An abundant flora..
In Manche, the landscape, often marked by the bocage, has been the object of a minimal consolidation. If, in the second half of the 20th century, this was presented as a modern way of optimizing land, by creating a single, vast parcel of land where there used to be dozens of them, in the Manche, this frenzy was quickly put to rest. Beyond the question of yields, here, it was understood very early on that by proceeding in this way, we were attacking nature, starting with the flora: the hedges destined to disappear have a natural regulation vocation, notably concerning water, and favor the diversity of species present. Also you will see here many wooded slopes, useful to nature. In another register, on the side of flowers, hydrangeas and camellias grow here in a particularly favourable place - oceanic climate and relative softness oblige. Forests are rather rare, and cover only 4% of the surface of the department: one of the smallest proportions in France, and nearly 95% belongs to private owners. The forests of Cerisy, Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte or the Mingrey wood are among the most important. At the same time, orchards, which are a form of Epinal image of the department, remain numerous: cider production is a must! Finally, some moors are present. More recently, palm trees have appeared here and there, but their vocation is strictly ornamental.
... and a diverse fauna at sea..
The fishy waters here are a paradise for fishermen, who find brill, cod, sea bass, conger eel, sea bream and many other species. More surprisingly, marine mammals have been making a comeback for a few decades, starting with dolphins! They can measure up to 7 meters, they usually enjoy swimming along the boats, they are of course harmless, and are the subject of studies and observations by dedicated associations. Another mammal, the sea-calf seal: colonies have been returning to the Channel for about a quarter of a century, mainly in the Mont-Saint-Michel bay. We must admit that they are quiet in this vastness! Other colonies are sometimes seen on the east coast of the Cotentin.
... on earth..
On the mainland, the fauna is also important, and the Channel has its own animal breeds. Thus the sheep, among which the roussin de la Hague - a species just saved from extinction - is a cross between two lines, one Breton and the other Anglo-Norman. White in color, with a pretty brown head and no horns, it is very soft and its wool is highly prized: some sell it in local stores. Other sheep, those of salt meadow, domesticated, graze peacefully on the grasslands near the sea: they are an integral part of the local landscape. Another emblem of the local fauna: the Cotentin donkey, which some still call "bodet". It almost disappeared about forty years ago, and it took the determination of passionate people to save the breed. It can measure up to 1,30 m and its dress, of gray color is traversed of a cross of Saint Andrew on the edge of its tail. Incredibly soft, it is a delight for children and adults. It is also difficult not to mention the horses, one of the emblems of Normandy! If there are so many stud farms or equestrian centers, it is because horses feel good here! In the Manche, the chic breedings are few (it is rather the prerogative of our neighbors of Deauville), here, it is the horsemanship for all! Still in the equestrian field, you will see the Norman Cob, whose initial function was driving. Of medium size, but with a robust appearance, it is a very handy - and affable - draft horse. Another animal, which you will often come across here, the Norman cow: its white color and its spots, depending on the herd, oscillating between brown or black color, is perfectly recognizable.
...and in the air!
Birdwatchers are in paradise here, so much so that taking an inventory of the birds can be very tricky, if not impossible. In the marshes of the center of the department, ducks (teal, moorhens or mallards in particular) are very present. Along the shores, seagulls, gulls, gravelots or cormorants flutter, nest and breed here. Inland, especially on the moors, you can observe (if you are patient) falcons, harriers and warblers.
Many preserved areas
In La Manche, people became aware very early on of the importance of preserving many natural areas, not because they were really threatened by major construction or industrial projects, but simply because there was no reason not to preserve what existed. The most important of these is the Parc Naturel des Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin: it has been extending over the Manche and Calvados regions for over thirty years now. In addition to preserving the local flora and fauna, the park makes it a point of honor to explain, detail and educate: the youngest love it, and so do the less young. In the north of the department, the natural area of the Vauville pond is also protected. This 62-hectare stretch of fresh water, separated from the sea by a thin dune line, was classified as a nature reserve in the 1970s. Here you can discover a wonderful ornithological observatory. Another nature reserve is the Mathon peat bog: located in Lessay, it is an expanse of peat. Not very practicable by man, and for good reason, it is the refuge of numerous animal and plant species used to wetlands.
Splendid parks and gardens
Nature, when it is given in landscaped gardens, can give rise to superb places, and the Manche region is not short of them. There is no end to the number of them: every town has its own public garden and private enthusiasts open their doors for colorful visits (which are often the subject of media coverage). Parks of castles, botanical gardens or others: they are numerous. Some names of places not to be missed: the park of the Chantore castle, that of the Ravalets castle, that of Vauville or the garden in homage to Jacques Prévert.
