Lac de Pérolles, lake formed by Maigrauge Dam, a reservoir on the Saane/Sarine river at Fribourg, Switzerland
Lac de Pérolles is a reservoir near Fribourg created in 1872 by the Maigrauge dam on the Sarine River, covering roughly 95 hectares. The area features three river bends marked by cliffs, reed beds, and floodplain forests of willows, alders, and ashes.
The lake was formed in 1872 by the Maigrauge dam on the Sarine River and was recognized as a protected natural area in 1961. It gained formal reserve status in 1983, with a management agreement established in 2001 to ensure ongoing care and preservation.
The lake and its surroundings represent a place where the community can connect with nature while remaining close to the city. Local people use the area for walks and wildlife watching, showing how important this space is for residents seeking a natural retreat.
The area can be explored on foot, with visitors expected to stay on marked trails to protect the sensitive environment. Dogs must remain on a leash, and while photography is permitted, visitors should respect the quiet of nature and avoid disturbing wildlife.
The area is home to over 160 bird species, with around 90 breeding there regularly, and approximately 670 plant species, including rare and protected varieties. A remarkable resident is the edible dormouse, a small rodent that sleeps for up to seven months per year and inhabits the forest trees throughout the reserve.
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