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Aiguabarreig de Mequinenza

Aragón  >  Spain

Aiguabarreig de Mequinenza is a natural area where the Segre, Cinca, and Ebro rivers converge, creating a rich and diverse ecosystem ideal for birdwatching.

Added* by Laura Fernández
Most recent update 18 juli 2024

Description

The Aiguabarreig de Mequinenza offers a striking landscape, where the large wetlands formed by the confluence of major rivers meet the surrounding arid terrain. This unique environment makes it a strategic point for many birds, serving as a wintering, breeding, or migratory stopover site. The sediment accumulation at the tail of the Ribarroja reservoir has created various islands between the confluences of the Segre and Cinca rivers, extending to the Ebro in Mequinenza.

One notable island is l’Illa dels Martinets, an important breeding colony for many heron species, including Kohejre, Silkehejre, Dværghejre, Nathejre, Sølvhejre, Fiskehejre and Purpurhejre. Recently, the Tophejre has also joined, and a few well-camouflaged Rørdrum winter here among the reeds.

The extensive and well-preserved riparian forests and reed beds host a diverse and interesting bird population year-round. Species such as rails, woodpeckers, thrushes, tits, finches, and buntings can be seen and heard, adding to the birdwatching experience amidst lush vegetation.

In the steppe environment, you can find emblematic species like Dværgtrappe, Sortbuget Sandhøne, Spidshalet Sandhøne, Ellekrage and both Korttået Lærke and Dværglærke. Transitional areas between habitats feature species like Mestersanger, Brillesanger, Blådrossel and both Sørgestenpikker and Stenpikker.

Finally, the Ebro Valley cliffs host a rich variety of cliff-dwelling species, particularly raptors, such as Gåsegrib, Ådselgrib, Kongeørn, Høgeørn, Dværgørn, Slangeørn, Musvåge, Rørhøg, Sort Glente, Rød Glente, Vandrefalk and Stor hornugle.

Details

Access

Aiguabarreig de Mequinenza is located in the northeastern part of Spain, where the Segre, Cinca, and Ebro rivers converge. The area can be accessed by car via the N-211 road, with parking available near the town of Mequinenza. Press a P in the map for directions. While public transport options are limited, the site can be explored by foot, bike, or car, depending on your preference. Allow at least half a day to fully appreciate the diverse habitats and bird species present.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Wetland , Plain , Canyon/cliff , Steppe , Desert , River , Reedbeds , Agriculture , Scattered trees and bushes , Valley , City/village , Park

Conditions

Mountainous , Open landscape , High water possible

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring migration , Autumn migration , Spring

Route

Paved road , Wide path , Unpaved road

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle , Car , Boat

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Extra info

Don't miss the museums of Mequinenza, the castle, and other cultural attractions in the area. Additionally, it's easy to find hotels, hostels, campgrounds, bars, and restaurants in the town, making your visit convenient and enjoyable (see for more info the link below).

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

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