Tablas de Daimiel National Park

Birds

Tablas de Daimiel National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, as it serves as a critical stopover for migratory birds traveling between Europe and Africa. The wetlands provide nesting and feeding grounds for a vast array of species, including rare and endangered birds.

Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia)
This elegant wading bird is easily recognized by its long, spoon-shaped bill, which it uses to sweep through the water in search of small fish and invertebrates.

Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea)
A stunning heron species with deep reddish-purple plumage, the purple heron prefers reed beds and shallow waters, where it hunts for fish, frogs, and insects.

Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus)
Characterized by its iridescent dark plumage and long, curved bill, the glossy ibis is a social bird often seen in flocks, foraging for invertebrates in shallow waters.

Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus)
With its striking black-and-white plumage and long, thin red legs, the black-winged stilt wades through the shallows in search of small aquatic creatures.

Great Egret (Ardea alba)
This large, graceful egret has pure white feathers and a long, yellow bill. It is a patient hunter, standing still for long periods before striking at fish and amphibians.

White-headed Duck (Oxyura leucocephala)
A rare and endangered diving duck, the white-headed duck is known for its bright white head, blue bill (in males), and stiff tail, which it often holds upright.

Common Crane (Grus grus)
A seasonal visitor to the park, the common crane is a large, majestic bird with a distinctive trumpeting call. It gathers in large flocks during migration, creating a spectacular sight.

Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca)
This diving duck has rich chestnut plumage and striking white undertail coverts. It is a species of conservation concern due to habitat loss.

Bearded Reedling (Panurus biarmicus)
A small, acrobatic bird with a distinctive black mustache (in males), the bearded reedling thrives in reed beds, feeding on insects and seeds.

Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus)
A top predator of the wetlands, the marsh harrier glides over the reeds in search of small birds, mammals, and amphibians. Its broad wings and long tail allow for agile flight.

Tablas de Daimiel National Park remains a vital refuge for these species, showcasing the ecological richness of Spain’s wetlands.

Tablas de Daimiel National Park, located in central Spain, is a unique wetland ecosystem formed by the confluence of the Guadiana and Cigüela rivers. It is one of the most important freshwater marshlands in the Iberian Peninsula, serving as a crucial habitat for diverse wildlife. Though it is renowned for its birdlife, the park is also home to various mammals, reptiles, and amphibians that thrive in its wetlands and surrounding woodlands.

European Otter (Lutra lutra)
The elusive European otter can be found in the park’s waterways, where it hunts for fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. This semi-aquatic mammal is an excellent swimmer, using its webbed feet and streamlined body to navigate the marshy terrain.

Iberian Lynx (Lynx pardinus)
One of the most endangered feline species in the world, the Iberian lynx occasionally roams the park’s peripheries. Recognizable by its short tail, spotted coat, and distinctive facial ruff, this elusive predator primarily preys on rabbits.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
Wild boars are a common sight in the park, often foraging in the reeds and wet meadows. These highly adaptable omnivores feed on roots, tubers, small animals, and carrion.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
The red fox is a versatile predator that inhabits the drier areas of the park. It feeds on small mammals, birds, and insects and is known for its intelligence and adaptability to different environments.

European Polecat (Mustela putorius)
A nocturnal hunter, the European polecat is a small but fierce mustelid that preys on rodents, amphibians, and birds. It is well adapted to the wetlands and is often found near water.

Iberian Hare (Lepus granatensis)
This species of hare is well-adapted to the open fields and scrublands surrounding the wetlands. It has long, powerful legs that enable it to escape predators like foxes and birds of prey.

Common Genet (Genetta genetta)
An agile and nocturnal carnivore, the common genet is a spotted, cat-like mammal with a long, ringed tail. It preys on small animals and insects and is an excellent climber.

European Pond Turtle (Emys orbicularis)
This freshwater turtle thrives in the park’s ponds and slow-moving waters. It is an omnivore, feeding on aquatic plants, invertebrates, and small fish.

Viperine Water Snake (Natrix maura)
A non-venomous snake that mimics the appearance of a viper, the viperine water snake is commonly seen in the park’s wetlands. It primarily feeds on fish and amphibians.

Marbled Newt (Triturus marmoratus)
This striking amphibian, with its green and black marbled pattern, is often found in the park’s wet areas. It breeds in ponds and slow-moving waters, where its larvae develop before transitioning to land.