The bird-tree
Species:
Cork Oak (Quercus suber)
Age:
200-230 years old
Region:
Ghisonaccia, Haute-Corse, France
The protective cork oak "Arburacellu" of Ghisonaccia
The outline of a bird of prey spreading its wings: The unusual shape of the trunk of this Corsican cork oak is thought to have been caused by a fire, as shown by its calcined heart. An element of mystery remains though: when you approach its wings, there comes a growing feeling of protection, then walk a few steps further and this fleeting feeling is gone. Does the bird-tree have magical powers? Thanks to all its protectors, this tree, though exposed to elements, should enliven the wild landscape of Ghisonaccia in Eastern Corsica for a long time yet.