The marmot was introduced to the Ardèche 1/2 century ago. Historically, there were no marmots in the Massif Central; their introduction dates back to the 1980s in the Mézenc massif. The introduction of marmots was justified by a number of objectives. A) to diversify the biological diversity of an
Semi-wild goats in the Ardèche gorges Goats have been roaming the gorges of the Ardèche for almost 50 years. Formerly domesticated, they now live in a semi-wild state, or at least in complete freedom. From a herd abandoned to its fate, they roam not far from the Pont d’Arc. They can even be
Did you know that there are beavers in the Ardèche? Their numbers are increasing significantly. They are even colonising certain torrential rivers. Beavers can be found in the Ardèche and Ibie gorges, as well as in the Beaume and Bésorgue gorges. They can even be seen on the Rieu Grand, not far
The cicada, a mythical insect of the Mediterranean region A mythical insect of the Mediterranean region, the cicada feeds on the sap of trees and shrubs, which it collects with its proboscis under its head. In July and August, their singing livens up Mas de la Fontenette. This 4-star holiday rental
Beekeeping in the Ardèche Julien de la Rocca, mountain leader and beekeeper, member of Ardèche Randonnées, takes us on a hike in the Ardèche to discover his beehives. He lives at the foot of the Ardèche mountains, aboveAubenas, not far from Mas de la Fontenette, a 4-star holiday cottage with
Griffon vultures in the Ardèche The griffon vulture has been making a comeback in the Ardèche over the last few decades. Like all birds of prey, it is a protected species. It uses updrafts to fly without even flapping its wings, even when taking off, often launching itself from the edge of a cliff
A mythical insect Originally native to Africa, the praying mantis is a well-represented insect in the Mediterranean region. It is called “religious” because of its front legs, which it folds up as if to pray when it is on the lookout for prey. Characteristics of the praying mantis
The little owl, a tiny owl The little owl is a tiny owl about the size of a large blackbird. This one, an Ardéchois, is a young bird that has just fledged. Its egrets are not visible when it flattens them and its plumage looks like bark. This is a camouflage technique. The Petit Duc at Mas de la
The green lizard in the Ardèche Smaller than the ocellated lizard, the green lizard is very shy. However, it is quite common in the Ardèche. You’re likely to see it at Mas de la Fontenette in the Gorges de l’Ardèche, hunting insects next to the infinity pool. It can also be seen at the
