The Environment Department is organising a morning of discovery of biodiversity at the end of this month.

Among the most remarkable areas in terms of biodiversity, both in numbers of species and in heritage species, the cliffs of the Port of Fontvieille provide an amazing habitat.

The cliffs are the source of a great diversity of ecological situations and plant communities harbouring many animal species.

This natural environment, both well-exposed and protected from human use, allows wildlife to reproduce without disturbance. Among the remarkable species, Peregrine Falcons, Kingfishers and even a colony of Mediterranean Shags can be seen there.

As part of its monitoring and awareness-raising missions for local avifauna, the Environment Department is holding an awareness morning on Wednesday February 28. The first part will allow for the observation of the species on land, using binoculars, from the bottom of the cliff and the second part will allow participans to observe the nesting sites of the Mediterranean Great Cormorant from the Business Department boat.

Visitors will have the opportunity to discuss these species with the Environment Department and an ornithologist from the Conservatoire d’Espaces Naturels de Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. This will also be an opportunity to learn how to observe these species without disturbing them. This activity is open to around 15 people of all ages.

Binoculars will be made available to participants but you can also bring your own equipment. To reserve your place, please contact the Environment Department by email via environnement@gouv.mc or by telephone during the week at (+377) 98 98 83 41 who will then give you the time and place of meeting.

PHOTO: A Crested Cormorant, not to be confused with a Mediterranean Shag, which, to the untrained eye, is similar

ORIGINAL SOURCE & PHOTO: Monaco Government Press Service