Embalse de Arrocampo - Saucedilla

Extremadura, Caceres Province > Spain

Fantastic wetland that holds many incredible species not otherwise found in or associated with Extremadura.

Added* by Mats van Kasteren
Most recent update 5 January 2022

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 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.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , River , Reedbeds , Mud flats

Conditions

Flat , Wet , No shadow , Open landscape

Circular trail

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring , Winter , Autumn

Route

Wide path

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Car , Bicycle , Wheelchair

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Extra 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 , Hoopoe , Squacco Heron , Little Egret , Marsh Harrier and Short-toed Snake Eagle , all at the first hide.