Located on the western part of the Istrian peninsula between Rovinj and Pula, you will find this
unique nature reserve that will leave every nature lover speechless.
Palud is a
marshland that was created by the army of k.u.k. Monarchy in 1906 by digging a channel, so that the area receives a higher salt water content to prevent developing mosquito larvae. The intention was to protect the stationed soldiers in the nearby military base Barbariga from malaria. As a result, the swamp area was populated by mullets and eels.
Both fish, that prefer brackish water.
Ever since hunting has been banned,
pheasants, partridges and quails, among other wildlife, have multiplied at large numbers. Experienced ornithologists and nature -loving tourists will also find different species of wild ducks, coots, diving birds and many other bird species. The exceptional nature of the reserve is shown by an interesting example: speckled flamingos have also been sighted already.
In this specific swamp you can find
219 bird species that have been discovered until this day.
The fantastic diversity and richness of bird and plant life, especially marsh birds that breed here, but also migratory birds, which use this area as a winter refuge, are among the most interesting attractions of the bird sanctuary, which especially pleases lovers of birdwatching.
With a little bit of luck, or professional tour organized by Natura Histrica, you can admire wild ducks, eurasian coots, grebes, sandpipers, Sardinian warblers, tits, woodpeckers, sparrows among many other bird species.
Birdwatching with professional guidance in the Palud reserve
The reserve can be visited throughout the whole year and there is no entry admission.
No birdwatching gear at hand? No problem!
If you book a professionally guided tour, all necessary equipment will be provided.
The tour for groups up to 8 people takes 2 hours and it is requested to book it in advance.
The reserve also houses the ruins of an
11th-century Church of St. Damjan, where
Pope Alexander III stopped by on a journey in 1177 and even held a Mass.
At least this story is being told…
Attention: In the bird sanctuary it is strictly forbidden to leave garbage. Cars are also prohibited on the entire territory.
Whether you are a birdwatcher or you just want to explore this beautiful landscape, there are many
villas in the surrounding area from which you can begin your adventures.
Fran Ceko
30.10.2019
MY ISTRIA GUIDE
