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Description
The Embalse de Arrocampo is a large artificial marshland, created to cool of the water used by the nuclear power plant before flowing back into the Tagus. The water is surrounded by bulrush vegetation and the warm water supports a rich feeding ground for many sought after and truly magnificent species, most notably, the area holds a strong population of Purple Swamphen. Apart from this emblematic species, many others can be found, as well as a fine range of amphibians, reptiles and mammals (most notably Egyptian Mongoose). Near the village of Saucedilla a series of bird hides gives excellent views of the birds.
Details
Access
At the Southern edge of the village of Saucedilla, near the football pitch, there is a small visitor' s center (next to the indicated parking spot) where you can get the keys to the 4 hides overlooking the marshland, be advised though, the center has rather strange opening hours, so check the internet carefully. The trail towards the hides starts just next to the Visitor' s centre. You can also drive by car to all hides if you want to.
Terrain and Habitat
Wetland , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , River , Reedbeds , Mud flatsConditions
Flat , Wet , No shadow , Open landscapeCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring , Winter , AutumnRoute
Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , Car , Bicycle , WheelchairBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
The best spot for Purple Swamphen is the corner of the first birdwatching hide (near the visitor' s centre, see the map). In fact, in 1 evening in summer we saw Purple Swamphen Purple Heron , Black-crowned Night Heron , Little Bittern , Eurasian Hoopoe , Squacco Heron , Little Egret , Western Marsh Harrier and Short-toed Snake Eagle , all at the first hide.