DRY HEATHS AND MARDELLESThe Parc has extensive heather and gorse heaths including the well knownRuchard heath which has resulted from an early deterioration of the southernpart of Chinon forest during the Middle Ages. Even though a large part of theseheathlands were forested at the end of the 70s and part of the area is used formilitary firing practise, it is of undeniable interest for the naturalist. The small"Touraine Sologne" and the heathland at Saint-Martin in the Touraine Gtine to

the nor th-east of the Parc, that at Saint-Gilles-Villevert in the south-east, and that atBraslou where there's a nature trail, are also of interest. In all, its possible to see no less

than six species of heath (including Besom, Dorset and Cornish Heaths) and birds such asDartford Warbler, Wheatear, Meadow Pipit, Woodlark, Nightjar, Short-eared Owl, HenHarrier The Short-toed Eagle often hunts over this reptile rich environment.These heathsoften contain "mardelles", small more or less peaty depressions that have plants such as

Guernsey Centaury, Pillwort or Marsh Gentiane, even the carnivorous Common Sundew.

THE PUYS DU CHINONAIS IN FULL SUN

Overlooking the Vron alluvial plain by morethan thirty metres, the Puys du Chinonais(according to a local legend) are limestone

outcrops that give for an extremely interestinglandscape and ecology, especially due to theirbeing quickly heated in summer. They're top-ped with Downy Oak and Maritime Pinewoods, some even by a dominating windmill. Inthe past their slopes were planted with vinesbeneath which developed a carpet of interestingplants.The Red Cicada is in its element here, as

are also Rosemary, Wild Sage, Pasque Flower,Bloody Cranesbill, Large-flowered Sandwort,Bohemian Gagea, and Grass-leaved Crowfoot.

Its also possible to find many orchids (Man,Military, Monkey, Violet Birdsnest, Sword-leavedHelleborine) as well as less common insects(some of the Blues). Among bird species themore noteable include Bonelli's Warbler,Hoopoe, Ortolan and Rock Buntings.

Bloody Cranesbill

Loire-Anjou-Touraine Natural Regional Parc

The Loire and VienneTopoguide

9 walks to discover the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Parc naturel rgional. 8

Nature GuideAn insight into the rich natural

history and biological diversityto be found within the Parc. 5

Natural History Documents

For Loire-Anjou-Touraineavailable at the Maison du Parc and tourist offices in the area.

Fritillary

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2008 discovery leafletA guide presenting the various guidedoutings concerning animals, plants,landscape or heritage, groupedby theme.

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IGN mapItineraries for you to walk freely and

discover the most beautiful treasures.6,70 (recommended retail price)


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Information SitesMaison du parc of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine rgional parc

15 avenue de la Loire 49730 Montsoreau

Tel: 00 33 2 41 53 66 00

www.parc-loire-anjou-touraine.fr

The Centre Permanent d'Initiativespour l'EnvironnementTouraine-Val de Loire CPIE

A place to find information, which organizesguided natural history outings, either on footor in a traditional Loire boat.

Abbaye de Seuilly 37500 Seuilly

Tel: 00 33 2 47 95 93 15www.cpie-val-de-loire.org

Observation SitesPuys du Chinonais

Small hills, their slopes are arid due to soil erosion.Interesting species include Hoopoe, BonellisWarbler, Black Woodpecker and Nightjar. Plantsinclude Small Pasque Flower (in March and April)and Creamish Stonecrop (May and June).

The Vron countrysideAn area of wet meadows separated by hedgerowswhich is of particular interest for Corncrake(May and June, especially at night) and Red-backedShrike (July).The Fritillary (with pink, purplesspotted, bell-shaped flowers) can be seen during

April and May.

Bertignolles meadowsA dry meadow habitat covered with short herbaceous

plants. Snipe (August to October) and Common Sandpiper(July to September) are common.The Flowering Rush,flowering from May to July, is characteristic of the area.

Candes portA good place for watching birds moving along the Loire:Common and Little Terns (May to August).The Beaverbreeds on islands and the rivers banks here (May toAugust), some special plants such as Michelis galingale(August to October) grows on the sand bars.

Chinon forestA mixed forest of conifers and deciduous trees, a goodplace for seeing Red Deer (April to October). Outings to

see and hear rutting stags are organized in Septemberand for seeing Sundews in May.

Le lac de RillLake with a surface area of more than 250 hectares,already home to almost 250 bird species.Observator y,botanical trail, signposts at noteworthy observationspoints (all year round).

Interpretation trailsWell signposted and dotted with entertaining, educationalterminals for adults and kids, the trails offer discovery ofthe territor y in themes.

