Where to go birding: the Ebro Delta

Traditional cottage. Source: Wikimedia Commons

I would like to initiate a series of posts about places I like to go birding as often as possible. I will start with a big one. Last Saturday I had the opportunity to go to the one of the most important wetlands in Europe: the Ebro Delta. This huge wetland lies in north-east Spain, in the Mediterranean Sea and is shelter for many many birds, including some sensitive species. You can imagine what kind of paradise it is for many birders of the region (me included). However, it has also some threats that endanger not only the wildlife but the delta itself: invasive species, sea level rise and the Popular Party.

5 reasons to protect wetlands

Las Tablas de Daimiel. Photo taken by Yannboix

It was 2nd February, 43 years ago, in the city of Ramsar (Iran) where the Ramsar Convention was signed. It has only one main aim, but crucial: the protection of wetlands worldwide. Since 1977, 2nd February became the World Wetlands Day, where a huge number of events are organised around the world, to celebrate the date and the importance of these water bodies. But, what actually are wetlands? Why should we protect them? Which are their benefits?