The "MERJA ZERGA" a NATIONAL PARC

BIRD SANCTUARY

 

The Blue Lagoon is a National Parc of 7000 hec. It is the nearest stop over of the migrating birds after or before the crossing of the Gibraltar Straights.

The first migrating birds arrive early September, during the month of winter several thousands Wadlers (barges, godwaits...) White Spoonbills, Pink Flamingoes, Ducks and Geese from Scandinavia , Siberia....

A lot of birds use the Lagoon as a rest place on their way to hibernation to the South of the Sahara, and on the way back north in Spring time. Several spieces stay there too all winter like the Slenderbill curlew, a bird who nest in Siberia and which is rapidly disaprearing.

The "AFRICAN MARSH OWL" now renamed "The Cap Owl". is a very rare bird which population has recently grown. He stays all year round on the Lagoon site and retires to nest in the reeds at the quiet end of the Lagoon. April is the best time to observe the chicks.