Day 4

Coto Doñana

One of the first groups of people to see the value of this rich and varied ecosystem, were the Castilian Kings in the 13th Century. At this early stage of its history it was not as it is today but rather as a royal hunting estate. The park was then used by the Dukes of Medina Sidonia as a coto for the next 500 years. It was around this time that the park acquired its name when the Duchess Doná Ana de Silva y Mendoza chose to live here. The Duchess seemed to be after a sense of security and isolation, as she built a refuge that seemed more hermitage than residence. This led to the entire region being subsequently called "The Forest of Doná Ana" or as it is now called Doñana. (visit Discovering Donana)

Presently the parks local population is involved in charcoal production, wood gathering, fish farming, cattle grazing and bee keeping within the parks boundaries alongside 25 families, comprising mostly of park staff.

The Coto Donana is one of the most important wetland sites in Europe. It covers a total area of 1,300km² in the provinces Huelva, Sevilla and Cádiz and is comprised of three distinct ecosystems, Mediterranean Scrubland, the Marismas and the coastal dunes and their beaches. This diversity of habitats increases the number of species that can be seen and found within the park. Among these species there is the chance to see the Spanish Imperial Eagle. Donana holds one of the world's largest populations of this majestic bird, so the chance of seeing this species is good. Some other equally exciting species are Short-toed and Booted eagles, Purple gallinule, Azure-winged magpie, Red-knobbed coot etc.

There are 125 species of bird to be found within the park, with a further 125 migratory species, 17 reptile, including Europe 's only chameleon species, 9 amphibians and 28 mammals. As we can see, not only is the park rich in avian species it also has some exciting mammals. Among these are the threatened Iberian lynx and the Egyptian mongoose. There is always something new and exciting to see if you have never been before, and a chance to see things you have never seen before if you have visited.

To give us the best chance of seeing the wildlife of Donana we will be using English-speaking guides. By using a guide we will have the greater chance of seeing any target species that you hope to see, as he knows of the most recent sightings, and also has extensive local knowledge of the area and where target species can be found.

We cannot hope to show you the whole of Donana due to its vastness. This day aims to give you an in depth introduction to the flora and fauna, ecology, threats and conservation measures implemented to help protect this natural wonder.

The day will consist of two trips to allow us to experience as varied a mix of species and ecosystems as possible. The first trip will allow us to see a part of Donana that is rarely seen due to controlled access. The area consists of vast expanses of marsh that stretch from Sanlúcar on up. This vast expanse of wetland is one of Europe's most important wildlife sanctuaries for both flora and fauna. Migrating birds flying north and south rely on this as a refuelling station for their survival as well as being home to wildlife found all year round.

To allow us to view this natural wonder we will embark on a boat, the Real Fernando, and cruise approximately 13kms up the Guadalquivir River, to see things you would not otherwise see. The boat stops twice to allow us a walk into the park itself, both led by experts on the natural history, and history of Donana. As well as looking at the parks flora and fauna, we will also be shown and told about the culture that has grown up alongside it. This is important when trying to discover how humans, over the years, have helped shape and influence what we see today.

The second part of this day's trip is in four-wheel drive vehicles. The duration is approximately four hours, stopping and starting at watch points and for impromptu stops along the way. It encompasses a large area, approx 70kms, which will give you an overall picture of the park. Depending on the season there will be a good opportunity to watch aquatic birds. We will be accompanied by a professional guide to maximize our chances to see typical Donana species.

Some of the birds of interest found at this site

Spoonbill, Glossy Ibis, Greater Flamingo, Spanish Imperial Eagle, Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Crested Lark, Lesser Short-toed Lark, Calandra Lark, Penduline Tit, Crested Tit, Southern Grey Shrike, Azure-winged Magpie, Spanish Sparrow.

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