Souss-Massa National Park: A Key Habitat for Bird Species
Souss-Massa National Park, located in the southwest of Morocco, is an essential habitat for several bird species, thanks to its diverse landscapes ranging from wetlands to coastal dunes. Among the notable birds you can observe in the park are:
1. The Greater Flamingo
The Greater Flamingo is a large migratory bird known for its distinctive pink plumage. It belongs to the Phoenicopteridae family and often inhabits salty regions and wetlands, such as those found in Souss-Massa National Park.
2. The Grey Heron
The Grey Heron is a majestic bird often associated with tranquil, natural landscapes. Birdwatchers appreciate its impressive size, graceful movements, and patient hunting methods. It is a beautiful bird to observe in its natural habitat.
3. The Osprey
The Osprey is one of the few raptors that feeds exclusively on fish, distinguishing it from most other birds of prey that have more varied diets. Its exceptional fishing skills make it a fascinating bird to observe.
4. The Bald Ibis
The Bald Ibis is critically endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), due to habitat loss, hunting, and human disturbance. Conservation efforts are underway to protect remaining populations, including those within Souss-Massa National Park.
5. Sand Martin
sand martin is a species that predominantly lives in wetlands, such as marshes and riverbanks, within Souss-Massa National Park. It is known for its shiny plumage, often metallic blue on the back, and a lighter chest that sometimes has a reddish or grayish tint.
6. The Red-necked Nightjar
This bird is primarily active at night, hunting insects in flight. It uses a unique flying technique, making large circles and capturing prey mid-air with precision. Very discreet during the day, it often rests on the ground or on low branches. Due to its nocturnal behavior and well-camouflaged plumage, it is difficult to observe.
7. Black Crowned Tchagra
Black Crowned Tchagra is an insectivorous bird, feeding mainly on small insects but also on fruits and seeds. It is known for its discreet hunting habits and may use thorns or branches to hold onto its prey. Though less visible than iconic species like the flamingo or osprey, it contributes to the park’s ecological balance.
8. The European Bee-eater
The European Bee-eater primarily feeds on flying insects, such as bees and wasps, which it catches in mid-flight. It typically resides in warm, sunny regions such as southern Europe and migrates to Morocco in winter.
9. The Moussier’s Redstart (Phoenicurus moussieri)
The Moussier’s Redstart is a bird native to the mountain ranges of Morocco and parts of North Africa. This striking bird features a bright red-orange belly and dark gray or black back. It is often found in rocky, mountainous habitats and is known for its distinctive behavior, often perched clearly on rocks or tree branches.
10. Marble Teal
Marble Teal is a rare and endangered aquatic bird that frequents wetlands, lagoons, and marshes. This migratory species can be observed in Souss-Massa National Park, which provides an important habitat for local wildlife, particularly migratory birds.
11. The Cream-colored Courser (Cursorius cursor)
The Cream-colored Courser is a bird from the Glareolidae family. In Souss-Massa National Park, it is one of the characteristic species of the region due to its preferred habitat, which corresponds to vast, semi-deserted open spaces. The park’s dry and varied terrains offer an ideal environment for observing this species, which adapts well to arid areas.
12. Black Bellied Sandgrouse
Also known as the Oriental Ganga, the Oriental Plover is a terrestrial bird from the Pteroclidae family. It is often found in semi-desert and arid zones within Souss-Massa National Park. The park’s diverse landscapes and dry conditions make it an ideal location for the plover, which thrives in hot and arid environments, feeding mainly on seeds and vegetation.
The park also serves as a stopover for many other migratory species, making it an important site for ornithologists and birdwatching enthusiasts.