The reserve was created by transforming former industrial fish farms into a managed wetland ecosystem.
The site acts as a major nesting ground for the European Spoonbill, a species with a significant breeding population here.
The landscape is entirely man-made, designed specifically to recreate the natural salt marsh environments lost to coastal development.
The reserve features a specialized 'fish pass' that allows migratory species from the Leyre river to access the lagoons.
It is one of the few places in France where it is possible to observe up to 80 different bird species in a single day during peak migration.
The Réserve Ornithologique du Teich is a 120-hectare protected area located on the eastern edge of the Arcachon Basin in France. The reserve consists of a managed mosaic of lagoons, salt marshes, meadows, and reed beds specifically designed to host migratory and sedentary bird populations. Visitors follow a 6-kilometer loop trail that passes through diverse habitats, including maritime pine forests and coastal estuaries. Over 300 bird species have been recorded on-site since the reserve's inception in 1972. The park serves as a critical stopover on the Atlantic migratory flyway. Numerous wooden blinds and observation towers are positioned along the path to facilitate wildlife viewing without disturbing the natural environment. The site is managed by the town of Le Teich in partnership with the Parc Naturel Régional des Landes de Gascogne. Tidal influence from the Bay of Arcachon continuously alters the water levels in the marshlands, affecting bird distribution daily.
The elevated observation tower providing a panoramic view of the central marsh lagoons.
Bring high-quality binoculars, as many birds are located at a distance in the open lagoons.
Apply mosquito repellent, especially when walking through the forested sections near the water.
Follow the silence protocols near observation hides to ensure you do not scare away the wildlife.
Attempting to walk the entire perimeter without adequate hydration or sun protection; missing the informative visitor center exhibits at the entrance.
Closed on December 25th and January 1st.
Maintain silence, keep to marked paths, do not bring pets, and avoid wearing brightly colored clothing.
