Parque Nacional de Donana, Spain

In Spain there are worthy natural reserves too. Gorgeous Coto de Donana is among them. It is located in the southern part of the country and is known to ornithologists as a Paradise for Birds. It is the diversity of the feathered inhabitants that has made the reserve world famous. The reserve is located on the paths of bird migration, 360 species of which one can see here within a year.

Graceful pink flamingos, storks and herons, imperial eagles known for their stern temper – this is one of the only places on Earth with such an enormous variety of bird species like this. Rare species of Iberian lynx are also worth mentioning. The National park was created in 1769 and covers an area of 770 square kilometres. Over 250000 travellers from all over the world come here annually to experience unforgettable natural attractions of the region.

Nevertheless, there exist areas, were tourism is poorly controlled, which is of great threat to the unique ecosystems. Some years ago large and resort hotels, modern golf centers and farm territories of impressive size appeared in coastal protected park areas. Large-scale development resulted in a complete draining of somel lagoons, so nowadays, a bill prohibiting further construction in protected areas is being worked out in Spain. Many lovers of nature tend to make winter visits as thousands of heat-loving birds fly here from other continents at this time of the year. To the beginning - Reserves naturelles l'Air et Tenere