Lucifer Dékou-Dékou Biological Reserve, Protected wilderness area in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni and Apatou, French Guiana.
Lucifer Dékou-Dékou Biological Reserve is a protected forest area spanning two mountain ranges in French Guiana, with the Dékou-Dékou Mountains reaching 565 meters and featuring rolling plateaus interrupted by steep rocky faces. Dense tropical rainforest covers the terrain, creating a continuous canopy broken only by river valleys and natural clearings that serve as wildlife corridors.
The reserve was established in 1995 as a major step in French conservation, though the region had experienced gold mining activity since the 1870s that threatened its natural state. Its creation protected what became one of France's largest intact wilderness areas from further extraction and development.
The reserve faces challenges from gold mining activities that began in 1875 when Paul Isnard discovered deposits in the surrounding region.
Access to this reserve requires special permits and strict adherence to environmental protection rules designed to safeguard the fragile ecosystem. The remote terrain with dense rainforest and challenging topography means visitors need good physical fitness and expert guidance to explore safely.
The reserve is home to more than 270 bird species, including two species found nowhere else on Earth, making it a remarkable destination for birdwatchers and ornithologists. These specialized bird communities depend closely on the rainforest structure and respond quickly to any environmental changes.
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