Animals to see in Occitanie

From the Mediterranean Sea to the mountains of the Pyrenees, the Occitanie region offers an ideal habitat for the 20,000 animal species found in the region.
The wildlife in Occitanie is incredible, but above all it's very diverse!

In this article, Wisud wants to tell you about the animals to see in Occitanie and why not observe them in real life with our nature excursions departing from Montpellier?

Large emblematic mammals, but also very small ones

The wild boar, fascinating and controversial: a typical Occitan animal

The wild boar is an omnivore that has been present in Occitanie for centuries. Adapted to a wide variety of environments, it can be found in forests, wetlands, meadows and even urban areas.
Highly opportunistic, it feeds on a wide variety of plants, insects, small animals and even carrion.

It also has a major impact on the environment, helping to regulate populations of small animals and disperse seeds. However, the proliferation of wild boar can also have a negative impact on the environment. They can cause major damage to crops and forests.
Hunting is one way of regulating the wild boar population and preventing the damage they can cause. However, wild boar hunting is also controversial. Some consider it cruel and unnecessary. It is important to find sustainable solutions for cohabiting with this wild animal in Occitanie.

Wild animals in Occitania as the wolf makes a comeback

The grey wolf, once present throughout the region, was eradicated from Occitanie in the early 20th century. But since 1990, it has been reintroduced.

Today, an estimated thirty wolves live in Occitanie, mainly in the mountains. The wolf's presence is still controversial, particularly among farmers who fear for their herds.

However, the wolf plays an important role in regulating wild boar and other wildlife populations. They are also an asset for nature tourism.

Little by little, cohabitation is being established.

The mouflons of Caroux: a success story

Introduced to the Caroux-Espinouse massif in 1956, there are now 2,500 mouflons perfectly adapted to the steep areas of the Herault. They graze on grasses, leaves and fruit, contributing to the ecological balance of the massif.
Watching them in the wild is an unforgettable experience. Their tendril-shaped horns and majestic stature make them fascinating animals.
If you're lucky enough to come across them on a hike in the Caroux, respect their tranquillity and admire the beauty of these lords of the mountains.

The brown bear in Occitanie: a symbol of biodiversity

The brown bear, an emblematic animal of the Pyrenees, was once threatened with extinction, but its population is now increasing thanks to reintroduction programmes.

An estimated 70 brown bears currently live in the Pyrenees, 30 of them in the Occitanie region. They mainly live in mountainous areas, where they find dense forests and vast natural spaces.

The brown bear is a solitary, nocturnal animal. It feeds mainly on plants, fruit and berries, but may also occasionally hunt wild animals.

The bat, a mammal with active flight

Bats are fascinating and often misunderstood animals. The Occitanie region is one of the best places in France to observe them. The region's caves are home to colonies of bats that come to spend the night to feed and rest.
Bats play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations, politicising plants and dispersing seeds. Caves provide a safe habitat for bat colonies, protected from light and predators.
There are several species of bat in the caves of Occitanie, including the spotted bat, the vespertilion bat and the farmhouse bat. Each of these species has its own unique feeding habits and behaviour.

Other small mammals in the South of France

Occitanie is home to a multitude of fascinating small mammals. From tiny shrews and mischievous foxes to agile squirrels and curious weasels, these animals contribute to the region's biodiversity and ecological balance.
Their role is crucial: as insectivores, pollinators and hunting aids, they help ecosystems to function properly.
Unfortunately, some small mammals are threatened by the destruction of their habitat or by invasive species. So it's important to protect them and preserve their environment.

More than 600 species of birds live in Occitania

The pink flamingos of the Camargue: a fascinating spectacle

In the Camargue, pink flamingos soar in majestic swarms, colouring the sky pink. They are migratory birds and can be seen all year round. However, the summer months are particularly spectacular, as the birds are nesting and caring for their young.

Their long, webbed feet enable them to strut their stuff in shallow waters, in search of prawns and other small crustaceans.

Why are flamingos pink?
Because their feathers, which start out grey, turn a blazing pink thanks to their diet, which is rich in carotenoid pigments.
These pigments are identical to those found in carrots and the shrimp Artemia Salina. Once digested by the flamingos - as well as other flamingo species - these pigments are deposited on their skin and feathers.

These fascinating birds are the real stars of the Camargue, attracting thousands of visitors every year to admire their beauty and aerial ballet in their natural habitat.

The Camargue nature reserves offer unique opportunities for observing pink flamingos in the wild.
To see pink flamingos in the wild, the Camargue nature reserves offer unique opportunities. There are also bird parks offering spectacular views of pink flamingos, notably those at the bird park or the Parc de la Scamandre.

Bonelli's eagle, a majestic bird of prey

Bonelli's eagle, with a wingspan of 1.5 to 1.8 metres, is a majestic bird of prey that dominates the Mediterranean landscape. Its dark brown plumage and feathered legs give it an elegant and powerful appearance.