1 BenaisLa double vie du coteau

2 GizeuxLarbre des racines la cime

3Saint-Benot-la-FortDe larbre au bois

4Savigny-en-VronLe Vron, un pays fleur deau

5Villaines-les-RochersIl tait une fois losier

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AccommodationNature and heritage accommodation

Rural gtes (Cottages)reservation via the owner

Hameau de Grzille La Balastire37420 Beaumont-en-Vron

Tel: 00 33 2 47 58 87 93http://balastiere.chez-alice.fr/

Les Duports37420 Rigny-UssTel: 00 33 2 47 95 57 87http://lajuranvillerie.com

via the central reservation office

Tel: 00 33 2 47 27 56 10Or mail :[email protected]

Le Petit Village37220 Avon-les-Roches

La Varenne37120 Chaveignes

La Cave37190 Cheill

Le Chne Feuillet37190 Cheill

La Rouillre37500 Lern

Les Roches Saint Paul37500 Ligr

Le Pommier Aigre37500 St-Benot-la-Fort

Holiday gte (Cottage)La Balonnire37500 St-Benot-la-FortTel: 00 33 2 47 58 02 43

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T

he Loire, France's longest river, inspite of it's

having been controlled since the 12th century,

is the most natural in Europe.Within the Rgion

Centre it describes a large arc from the Bec d'Allier

in the south-east to Candes-Saint-Martin to the

west, at the edge of the Pays de Loire region.

Between flood waters in early spring to an almost

dry riverbed in late summer, from riparian forests

to bare sandbars passing by scrub invaded banks,

the Loire offers many facets.

Its waters have shaped a multitude of natural habitats

and ensured a fertile valley. Other than the Loire-

Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Parc and two

National Nature Reserves within the Rgion Centre,

the Loire harbours many other protected areas

which include special arrangements for visitors.

The riverbank is oftencovered in stands of

White Willow whichform, particularly inthe Berry, real riparianforests: "verdiaux". Noless than five willowspecies, as well as BoxElder and many clim-bers (Hop, HedgeBindweed, Bittersweet,Traveller's Joy, BlackBryony) make-up anoften flooded forest,the

Beaver's habitat. Where humus has accumulatedand Snowdrops, Enchanter's Nightshade and

Common Comfrey flower in spring, growsome hardwood trees ;Alder, English Oak,Elm,Wild Cherry and Narrow-leaved Ash. The

"Loire des les" National Nature Reserve -1 500 ha between la Charit-sur-Loire and

Sancerre, established in 1995 and over 20 kmlong - protects a fine example of riparian forestsas well as other riverside habitats, ten ofEuropean importance. It includes thickets,meadows, sand and gravel bars, with plantssuch as Small Fleabane, Clover Fern, Gratiola,French Figwort, Mouse-ear, Hawkweed, theBloom cytisus purgans Autumn SquillNearly 200 species of bird regularly occur onthe reser ve, Black and Middle SpottedWoodpeckers, Black Kite, Great Grey Shrikeand Wood Lark breed. Bean and GreylagGeese come to graze the meadows in winter,and in spring the Bee-eater is observed. Otter

and Wild Cat are very hard to see.

The Loire at Avoine (37)

In certain ways, the Loire isn't unlike some tropical rivers such as the Gambia or the

Niger with which it shares some plant species.Thus, during times when the river's low,

a multitude of sandbanks appear,warmed by the sun they can pass a surprising 50C.

Black Woodpecker

EuropeanBeaver

REMARKABLE RIPARIAN FORESTSTHE MIDDLE LOIREAND ITS TERN ISLANDS

After Gien and as far as the Touraine, thevalley widens and the river flows more slowly,creating large meanders, and when the waters'slow, vast gravel bars and bare sandy islandsappear: gravel bars at Sully-sur-Loire, Germigny,Beaugency, Chaumont-sur-Loire, les auxmoutons at Montlouis-sur-LoireCommon andLittle Terns andLittle RingedPlover arrive tonest on the

ground. Someislands, such asthat at Sandillonmeander, havecolonies ofB l a c k -he adedand Mediterranean Gulls with a few pairs ofCommon Gull. The Stone Curlew looks forquieter areas, out of sight, and often makes itspresence known by its nocturnal calls. Wherethe vegetation has resisted the floods andwhere trees have taken root, Grey and NightHerons and Little Egret form colonies. Thesefish eating species are joined by another at

summer's end, the Cormorant, that at placessometimes gathers in hundreds (Pointe deCourpain, Ile de Saint-Pryv, Saint-Laurent desEaux) much to the displeasure of anglers.

