the marsh of Saint-Samson in Calvados filled with water for migratory birds

Once a year, at the beginning of autumn, the federation of Calvados hunters organizes the impoundment of marshes Jean-Claude Diverres in Saint-Samson near Caen. One hundred and twenty hectares of meadows which will be 70-80% covered by water. Pastures in spring and summer, the marshes then become a migratory stopover for the birds.

The meadows “whitened” by the water of the Dives

A few turns of the crank and you’re done! The floodgates of the Dives river which surround the marshes are open and supply the canals which will gradually overflow, until covering with about twenty centimeters of water the grass hitherto left to the cows.

In just one week, the marshes will be “bleached“, transformed into a migratory stopover for birds from northern Europe that reach Africa. They are mainly surface ducks who visit the nature reserve regularly. The first shoveller ducks and winter teal are already beginning to arrive, but by November, the number of people will be tenfold: between” 5 and 10,000 birds every day“says Corentin Delourme, technician at the federation of Calvados hunters.

The nature reserve, a place of tranquility for birds

Birds use this site to rest explains Philippe Villain, assistant secretary of the federation of hunters. In these marshes, management is also put in place to develop natural food : worms, insects, dragonflies which are fond of migrants. Space is also preserved insists David Lesoutivier, administrator, “here, no hunting, no fishing. The only human activity on the reserve is agricultural activity“.

Protecting species and biodiversity is the role of hunters _ David Lesoutivier

In addition to offering some respite to migrants, this space also protects and helps the development of biodiversity. Scientific studies are carried out and make it possible to follow the migration of species with counts carried out every week, details Corentin Delourme. The luggage and the installation of beacons can also be carried out.

“It’s part of the role of hunters, we’re not here to always kill” resumes David Lesoutivier who “does not want to make big speeches but prefers to act”. “We have this solution to help the game to rest, to feed. That way, he will come back next year”.

For them “the reserve has become an essential place” proudly rejoices this hunter.

The impoundment of the Jean-Claude Diverres marshes takes place in two stages, the next opening of the floodgates will be organized in mid-November and will then make it possible to cover 70 to 80% of this protected space with water.

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