An excellent hunter, it feeds mainly on rabbits, partridges and reptiles, which it captures with its sharp talons and keen eyesight.

Unfortunately, Bonelli's eagle is an endangered species due to the destruction of its habitat and electrocution by power lines. Conservation programmes are in place to protect this magnificent bird and its territory.

If you look carefully at the Mediterranean cliffs and canyons, you may be lucky enough to spot this majestic eagle soaring through the sky, a symbol of the beauty and fragility of nature.

What about reptiles?

Saint Guilhem vipers, a potential danger?

Saint-Guilhem vipers, also known as asp vipers, are a type of venomous snake that can be found in the Hérault region of Occitanie, France. Saint-Guilhem vipers are horned snakes, meaning that they have horn-like protuberances on their heads.
Their colour varies from grey-green to brown, with a zigzag pattern of spots along their body. Saint-Guilhem vipers are nocturnal reptiles and feed mainly on mice and voles.

Although Saint-Guilhem vipers are venomous, they are not aggressive and generally only attack if they feel threatened. However, in the event of a bite, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Saint-Guilhem vipers are protected under French law and are listed as an endangered animal. Conservation efforts are underway to preserve their natural habitat and populations of Saint-Guilhem vipers.

The green lizard of the Pic Saint-Loup

The Pic Saint-Loup green lizard is an agile and discreet reptile, endemic to the garrigues and rocky areas of the massif. Approximately 20 cm long, it is distinguished by its green livery dotted with black spots and its blue throat in males.

An excellent climber, it hunts insects and small arthropods, taking refuge in cracks and dense vegetation to escape predators. Its presence is a valuable indicator of the quality of natural environments.

Threatened by the destruction of its habitat and urbanisation, it is important to protect it and preserve its environment.

Invertebrates: Insects, spiders and crustaceans

The cicada, the emblematic animal of southern France

Cicadas are an emblematic symbol of summer in Occitanie. With their distinctive song, they populate the trees of the region's garrigues and forests, adding a musical note to the landscape.
Cicadas are known for their ability to produce a powerful sound through their eardrums, which makes them unique among insects.
They are also an important source of food for many predators such as birds and lizards.

Visiting the region during the summer season also means soaking up this characteristic atmosphere of sound, which you won't find anywhere else.

Dragonflies

Occitanie is full of insects with charming bluish colors such as dragonflies and butterflies.
Dragonflies are a fascinating insect that can be found in the scrublands of Occitania. Scrublands are areas of dry, rocky land with vegetation consisting of bushes and shrubs, which are ideal habitat for dragonflies.

Dragonflies are easily recognized by their elongated bodies and transparent, shiny wings.
There are several species of dragonflies in scrubland, each unique with colors and patterns.
Some of the more common species include the azure dragonfly, the red-headed dragonfly, and the great-tailed dragonfly.
Dragonflies are effective predators and feed mainly on mosquitoes, flies

and other insects. They are also an important food for other animals, such as birds and frogs.
Dragonflies are important indicators of environmental quality.
Dragonfly populations are linked to water and air quality, and a drop in the dragonfly population can be a sign of an environmental problem.

In the Thau lagoon, observe incredible fauna and magnificent seahorses

The Etang de Thau in western France is home to one of the largest populations of speckled seahorses (Hippocampus guttulatus) in the Mediterranean. This fascinating little fish, with an average size of 12 cm, is distinguished by its horse-shaped head and prehensile tail.

The Thau seahorse prefers areas rich in eelgrass, which it uses to camouflage itself and capture its prey. Its reproduction is unique: the male carries the fertilised eggs in a ventral pouch until they hatch.

Unfortunately, the seahorse is threatened by the destruction of its habitat, pollution and fishing. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this emblematic species of the Etang de Thau.

Crayfish from Salagou lake, imported from Louisiana

The Lac du Salagou in Occitanie is home to a population of red-clawed crayfish. Accidentally introduced in the 1970s, they have proliferated to the delight of anglers.

Fishable from May to October, these tasty crustaceans can be caught using a trap or landing net. Minimum catch size: 10 cm.

The Salagou crayfish is an excellent indicator of water quality. Its presence is a sign of a healthy, balanced environment.

So, if you're a fan of fishing and gastronomy, don't hesitate to try your luck on the banks of the Lac du Salagou!

Are you fascinated by the wild animals of the Herault or Occitanie regions? Contact us

If you are looking for unique and tailor-made excursions in Occitania, then do not hesitate to contact Wisud.

You will discover exciting excursions to the most beautiful places in the region, where you will discover the fauna, flora and natural wonders that make Occitanie such a special place.
Passion will make you live an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Don't wait any longer to live the adventure of your life in Occitania, contact us today to book your excursion!

Lisa FASCETTI