We invite you to join us on a fantastic half-day guided birdwatching excursion to Ivars and Vila-sana Lake, located between the municipalities of Ivars d'Urgell and Vila-sana, in the heart of the Pla d'Urgell region. This natural area, one of the most emblematic wetlands in the province of Lleida, is an exceptional place to discover the remarkable diversity of birds inhabiting the inland wetlands of Catalonia.
During the morning, we will explore different areas of the lake, following its paths, irrigation channels and waterways while discovering the most characteristic bird species of this fascinating ecosystem. We will be amazed by the richness of its tamarisk thickets and riparian woodlands, dominated by ash trees, white poplars and willows, which provide ideal shelter for numerous passerine birds. At the same time, we will enjoy watching a wide variety of waterbirds, taking advantage of the different bird hides and viewpoints surrounding the lake, which offer excellent opportunities for both birdwatching and photography.
Among the most interesting species we will try to find is the Bearded Reedling, one of the most distinctive birds of the reedbeds, as well as the first Spotted Crakes that may appear during the spring migration. We will also keep a close eye out for other species that use the lake as a resting, feeding or sheltering area during their migratory journeys.
To round off the morning, we will visit one of the strategic locations near the lake for observing birds of prey, increasing our chances of discovering additional species and enjoying the remarkable bird diversity of this region.
A wonderful morning filled with birds, nature and exciting sightings in one of the most interesting natural areas of the Lleida region. An unforgettable birdwatching experience!
The meeting point will be at 8:00 a.m. at the Bassa de l'Estany car park, located at the following coordinates: 41.681911, 0.935985.
Once everyone has arrived, we will begin our walk around the lake, exploring the different areas of ornithological interest along the way. We will visit all the bird hides and observation points, as well as some of the more wooded sections, giving us excellent opportunities to discover the wide variety of birds inhabiting this wetland.
Before returning to our vehicles, we will make a short stop at the Cal Sinent Information Centre, where we can use the toilets, enjoy a quick coffee or purchase some local products.
At around 12:00 p.m., we will head towards our second birdwatching location of the morning. This time, our focus will be on birds of prey, with up to 11 species potentially observable in the area, including Golden Eagle, Griffon Vulture, Merlin and Red Kite. We will explore the surroundings of Santa Maria de Montmagastrell, an excellent location for watching these magnificent raptors.
At approximately 2:00 p.m., our birdwatching excursion will come to an end, and we will begin our journey back home.
Icaro Birding Experience guide (Ferran López)
20–60x spotting scope
Personal travel insurance
Shared eBird checklist
Don't forget to bring your packed breakfast, warm clothing and suitable footwear for walking along dirt tracks. We will provide spotting scopes to enhance our birdwatching experience.
Aparcament de la bassa de l'Estany
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