“The Parc de Branféré must become a destination in its own right.”
—Tom Daune, Director of the Parc de Branféré
Recently appointed director of the Parc de Branféré in Morbihan, France, Tom Daune shares his vision for this exceptional site, dedicated to biodiversity preservation, scientific research, and environmental education.
What makes the Parc de Branféré so unique?
The park’s public-interest mission is deeply rooted in its history. The couple who donated it to Fondation de France were pioneers—passionate about animal welfare and biodiversity long before these ideas became mainstream. Their legacy allows the park to not only care for animals in a high-quality environment, but also to innovate through scientific and educational programs.
The École de la Nature, located within the park, is a unique center for education and training. It develops resources, pedagogical content, and interactive programming to empower learners of all ages to understand and act on biodiversity issues.
Branféré is an ecosystem in itself—guided by a consistent, values-driven approach. For example, some of the animals are fed with hay grown organically on-site. The park also made the difficult but necessary decision to rehome its last seal, Fritz, upon learning that seal skin does not tolerate freshwater well.
What’s your vision for the next five years?
As Branféré approaches its 60th anniversary in 2025, we’re preparing for a new chapter of growth and visibility. Our goal is to formalize the park’s mission around three pillars: public engagement, scientific advancement, and education. We want to reaffirm our role as a leader in biodiversity conservation—not only for species protection, but for expanding knowledge and raising public awareness.
We’ll soon be opening a new research aviary to host wading birds (limicoles), allowing ethologists to study their little-known behaviors while remaining accessible to the public. Another program will examine how different bird populations adapt when reintroduced to the wild, with the goal of improving long-term survival strategies.
We’re also launching a Maison de la Recherche, a new research facility within the park where scientists and doctoral students can study on-site species and contribute to global knowledge. And in spring 2025, the park will host its first Spring University, an annual event fostering dialogue around science and education, capped by a national youth competition on biodiversity.
Support the Living Legacy of Branféré
The Fondation Paul et Hélène Jourde, under the umbrella of Fondation de France, continues to fund and guide the work of the Parc de Branféré with an enduring commitment to people, planet, and progress.
With your support, Friends of Fondation de France can help expand this vital work—advancing biodiversity research, inspiring young minds, and protecting endangered species for generations to come.
Let’s invest in a future where humans and nature thrive together.
Support the Fondation Paul et Hélène Jourde today.
Translated and adapted from French. Originally published by Fondation de France.
