Étang de Capestang, Protected wetland area in Occitanie, France.
The Étang de Capestang is a wetland area located between the Herault and Aude departments that spans a large expanse with dense reed beds and channels fed by fresh water. The lagoon features a flat terrain with open water surfaces bordered by vegetation, creating a dense network of habitats for water birds.
The area served as a salt production site until around the 10th century and maintained water connections to the Mediterranean Sea through navigable channels. Changes in land use over centuries transformed it into the ecological site we see today.
The lagoon draws bird watchers and nature lovers who come to observe the diverse water birds living here throughout the year. Nearby villages regard this wetland as an integral part of their landscape and local identity.
Access to the interior of the wetland requires special permission and is restricted to protect the habitat, but visitors can observe from elevated vantage points in nearby towns such as Poilhes and Montels. These viewing spots are easily reached from the villages and offer good opportunities for watching birds.
The wetland functions as a natural flood control system for the Aude River while providing habitat for herons, egrets, harriers, spoonbills, and flamingos. These bird populations use different parts of the lagoon for breeding and wintering.
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