The Atlantic mixed forests ecoregion includes coastal vegetation
formations of dunes and heathlands with vegetation that thrives
in salty soil. Sand dune systems occur along the southwestern
coast of France, the region known as Les Landes, covered by both
natural and planted forests of maritime pine (Pinus pinaster).
They are rich in plant life, and home to a number of endemics.
Bird diversity is particularly high--over 440 species have been
recorded in the Netherlands alone. Most of the ecoregion’s
mammals are widespread in other parts of Europe. Several are
listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature and
Natural Resources Red List, including otter, European mink, and
several species of bat. Only fragments of natural vegetation
remain in this ecoregion, as most of the area was converted long
ago into intensive agriculture or pasture. Location and General
Description This ecoregion is located at the western coast of
the Eurasian continent. The eastern limits are determined by the
progressive