Little Tern

Europes last unspoilt riverAlong the Loire

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What is less well known, is that the Loire is also a"migration" route for plants ! Along its banks canbe found species that have come down from theMassif Central (the Bloom cytisus purgans,HoaryAlison, French Figwort) and others that havecrossed the Atlantic (Box-elder, Water Fern,Evening Primrose...). Botanists estimate that morethan a hundred new species have colonized theriver's banks in this way since the start of the lastcentury. On mud left dry by the falling water, it'spossible to find Brown Galingale and MichelsGalingale that can also be found in Senegal andNiger Moving sand and gravel are the habitat ofGoosefoots, Strapwort and Edible Galingale.

Knowledgeable botanists also know how to findinteresting species here, Annual Lupin, and otheroften tiny species that for many go unseen.Entomologists look for dragonflies such as Club-tailed,Yellow-legged Club-tailed and the rare Green Club-tailedDragonflies that hardly strays from the river.

The Loire is a major migration route for many species. Firstly for fish: Salmon,Allis and Twaite Shads and Sea Lamprey swim upstream to reach their

spawning grounds,and Eel that move the other way. Many migrating birdsalso follow the greatriver.There are hirundines,particularly the SandMartin which has manycolonies along theriver. Various passerines(chats, warblers, Night-ingale . .. ) apprec ia tecover afforded byHawthorn, Blackthorn,Dog Rose or Elderbushes, others (thrushes,B l ac k bi r d, L i nn e t,

buntings, Bullfinch...) appreciate their sun ripened fruits and berries.Themovements of many of these species has been studied for many yearsat the Saint-Pryv - Saint-Mesmin nature reserve near Orleans.Waders andduck also use this flyway,and it's followed by Osprey. Many halt for a timeallowing for easier observation, whilst some stay the winter movingbetween Sologne and the river.

ON THE BANKS, A COSMOPOLITANVEGETATION

MIGRATORY FISH AND BIRDS

Flowering Rush

ON THE FLOOD MEADOWS

Although not exactly river-side, this national naturereserve (275 ha) in PetiteBeauce,some ten kilometresnorth of Blois, is worththe detour. It is essentiallya chalk meadow, similar tothe sides of the Loire( a r ou n d S a nc e r re ,Briare). Grazed by sheep since neolithic

times, it looks over theCisse valley, a smalltributar y of the Loire .More than 400 speciesof plant have beenidentified here, including Pasque Flower, LargeSelf-heal,White Rock-rose, Spurge Laurel,Autumn Squill and many orchidspecies: Bee, Early Spider, Burnt, Green-winged Many insects also occurand include Praying Mantis, butterflies (Adonis Blue, Clouded Yellow),reptiles (Asp Viper, Smooth Snake, Green Lizard). The Badger is alsocommon on the reserve.

GRAND PIERRE AND VITAIN

NATIONAL NATURE RESERVEAreas of couch-grass meadows in the valley where water has receded,are especially attractive to Linnet, Goldfinch, Tree Pipit, Wood Lark andmany insects: Stick Insect, Praying Mantis, Great Green Bush-cricket, aswell as the Hoplia caerulea - a superb bright blue scarab beetle, the maleis easily identified by its bright sky-blue colour. Plants of dry sand such as

Meadow Saxifrage,C o m m o nWintercress, Rest-harrow, Tansy orRagwort grow andattract butterfies.Locally, hair-grass

meadows form overlarge areas of sand.Among commonplants to be foundthere are: FieldW o r m w o o d ,Deptford Pink,Hoary Alison, Field

Eryngo as well as Hoary Cinquefoil, Jersey Thrift, Sand SpurreyIts the haunt of the Blue-winged Grasshopper, easily told from the colourof its wings, the Digger WaspAmmophila sabulosathat captures live preyand delivers them paralysed to its larvae, and the brightly coloured Tigerbeetles.

PasqueFlower

Green Tiger Beetle

Osprey

Along the Loire, Europes last unspoilt river

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In certain par ts of the forest, Service Tree of Fontainebleau,Moschatel, Solid-tubered Corydalis, Alpine Squill and Bilberry

can be found. The Orleans forest conceals other treasures -Provence Rose, Heath Cudweed, Lesser Quaking Grass - theirsometimes only one known site are kept secret. Badger, PineMartin, Polecat, Wild Cat and several bat species occur in themany undisturbed areas. Banks exposed to the sun in summerare much appreciated by insects. Many naturalists are surprisedto find such plants as Arnica, Moon Carrot, Pyramidal Bugle orSenecio adonisolium, an everpresent witness to the Cevene originof the substrate. Several rare dragonfly species fly near lakesideson peaty heaths: Scarce Emerald Damselfly, Two-spotted andGolden-winged Dragonflies, Brilliant Emerald and Bulbous White-faced Darter, recently discovered by local naturalists.

