Discovering the lagoons of Lantejuela

1. A Natural Treasure in the Sevillian CountrysideLa Lantejuela, a picturesque village in the province of Seville, hides authentic natural treasures: La Laguna del Gobierno and the Endorreic Complex of La Lantejuela. This group of lagoons and wetlands, located between La Lantejuela and Osuna, takes us back to a time when these lands were covered by a vast wetland that stretched as far as Ecija.The Government LagoonDeclared a Nature Reserve, it is located about 800 metres from Lantejuela, in the beautiful region of Andalusia, Spain. This lagoon, with a surface area of more than 20 hectares, has been completely recovered and is a true natural treasure.Here are some interesting details about the Laguna del Gobierno:Biodiversity: Endangered species nest in this lagoon, such as the mallard duck, the mallard goose and the pink flamingo. These birds use the lagoon as their dormitory and find refuge in its serene waters12.
   One of a Kind: Of the nine original lagoons that formed the Lantejuela Endorreic Complex, the Laguna del Gobierno is the only one that maintains water throughout the year. This is possible thanks to the supply of purified water from the municipality of Lantejuela1.
   Bird Observatory: To facilitate bird watching and knowledge of this natural environment, an observatory has been set up in the Laguna del Gobierno. You can visit it by prior reservation at the local tourist office1.

If you love nature and ornithology, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this special place in Lantejuela, the Laguna del Gobierno awaits you with its unique beauty and biodiversity!

Endorreic Complex

1. Laguna de La Ballestera: This shallow water lagoon is a remnant of what was once an extensive endorheic system. Although its extension is small, its ecological value is exceptional. The waters of La Ballestera are surprisingly saline, which makes it a unique habitat for several species of aquatic birds.
2. Calderón Chica Lagoon: Another jewel of the complex, Calderón Chica also has shallow waters and vegetation adapted to the high salinity. Here, we find specimens of tamarisk, rushes and salicornias. In addition, this lagoon is home to two species of aquatic plants of the genus Althenia, which are rare in Andalusia.

Ecological Importance

• Aquatic Birds: La Lantejuela is a paradise for birds. During migration, numerous species find a resting and feeding place here. Among the most common are mallards, gadwall ducks, shovelers and flamingos. Stilts also make an appearance.
• Birds of prey: Not only water birds enjoy this environment. The marsh harrier, the Montagu’s harrier and the buzzard also fly over these waters.

Curiosities

• Although the complex is named after La Lantejuela, the Lagunas de la Ballestera and Calderón Chica are completely within the municipal area of Osuna, less than 3 km away.
• The salinity of the waters is a distinctive feature and contributes to the uniqueness of this natural space.

Of course! The flora and fauna of the La Lantejuela Endorheic Complex are fascinating. Let me immerse you in this natural world:

Flora

1. Taraje (Tamarix Africana): This shrub or small tree is one of the most emblematic species in the area. Its leaves are small and scaly, and its adaptation to the salinity of the soil is impressive. The tamarisk forms dense thickets on the shores of the lagoons.
2. Reeds (Juncus spp.): Reeds are perennial plants that grow on the edges of ponds. Its cylindrical, flexible stems provide shelter and food for various waterfowl.
3. Salicornias (Salicornia spp.): These halophytic plants are experts at surviving in saline environments. Its succulent stems store water and nutrients, and its small flowers are a marvel of adaptation.