Endangered marbled teal enjoys record breeding season at El Hondo Natural Park

One of Europe’s rarest and most endangered ducks is making a remarkable recovery on the Costa Blanca after conservationists recorded the most successful breeding season ever at El Hondo Natural Park. The record number of marbled teal broods is being hailed as a major conservation milestone following years of habitat restoration and wildlife protection.

Record breeding season for the marbled teal

One of Europe’s rarest ducks is making an extraordinary comeback on the Costa Blanca after conservationists recorded the most successful breeding season ever at El Hondo Natural Park.

The marbled teal, one of Europe’s most endangered waterbirds, has enjoyed a record year, with 13 broods recorded at the restored wetlands of La Raja and El Espigar. That’s five more than last year and the highest number since conservation work began.

Experts believe more than 70 ducklings may have hatched this season, providing fresh hope for a species that only a few years ago had almost disappeared from the area.

The success follows years of habitat restoration carried out by conservation organisations ANSE and SEO/BirdLife through the Life Cerceta Pardilla project. Wetlands have been restored, water levels carefully managed and protected areas expanded to create a safe environment for wildlife to thrive.

Conservation efforts continue to benefit wildlife

The improvements are benefiting far more than the marbled teal. A growing number of other waterbirds, including red-crested pochards, shelducks, Kentish plovers and little terns, have also returned to nest in the protected lagoons.

Although the European-funded project has now ended, conservationists remain committed to protecting the wetlands and working with local partners to safeguard the area’s future.

The marbled teal is still officially listed as an endangered species in Spain, making this year’s results an important milestone for wildlife on the Costa Blanca.

The remarkable recovery shows that with dedication, habitat restoration and long-term conservation work, even one of Europe’s rarest birds can be given a fighting chance of survival. The record breeding season also highlights the growing ecological importance of El Hondo Natural Park as a haven for endangered species.