Nestled in the heart of Corrèze, the old Argentat gravel pits have undergone a spectacular metamorphosis. Rehabilitated as a departmental biodiversity reserve, they have become a true sanctuary for many species of birds. Dominique Testaert, passionate ornithologist and volunteer at the LPO, reveals the secrets of this unique site.
An ambitious rehabilitation project:
The history of the Argentat gravel pits is that of a successful reconversion. After the end of operations in 2013, the Department of Corrèze acquired the site and undertook a vast redevelopment project in 2019-2020. Earthworks, bank reprofiling and planting have created a mosaic of habitats conducive to biodiversity.
An explosion in the number of species observed:
Ornithological monitoring carried out by Dominique Testaert and other LPO volunteers reveals a significant increase in the number of species present on the site. From 120 species before 2020, the gravel pits now host more than 180 species of birds. This spectacular progress testifies to the success of the rehabilitation project and the richness of the site.
Emblematic and rare species:
Among the birds that frequent the Argentat gravel pits, we find common species such as the Mallard or the Kingfisher. But the site also attracts rarer and more emblematic species, including waders, birds of prey and migratory passerines.
The Little Plover and the Bank Swallow, symbols of the success of the project:
Two species, the Little Plover and the Bank Swallow, played a crucial role in protecting the site. These birds, rare in Limousin, have found an ideal refuge in the gravel pits. Their presence made it possible to raise awareness among the public and the authorities of the importance of preserving this unique place.
Citizen science, a driver of protection:
Dominique Testaert underlines the importance of citizen science and observation for the protection of nature. The data collected by LPO volunteers makes it possible to monitor changes in bird populations and adapt site management measures.
● The Little Plover: A rare species in Limousin, which nests on the shores.
● The Bank Swallow: Symbol of the success of the project, forming the largest colony in Corrèze on the site.
● The osprey: A majestic bird of prey, regularly observed fishing on the site.
● The Purple Heron: A discreet heron, increasingly common at gravel pits since the creation of the wetland.
●La Rémiz pendulum: A very rare small tit, which has found a favorable habitat in the reed beds.
Ducks:
●Mallard duck: Common nester on the site.
●Garganey: Uncommon migrant, observed in record numbers on the site.
●Net redhead: Rare species, observed as a migratory stopover.
Herons:
●Gray Heron: Common nester on the site.
●Great Egret: More and more common in winter.
●Purple Heron: As a migratory stopover, with increasingly long stays.
Limicoles:
●Redshank: Observed as a migratory stopover.
●Whimbrel: Rare species, observed twice.
●Marsh snipe: Discreet species, observed in humid areas.
Passerines:
●Rémiz penduline: Rare species, attracted by cattails and reeds.
●Wee bunting: Breeder whose population is increasing.
●Sedge Warbler: Rare species, which could nest on the site.
●Northern stonechat: Breeder who settled in after the rehabilitation work.
●Polyglot hypolaïs: Breeder expanding on site.
The Argentat gravel pits are an inspiring example of ecological rehabilitation. Thanks to the commitment of the Corrèze Department and the mobilization of LPO volunteers, this site has become a true haven of peace for birds. Observation and citizen science play an essential role in protecting this jewel of biodiversity, and Dominique Testaert's video invites us to discover and preserve it.
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