The train that travels through the Parc des sentiers de la nature is undoubtedly one of the attractions that has earned the Zoo sauvage its international reputation. With its 323 hectares (3.24 km\u00b2), the Park is an oasis for hundreds of animals living in semi-freedom. Its route, approximately seven kilometers long, crosses a variety of biomes such as prairie, tundra, and boreal forest. Across this wide range of landscapes where they coexist, the animals thrive\u2014for the enjoyment of our visitors and, of course, that of our train drivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These famous ride operators have the privilege of traveling through this vast wilderness dozens of times each week. One might think they would quickly get used to the route and what it offers, but nature can always be surprising. Because of their many behaviors and the size of their habitat, the animals provide a unique spectacle that is constantly changing. As a result, no ride is ever the same. Today, three of our train drivers share their summer favorites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Josette has been driving trains for over twenty years. Each year, she enjoys observing the many species of wild birds that come to take advantage of the Park\u2019s calm environment. This summer, she spotted, among others, a juvenile herring gull, a black-headed gull, and a northern harrier. These sightings are a constant source of pleasure for her, but she admits that the births she has witnessed hold a special place in her heart. Indeed! Josette had the chance to observe the birth of a longhorn calf, a bison calf, and a young musk ox.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While some love birds, other drivers prefer large mammals. Yannick, who has been a driver for sixteen years, is particularly fond of bison and musk oxen. This year, his favorite is undeniable: the musk ox calf. At birth, these large herbivores are covered in a fluffy coat, and it is hard not to fall for their charm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gabriel, for his part, is in his first year as a train driver. Of all the scenes that have fascinated him, he especially remembers the time he saw a black bear, calmly sitting against a tree while nursing her two cubs. Still a student, Gabriel has the chance to explore the Parc des sentiers de la nature and observe the biodiversity that fascinates him. There is still so much for him to discover, but he will keep that magical moment in his memory forever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Of course, experience speaks for itself, and although you can never know exactly what you will see during a ride, there are certain things you can anticipate. Yannick and Josette both agree on one point: with autumn approaching, they are eagerly awaiting the incredible rutting season. During this colorful period, the males of our four species of cervids\u2014moose, elk, caribou, and white-tailed deer\u2014shed their velvet to reveal the bone structure of their antlers. Impressive battles then take place in order to win over the females.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether you have already visited or not, the Parc des sentiers de la nature will always have something to impress you. Every ride is unique, as even our most experienced drivers will tell you. This fall, come and observe the changing colors of the Park\u2019s forests. The vibrant display of autumn foliage is certainly worth the trip\u2014and what about the magnificent antlers of our cervids during the season? Who knows? You might even have the chance to witness one of those famous battles so eagerly anticipated by our drivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And you, what are your favorite moments in the Parc des sentiers de la nature?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"