This natural area of national and international importance, classified as a Natura 2000, RAMSAR site and Z.I.C.O., has been a 5661-hectare National Game and Wildlife Reserve since 1977. Over 310 species of birds can be observed throughout the year, depending on the migration season.
On site, you can take advantage of numerous outings, events and courses organized by guides and members of the Ligue de Protection des Oiseaux.
Which species can be observed at Lac du Der?
To make your search easier, we’ve grouped the species into 2 main families. Discover their descriptions, their habits and everything you need to know to observe them.
Discover the wide variety ofmigratory birds, from the smallest to the largest, that stop here.
The Lac du Der in Champagne is located on a north-east-south-west axis linking Northern Europe to Spain and North Africa, an ideal migration corridor for many species.
From insectivores to granivores, of all sizes, solitary or in groups, the birds that take up residence on the lake find everything they need to feed and reproduce.
Great travelers such as the Barn Swallow and the Whooper Swan come here, and you can watch these numerous birds on the lake or ponds.
Ash Cranes 3Many birds from the south come here to breed or stop over.
At the beginning of October, the migration phenomenon is more intense and visible, in particular with the large flights of Common Cranes.
Heron CendreA large number of birds live in and around the Lac du Der all year round, and that’s a good reason for a nature outing!
A veritable oasis of reeds, ponds, forests and meadows, Lac du Der is a place where birdlife can flourish and live in peace.
It is a site of international importance, a sanctuary for species considered rare or threatened at regional, national or European level.
Over 140 species of birds can be observed here all year round.
Here are just a few of the species you can regularly observe…
