An extraordinary number of aquatic and migratory birds use this wetland, and together with the presence of other animal and plant species, this makes the Lagoons of the South of Córdoba an authentic oasis for flora and fauna, as well as a first-class tourist and ornithological destination.

Some of these lagoons are key areas where a number of different birds to hibernate and breed. Special mention should go to the white-headed duck, a bird with a characteristic bluish beak and erect tail, which was on the verge of extinction just a few years ago. Five of these lagoons also lie within the territorial area of the so-called "Route of José María el Tempranillo", a legendary and rebellious bandit from Córdoba who was active in the Serranía de Ronda.

Laguna del Conde or del Salobral Nature Reserve

Due to the shallow depth of this continental wetland, located about six kilometres east of the town of Luque, numerous wading birds remain in this lagoon during the cold winter months. The conditions here make it an ideal enclave for breeding.

The black-winged stilt, European lapwing and Montagu's harrier are just some of the birds that can be found here, together with mammals such as genets and weasels, and amphibians, like the spotted toad.

Laguna de Zóñar Nature Reserve

The depth of the largest and most iconic of the six wetlands in Córdoba, the Zóñar Lagoon Nature Reserve, is such that it is considered to be the only natural lake in Andalusia. In the rainy season it can be up to 16 metres deep, making conditions ideal with the presence of abundant vegetation and food.

Not only is it ideal for bird watching, there are also complementary activities such as a visit to the nearby natural areas of the reservoirs of Cordobilla and Malpasillo.

Laguna del Rincón Nature Reserve

Located in the south of the municipality of Aguilar de la Frontera, this small wetland extends throughout an area of gentle slopes. The Laguna del Rincón provides shelter for certain birds, such as the common duck and the common coot, species that are very easy to spot from this lookout point. Another interesting feature is that a number of types of marsh plants grow on the banks of the ponds.  

Laguna Amarga Nature Reserve

In the town of Lucena you can visit a wetland with a strange name, the Laguna Amarga, or "Bitter Lagoon" as it takes its name from the amount of mineral salts and the characteristic flavour of its waters. The vegetation here provides food for the different fauna that live here, including a species of neotropical silverside, a rare fish to find in continental waters. 

Laguna de los Jarales Nature Reserve

Also in Lucena you will find this lagoon of small size, but with abundant bird life. The white-headed duck shares this habitat with black-crowned night herons, blackbelly rosefish and black storks. This is undoubtedly, an ideal place for observing these birds.

Laguna de Tíscar Nature Reserve

Just eight kilometres from the town of Puente Genil, Surrounded by countryside and irrigated crops, you will find a seasonal brackish water lagoon caññed Laguna de Tíscar. Of all the wetlands in the province of Córdoba, this is where you will find the greatest number of birds. The location, near the Genil River and the migratory passages over the Strait and the marshes, is ideal for species like the flamingo and white stork to be seen in the area.