Flora Rebounds After Devastating Fire in Locarn, France

Two months after a significant fire ravaged parts of the Locarn moors in Brittany, France, nature is showing signs of recovery. The fire, which occurred on April 5, 2025, destroyed approximately 120 hectares of this exceptional natural site. Specialists are reporting encouraging results for the flora, with vegetation returning in many areas. The fire primarily burned dry litter, leaving the humus and seeds largely untouched, allowing for regrowth. Molinia grass, gorse, and heather have shown resilience, with the Molinia grass and gorse already showing signs of recovery. The heather, while slower to recover, also has intact roots, suggesting a good chance of regrowth. While the impact on fauna is still being assessed, the initial observations are positive, with no observed mortality among birds and mammals. However, some damage was noted to early nests, and the fate of certain butterfly species, like the Gazé, remains uncertain. Experts are closely monitoring the area to fully assess the fire's impact and the long-term recovery of the ecosystem. The landscape is expected to evolve over the next few years, with Molinia grass dominating initially, followed by gorse and eventually heather, with a full recovery taking five to eight years.