Lavognes

The “lavognes” (also called “lavagnes“) are little natural hollows in the ground that can be found on the causses (limestone plateaus). In these dry regions, man has rearranged them in order to hold rainwater: the ground is covered with clay or paved with limestone so that the water doesn’t seep into the soil. These little ponds are used for watering cattle. The water level varies with seasons.

A lavogne at Drigas

The lavognes supports a diverse ecosystem: it harbours rich flora and fauna. For instance, newts and other amphibians, dragonflies or even white water-crowfoot (Ranunculus aquatilis) can be observed there.

White water-crowfoot in a lavogne, at Drigas
(Photo credit: Jean-Claude Paulet)