This protected natural area, dominated by agriculture and livestock farming, is one of the best examples of steppe habitats in Catalonia and home to some very rare plants. Numerous species of steppe birds can be seen here, making it one of the most popular places for ornithologists. Fallow and barren land and fields grazed by sheep, and olive and almond groves are the ideal habitats for these birds.
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Mas de Melons information point
Observatories in the nature reserve (with pre-booking and payment of a fee)
Mas de Melons i Secans de Lleida Nature Reserve
Secans de Melones i Alfés (Natural Areas of Ponent)
There are many travel agencies, companies, organisations and professional guides in the Ebre-Secans-Pirineus corridor who have in-depth knowledge of the region and the bird species that can be observed and photographed
We advise you to take advantage of the services they offer to enjoy truly memorable birding experiences.
Minerva Sellés has set up these hides in Vallbona de les Monges to allow birdwatchers to observe and photograph various species of birds at very close range. She also offers idyllic rural accommodation in peaceful surroundings (Cal Baster).
On the edge of the Mas de Melons Nature Reserve, in the municipality of Castelldans, these two hides managed by Pau and Tània allow you to observe and photograph birds such as the European roller, Western black-eared wheatear, greenfinches, shrikes and doves. One hide overlooks a drinking trough and the other is linked to a […]
Excursions of one or more days, individually or in groups, to photograph the most iconic species in the region. They manage several fixed and temporary hides, specialising in birds in high mountain areas (such as the Casa Daniela hide for observing scavengers), hills and drylands. They also carry out projects to conserve endangered species.
This foundation rescues mistreated or injured wild animals and, if possible, returns them to the wild. When this is not possible, they are homed in the zoo, which also offers educational activities such as guided tours, bird of prey flying displays, experiences with owls and photographing birds in captivity.
This organisation promotes conservation, research, awareness-raising and responsible tourism. It offers several hides where photographers can observe birds of prey (in Torrebesses), the black wheatear (in Batea, Les Terres de l’Ebre), sparrowhawks (also in Batea) or aquatic birds (in Flix), as well as photography safaris in the Ebro Delta and the Secans de Lleida drylands.
This ecological and self-sufficient rural tourism lodge has a hide for watching and photographing the birds that stop to drink at a nearby pond. The birdwatching experience also includes a talk on the Torre del Codina project on the history and nature of the region.
