The pyramidal orchid is a species of orchid found in the Causse Comtal and the Lot and Dourdou valleys.The pyramidal orchid is a species of orchid found in the Causse Comtal and the Lot and Dourdou valleys.
©Pyramidal orchid|Bozouls for rêveurs

Sensitive natural areas du Causse Comtal

  1. Welcome to Terres d’Aveyron
  2. Explore
  3. A bend, a landscape
  4. Protected natural areas
  5. Sensitive natural areas
Preserving fragile environments while maintaining human activity is the sustainable development approach adopted by Aveyron through its Espaces Naturels Sensibles (ENS) program. There are 4 of these on the Causse Comtal, each with its own surprising characteristics. Get out your magnifying glasses and hiking boots for a family nature walk!

The Bozouls canyon

A grandiose site, the Bozouls canyon is a series of gorges marked by the presence of a horseshoe-shaped meander. The result of the Dourdou river carving out the limestone plateau over the millennia, the canyon’s complex configuration is made up of different environments defined by exposure. The steep cliffs are shaded by almost tropical vegetation, while the sunny slopes are home to a variety of tree species (ash, lime, downy oak, etc.) and open lawns dotted with orchids. The walls are home to the Great Horned Owl and the Peregrine Falcon. An accessible site to discover with the whole family.

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      Le Piton de Rodelle

      Between Causse and Dourdou, Rodelle forms a diverse area. Dry grasslands, wooded hillsides, ancient vineyards and orchards, and small-scale pastoral buildings are all habitats for a wide variety of flora and fauna (49 species of butterfly, 8 species of bat and 112 species of bird). On the piton itself or on the Causse de Lanhac, signposts along our footpaths provide an inventory of these treasures and tell you about the past usefulness of the cazelles, dolines and dry-stone walls.

      Hunting reserve du Causse Comtal

      Testifying to a bygone pastoral activity, its grassy landscape almost disappeared when this practice ceased. Since the restoration program, the following species have been recorded:

      • fauna: 57 species of butterfly, 76 species of bird, including 2 with funny names: the touroulis and the clammy traquet
      • Plant life: 125 species, including 15 orchids, 2 of which are virtually unique in France: the Aymonin orchid and the Rodez ragwort.
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          La Devèze Grande La Loubière

          17 ha in size and a wide diversity of flora and fauna, as well as landscapes, are the hallmarks of this site with its strong Causse identity. Discover the purpose and origin of the ruiniform chaos, ponds, low walls and sinkholes that can be found here, and the species that adapt to the different habitats.

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