THE BUTTERFLY PATH

From a naturalistic point of view the area around Pont d’Ael offers an interesting variety of flora and fauna. Indeed, it is a special area of conservation, protected as part of the European network “Natura 2000”.
After crossing the Roman aqueduct-bridge, we find arid fields, abandoned agricultural terracing, interspersed with sparse downy oak and pinus sylvestris (Scots Pine) woods, where plant varieties of Steppic and Mediterranean origin grow alongside 11 different species of rare orchids. Of particular interest is the large number of butterflies which can be found, of which 96 are diurnal species, and which can be seen above all between the end of May and the start of July. In addition, above the arid fields, birds of prey such as golden eagles and peregrine falcons nest on the rocky walls which make up the southeastern face of Monte Pognon.