A rich environment
The resolutely green landscape of the Freyming-Merlebach area contrasts completely with the industrial image that sometimes sticks to it, due to its history. Its numerous protected forests and ponds are refuges for wild fauna and flora. Places of wonder for all lovers of nature and the calm of the countryside.
The Barrois quarry in Freyming-Merlebach is the perfect example: today it is a ZNIEFF: (natural zone of ecological fauna and flora interest) and the forest which overlooks it, on the German side, is a Natura 2000 zone. The quarry therefore benefits from a lot of attention to preserve the fragile ecosystem that has gradually developed there.
In the ponds and pools of the quarry hides the brown pelobates, a very rare amphibian, while its cliffs are home to several species of bats and the eagle owl. This constitutes a particularity of our sector, because this nocturnal bird of prey – the largest in Europe – is also considered a rare species. Although its population is relatively stable, the threats weighing on it are numerous and the natural environments favorable to its survival are reduced further each year. The Barrois quarry, however, offers a haven for all kinds of wildlife, and the eagle owl feels good there.
Near our rural villages, wild orchids take pride of place in the meadows. Majestic, they surround the humble daisies and poppies which often border or speckle crops. Our landscapes are marked by the work of generations of farmers. Fields of all colors crisscross the countryside, interspersed with hedges and solitary trees. Sparrows and small mammals raise their young there: the fox cubs will come to save the grain by munching on the rodents, helped by the buzzards and hawks. Some thistles along the path proudly wear the colors of Lorraine (be careful, If you go looking for trouble you'll find it !). On the outskirts of the Rosselle, the European beaver builds its dam, competing with the loggers.
It is in this bucolic setting that you can recharge your batteries by visiting the Freyming-Merlebach region!
