The Algarve is known as an unrivaled holiday destination, marked by excellent beaches and sunny days all year round. But in addition to the 88 beaches recognized by the European Blue Flag Association, the Algarve region boasts another equally captivating treasure: a variety of birdlife and biodiversity that is revealed through activities such as birdwatching.

As a growing practice worldwide, especially in Europe, birdwatching has numerous advantages when compared with other activities in nature: it is easy to do (unlike fish watching - or even, contrary to mammal watching), it can be done anywhere, it is family-friendly, usually requires little investment, and can be done all year round. Furthermore, birdwatching offers close contact with nature.



Due to that fact, the Algarve coast has been investing in more and more places that encourage birdwatching. One of them is Salgados Lagoon, covered by a rich birdlife and only 17 minutes drive from the golf resort Amendoeira Golf Resort.

Also known as Sapal de Pera or de Vale de Parra Lagoon, Salgados Lagoon is one of the Algarve's most important freshwater wetlands. Despite being much smaller than the Ria Formosa (and even smaller than the Alvor estuary), Salgados Lagoon is inhabited by a wide variety of bird species.

With the arrival of spring, the highlights are the purple heron (ardea purpurea), pink flamingo (phoenicopterus roseus), mallard ducks (anas querquedula), and the roseate tern (apus melba).

Purple heron (Ardea purpurea)

The purple heron (also known as the imperial heron) is one of the heron family species with the greatest presence in Portugal. Currently endangered, it is a rather shy and discreet bird, although it can be easily seen in coastal wetlands.

Distinguished by its grey and pink plumage, its long yellow bill, and long neck, the purple heron usually remains still in the tall vegetation, often going unnoticed. However, with its characteristic cry in flight, it becomes easier to observe. It appears in the Algarve area during migratory passages.
 

Pink Flamingo (phoenicopterus roseus)

The flamingo is one of the most common wild birds in Portugal and can be seen in various parts of the country. It is regularly seen in Salgados Lagoon, as the large wetlands of the southern coast are very favorable for observing this species.



Mallard ducks (Anas cherquedula)

Mallard ducks are of small size. The male is distinguished from the female by its brown head with a long white superciliary stripe. Since any place frequented by Anatidae is potentially good for watching this species, especially in March, the Salgados Lagoon is one of the places with the highest concentration of mallard ducks.


Alpine Swift (Apus melba)

Being noticeably larger than its congeners, Alpine Swift is marked by its white belly, particularly prominent during flight. This is one of the easiest species to distinguish, not only by its physical features but also by its chirping.

The best places to observe Apline Swift are at the extremes of Portugal: the north-east of the Trás-os-Montes region and the rocky coasts of the Algarve coast.

Besides the species mentioned, there are many more along with the various birdwatching stations along the Algarve coastline, and they are waiting for your visit. Venture out and discover the charms of biodiversity that the Algarve has to offer you!



Amendoeira Golf Resort
Amendoeira Golf Resort is an Algarve resort where you can find privacy and safety among 270 hectares of nature. Recognized by Instituto do Turismo de Portugal (ITP) - “Portuguese Tourism Institute” - with the Clean & Safe label, this golf resort complies with all the safety and hygiene standards imposed by the Directorate-General of Health - DGS. Besides, it is also a member of the Portuguese Resorts Association (APR), which represents the best Residential Tourism projects in Portugal.