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What to expect from this weekend’s ‘mega-reservoir’ protests in France
See what protests are planned and where, and why authorities are on such high alert
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Spot dolphins and whales on cross Channel UK-France ferry
Passengers are invited to access the ferry decks and record observations on a special app
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Couple sue French commune for letting acorns fall on their roof
They claim the acorns caused damage totalling €6,000
Using natural 'bio' mosquito repellent may kill birds
A scientist is demanding a review of the use of natural bio mosquito control, claiming it is harmful to some birds.
![](https://image.connexionfrance.com/100649.webp?imageId=100649&width=960&height=646&format=jpg)
The bio insecticide Bti is based on bacteria and is sprayed from planes and by pump teams across the south of France, from the Carmargue national park to the Spanish border.
Dr Brigitte Poulin, a director with the Tour du Valat research institute which concentrates on Mediterranean research, said: “At first, people believed that it was a miracle solution, compared to the ‘kill everything’ insecticides used before. Our research has shown that there is a negative effect, especially on house martins, which feed mosquitoes to chicks, and on other birds and dragonflies. But when we published it, the anti-mosquito body which works with local authorities did not want to take any notice.”
Read more: gardeners in France asked to help hedgehogs in new campaign
Dr Poulin said people should learn to live with mosquitoes better, saying it is tourists who complain, not locals. Another idea is traps with a bait that gives off carbon dioxide and smells known to attract mosquitoes, as these target specific areas, such as towns.
Shopping local: France's AMAP farm basket scheme explained
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