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Great birding area on the Durance river in the Luberon. Many birds can be seen here, sometimes really close.
On the banks of the river Durance just outside Mérindôl, you can find a big birdwatching observatory. It is one of the better birdwatching points in the Luberon region. From the hide and along the river you can look for Bonelli's Eagle, Short-toed Snake Eagle, Egyptian Vulture, Red Kite, Black Kite, all kinds of warblers, Golden Oriole, Alpine Swift, Crag Martin, Squacco Heron, Little Egret, Eagle Owl and Penduline Tit. During migration you might see Purple Heron or Moustached Warbler here. You can visit only the observatory or combine it with a nice 3 km circular hike.
From Cavaillon on the D973, turn right, as you reach the village of Merindol. Follow the signs to 'Observatoire ornithologique'. Best to visit in the morning when the sun is behind you. In the afternoon, it is better to stop at the far bank on the Mallemort side of the reservoir. You can also make a 3 km circular hike (see the map) to explore a larger part of the area. The trail is marked with yellow markers.