A natural heritage

A recent survey revealed the presenceof at least 730 higher plant species, 375fungi and and some 50 mosses. Also 39species of mammal, 181 species of birdof which 121 nest,14 amphibians includingYellow-bellied Toad and 8 reptiles.

SPECIES ORIGINALITY AND DIVERSITY

The most spectacular component of theforest's natural history is without doubt aremarquable number of Booted Eagles,several pairs of Short-toed Eagles and a fewpairs of Osprey. The hide at Ravoir, open tothe public, makes their observation easier.TheOrleans forest is also home to the six speciesof lowland woodpeckers found in France aswell as Woodcock, Wryneck, Nightjar, Greyand Pied Flycatchers, Crested Tit, Bonelli'sWarbler and Nightingale. Curlew, Hoopoeand Crossbill can also be found. Other birds ofprey occur, of the more interesting are BlackKite, Goshawk, Honey Buzzard, Hen Harrierand Hobby.

Largely situated on sand and acidclays of Sologne, the southernpart is on the slopes of the Loirevalley and here and there arechalk soils of the Beauce.Enlarged on its borders by privatewoodland, meadows with hedge-

rows, agricultural scrub and largelakes, it's diversity of species isalso increased due to areas ofheath, ponds and firebreaks.

A MOSAIC OF NATURAL HABITATS

The ancient Loges forest, as it is still sometimes called, once covered some

200 000 ha before the Romans conquered Gaul, and still 140 000 ha inthe Middle Ages.

Osprey

Short-toedEagle

THREE LARGE SPECIESOF BIRDS OF PREY !

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Like a large jewel on the side of the Loire, the Orleans forest hugs its northern banks for more than 60 km between Gien andOrleans.The largest public forest in France (37 700 ha) is made up of three parts - from east to west, Lorris, Ingrannes and

Orleans. It harbours a remarkable natural history.With a little luck, three rare species of birds of prey may be seen on the same

spring morning.

The Orleans forest,the domain of large birds of prey

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1The Cher Maison de la Loirede Belleville/LoireTours

2Arboretum des Barres3

The LoiretMaison de la LoireJargeau4

Office Nationaldes Forts (ONF)Boigny-sur-Bionne

Orlans

5Maisonde la Nature

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The Loir-et-Cher Maison de la LoireSaint Dy

7BloisObservatoire Loire

8The Indre-et-LoireMaison de la Loire

Montlouis-sur-Loire

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Ile de RochecorbonLa Ville-aux-Dames

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Ile deBondsir

3 The Longerolebotanical trailVallires-les-Grandes

4Ile de la FolieChaumont-sur-Loire

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Nature trailBeaugency

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Rserve NaturelledeSaint Pryv-Saint Mesmin

7Belvdre

desCaillettesNibelle

8 Mandre de GuillyP 9 Between the embankmentsSaint Pre-sur-LoireP

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Ravoir observatoryOuzouer sur Loire

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Nogent-sur-Vernisson

12The Ile Gaston

Chtillon-sur-Loire

13Iles de BonnyBonny-sur-Loire

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14Gargaude Islands

Mntrol-sous-Sancerre

15Les SauliresRserve Naturelledu Val de LoireHerry

Vienne

Loches

Vendme

Loir

RomorantinCher

Loire

Chteaudun

Pithiviers

Montargis

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Conservatoiredu PatrimoineNaturel dela Rgion Centre

Nature outings in the Loire ValleyandOrleans Forest

Information sitesThe Cher Maison de la LoireBelleville sur Loire

Tel: 00 33 2 48 72 57 32 [email protected]

Barres arboretumNogent-sur-Vernisson


The Loiret Maison de la LoireJargeau


Office National des Forts(ONF) Orlans

Parc technologique Orlans Charbonnire

45760 Boigny-sur-BionneTel: 00 33 2 38 65 02 87 [email protected]

Maison de la Nature (LoiretNature Environnement)

64 Route d'Olivet Orlans

Tel: 00 332 385669 84 [email protected]

The Loir-et-Cher Maison de laLoire StDy-sur-Loire


Observatoire Loire Blois4 rue VauvertTel: 00 33 2 54 56 09 24 www.observatoire-loire.asso.fr

The Indre-et-Loire Maison de laLoire Montlouis-sur-Loire


Conservatoire du PatrimoineNaturel de la Rgion Centre

Tel: 00 33 2 38 77 02 72

[email protected]

Observation sitesIle de RochecorbonLa Ville aux Dames

More wooded habitat (grassland). Interpretation trailwith information posts and an general explanatorysignboard.Access : well sign-posted on man roads.

