Ornithology Senegal

At the mouth of the Kalissaye marigot, this nature reserve is made up of several islets scattered in the heart of the Casamance river delta. One can observe many species of birds such as Caspian terns, white pelicans and Audouin's gulls. It is also a breeding ground for several species of turtles such as the loggerhead or green turtle. With a bit of luck, you will also be able to see dolphins and manatees.

From spring on, the show is much further towards the mouth. The Bird Island becomes a large spawning ground from April onwards. Terns, royal caspians, grey headed gulls, mocking gulls parade and lay their eggs. In late May and early June, the chicks start to burst their shells. Landing on the island at this time is like entering a Hitchcock atmosphere. Hundreds of birds fly all around you, sometimes less than a metre away, and squeak relentlessly. Ornithologists have counted more than 70,000 of them!