Normandy: the short transhumance of batrachians

At nightfall, the pond of Vauville (Sleeve) becomes the target for batrachians. After months of overwintering, they cross the road towards the body of water to reproduce. “It’s smaller migrations than what we imagine in birds, it’s around a hundred meters”explains Marie-Léa Travert, conservator of the Vauville pond. To do this, you have to find the right time slot, generally in late winter and early spring.

More than 13 different species

Armed with a flashlight and a good sense of observation, the curator of the pond lists the amphibians. To help him in his task, enthusiasts came as reinforcements. To spot webbed animals, everyone has their own little secret. “I think you have to look at nature with a child’s eye”says a man. In the place resides one of the largest batrachian populations in France. More than 13 different species are collected.