Birdwatching at the Boucle de Montesson Departmental Park

The Loop de Montesson departmental park is a veritable sanctuary for birdwatchers. Venture along the paths and you’ll have the chance to spot fascinating species such as the Common Coot, the majestic Mute Swan and the Great Cormorant. An ideal place for nature lovers, where every walk is an opportunity to discover the wealth of local wildlife.

A Nature Park divided into two unique areas

The Parc Départemental de la Boucle de Montesson is divided into two distinct areas, each with its own charm and atmosphere: Domaine de la Borde and Étang de l’Épinoche. These two areas invite you to explore unspoilt nature, observe the local wildlife and enjoy outdoor activities with the whole family.

Domaine de la Borde

The 2-hectare Domaine de la Borde immerses you in the atmosphere of a romantic 19th-century garden. A former middle-class estate, this plot of greenery is home to a character house dating back to 1854, a reminder of the history of this once-private place. Today, this estate has been transformed into a veritable arboretum, where you can discover an impressive collection of majestic trees and perennials.

As you stroll along the paths, you’ll appreciate the diversity of vegetation that makes up this garden: century-old trees, colourful flowers, and rare plants. A perfect setting for a relaxing stroll, alone, as a couple or with your children. This corner of greenery invites you to immerse yourself in a peaceful world and let go for a stroll.

L'Étang de l'Épinoche An Ecosystem Rich in Biodiversity

The Étang de l’Épinoche, named after a small freshwater fish, is another jewel in the park’s crown. A former sand pit that has been transformed into a natural zone of ecological, faunistic and floristic interest (ZNIEFF), this pond is a haven for birds and other animal species. You’ll be surprised by the wealth of local wildlife that frequents this area.

Exceptional ornithological diversity

Étang de l’Épinoche is a veritable paradise for birdwatchers. Between 1984 and 1995, a study carried out by the Centre ornithologique de la région Île-de-France (CORIF) revealed that no fewer than 130 species of bird had been observed on the site. Of these, 60 species, including 46 protected species, nest around the pond and its immediate surroundings every year. This represents almost 38% of the breeding species in the Île-de-France region.

The importance of this pond lies not only in its wealth of wildlife, but also in its crucial role in bird nesting, a decisive stage in their life cycle. In winter, the pond becomes a winter stopover and staging area for many species.

You can have another a bit of nature?

Looking for peace and quiet? Observe biodiversity

To observe this fascinating biodiversity at close quarters, an observation area has been set up, offering an exceptional panorama of the pond and its surroundings. Here you can relax, listen to the birds sing and admire the natural spectacle unfolding before your eyes. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or just looking for some peace and quiet, this area will allow you to immerse yourself in nature and fully appreciate the beauty of the environment.

Did you know?

Some rare birds, such as the Little Bittern and the Turkey Warbler, find an ideal habitat here, thanks to the wide variety of environments found on the site: woodland, fallow land, open grassland and aquatic environments, etc.

©Woman on a deckchair in the sun OTISGBS

Feedback

Birdwatching in the Parc de la Boucle de Montesson is a peaceful interlude in the heart of nature. Among the reed beds and wet meadows, you’ll come across herons, tits, warblers and buzzards. Every visit is different. I visit regularly, simply to listen, observe… and reconnect with what’s essential.

Claire, resident of Chatou