Ornithologists flock to Calpe

AFTER meeting with Regional Minister for Land, Infrastructure and Environment, Elizabeth Bonig earlier this year, Calpe Mayor Cesar Sanchez, pledged to secure the future of local water lake ‘Las Salinas,’ by having it declared a natural park. This positive action has now removed the one time threat from property speculators of building an up-market lakeside development, which would have spelt the end of what is considered to be a place of beauty and an invaluable part of our ecosystem. It has also scored points with ornithologists throughout Europe who have welcomed the news that there has been a sighting of the ‘Glossy Ibis’ (Plegadis falcinellus) a breed not yet listed as an endangered species but is in severe decline and is classified as vulnerable. Calpe ornithologists say this is first time this bird has been seen at the lake, proving how valuable this stretch of water is to the environment.

More than 500 species of birds migrate year after year to escape winter and at present over 150 Flamingos have adopted the area as their water summer home, alongside breeds such as Stilts, Ducks, Moorhens, Herons and Gulls. Mayor Sanchez said that Calpe was a “sustainable town which is committed to urban and environmental quality.” He added that the town hall will always work closely with the citizens to provide quality in all services, especially those that help to maintain the image and environment of the municipality.

Article by Benny Davis