Étang Du Cousseau, National nature reserve in Lacanau, France
Étang du Cousseau is a protected nature reserve situated between two lakes in a low, sandy region of southwestern France. It combines wetlands, pine forests, ancient dunes, and open water areas that form a varied natural landscape.
The pond formed about 3,000 years ago, when the coastal dune blocked the flow of old watercourses toward the ocean, creating the great Landes lakes and marshes. Until the 17th century it was part of one vast water body stretching from north of Hourtin to south of Lacanau. The site was classified a national nature reserve in 1976 at the initiative of SEPANSO, which the State has since entrusted with its management.
The name Cousseau refers to the pond itself, not to a family; the site lies in the commune of Lacanau, between the Hourtin-Carcans and Lacanau lakes. The reserve is managed by SEPANSO, which pushed for its protection, and since 1995 it has joined the Rewilding Europe network. Visitors today come on foot or by bicycle to watch the migration corridor's birds in spring and autumn.
Start at the Marmande parking area and follow the marked paths that guide you through the reserve. Bring sturdy shoes since the ground can be muddy depending on the season, and note that bicycles are allowed but dogs must be kept on leashes.
The reserve's 136 spider species have been counted, alongside 39 dragonfly species recorded since 1995 and about fifty butterfly species, including the protected Fadet des laîches. In January 2002 the pond held 4,700 wintering teals and more than 300 pintails.
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