Little Amazon of Nantes, Natural marsh area in Nantes, France
The Little Amazon is a 18-hectare marsh located within Nantes that contains a mix of plants and water-based animals. The protected territory demonstrates how nature can thrive in an urban setting, with waterways running through vegetation and natural habitats.
The site received formal protection status in 1993 as an area of ecological interest, reflecting a turning point in how the city approached conservation. This designation helped ensure that natural processes could continue without outside disturbance.
The marsh serves as a place where people come to learn about wetland habitats through guided experiences and ongoing scientific work. Visitors can see how locals value this green space as part of the city's natural identity.
Visiting requires advance booking for a guided tour, which helps protect the delicate ecosystem. Tours run on set dates to keep the number of people on-site manageable.
The marsh sits at an elevation between 3 and 5 meters (10 to 16 feet) above sea level, creating specific conditions for plant and animal communities rarely seen in cities. This particular height allows wetland habitats to remain stable without flooding or drying out completely.
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