Читать книгу The GR5 Trail - Vosges and Jura. Schirmeck to Lac Léman, and the GR53 онлайн

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Wild boar are common in the Northern Vosges

The woodlands attract a variety of bird species, although it is not always easy to get good views among the trees. The black woodpecker, largest of the European woodpeckers, advertises its presence by characteristically loud drumming, or you may hear the raucous call of nutcrackers, large brown crows that inhabit conifer woods. The capercaillie, largest of the European grouse, breeds in the forests of the Vosges and Jura, but this shy bird is rarely seen, despite its size. One bird that may attract attention is the golden oriole. Its loud flutey call carries through the forest, with just a glimpse now and again of a yellow-and-black bird flying from tree to tree. The song of the nightingale can also commonly be heard in early summer, usually in lowland scrub. The woods also play host to Tengmalm’s owl, goshawk and firecrest.

The rich growth of small plants can be very attractive in areas of more open woodland, with periwinkle and aconites, and sweetly scented lily-of-the-valley and daphne. Bilberries too are common, and the annual harvest of berries is used to make tarte aux myrtilles, a popular local dish in the Vosges.