Ile de Bondsir - Montlouis-sur-Loire

A mosaic of natural habitats typical of the middle rea-ches of the Loire. In spring look for the Hoary Alisonand Red Dead-nettle. In spring or summer gulls, ternsand Little Ringed Plover breed along the banks. InSeptember, the plants re-colonise the uncovered sandbars before theyre once again covered by the r iver,look for: Common Evening Primrose,Thorn-Appleand Mudwort. Birds return,; Lapwing,Teal, Pochars,Snipe and plovers.Access : opposite the Maison de la Loire at Montlouis-sur-

Loire (sign-posted from the centre of Montlouis).

The Longerole botanical trailVallires-les-Grandes

A 2 km / 11/4 mile circuit, in the Amasse valley, woodedhillside and meadows. An in situ presentation of the

wild plants along a river et plantations of forestrytrees.From 1stApril to 1st November. Free.

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Ile de la FolieChaumont sur Loire

A real natural arboretum where hardwoods and

softwoods grow side by side.At all seasons its possible

to see how animals use the different wood : the Beaver

fells trees and feeds on the bark, woodpeckers dig

out the nesting hole, Red Squirrels and Pine Martins

eat the fruits and certain insects, such as Rose Chaffer

help it to decompose.

Access: via the D751 road, on the left bank of the Loire

some 700 metres below the Chaumont-sur-Loire Chateau.

Nature trailRives de Beaugency

56 species of bird breed, from April onwards, Little

and Common terns, Black-headed and

Mediterranean Gulls are over the islands (protected

by a local order from May to mid-August).The

Beaver can be seen, 293 species of insect have been

identified including Hoplia caerulea and there are

many interesting plants:Tower Mustard, Broad-leaved

Spurge, Squirreltail Fescue, Glaucous Hair-grass

Access: the site is reached from the southern end of

the Beaugency bridge, which is the best place for looking

over the tern islands.The car park is the other side of

the bridge at the entrance to Beaugency camp site.

Pointe de Courpain national naturereserve - St Pryv St Mesmin

Where the Loiret meets the Loire. Large diversity of

natural habitats, 500 species of plant identified,

European Beaver present and numerous migrant birds

occur, some interesting dragonflies and beetles.

Interpretation trail.

Belvdre des Caillettes NibelleThe highest point of the Orleans forest, the 24

metre high all wood belvedere is built on the butteaux cailles and offers a magnificent panoramic view

of the area, with an orientation table.

Year-round, access information:Tel: 00 33 2 38 33 92 68

Ile aux canes nature trail GuillyA circuit near the Loire opposite the Saint-Benot

Basilica in an area of outstanding natural interest:505

plant species identified, including Jersy Buttercup; 6 spe-

cies of Amphibians including Parsley Frog and Great

Crested Newt.Many birds make a halt in spring :

Osprey, Grenshank, Little Egret or Grey Heron. Beaver

occurs, its more often seen in the evening.There are

also many insects, including:Marsh Fritillary,Yellow-leg-

ged Club-tailed Dragonfly and Stag Beetle.

Access: from the Croix Tibi (sign-posted from

Gilly centre), continue along the embankment.

Between the embankmentsSt Pre-sur-Loire

119 species of plant have been identified and more

than 460 animal species are known to occur. Insects are

the most numerous,with: 18 species of cricket and

grasshopper, 36 species of butterfly including Marsh

Fritillary and Marbled White, the latters caterpillar

found on grass; the smart black and red Spurge

Hawkmoth caterpillar is found here on Cypress Spurge.

Access: the site entrance is next to Saint-Pre-sur-Loire

camp site.

Ravoir observatory - Maisonforestire d'Ouzouer-sur-Loire

(Carrefour de la Rsistance)A site for watching and understanding Osprey, from the

tang de Ravoir hide, commentary and observation

instruments provided.

Throughout the year,presence of a guide from May to

July,access information:Tel.00 33 2 38 56 69 84

Barres ArboretumNogent-sur-Vernisson

Here, on 35 hectares, is one of the most important collec-

tions of trees and bushes originating from the northern

hemisphere.An impor tant site for the observation and

study of birds,insects, fungi, wild orchids

41/2km / 23/4 mile interpretation trial. Open 1st April to

1st November

Ile Gaston Chtillon-sur-Loire

An ancient island covered in a varied riverine forest

with some of the very rare European White Elm. In

the shade of the oaks and ashes the rare and pro-

tected Holly Fern can be found. As early as the end

of winter, Ground Ivy and Lesser Celandine cover the

floor, where the large abdomened beetle Meloe vio-laceus can be found. In spring Burnt Orchids flower

in clearings and Autumn squill at the end of summer

and on dry grassland. The works of the Beaver can

be seen along the Folie stream which crosses the

site.

