A Natural Refuge for the Aus
The Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Park is presented as a real sanctuary for birds, a space where animal biodiversity shines strongly. This privileged environment in Catalonia houses an amazing variety of species, with 329 types of birds that find an ideal habitat for reproduction, migration and rest during their long trips.
Discovering unique birds
In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of five birds that you can see in this natural paradise, always with a little patience and good binoculars on hand.
Common biton: The magical camouflage
The common biton, a bird with long legs of the Ardèid family, is a fascinating species. With a length of about 75 cm, its plumage has brown, brown and yellow tones. Like a bird of remote times, the biton is noted by a robust beak that allows it to hunt effectively. With a mainly nightlife and a tendency to avoid the company, its singing recalls the bram of an ox. His most amazing ability is his camouflage; Lifting the beak and stretching, confuses perfectly with its environment.
Blauet: a colored show
The Blauet, one of the jewels of the park, stands out for its lush color palette. With a plumage that combines bright blue, living green and touches of red, this bird is not only beautiful, but also a skilled hunter. His long, pointed beak allows him to capture fish with a great skill, all without getting wet much. Nesting in slopes near the water, the bluefin can be observed by flying between reeds and shrubs, adding a touch of magic to the park paths.
Puput: El Petitet in style
The puput is a small bird with an unmistakable and spectacular ridge that unfolds when landing. Its brown-rose hue, combined with black and white wings and tail, makes it unmistakable. Belonging to the family of upúpids, this bird feeds on insects and can be found in a wide variety of habitats, including forests and orchards. Its distinctive singing, with a repetitive ‘pu-put’, is one of the favorites among the ornithologists.
Alena’s beak: The expert in piercing
The Bec d’Alena is one of the most sought after birds for those who are passionate about ornithology. With a size of about 45 cm and a black and white plumage, it is easy to recognize. His beak curved upwards, which gives him name, is a perfect tool to look for aquatic insects in the mud. This adaptation allows him to drill effectively, revealing himself as an expert in the search for food.
Eagle Fisherman: The Hunter Teacher
The Pescadora eagle is one of the great shows of nature offered by the park. With a height of up to 60 cm and a wingspan that can reach 167 cm, this bird of the Pandionidae family is an exceptional hunter. His fishing technique, fast and precise, along with his sharp claws, make it a formidable predator. His reversible outer finger is a unique feature that allows him to take prey effectively, positioning it as one of the most feared birds in the area.
The importance of conservation
The rich diversity of birds of the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà is not only a natural treasure, but also emphasizes the importance of the conservation of these ecosystems. Observation of birds not only offers us moments of joy, but also reminds us of the responsibility we have to preserve these habitats for future generations.