The area is a positive haven for wildlife both resident and, in the case of birds, migratory. The region is home to many species that are rare or non-existent in the UK and many of them are regular visitors to our garden! Highlights include red squirrels, humming-bird hawk moths, black woodpeckers, fire salamanders, pine martens and wild boar.The Monts de Blond is also reputed to be a stronghold of the elusive gennet but we have yet to see one. European beavers were released into the Loire valley several years ago and have been progressing steadily southwards ever since. According to the local wildlife experts they have now reached the Haute-Vienne and can be found near to Bussière-Poitevine about 20 miles from us.

We are on the regular migration routes for many birds. If you visit in February, March or November then there is a good chance that you will be treated to the spectacular sight of flocks of cranes passing overhead in formation with their calls echoing around the house.