Why this 16,000-hectare wetland is the third largest bird sanctuary on the planet

Countries & Cities · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Located on the Senegal River, the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary serves as a vital refuge for millions of birds crossing the Sahara. As the world's third-largest ornithological reserve, it hosts nearly 400 species, including pelicans, flamingos, and the rare aquatic warbler, while also sheltering crocodiles and manatees in its diverse wetland habitats.

Spanning 16,000 hectares in northern Biffeche, the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary is a critical stopover for migratory species. It is recognized as the most significant wintering site for aquatic warblers traveling from Europe. While pelicans and flamingos are the most prominent residents among the nearly three million birds recorded, the park supports a vast array of biodiversity, including populations of manatees and crocodiles that thrive within its protected ecosystem.

The sanctuary's status as a World Heritage Site has faced significant challenges. In 1984, it was placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger following the introduction of giant salvinia, an invasive plant species that threatened to suffocate native vegetation. Intensive management efforts eventually mitigated this threat, leading to the site's removal from the danger list in 2006. However, environmental stability remains a complex issue for the region.

Human infrastructure has fundamentally altered the park's hydrology. Since the Diama Dam began operations on the Senegal River in 1988, researchers have documented significant ecological shifts, including reduced water levels, desalinization, and increased silting. These changes have encouraged the rapid growth of typhas and Phragmites, which disrupt the natural balance of the flora and fauna. Satellite imagery from NASA, comparing the landscape in 1979 to 1999, provides stark evidence of these environmental transformations.

Beyond physical threats to the habitat, the sanctuary is subject to rigorous monitoring programs. In 2006, authorities implemented surveillance for avian flu, despite no reported cases in Senegal at the time. This proactive approach underscores the global importance of the sanctuary, which remains a focal point for ornithological research and conservation efforts aimed at preserving one of the world's most essential avian stopovers.

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