Published 12 / 09 / 2022 Reading time: 4 min
Lovers of nature and the Loire, learn more about its landscapes and all the plant and animal species that live and cohabit there. Take out your binoculars, listen carefully and breathe in the sweet scents of a universe in its own right.
Flora side
Between forests and gravel pits, open your eyes wide. Smell the delicious scent of the plants that inhabit the landscapes of Roannais. On the banks of the Loire, the drop in water level in summer allows a large number of plant species to develop. Among these plants that grow on mud, sand and pebbles, there are several rare and protected species such as the vulgaris or the scoundrel buttercup. A multitude of other plants such as rushes, loosestrife, water mint,marsh iris accompany them. In some areas, trees dominate the landscape. This forest at the edge of the water, made up of willows, ash trees and poplars, is called riparian. The wild river and its meanders generate new ecosystems, thanks to the floods which lead to the birth of new islands, new beaches ready to be colonized by biodiversity.
Enigma
- We like to imagine it on exotic lands, and yet it also grows in the Roannais.
- We admire it in the meadows, along the roads and even in the wet meadows.
- This blooms from the end of April to the end of June and is very fragrant.
- Her name begins with that of a very precious yellow metal, who is she?
The Orchid – Among the species of wild orchids present in the Roannais, we find the Orchis bouc. Wild and fragrant, it takes its name from its smell which is reminiscent of that of the animal. Its flowers are greenish, bordered with purple. Its sepals and petals are gathered in a helmet.
Fauna side
Overflown by swallows, bee-eaters and herons, the banks of the river are also very frequented by the european beaver. Both a builder and a gardener, you may have the chance to watch him build his hut by the water. Near the woods, watch for fawns, wild boars or levrauts to follow in the footsteps of their mothers to find shelter. They embody wide open spaces and punctuate the seasons, the common tern and the lesser plovers love pebble beaches and shores and make their nests there. The Loire is also a major axis during the pre and postnuptial migrations of birds.
In the spring, photographers and ornithologists seek, especially for its multicolored plumage, the european bee-eater which comes to nest on the banks of the river. Just like the kingfisher who loves to hunt small fish. Its presence is also an indicator of water quality. The river is also extremely rich in dragonflies. We recognize the scarlet crocothemis to its carmine red color, which makes it extremely beautiful to observe. Real playground for all experienced fishermen, know that apart from carp, pike, and zander, the lamprey and the stickleback particularly like our regional fresh waters.
Zoom
Le black poplar, one of the most important trees in the Loire landscape.
Measuring 25 to 30 meters high, it is recognized by its thick, very rough, cracked bark. This also forms networks of characteristic diamonds. A species of full light, the black poplar is an emblematic species of the alluvial forests of the Loire. These woods constitute a remarkable habitat, considered heritage on a European scale.
