Observation des Oiseaux — ©Observation des oiseaux à la longue-vue dans un observatoire|Claire Curt

Observatories in the Dombes

Birdwatching spots

It can be challenging to know which pond to visit for birdwatching in the Dombes. Most of the 1200 ponds are private property, so it is not always easy to know where to go to enjoy and discover the many species that inhabit the Dombes.

Fortunately, several observatories have been created in the Dombes.
Today, these are places devoted entirely to the observation and discovery of birds.

These observatories are on 5 ponds classified as Sensitive Natural Areas of the Dombes and are accessible 24/7.

©Observation à l'Etang Prele|Carine Montet

Where to Observe Birds in the Dombes?

# 1Prêle Pond

In the municipality of Valeins, the abundance of reeds and greenery of the Prêle pond offers a magnificent natural landscape and allows you to enjoy the natural riches of the Dombes.

Parking and picnic table on site.

The Prêle Pond Observatory

Observatoire de Birieux — ©Lieu pour observer les oiseaux sur les étangs en Dombes|Claire Curt

# 2Grand Birieux Pond

The Grand Birieux is one of the largest and most prestigious ponds in the Dombes.
It is home to many bird species that can be observed from the new observatory, built in 2021.

The Birieux Observatory

©Vue sur l'étang de Vernange depuis l'observatoire|Claire Curt

# 3Domaine de Vernange

In Monthieux, discover the Grange Volet pond on the Vernange estate. Throughout the seasons, the site hosts many species of migratory birds (shorebirds, purple herons…).

The Vernange Observatory

©Vue de l'observatoire de l'étang Prele|Daniel Gillet

# 4The Chapelier Pond

Take the time to observe the birds at Versailleux from the two observatories located by the Chapelier pond. Two picnic tables have also been installed on the edge of the pond.

The Chapelier Pond Observatories