Cíjara reserve, Nature reserve in Extremadura, Spain.
Cíjara reserve covers a large forested area with holm oaks and cork oaks, interspersed with various vegetation types. The protected area includes sections with river corridors, open clearings, and dense woodland stands.
The area was placed under protection in 1966 as a nature reserve to safeguard the landscape from intensive use. The regional government of Extremadura later took over management of the protected area.
Local communities have long used the area for traditional activities such as mushroom gathering and hunting in designated zones. These practices continue to shape how people relate to the land today.
The area has marked hiking and cycling trails that visitors can use to explore the reserve. Access is restricted during certain hunting seasons throughout the year, so it is best to check conditions beforehand.
A large reservoir divides the reserve into two sections and created new habitats for water birds. This artificial water body now attracts migratory birds and transforms the ecosystem in unexpected ways.
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