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Birdwatching

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Where to go to watch birds in the Gulf of Morbihan?

The Gulf du Morbihan is one of the major sites for bird watching in France. Islets, mudflats, coastal marshes, bocages, moors and wooded areas are all natural environments that favour the abundance and diversity of animal and plant species. About 200 species of birds are counted each year. Between 80,000 and 120,000 water birds winter from October to February on the coastal fringe of the Regional Natural Park.

1 booklet, 9 observation points

To find the best places to see birds, the Regional Natural Park of the Gulf du Morbihan has produced a booklet entitled “Where to see birds?”. This 28-page document lists 9 observation “spots” around the Gulf of Morbihan. Download it below or go to one of the tourist information offices of the Gulf of Morbihan. The observation booklet is also available in English.

Guides to download

Get to know the guests of these places!

The best spots to spy on our feathered friends!

Here are 6 of the 9 spots highlighted by the Regional Natural Park of the Gulf of Morbihan…

Here are 6 of the 9 spots highlighted by the Regional Natural Park of the Gulf of Morbihan…

Created in 1996, the reserve covers 530 hectares of mudflats, salt meadows, former saltworks and wet meadows. Today it is a fundamental place for discovering the birds of the Gulf of Morbihan (ofcks, terns, and many species of waders), and the fauna and flora of the marshes. 220 species of birds have already been recorded in the reserve. It is also a migratory stopover for almost all species of shore birds visiting Western Europe. There are two possibilities for visitors to visit the reserve: guided or free tours.

More: réserve ornithologique des marais de Séné

Marais de Lasné at Saint-Armel

Classified as Sensitive Natural Spaces of the department of Morbihan since 1978, these former saltworks have regained all their former glory since 2003 with the restoration of saltworks and the creation of a quiet zone. Two shellfish farmers are also installed there and use some of the ponds. This diversity of environments and uses provides a quality site for the birds.

Suscinio Marsh in Sarzeau

Under the reflection of the famous Castle of the Ofkes of Brittany, nearly 200 hectares of former saltworks, marshes and reed beds line the dune barrier. Free-access paths allow you to discover the site.

Duer marshes at Sarzeau (observatories)

The ornithological reserve of the Duer, located in the municipality of Sarzeau, is an ideal place to observe the habits and customs of our feathered friends. Two observatories are freely accessible all year round to watch passing birds and those who have established their main residence there! Binoculars are highly recommended.

Huelfaut and Hayo woods in Elven

This forestation is one of the best sites to hear and see the discrete Black Woodpecker and three other species of woodpecker. A network of small paths makes it easy to stroll under the canopy of tall beeches. On the heights of the Gulf, the birds are unobtrusive. Keep your ears and eyes open.

Caesar’s camp at Monterblanc-Saint Avé

On the heights of the Gulf of Morbihan, a network of paths and trails enables you to discover this natural environment, calm and green, with the scent of gorse and landiers. Although water birds watching does not require any particular talent, it is quite different for the birds in the woods, the bocage and the heath. So here’s to your trained ears and eyes!

Bird watching with David Lédan

The Rhuys Peninsula is a remarkable playground for David. This ornithological guide at the service of the Parc Naturel Régional (PNR) of the Gulf of Morbihan was for a long time at the forefront of advancing the classification project. No wonder he is now in charge of the ornithological part: “My role is to ensure the balance between tourist and economic development but also the preservation of the biodiversity of the areas”. David Lédan is also a talented wildlife photographer whose work captured with a telephoto lens are regularly exhibited on the Rhuys Peninsula.

Follow the guide!

Discover the next dates of the ornithological excursions proposed by the Tourist Office and David Lédan:  consult the agenda.

Continue your visit of the Gulf of Morbihan

  • Breton Experience: Birdwatching with David Lédan
  • The NRP blog: Follow the news on the birds of the Gulf