Doñana National Park, one of Europe’s most important wetlands, is facing severe challenges. As lagoons dry up, the park’s biodiversity is changing drastically. This threatens not only Spain’s ecosystems but also bird populations across Europe. Scientists are calling for urgent action to address the crisis.
A key stopover for migratory birds
Situated in southwestern Andalucia, Doñana is a critical site for migrating waterfowl travelling between Europe and Africa. Recognised as essential since the 1960s, it became famous when Norwegian children raised funds to protect geese migrating between Scandinavia and Doñana. At its peak, 70% of Europe’s geese wintered in the park.
Research highlights the threats
Recent studies by the Doñana Biological Station (CSIC), led by Miguel de Felipe, underline the park’s importance for Europe’s biodiversity. “Doñana is so vast and unique that it provides food for hundreds of thousands of waterbirds every year. If the park deteriorates, these birds have no alternative,” De Felipe says.
Drying lagoons and declining bird populations
The park’s condition has deteriorated significantly. Around 60% of its lagoons, which once flooded periodically, are now permanently dry. Even Santa Olalla, the last permanent lagoon, has dried up completely in the past three years. This has led to rising bird mortality and declining populations, as many return to Northern Europe in poor condition.
Some species, such as the Eurasian hobby, have ceased breeding in Doñana. The drying lagoons not only cause local issues but also disrupt bird populations in countries like Germany and Denmark, which depend on Doñana as a vital stopover.
Causes of the crisis
Climate change and reduced rainfall
Over the past decade, rainfall in the region has decreased significantly, exacerbating water shortages.
Overexploitation of resources
Intensive agriculture and tourism are straining groundwater supplies. Strawberry and soft fruit farms in nearby areas require large amounts of water, much of which is drawn from the reserve. Tourism also adds pressure, particularly from the nearby town of Matalascañas, located just 700 metres from the nearest lagoon.
Doñana: A unique wetland
Unlike other wetlands, such as Albufera near Valencia or the Ebro Delta, Doñana is far larger and serves as a crossroads for Europe and Africa. Its location blends African and European climates, landscapes, and biodiversity.
Doñana is home to endangered species like the Iberian lynx and Spanish imperial eagle. It also hosts rare birds, including the marbled teal, Europe’s most endangered duck.
UNESCO World Heritage status
Doñana National Park has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, recognising its global ecological significance. This status underscores the international responsibility to preserve the park. The designation highlights the park’s unique biodiversity and its crucial role in sustaining migratory bird populations. However, despite its protected status, the park faces increasing threats from human activity and climate change, necessitating stronger measures to safeguard its future.
A shared responsibility
The decline of Doñana is a global issue. Once saved through European donations, the park is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark invest annually in waterbird conservation. However, these efforts will fail unless Spain takes decisive action.
Hope for the future
Despite the grim outlook, experts believe the park can still be saved. De Felipe advocates for strict controls on groundwater extraction and artificial water replenishment, as seen in other reserves.
Although Doñana’s ecosystem is severely damaged, no species has yet been lost. But time is running out. If Doñana disappears, so will the many birds that rely on it.
Consequently, immediate action is essential.