Tanji Bird Reserve, Bird sanctuary in West Coast Division, Gambia

Tanji Bird Reserve covers 612 hectares 3 km north of Tanji, including the Karinti River, Bald Cape and the Bijol Islands, The Gambia's only offshore islands, joined at low tide. Its mangrove, dry woodland and coastal dune scrub surround lagoons where black-headed herons, Caspian terns and spur-winged plovers feed.

The reserve was established in 1993 to protect both migratory and resident bird populations. Its creation was part of efforts to safeguard critical stopover points for species traveling between continents.

The reserve is named after Tanji, a smaller coastal town that relies less on its resources, a naming choice residents of Brufut resented. A 2001 study by Dalhousie University researchers found that Brufut residents almost universally wanted a role in managing the reserve. Some have used slash-and-burn harvesting within its boundaries, reducing but not eliminating most tree species.

The reserve lies about 3 km north of Tanji village and 1.5 km from the Atlantic coast; the Bijol Islands are reached by boat and are joined into one island at low tide. Paths cross mangrove, dry woodland and dune scrub, so wear sturdy shoes and carry binoculars. Access is via Tanji, where the reserve entrance is paid.

The Bijol Islands serve as critical resting spots for shorebirds and seabirds making long journeys. These islands, visible from the mainland, provide safe places for traveling species to rest and feed.