Where The Wild Things Are In Paris

Even as major urban centers go, Paris is an overwhelmingly human-dominated environment. It’s easy to go months without seeing any more than two-toed pigeons and spaniel-sized rats in the way of nature. Yet, though you may not realize it, the French capital has everything you need to go on a veritable safari. There are zoos, aquariums, farms, and green spaces dedicated to the local wildlife right at your doorstep. Read on to find out more!

These bird sanctuaries, tucked away in quiet corners of the parks, have custom-built hides which allow visitors to get up close and personal with the area’s native bird species without disturbing them. The streamside huts are particularly good for spotting migratory species of waterfowl. There are information sheets on hand to help you identify your new feathered friends, and if you have binoculars be sure to bring them along to help with some of the smaller woodland residents like the tree creeper and the wren.

Réserve Ornithologique – Bois de Boulogne, Carrefour de Longchamp – route piétonne de la Grande Cascade – Bois de Boulogne, 75016 Paris, France

Réserve Ornithologique – Bois de Vincennes, Allée Royale – Bois de Vincennes, 75012 Paris, France