Map of the reserve
Laguna de Medina is the largest, and most easily accessible, of the lakes in Cadiz province. Fortunately, it is now very well signposted just off the new A381 just south of Jerez (which is, confusingly, much nearer than Medina Sidonia). It makes a good stop en route to Tarifa from sites further north in Seville province. This iconic site is run by the Junta de Andalucia and, unlike many sites in their care, it lacks the somewhat neglected air and has recently undergone a series of improvements. Two boardwalks along the southern edge of the laguna both give an improved views over the laguna and improves access whenwater levels are high. A hide at the edge of the lagoon originally had fixed, tinted, ‘glazed’ and overlarge windows, but, officially or unofficially, most of these have been removed. The views are now much improved although, unfortunately, the large windows mean you still have to approach with caution so as to not disturb nearby birds. One recent guide claims that you can walk right round the lake, but this is not the case. However, such a walk apparently awaits the agreement of only one landowner. (Don’t be confused by the red line round the map of the reserve which marks it’s boundary, not a path).
There’s a good viewpoint behind a small white building (a). The views across the lake are excellent, but rather distant (a ‘scope is essential). Carefully examine the birds to your right here as it has the reputation for being good for Crested Coot. To be honest, though, you’d need to be familiar with the species and a good 40+ zoom to be sure! As noted above, two raised wooden walkways along the southern edge have improved visibility. A path snakes its way off this track to a hide (c) which now enjoys good unrestricted views of the lake. Despite the notice at the end of the track, the path (sendero) can now be followed across a wooden causeway ultimately to link with the Lagunas de Puerto Real (and beyond). This area can also be accessed via a minor road (e). Savi’s Warbler is possible in the marsh here (d).
There’s a good viewpoint behind a small white building (a). The views across the lake are excellent, but rather distant (a ‘scope is essential). Carefully examine the birds to your right here as it has the reputation for being good for Crested Coot. To be honest, though, you’d need to be familiar with the species and a good 40+ zoom to be sure! As noted above, two raised wooden walkways along the southern edge have improved visibility. A path snakes its way off this track to a hide (c) which now enjoys good unrestricted views of the lake. Despite the notice at the end of the track, the path (sendero) can now be followed across a wooden causeway ultimately to link with the Lagunas de Puerto Real (and beyond). This area can also be accessed via a minor road (e). Savi’s Warbler is possible in the marsh here (d).
Laguna de Medina
(from viewpoint a - see map)
Although particularly well known as a site for Crested Coot, this species can be hard to locate amongst the more numerous Common Coot. A recent estimate suggests that there are 20-25 individual Crested Coots present at this site so, given the size of the lagoon, they can be hard to locate. They can also be elusive and hug cover. Despite being very hard to find here in 2003-2005, they have been much easier in recent years although finding them without a good scope is a real challenge.
The number of White-headed Ducks present was in decline, apparently due to the introduction of carp to the laguna. However, numbers have bounced back (400+ Sept 2010) seem to have bounced back. Marbled Duck are said to be regular and Ferruginous Duck are occasional (e.g. 6 in Sept. 2010). Also present are good numbers of other waterfowl (inc. Red-crested Pochard), herons (inc. Night Heron, Little Bittern and Great White Egret), Purple Gallinule, grebes (esp Black-necked) gulls and marsh terns (in summer/passage Whiskered is frequent , but I have also seen White-winged and Black Terns). Flamingo are regular and a variety of waders appear especially when water levels are low. Pratincole often hawk over the area (esp. mornings and evenings during migration periods) in good numbers. Large numbers of hirundines (inc. Red-rumped Swallows & Crag Martins) and swifts (Alpine, Common and Pallid) can also be seen here.
The number of White-headed Ducks present was in decline, apparently due to the introduction of carp to the laguna. However, numbers have bounced back (400+ Sept 2010) seem to have bounced back. Marbled Duck are said to be regular and Ferruginous Duck are occasional (e.g. 6 in Sept. 2010). Also present are good numbers of other waterfowl (inc. Red-crested Pochard), herons (inc. Night Heron, Little Bittern and Great White Egret), Purple Gallinule, grebes (esp Black-necked) gulls and marsh terns (in summer/passage Whiskered is frequent , but I have also seen White-winged and Black Terns). Flamingo are regular and a variety of waders appear especially when water levels are low. Pratincole often hawk over the area (esp. mornings and evenings during migration periods) in good numbers. Large numbers of hirundines (inc. Red-rumped Swallows & Crag Martins) and swifts (Alpine, Common and Pallid) can also be seen here.
The Hide
Passerines may include the ubiquitous Stonechat, Corn Bunting and Crested Lark. Reedbeds hold Reed and Great Reed and Penduline Tit (the latter is more numerous in winter). (Note: Contra to some reports Moustached Warbler is a rarity here although Sedge Warbler is a common passage migrant…….).
The declining Rufous Bushchat may still be present, but most recent records seem to be of migrants. Melodious Warbler is present as, later in the season, are much smaller numbers of Olivaceous Warbler (both frequent the tamarisks so knowing their songs helps). Surrounding farmlands have Stone Curlew and all the more familiar Spanish raptors may be seen in the area. In recent years Black-winged Kite has become a regular visitors (esp. in the mornings and evenings). For this species, and other raptors, try taking the first turning to the south off the service road. This road takes you to an open area (e) south of the main lagoon (which can also be reached by the boardwalk as noted above)
The declining Rufous Bushchat may still be present, but most recent records seem to be of migrants. Melodious Warbler is present as, later in the season, are much smaller numbers of Olivaceous Warbler (both frequent the tamarisks so knowing their songs helps). Surrounding farmlands have Stone Curlew and all the more familiar Spanish raptors may be seen in the area. In recent years Black-winged Kite has become a regular visitors (esp. in the mornings and evenings). For this species, and other raptors, try taking the first turning to the south off the service road. This road takes you to an open area (e) south of the main lagoon (which can also be reached by the boardwalk as noted above)
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