Autumn migration and stopovers at the gravel pits

The ponds welcome migratory birds weary from their journey south. Highlights include:

• Common Tern - the site's flagship species, stopping over before migration
• Sandpipers and waders - passing through in large numbers across open areas
• Herons - stopping over before continuing south
• Mallards and Eurasian Coots - numbers on the rise
• Great Cormorant - groups resting on the banks
• Possibility of migratory mergansers passing through

Why visit? The spectacle of birds gathering on the water, the chance to spot species rarely seen at other times, and the atmosphere of a natural "transit hub."

Learn to spot and identify birds found in reedbeds, wet meadows, and open water. Includes binocular observation, listening tips, and landscape interpretation during an accessible walk.

Born from former gravel pits that have returned to the wild, the Plessis-Brion ponds are a haven suspended between water and greenery: calm, mirror-like waters, rustling reedbeds, wooded fringes, and open banks bathed in light. Between fifty and over a hundred bird species—including cormorants, Common Terns, various ducks, waders, and passerines—succeed one another throughout the seasons, whether as resident breeders, winter visitors, or passing migrants. This outing offers a guided exploration of the ponds and their margins, teaching you how to observe from the purpose-built hide, listen to the sounds of the reedbed, and identify species typical of these reviving wetlands.

Throughout the walk, the focus is on developing good field habits: where to look depending on the season, how to use binoculars and spotting scopes, recognizing silhouettes in flight, spotting clues (calls, movements, behaviors), and understanding why a particular bird chooses one spot over another. This outing is suitable for both beginners and those with some prior knowledge, all in a friendly atmosphere: we take our time, share experiences, and learn as we go. Please bring boots (the terrain is very wet), weather-appropriate clothing, and (if possible) binoculars (tips on using them will be provided on-site).

👉 What to bring: weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes; binoculars recommended (rentals available).