Access: Enter by following the side of the Loire from

lcluses des Mantelots at Chtillon-sur-Loire.

Les Iles de Bonny -Bonny-sur-Loire

The Iles de Bonny are part of a ring of temporary islands

on the Loire. Set between the Loire and Cheuille, the natu-

ral fields on these islands are home to a highly diversified

plant life with 270 species listed,such as the Loire sedge and

the autumn scilla,two protected species.The site is rich in

plant life partly because of the presence - even over small

areas - of meadows,ponds and mud where the small flea-

bane grows - a plant protected nationally.This site, protected

by the Conservatory in partnership with the town of

Bonny-sur-Loire,has a walking trail.

Access: from the centre of Bonny-sur-Loire, take the tunnel

under the N7 road or head towards the campsite.

Gargaude Islands Mntrol-sous-Sancerre

Mosses and lichens grow on the dry grassland giving a

desert like appearance, where Sheepsbit Scabious and

White Stonecrop grow.The discreet Grey Hair-grass

forms small mauve tufts in June and July. Riverine forest

covers the rest of the site with White and Almond

Willows where its possible to find the very large lon-

ghorn beetle Cerambyx cerdo,nesting Black Kite and

various woodpeckers (Great Spotted,Black).

Access: from Martinaterie , near Couargues, cross the Le

Moule river towards the banks of the Loire.

Les sables and les mardelles(Les Saulires) - Herry

In spring a site for newts (from May to October)

and dragonflies, including Banded Demoiselle.

Annual plants, such as Strapwort, Brown and

Michellis Galingale develop on the uncovered sand

bars in August and September, adapted to very hot

conditions. Some animals are very well camouflagedin this habitat, the large yellow-eyed Stone Curlew is

a good example.

Access: from the centre of Herr y , go up the D187

towards Les Valles, continue towards

the Loire on the Chemin rural

(public footpath) des Sables.

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The Cano-Kayak Comit Regionaldu Centre (Centre regionscanoe/kayak board)Ten different ideas for travelling on the Loire in Nivre

and Cher departments. Price : 4 From the Comit

de Cano-Kayak du Centre.

Tel: 00 33 2 38 49 88 80

Natural History DocumentsIn Val de Loire and Orleans Forest

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AccommodationDue to the very large numberof places that provide tourist accommodation in thearea (Val de Loire and Orleans Forest), we suggestyour contacting any of the following organisations

for the necessary information.

Bed and Breakfast, Gites:Gtes de France de Loir-et-CherTel: 00 33 2 54 58 81 64

Internet: www.gites-de-france-blois.com

Gtes de France du Loiret:Tel: 00 33 2 38 78 04 00

Internet: www.gites-de-france-loiret.com

Gtes de France de Touraine:Tel: 00 33 2 47 27 56 10

Internet: www.gites-touraine.com

Comit Rgional de Tourismedu Centre (The Rgion Centre Tourist Board)Tel. : 00 33 2 38 79 95 00Internet : www.visaloire.com

A Chateau welcome(Bed and Breakfast accommodation in a Chateau)Document can be downloaded on the site :www.bienvenueauchateau.com

Natural History Agenda 2008List of nature outings, fairs and exhibitions.

Published by the Loiret Nature Environnement.

Free Renseignements: 00 33 2 38 56 69 84

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O nly an hour away from Paris, it's easy to become attached to the charming Perche Region. In exploring its small valleys, itssunken lanes bordered with luxuriant hedgerows, its flowering orchards full of bird song, it's sometimes difficult to imagine thatthis idyllic, managed landscape was formed by a turbulent geological past.

Gradually cutting back the forest to create feeding for their draft horses, man

has modelled this countryside in a way that it has become the pride of all its

inhabitants.Also containing a remarkable architectural heritage, the Perche

which became a Regional Natural Parc in 1998, has thus decided to preserve

and bring out the best of its heritage.

The Perche, wild hedgerows

Here the forest benefitsfrom an influencialoceanic climate whichexplainsthe presence oflarge forests, on theplateau to the northof the Parc (Fert-Vidme, Senonches,C h a m b o r d ,M o nt c t , B o isLandry).Crossed by theGR 35 markedhikers trail,this arc-

shaped stretch of forestis characterised by the presence of mixed oakand beech woods with some holly, or oak andhornbeam woods, with their carpet of floweringplants in spring, species include: Woodruff,Bluebell , Spiked Star of Bethlehem, Oxalis,Isopyrun, Common Wintergreenand even Bilberry ! Red and RoeDeer, Wild Boar and Pine Martininhabit these cool woods. Manyinteresting birds occur includingwoodpeckers (Black, Grey-headed,Middle Spotted) and birds of prey(Goshawk, Honey Buzzard, HenHarrier).The Wild Cat and BlackStork occur but are both very difficultto see. The forests of the Perche,like those of Senonches,are howeverbetter known for their botanicalinterest. More than 1100 species offungi have been identified, some extremelyrare !

