The forests of Prads contain several exceptional trees like the one that dominates us here.  These are mainly larches (Larix decidua L.) with a circumference of almost six metres. This indicates an age of several centuries, given that we are here at an altitude of nearly 1,800m, on a north-facing slope, which implies a rather slow growth. Only by analysing a core sample of the trunk would allow us to know the exact age, but this could put the tree at risk. These are mainly very low branching trees, due to lightning or snow. This reduces their suitability to provide planks or beams. This may be one explanation for their presence for so long in an area of regular logging. They may also have been preserved for their status as seed-bearing trees to repopulate the area after clear-cutting an area.