Where To See Normandy's Incredible Wildlife

Normandy’s valleys, hills, rivers and forests attract an abundance of wildlife to this part of northwestern France. Natural parks and wildlife reserves provide a refuge for creatures large and small, while tended, mapped-out pathways allow us to witness them in their natural environment. Here are the best spots to catch a glimpse of some of Normandy’s wildlife.

Spot red squirrels in the Boucles de la Seine Normande

The Boucles de la Seine Normande Natural Park is the weaving, 180-kilometre stretch of land where the Seine river exits de Île-de-France and enters Norman territory. Within it is a wealth of natural beauty and a variety of flora and fauna that call it home, including the red squirrel, which is an adorable, fiery-coloured mammal that plays a pivotal role in seed dispersal within the forests. The red squirrel population is decreasing in other parts of Europe, particularly in Italy and the United Kingdom, due to loss of habitat and the introduction of the grey squirrel from North America. In France, they are a fully protected species, making your chances of seeing one more likely.

Red squirrels are commonly spotted in the Boucles de la Seine Normande

Seek out wild boar in the National Forest of Bord-Louviers

Admire deer in Normandy’s Grimbosq Forest

Located just outside the city of Caen, the Grimbosq Forest is 482 hectares of wooded area with biking, hiking and horseback riding trails. The forest is considered the gateway into a part of the region called Swiss Normandy thanks to its epic landscape – one that makes it an ideal habitat for roe and fallow deer, as well as wild boar. The animals of the Grimbosq forest are protected by an 8.5-hectare designated animal park, where they are free to roam and escape the dangers of hunting, which is an important feature as the population of roe deer, in particular, is decreasing in France.

Keep on the lookout for roe deer in the Grimbosq forest

Make friends with farm animals in the Coteaux hills around Giverny

We understand farm animals aren’t wildlife but hear us out. Normandy is synonymous with farmland. Its verdant, pastoral fields and a climate that supports vegetation serve as ideal grounds for farming. Dairy cows spend their days grazing the green fields and horses, an animal impassioned by the Norman people, can be seen on stud farms and horse riding clubs are to be found throughout the region. A walk through the beautiful Coteaux hills just outside of Giverny allows passers-by a first-hand look at farm life in Normandy, and a chance to rub shoulders with these gentle beings. Consider adding a whole other level to your new-found friendships and give horseback riding through the countryside a try.

One of the many friendly cows of Normandy

Watch for seals in the Domaine de Beauguillot Natural Reserve

Located just off the shores of Utah Beach, the Domaine de Beauguillot Natural Reserve makes up part of the Marais du Cotentin Natural Park, a section of marshland over the border of the Calvados and Manche regions. While a total of 214 species are found here, one of the star attractions is the colony of seals that can be seen basking in the sun on the Bay of Veys during low tide. A kilometre-long trail passes through the reserve for guests to traverse, offering lookout points at the activity of the creatures by the water along the way. Bring your binoculars!

Seals hang out at the Domaine de Beauguillot Natural Reserve in Normandy

Marvel at rare birds at the Great Noë Bird Reserve

The Great Noë Bird Reserve is a must-see for bird enthusiasts. The area rests at the confluence of three rivers – Seine, the Eure and the Andelle – and is a migratory route and sanctuary for approximately 210 species of birds, including the heron, the Mediterranean Gull, and the largest group of Great Cormorants in Normandy. Boots and binoculars are recommended and guided tours are available to provide some context.

See 210 species of birds at the Great Noë Bird Reserve in Normandy

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