Lagoa dos Salgados Birdwatching Tour

Lagoa dos Salgados, an Idyllic Birdwatching Destination
 

Lagoa dos Salgados, a pristine wetland in the Algarve, is an extraordinary haven for bird enthusiasts. This picturesque locale is renowned for its diverse avian population, including ducks, waders, and the ever-elegant Flamingos. The area, however, faces environmental challenges due to its lack of legal protection, making it vulnerable to development projects like hotels.
 

Tour Details:

• Duration: A comprehensive 4-hour tour.
• Price: Accessible pricing at 49€ for adults and children alike. Private groups need a minimum of four participants.
• Timing: The tour is scheduled for the afternoon, capitalizing on optimal lighting conditions. Thursday mornings offer an alternative experience with a visit to Cruzinha, the field study center of A ROCHA Portugal.

Birdwatching Highlights:

• Flamingos and Glossy Ibis: These species have shown remarkable presence, with Flamingos attempting to breed (evidenced by two nests) and the Glossy Ibis now a regular sight.
• Diverse Duck Population: In winter, the lagoon is a spectacle of various duck species including Mallards, Pochards, Gadwalls, Teal, and Shovelers.
• Waders Galore: The site is a breeding ground for Kentish Plovers, Black-winged Stilts, Avocets, and Collared Pratincoles. The Purple Swamphen is notably common here.
• Unique Bird Species: The reedbeds in spring are alive with the calls of Purple Herons and Little Bitterns. Regular sightings of Audouin’s Gull and Caspian Tern add to the allure.
• Marsh Harrier: A highlight is the Marsh Harrier, often seen soaring above, stirring the birdlife below and revealing species usually hidden in the vegetation.

Tour Experience:

• Observation Points: While most birdwatching is done from a single vantage point, there's an opportunity to explore further along the lagoon on a boardwalk for varied perspectives and more bird sightings.
• Recent Improvements: Efforts to enhance the habitat for birds have been fruitful, demonstrating a positive impact on the avian population.

Inclusions:

• Comprehensive Guide Service: The tour includes an expert guide to enhance your birdwatching experience.
• Resources Provided: Participants receive a checklist and access to field guides.
• Refreshments: A drink is offered midway or at the end of the tour.
• Transportation: All necessary driving is covered in the tour price.

This excursion to Lagoa dos Salgados not only promises an enriching birdwatching experience but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts in preserving such unique natural habitats.