A little history

Yves marsh was formed gradually as successive sand banks blocked the outflow of a stream called the Gères. The most recent line of dunes encloses the brakish water of a large coastal lagoon. The dunes, the marsh and the lagoon provide a wide variety of habitats wherein are an exceptional diversity of plants and animals.
Greylag geese, ducks, Little egret, White stork, Spoonbills and a variety of waders can be seen here throughout the seasons.
It became a reserve in 1981.
Today

Now that it is protected, the numbers of birds and mammals using the reserve has increased, and in terms of biodiversity it is one of the highest in France.
Management of the site is necessary, so a mixed herd of Highland cattle and horses has been established to maintain the grasslands. Water levels are controlled by a solar-driven pump.
The visitor centre provides an exibition about the reserve and features a large bay window which provides a splendid view of the lagoon.
The Ligue pour la Protection des Oiseaux (LPO) organises regular guided visits into the reserve where two hides provide the opportunity to discreetly observe birds like marsh harrier, several species of ducks and Greylag geese.

Yves marsh Reserve is twinned with :

• Wexford Wildfowl Reserve in Ireland
• Elmley wildfowl Reserve in England

LPO is the French BirdLife Partner .