france

France Animals

Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in France

France, a country known for its diverse landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the sun-drenched beaches of the Mediterranean, is also home to a fascinating array of wildlife. From the majestic brown bears that roam the Pyrenees to the elusive lynx that prowls the forests of the Jura, France offers a unique opportunity to encounter a variety of captivating animal species.

Embark on a journey through the natural world of France, where you can encounter the iconic red deer that roam the forests of the Ardennes, or the charming European roe deer that gracefully navigate the woodlands. Keep an eye out for the striking Griffon vultures soaring above the dramatic gorges of Verdon, or the colorful bee-eaters that flit through the Provençal countryside. France's wildlife is as diverse as its landscapes, offering a rich tapestry of animal encounters for nature enthusiasts.

Mammals of France

In the diverse landscapes of France, one can encounter a variety of fascinating mammals that captivate the interest of nature enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. The elusive European lynx, with its tufted ears and keen eyesight, roams the dense forests of the Vosges and Jura mountains. The iconic red fox, known for its cunning and adaptability, is widespread and can be spotted even on the outskirts of urban areas. In the Pyrenees, the majestic brown bear, a symbol of wilderness conservation efforts, has made a cautious comeback. The French Alps are home to the nimble ibex, whose impressive horns and climbing prowess are a sight to behold. Coastal regions offer glimpses of playful common dolphins and the occasional basking grey seal, adding a marine twist to France's mammalian tapestry.

Birds of France

France, with its diverse habitats, is a haven for a variety of bird species. In the serene wetlands of the Camargue, one can observe the elegant pink flamingos, their vibrant hues a stark contrast against the blue sky. The forests of France are alive with the melodic songs of nightingales and the hooting of tawny owls, creating a symphony of natural sounds. High in the Alpine regions, the majestic golden eagle soars, surveying the landscape, while the bearded vulture, or lammergeier, with its impressive wingspan, can occasionally be spotted. Along the rugged coastline, the Atlantic puffin nests, adding a touch of whimsy to the cliffs. These birds, among others, are integral to the rich tapestry of French wildlife, offering birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts unforgettable glimpses into avian life.

Reptiles, Amphibians, Insects

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in France

  • The Vanoise National Park, nestled in the French Alps near the Italian border, is a haven for alpine species. Here, you can spot the majestic ibex, chamois, marmots, and the golden eagle soaring above. The park's high-altitude environment also supports a variety of butterflies and alpine flowers.
  • The Camargue Natural Regional Park, located in the Rhône River delta in southern France, is a wetland of international importance. This park is famous for its flamingos, white Camargue horses, and black bulls. Birdwatchers can also delight in sightings of herons, egrets, and the elusive European bee-eater.
  • The Écrins National Park, situated in the Dauphiné Alps, is a rugged terrain where you can encounter large herds of chamois, golden eagles, and the alpine marmot. The park's diverse habitats, from glaciers to alpine meadows, are also home to the rare and protected Apollo butterfly.
  • The Cévennes National Park, located in the Massif Central, offers a mix of limestone plateaus and deep valleys. It is a hotspot for biodiversity, with over 2,400 plant species and a variety of fauna, including the European otter, the griffon vulture, and the peregrine falcon.
  • The Guadeloupe National Park, although not in mainland France but in the French overseas region of Guadeloupe, is a tropical paradise where you can find the Lesser Antillean iguana, the red-throated Carib hummingbird, and the Guadeloupe woodpecker.
  • The Calanques National Park, located on the Mediterranean coast near Marseille, is characterized by its dramatic limestone cliffs and azure waters. The park is home to the Bonelli's eagle, the European shag, and a variety of marine life, including the dusky grouper and the noble pen shell.
  • The French Pyrenees, though not a single national park, are a region where you can explore several natural parks and reserves. In this mountain range, you can spot the Pyrenean chamois, the middle spotted woodpecker, and with some luck, the Pyrenean desman, a rare semi-aquatic mammal.
  • The Brenne Regional Natural Park, known as the "land of a thousand lakes," is located in the Centre-Val de Loire region. This park is a mosaic of ponds, heathlands, and forests, providing a sanctuary for waterfowl, including the whiskered tern, the purple heron, and the black-necked grebe.

Where to next? Discover country icon Spain, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder