On the Bassin d’Arcachon, in the heart of the Leyre Delta, the Réserve ornithologique du Teich offers visitors nature outings to observe wild birds. Some years, almost 300,000 birds pass through this wild setting, including several rare species such as the Black Swan, Stilt Sandpiper and White-throated Bluebird. Welcome to Terra Incognita!
A privileged site for observing migratory birds in Gironde
On the edge of the Arcachon Basin, just a stone’s throw from the Ker Helen campsite in Gironde, the Réserve ornithologique du Teich covers 110 hectares of forests, reedbeds, meadows, maritime marshes and lagoons. Located on one of Western Europe’s most important migration routes, the Le Teich ornithological reserve has been specially designed to welcome wild birds and encourage public observation. Visitors come not only to observe the birds, but also to stroll along the 6 km-long marked trail. Observation huts line the route, offering a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the reserve’s birds and wildlife. Guides are on hand at all times to help visitors discover the reserve, its history and its natural riches. On a self-guided or guided tour, allow a minimum of 3 to 4 hours for the entire reserve.
Birds seen at Le Teich
Recognized as an area of international importance, the Réserve ornithologique du Teich is a veritable paradise for birds and birdwatchers, populated by over 320 different species. Depending on the year, up to 300,000 birds may pass through the reserve. In summer and winter alike, they find ideal conditions for feeding, resting and breeding.
The reserve is a prime observation site for the Eurasian Spoonbill, the Great Egret and the Petit Gravelot. Among the rare and protected feathered guests whose presence might go unnoticed are the Stilt Sandpiper, the Eleonora’s Falcon and the White-throated Bluebird. It’s also worth noting that, for some years now, pink flamingos have been a regular visitor to the Réserve ornithologique du Teich.
Finding the rare bird
Observing birds in their natural environment is an activity accessible to all. But not everyone can become an ornithologist! Field observation requires a sound technical and methodological grounding.
To this end, the Réserve ornithologique du Teich organizes birdwatching outings with a naturalist-guide throughout the year. This is an opportunity for our campers, whether budding or experienced ornithologists, to familiarize themselves with the reserve’s birds. You’ll learn to identify birds by their song and plumage, decipher their behavior and lifestyle before and during the breeding season…
An accompanied canoe-kayak trip
The Réserve ornithologique du Teich organizes activities and nature outings throughout the year. Accompanied by a guide, you can visit the ornithological reserve on foot, then explore the Leyre delta by canoe-kayak, from the Pointe du Teich, outside the reserve, to the port of Le Teich.
Also read on the campsite blog: “Canoeing on the Leyre and the Bassin d’Arcachon”.
PRACTICE
- Réserve ornithologique du Teich: Maison de la Nature du Bassin d’Arcachon, rue du Port, 33470 Le Teich
- Open year-round, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (8 p.m. in summer), prices: €9.40/adult, €7.20/child.
- + More info: www.reserve-ornithologique-du-teich.com
- Accommodation: discover our mobile home rentals and camping pitches at the gateway to the Le Teich ornithological reserve.