Caravane du Desman

The Pyrenean desman (Galemys pyrenaicus) is a small, nocturnal, semi-aquatic mammal related to moles and shrews. Also known as the trumpet rat, they have a long sensitive nose, which they stick into mud or crevices in search of prey. Once prolific in the region, it is now a threatened species; one of only two surviving descendants of the Desmanini tribe. Falling victim to habitat loss and destruction, it is almost extinct in the more southern areas of its range.

In a bid to halt and reverse the damage caused to this unique (and frankly adorable!) creature, a collaboration of local environment agencies and associations have come together to organise the Caravane du Desman. This mobile information and activity centre aims to raise awareness of not just the desmans, but of all the species within the waterways and lakes in the Massif Pyrénéen.

Travelling across the parc naturel régional des Pyrénées catalanes between the 4th and the 11th June, the caravane will host games, activites, guided walks, theme nights, shows and exhibitions in each of the towns in which it stops.

Programme

Find out more here