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Little beasts and pretty plants

the wonders of Normandy flora and fauna

La Manche is renowned for its bocage landscapes and verdant countryside. But beyond its panoramic views, this region is home to an unsuspected wealth of flora and fauna. Nature lovers will find a veritable paradise here, where fields and forests abound with species that are either unique to our region or have adapted perfectly to our temperate climate. Whether you’re a botany enthusiast, a budding ornithologist or simply a nature lover, Normandy offers a fascinating array of plants and animals to discover. So keep an eye out for these emblematic species as you stroll through our region.

The Norman cow

It’s impossible to start this article without talking about our beloved Normandy cows! An iconic symbol of Normandy, this breed of cow, an excellent milk producer, is so attached to the bocage that you’d think it had always grazed in our fields. But no! This breed, which has only existed for four centuries, is the result of crossbreeding between the Cotentine, the Augeronne and the Cauchoise. How can you tell it from Prim’Holstein, Charolaise or Limousine? It’s very simple: you just have to look to see if it wears glasses! Normande cows can be recognized by their white coats, widely marked with spots ranging from black to reddish-brown, and their eyes are always surrounded by spots. Where to find them She’s everywhere in the bocage, and it’s easy to spot her in our fields at any time of day.

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    Donkey 8104157 1920Donkey 8104157 1920
    ©Donkey 8104157 1920

      The Cotentin donkey

      The Cotentin donkey’s origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when it was used to turn mills and carry heavy loads. It is a medium-sized donkey with a light gray coat and the “Saint Andrew’s cross”, a black cruciform stripe, on the withers and along the back. Since the invention of the motor, donkey populations have steadily declined, so much so that in 2023, this species was classified as “threatened with extinction”. These donkeys can sometimes be seen in our fields, but to be sure of coming across one, visit the mini-farm at Champrepus Zoo, where several Cotentin donkeys have taken up residence.

      The Bayeux pig

      It’s a white breed with large black spots and the distinctive feature of large, hanging ears that hide its eyes. After the Second World War, the Bayeux pig fell out of favor and the breed almost disappeared. In 1999, the Bayeux pig was officially approved by the French Ministry of Agriculture. A hardy animal, the Bayeux pig adapts perfectly to life outdoors, enduring harsh winters and hot summers. Where can you see them? Visit the Grémi farm or the Cara-meuh farm to see these animals lounging in groups in the warmth of the straw.

      Sows and pigletsSows and piglets
      ©Sows and piglets
        Melifera Gin Francais Engage Pour Protection Abeille NoireMelifera Gin Francais Engage Pour Protection Abeille Noire
        ©Melifera Gin Francais Engage Pour Protection Abeille Noire

          The black bee

          Recognized by its black abdomen and stocky body, the black bee is endemic to Normandy. It is a semi-domesticated bee perfectly adapted to the European climate. Admired for its productivity and pollinating role, it has nonetheless been at a disadvantage compared to other honey bee breeds with greater resistance to parasites. You can observe it in our bocage as soon as spring arrives and the first heat sets in, when the worker bees set off in search of sweet flowers to feed their larvae, well sheltered in their wax cocoon within the hive. In fact, one of these larvae could well be the future queen …

          The apple tree

          With its twisted trunk and short branches, the apple tree is a familiar sight in the Normandy bocage. The apple tree, originally from Central Asia, was domesticated around 10,000 years ago. The Greeks and Romans spread and improved its cultivation in Europe. In the Middle Ages, monasteries preserved and cultivated various varieties. Today, hundreds of apple varieties are grown in Normandy, where the mild climate provides the ideal conditions for this tree to thrive. Where can you find apple trees? Almost everywhere! Spring is the best time to admire them, as they blossom into tiny white flowers, offering a magnificent, bucolic sight. Visit Domaine du Coquerel, Cidrerie Mette or Château de Chanteloup to discover what you can do with apples!

          Closeup Shot Tree Branch With White Flowers Blooming Blurred Nature BackgroundCloseup Shot Tree Branch With White Flowers Blooming Blurred Nature Background
          ©Closeup Shot Tree Branch With White Flowers Blooming Blurred Nature Background
            Bluebells in Wepham WoodsBluebells in Wepham Woods
            ©Bluebells in Wepham Woods|Phil Bird

              Wood Hyacinth

              Covering the undergrowth as soon as spring arrives, the undergrowth hyacinth is a small flower with a delicate violet or white color. It’s not typical of Normandy, but of the deciduous forests of Western Europe. The wood hyacinth is particularly shade-loving, so you’ll find it regularly along your hikes. As this flower is toxic in the same way as lily of the valley, it should be picked with care and sparingly.

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