In the heart of the Cordoba countryside, where olive groves and vineyards abound, there are several ecologically important wetlands;
the Zóñar, Amarga, Rincón, Tíscar, Jarales and Salobral lagoons.

The lagoons are truly biodiverse oases. A combination of hydrogeological characteristics,
orographical and climate conditions have created habitats apt to host the most extraordinary flora and fauna
, especially aquatic bird species. The importance of these wetlands as wintering, nesting and migration grounds has brought about their designation as a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and they are now a part of the European Natura 2000 Network.

Among the bird species found in these wetlands are those included in the Andalusian Catalogue of Threatened Species, such as the white-headed duck and the red-knobbled coot, with several breeding pairs in the lagoons. However, in the winter, when the water levels are more substantial, thousands of aquatic birds can be found here. From duck species, grebes and great crested grebes, to the graceful pink flamingos, usually found in the Tíscar Lagoon. The lagoons have a number of observatories for public enjoyment of these spectacles. The use of binoculars or even telescopes is recommended, as well as a look at the Visitor Centre, next to the Zóñar Lagoon, in which you will find a wealth of information about the Cordoba wetlands.