EXTENSIVE FORESTS,A MUSHROOM SEEKERS PARADISE

Wood-sorrel

Pine-Martin

Only part of the Perche is within the Rgion Centre, it

extends a long way to the west.

Violent geological accidents have sometimes upliftedthe ground, sometimes made abysses, forming abruptsided valleys,the "cuestas".It's these "cuestas",includingthe "cnomanienne cuestas" that have scared theregion throughout. Over centuries, erosion has steadilyworked on these escarpments,scoured the valleys,roundedthe plateaus into hills that are today covered in extensiveforests, all that is left of the ancestral "Sylvia Pertica".

A TURBULENT GEOLOGICAL PAST

AFairyClubClavariafungus

A still unknown natural heritageAlthough much of the natural history is stillnot fully studied, the Perche NaturalRegional Parc is already known to havemore than 1100 species of vascular plants,

of which 140 are protected. 185 species ofbirds have been recorded, of which 113breed, along with 47 mammals,14 amphibiansand 10 reptiles. As for the insects, they have

yet to be numbered but several interesting specieshave been found: Bronze-coloured Groundbeetle and the splendid longhorn beetleRosalia alpina.

THE WEALTH OF THE HEDGEROWS

Hedgerows are favourable for observing many bird species and becomingfamiliar with their songs: Hoopoe, Hawfinch,Wryneck, Little Owl,GoldenOriole, Cuckoo, Redstart, Spotted Flycatcher,Tree Pipit, SparrowhawkThe best way to watch the hedgerows is to walk along the sunken lanesand maybe surprise a Weasel or the shyer Beech Martin. At least itspossible to look at their tracks on the ground, along with those of RoeDeer and Badger. Butterflies are numerous here, and rotting trees hideStag Beetle, Rose Chaffer and other scarab beetles. Other trees provide

excellent shelter for bats.The occasional pond is home to newts,toads andfrogs.The watchful naturalist may find Green or Sand Lizards,AesculapianSnake or Asp Viper, all on the nor thern edge of their ranges.

Pair of Green Lizards

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THE CUESTA SPRINGS,ALDER WOODSAND PEAT BOGS

Water seeps into the sandy soil to reappear assprings, here and their creating peat bogs andAlder woods where Marsh and Royal Ferns,and more rarely Marsh Cinqfoil grow. Eaten byinsects and fungi, ancient trees attract LesserSpotted Woodpecker and tits (Crested,Willow, Marsh). In the open peaty mea-dows several orchid species grow, MarshHelleborine, Loose-flowered, Early MarshIts here that its worth looking for Clover Fern,Common Butterwort, cotton-grasses, MarshArrow-grass and Grass of Parnassus.ViviparousLizard, Snipe and many species of dragonfly,

some rare, also use these habitats.The Frouxpeat bog at Manou haspublic visiting facilitieswhich allow some ofthese species to be easilyobserved.

Bogbean

To the east of Nogent le Rotrou (Les Etilleux,Vichres, Brunelles, Coudreceau), the hills offer a

good viewpoint across the hedgerows and typical Perche villages. Its easy enough to guess wherethe deep shady valleys lie,within which flow the Berthe and the Cloche, two small charming rivers.

On their steep sides, under maples and limes, many splendidferns find their habitat: Holly Fern, Soft Shield Fern and therare often mountain dwelling Scaly Male Fern They growalongside Butcher's Broom, Bulbous Corydalis , Alpine Squilland close to water Opposite-leaved Golden Saxifrage andHerb Paris. The Badger occupies the quieter valleys.The moreclear cool waters are home to fish species such as BrownTrout, Bullhead, and to the rare White-clawed Crayfish, allwatched attentively by the Kingfisher and Grey Wagtail.

