François Sargos, the curator who transformed the Cousseau national reserve in Lacanau retires

Upon his arrival, tensions are palpable with the hunters. They no longer have the right to enter the reserve. The small guards’ cabin will eventually burn, without the investigation being able to determine the origin of the fire. Over the months, the climate will slowly calm down. While the Cousseau is infested by wild boars, the young conservative decides to call on the local hunting association. The day was a success. It is worth reconciliation. Contact is re-established with the hunting environment. This is the signature of François Sargos.

Ecological restoration

In a very touristy region, we have to juggle the dual mission of preserving the local ecosystem, with its fauna and flora, while allowing the general public to enjoy this exceptional space. Le Cousseau is distinguished by its magnificent sunsets over the pond, its thousands of birds that take flight and the beauty of its forest mixing deciduous and coniferous trees. Educational trails have been set up to allow visitors to fully discover this unique environment. During the summer, seasonal naturalist guides take over to lead these outings.

In order to offer a breathtaking view of the reserve, the curator launched the project of two large wooden towers. At more than ten meters high, they offer an exceptional perspective. Thematic activities and outings are also put in place, allowing Cousseau to welcome between 25,000 and 30,000 visitors per year, without the ecological balance of the site being disturbed.

In François Sargos’ missions, there are also all actions aimed at contributing to ecological restoration and the resilience of the ecosystem. More discreet, this work is just as important. Under his leadership, in January 1990, the reserve saw the arrival of a herd of Landes sea cows. They are there to graze. Ten years earlier, this breed of cattle was threatened with extinction. Within the reserve, its reintroduction into the natural environment contributes to improving its conservation. In April 2024, Cousseau is creating a buzz with the arrival of a herd of eight water buffalo in its pond! The animals are there to graze and prevent the forest from invading everything. We must conserve open natural habitats.

Finally, in recent years, Cousseau has also caused a sensation with an ever-increasing colony of common cranes coming to spend the winter in the reserve. In 2009, there were only a handful of them landing on the pond. This Monday, December 16, the guards were able to identify more than 12,000 (1)! This particularly timid bird found a place of peace on site. Which reflects the success of a reception policy. Over the years, Cousseau has become a model of integration.

(1) During the winter, in the Cousseau reserve, a reception post with a specialized guard is organized on the belvedere site to welcome the public and observe the common cranes which come to rest in the pond. The birds come to spend the night there. Meet there at 4 p.m.