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Parco Naturale Molentargius Saline

Sardinia  >  Italy

Since the decommissioning of salt mining in 1985, this wetland is one of the most species-rich birdsites of the whole of Sardinia.

Added* by Wolfgang Müller
Most recent update 24 април 2025

Description

Molentargius, which was the richest Sardinian basin for sea-salt extraction for two and a half centuries - an activity that ceased in 1985 - has become one of the main resting and nesting sites of aquatic birds in Europe. The Molentargius Saline extends across 1,600 hectares near the city of Cagliari. There are many bigger an smaller lagoons you can visit. One of the best places for birdwatching is the smaller lagoon of Stagno Perdabianca (1). Also of interest are the two main lagoons. Bellarosa Maggiore (2) is a large brackish lagoon and Bellarosa Minore (3) to the north east, is a smaller freshwater lagoon. In between the lagoons, there are numerous reed-filled freshwater pools and canals.

In the Stagno Perdabianca розев фламинго can often be observed from a short distance, as well as a обичен пеликан that lives there for several years. A чапја говедарка colony with a small observation platform is located on Viale della Fauna, just northeast of the observation tower.

On the embankment of Bellarosa Maggiore розев фламинго and тенкоклун галеб nest. The reed of the Bellarosa Minore is a refuge for nesting birds as чапја говедарка, Црвенонога сабјарка, мала бела чапја and numerous species of ducks. With a little luck, you will see Purple Swamphen, with its metallic blue plumage and scarlet red beak.

Other interesting breeding birds are жолта чапја, црвена чапја, ноќна чапја, дебелоклуна рибарка, мала чигра, црн кожувар, сабјарка, блатна еја and морски пескар.

The lagoons are also very good for migrant species, including ибис, чапја лажичарка, патка крецка, црна тринга and plenty of other waders. Wintering species include патка превез and чапја лажичарка.

Details

Access

Parco Naturale Molentargius Saline is located directly east of the city of Cagliari. A good option is to park on the south side of the area near Stagno Perdabianca. Press P on the map for directions.

From the city you can discover the Molentargius Saline through the pedestrian / bycycle path that runs along the port, or by public bus PQ, PF that stops (Generale Rossi stop) at approx 1 km from the visitor center of Via La Palma, there you can rent a bike or enjoy a guide service by boat or train, both electric powered.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Beach , Mud flats , Sea , Reedbeds

Conditions

Flat , No shadow , Open landscape

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring , Spring migration , Autumn migration

Route

Paved road , Unpaved road , Wide path

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Links

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

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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