Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, Nature reserve and national park near Saint-Louis, Senegal.
The Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary is a large protected wetland in the Senegal River delta near Saint-Louis. It contains a network of lakes, ponds, and waterways that support diverse bird habitats throughout the year.
The area gained protection status as a nature reserve in 1962 and became a national park a decade later. UNESCO later acknowledged its global conservation importance through World Heritage recognition.
Fishing communities have lived along these waters for generations, using the seasonal floods to support their traditional way of life. The rhythm of daily activities follows the arrival and departure of bird species that shape the local calendar.
The best time to visit is from November to April when migratory birds from Europe arrive in large numbers. Observation points are scattered throughout the site, making it easy to explore different wetland areas on foot.
The sanctuary is the main wintering ground for the rare aquatic warbler, a species that depends entirely on these waters. More than 370 bird species gather here, creating one of Africa's most important staging areas for migratory birds.
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