Morbihan, like Brittany, is characterized by a wide variety of landscapes, ranging from forests to wetlands (maras), coasts and islands. This diversity of natural environments favours the presence of a rich and varied fauna. When you holiday in Brittany, come to observe and admire this local fauna through the many parks and nature reserves of the region. Often protected, this great diversity of species makes the Britons proud to welcome you to share their landscape and biodiversity.
Typical species of Morbihan fauna on the sea side
Morbihan, offering many different landscapes, offers suitable habitats for the development of many species. For example, on the islands and coasts of the region, from Pénestin to Lorient, you can find yourself walking on the coastal trails, plethora of marine bird species. Among them are the most famous, such as the silver gull, the crowned cormorant, the laughing gull, or any kind of duck.
You can always try to see them in the nearby rivers or swamps, but we don't guarantee your success! In addition to the scarcity of some species, most of them are migratory birds. So they can see that part of the year, to our greatest regret.
But don't worry, being a fishing and aquaculture area, there are also marine species. There are a multitude of fish, shellfish or crustaceans, but also less common marine mammals. Yet they remain well known to the general public, such as certain breeds of seals, dolphins and even sharks.
Tours or cruises from Lorient or Arzon are also possible with Ocean. It's an opportunity for you to meet and discover these animals that fascinate small and big. If you have sea sickness, you can also learn more about marine biodiversity by visitingOcéarium du Croisic. Located 400 metres from the sea, it is one of the largest French aquariums.
Typical species of wildlife in Brittany
Let us now return to more common mammals, or at least that the Bretons have more often the opportunity to see. Terrestrial wildlife is unobtrusive in the forest, with rabbits, squirrels, hedgehogs and sometimes deer or foxes. In Brittany, it is common to see many small animals during a walk in the forest.
But the Morbihanese forests are home to many other species, the badger, the weasel, the wild boar, the otter, the marten, the deer, the green peak, the owl, the tit in the background and of course, how to forget the hermine, the emblem of Brittany. If you want to try to see one of these little animals, you can walk around one of the forests of the region. You are advised to use Pluméliau near the Domaine des Camélias.
There are not only the coasts that swarm of aquatic species, lakes, rivers and marshes are also full of these species. Amphibians such as red frogs, green frogs and crêté tritons, fish such as pike, sander, trout and lampreys, crustaceans and molluscs with crayfish and pearl mussels, as well as mammals such as otters or aquatic shrews.
Of course we advise you. Lake Guerledan located about thirty minutes from our cottage bed and breakfast. You can also find interesting corners along the Blavet, the river that crosses our community of Pluméliau-Bieuzy. These places are perfect for spending an afternoon alone or as a family to relax in the heart of nature.
Protected species
In this region, where natural wealth and biodiversity are abundant, we find protected animal and plant species (more than 600 in the Morbihan). Most of the time, they are threatened with extinction.
One of the most amazing among them is the grey seal, recognizable by its characteristic snout and grey fur. It can be seen in particular on the coasts of Belle-Île-en-Mer and Groix. They will be delighted to welcome you to watch them bask on the rocks and beaches of the island.
There is also the European otter, a semi-aquatic mammal living in the rivers and ponds of Morbihan. This animal has also been protected since 1972. Fortunately, almost disappeared some year ago, this rodent is no longer in a critical state of extinction.
It would even appear that in early 2023 wolves were observed. Animal thought to have disappeared for more than a century in Morbihan. They say there would be one in the forest of Broceliande. You can try to photograph it at the detour of a walk in this mythical forest. And for the feariest, no panic, this race is very fearful and does not attack man.
The preservation of this ecological wealth is a priority for local authorities. These actions are strongly supported by the Britons who also want to preserve this biodiversity, which is part of Breton heritage and culture.
Parks and nature reserves
Morbihan also has several parks and nature reserves, with a goal of preserving local fauna and flora. The goal is to conserve the habitats and environments for their development to ensure their future in our region. The best known nature reserve is Morbihan Gulf Regional Natural Park, created in 2014.
The park spans more than 100 km2 and is home to a wide variety of landscapes, ranging from salt marshes to forests through the Gulf Islands. It is therefore a high place of biodiversity, with more than 500 plant species and 250 animal species identified. There, we organize activities, conferences and guided tours to share this exceptional place with you.
Visit also the regional nature reserve of the Séné marshes. It is home to many rare or threatened animal and plant species. The site is recognised in Europe, as one of the most remarkable for its biodiversity. It is especially renowned for its water birds, ideal for nature lovers.
A little further, find Brière Regional Natural Park. This park offers tours walking, barge walkspresentations and workshops for children and adults. The aim is to raise awareness of the protection of animals and natural heritage. So don't hesitate to discover France's second largest marsh and its unique history.
Many zoos and animal reserves are also available in Morbihan. Discover the zoo Branched, of Tropical Park, Natae Lands orInsectarium de Lizio. All are located about 30 minutes from Domaine des Camélias.
Visits near the Domaine des Camélias
Located in Pluméliau-Bieuzy, Au Domaine des Camélias is located more or less in the center of the Morbihan Department. This allows you to have a wide choice of visits and activities.
Don't hesitate either to ask Béatrice, the owner of the place, who will be happy to advise you on the most pleasant tourist sites in the region, and to welcome you in her house or its Bed & Breakfast between visits.
You can visit the Facebook and Pinterest page at Domaine des Camélias to find out more!
