Complejo Endorreico de Utrera

The Complejo Endorreico (Endorheic Area) Nature Reserve in Utrerahas three lakes: Zarracatín, Arjona and Alcaparrosa, which are all seasonal. They are located at the meeting point between the most external area of the Bética Ranges and the Depression of the Guadalquivir, in a low altitude area of gentle hills and slopes.

Because of their location, these lakes have a high ecological value for birds. The place is a key area for the feeding, reproduction and rest during migrations of many water birds. Furthermore, its geographical position, beside the marshes of the Guadalquivirmakes this an alternative habitat.

These lakes are generally small and shallow, very dependant on rainfall, meaning that they are usually dry in summer periods and times of continuous drought.

Due to the historic and continuous human intervention, the lakes have little vegetation although there are some isolated areas of tamarisks, accompanied by rushes, reed mace and giant reeds. Some of the lakes are practically covered by the latter, leaving just a small central area of water that has not been covered.

The fauna includes a wide representation of Anatidae, such as royal duck, shoveller and common teal, and coot. Occasionally, Malvasia can be seen in the Arjona Lake; flamenco, which tend to prefer the Zarracatín Lake, and the purple swamphen in the Alcaparrosa Lake.

Other species include frogs, common toads and the Spanish painted frog amongst the amphibians, whilst the mammals are represented by rodents, rabbit, hare, weasel, and small numbers of fox, genet and badger.