Réserve Naturelle du Marais d’Orx

In the south-west of Landes, in the towns of Labenne, Orx, Saint André de Seignanx and Saubrigues, the Marais d’Orx is the last protected damp area on the Aquitaine coast. This vast property of the Conservatoire du Littoral (Coast Preservation) was classed as a National Natural Reserve and included in the European Natura 2000 network due to its ornithological interest. Dried out under Napoleon III for agricultural purposes, this former polder surrounded by channels is now a favourite stop for migratory birds who find rest and food there.
Consisting of a mosaic of environments (lakes, willow plantations, reed beds, meadows, damp fields…) the Marais d’Orx is home to a large variety of water birds, including anatidaes (geese, swans, ducks and related species). There are also a large number of species dependent on wetlands (amphibians, reptiles, insects, mammals…). These can be discovered along a 5 km route, in addition to the events and visits organised by the Maison du Marais, which also has an exhibition and observation equipment for hire.