'One of the Hidden Gems of France'

'The Ariege is one of the hidden gems of France with its rolling hills, mixed farmland and deciduous woodlands. In one afternoon, we saw more than 50 species of birds, four species of reptiles and hundreds of insects. It really is a naturalists' paradise'.
Iolo Williams, Naturalist.


We assisted Iolo and his Aden Productions team to film
Bee-eaters and local wildlife in the Leze Valley in May 2011. 
The Ariege

​Due in part to small-scale, traditional farming, the Ariege has an abundance of wildlife.  On the edge of the Mediterranean distribution, with such species as Bee-eaters, Hoopoe, Golden Oriole and Rollers, plus farmland, wetland, woodland and high mountain species, there is a huge diversity of birds in particular here in the Ariege.  In addition, there are the Spring & Autumn migrations over the Pyrenees, plus the later movement of Cranes.  Permanent residents such as the Bearded Vulture, Griffon and Golden Eagle are frequently observed throughout the year.  Booted & Short-toed Eagles plus Egyptian Vultures are 'relatively common' during the Summer months.  We observed Ospreys transiting the Pyrenees in Sep.  There are a number of gravel pits with associated wildfowl, Night Herons, Great Egrets, numerous waders plus a permanent Stork rehabilitation colony. 

The Ariege tends to be 'off the normal map' in terms of tourism and wildlife tours.  This is a mistake because it is a magical location but in many ways it's obscurity is a blessing as the Ariege still retains its charm, character & wildness.  Discover it for yourself, with our guiding hand.

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