FORESTS OF RAVINESAND FERNS

The Perche also has several lakes, thePerruchet lakes that are looked over from thearea called Froid Vent, and Chnegu lake nearArgenvilliers, are among the more interestingfor birds. The first, in spring, are home to acolony of Black-headed Gull and Black-neckedGrebe. In winter aquatic birds occur on all the

lakes: Grey Heron, Great Crested Grebe,

Pochard, Tufted Duck, Wigeon, Pintail ,Gadwall,Teal Migrants pass too:Osprey,manywaders (Black-ta iled Godwit , Cur lew,Lapwing, Golden Plover). Benette lake, onthe edge of Senonches forest, is better knownfor its plants: Shoreweed, Pillwort, Floatingand Lesser Water-plantains,Fringed Water-lily

WELL FREQUENTED LAKES

adger

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The Perche

NaturalHistoryDocuments

In the Perche areaAvailable from the Maison du Parc

Perche tourist guideA practical guide giving informationon the natural and cultural heritagethat characterize the area (fauna,flora, habitats, buildings, history with suggestions for short stays)and all necessary information

concerning leisure activities, sites open to thepublic, accommodation, producers of local

specialities and handicrafts open to the public, etc.

Perche ProgrammeEvery three months you can find more thanthirty nature events and courses supervisedby instructors in the Perche Programme.

Le Perche, Trsor de NaturePublished at the initiative of the park, "Le Perche,trsors de nature" is a book born of the com-

mitment to promote the natural riches of thePerche and to raise awareness about its greatbeauty and fragility.

This book is on sale in bookshops and at the shopof the Maison du Parc. Editions Hess, texts and photographsby Stphane Perera.

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Observation sitesThe Mousseuses wet forestLa Fert-Vidame

A large variety of different types of tree, many withwoodpecker holes; they and other hole-nesting speciesare common in the Perches forests.The impressive sphagnummounds are another point of interest.Heather andMoor-grass can be seen growing, Common Frog,AlpineNewt and Salamander are more difficult to find.Variousbirds such as Chaffinch, Blackcap, Blue Tit and Nuthatchwill be heard.A specially prepared trail. About 2 km(11/4 miles) long, the trail allows the visitor to have an easywalk to discover the wildlife of the forest.With luck itspossible to see Black and Grey-headed Woodpeckers andShort-toed Treecreeper.

Froux peatbog - ManouA very interesting site for characteristic plants of northernPerche wooded peat habitats. Blankets of Sphagnum (thepeatbog moss) give the area a strange appearance, as wellas the Purple Moor-grass that forms large mounds, calledtouradon locally. Its easy to see the impressively large,rare and protected Royal Fern that grows along the banksof the stream. Other species of interest that occurinclude;Viviparous Lizard, butterflies such as MeadowBrown, and Queen of Spain Fritillary. All the commonerspecies of forest birds are also present.A 1,5 km (1 mile) circular trail can be used tovisit the site.

Benette lake - SenonchesA very interesting site botanically with Shoreweed andFloating Water-plantain, the diversity of plants supportsnumerous aquatic and woodland floor insects.Near thelake a toad-pass has been built; this allows amphibians(some nationally protected species) to cross the road inspring to their breeding grounds without risk of being runover.Kingfisher, Little Grebe, Grey Heron and Coot can be seenon the lake. Several rare species occur in the surroundingforest:Black Stork, Black,Grey-headed and Middle-spottedWoodpeckers and Goshawk.

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Information sitesThe Perche regional park

Manoir de Courboyer - 61340 Noc

At the Maison du Parc booklets are available for you to discover

Les Mousseuses Forest and the peat bog of Les Froux.

Presence and information

Tel : 00 33 2 33 25 70 10www.parc-naturel-perche.fr

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Nature outings in the Perche region

AccommodationBed and Breakfast

AssociationDestination Perchewww.destinationperche.com

Manoir de la Motte

28340 La Fer t VidameTel: 00 33 2 37 29 15 9200 33 6 22 15 00 70

[email protected]

Rural gtes (Cottages)by direct reservation

La Mtairie du Manoirde Courcelles28330 Coudray au PercheTel: 00 33 2 37 29 15 92

[email protected]://manoir-de-courcelles.com

Le Grand Village28250 La FramboisireTel: 00 33 2 37 37 82 62

La Grande Pihoudire28480 La Croix du PercheTel: 00 33 2 37 84 01 02

through the reservation centre :00 33 2 37 84 01 02www.resinfrance.com

La Cencive28250 Senonches

Laudigerie28250 Senonches

Le Chteau de Buffalo28250 La Framboisire

L'pinay28340 La Chapelle Fortin

M et Mme Boucard28250 La Saucelle

HotelsLa Pomme de Pin **28250 SenonchesTel: 00 33 2 37 37 76 62

[email protected]

Les Valles du Perche **28480 VichresTel: 00 33 2 37 29 47 58

Htel du Perche28400 Nogent-le-Rotrou

Tel: 00 33 2 37 43 53 60

Camp SitesCamping municipalde la Fort **28340 La Fer t VidameTel: 00 33 2 37 37 64 00

[email protected]

Camping municipalde Senonches **28250 SenonchesTel: 00 33 2 37 37 94 63

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