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The Las Lagunas del Monte nature reserve is strategically located. It sits almost halfway along the migratory route between the salt lakes of Torrevieja and La Mata and the salt flats of San Pedro del Pinatar. This location, in the municipality of Pilar de la Horadada, is likely the main reason why it is teeming with various bird species. This diversity can easily be observed from the different observation posts placed around the two small lagoons.
Las Lagunas del Monte are far less known to the general public than the larger lakes at Torrevieja and San Pedro. This is likely due to the fact that the area only received protected status in 2014. But perhaps a more logical explanation is its somewhat tricky accessibility. The water area can only be reached by car, located inland near the N-332 exit between Dehesa de Campoamor and Mil Palmeras.
The two small lakes were originally created to hold water from a nearby water treatment plant. Over the years, it developed into a water landscape with dense reed vegetation, which turned out to be the ideal habitat for many waterfowl to feed, nest, and find protection. The surrounding area is filled with Mediterranean shrubland, and further away, there are plots of land for agricultural use. Altogether, this results in a great variety of birds. Birdwatchers have already spotted more than sixty different species.
From a conservation perspective, the lakes are particularly important because the endangered white-headed ducks seem to thrive there. It is one of the few places in Spain where these ducks can still be found and nest.
Those who accept the somewhat difficult access will be rewarded with a bird-rich area featuring wide walking paths, also suitable for wheelchair users. Although there is life throughout the year, the summer months and the autumn migration period are the best times to fully enjoy this still little-visited area.
