EXCURSION
Biodiversity and Conservation Biology in Europe’s Nature Reserve Showcases: The Crau and Camargue

Southern France - Crau - Camargue - Mediterranean Sea - Alpilles
La Crau is Europes’ last unimpaired „stone“ steppe formation, the Camargue one of Europes’ most fascinating nature reserves and the Mediterranean Sea a unique marine habitat. In less than 45 minutes we can travel between stony steppe, multifaceted wetlands and extended seashore to discover and observe completely contrasting ecological communities. We will observe in highly striking ways the battle between human economic interests and nature conservation. Among others, huge citrus fruits plantations and rice fields compete with endangered animal species for survival. We will feel the scientific research needs on site and discuss management plans that aim to allow both, the conservation of some of the most valuable ecological habitats and the economic use of some of the most productive land areas in Europe. We will also snorkel and dive to collect marine animal samples. Local scientists will guide tours and give seminars (all in English).
Dates 2025
Excursion Date: from June 27 to July 6, 2025
Place: St. Martin de Crau Campsite, Southern France (we are camping!)
Costs: 395 Euro. Tuition covers transport (rented busses), camping, guided tours, all fees
Number of participants: max. 18 students (including teaching assistants)
Instructors: Prof. Dr. B Schierwater, PD Dr. H Hadrys and Dr. Kai Kamm
Registration: bernd.schierwater (at) tiho-hannover.de
1st Meeting: April 23 at 4:15 pm, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Institute of Animal Ecology - Bünteweg 17d