Marsh of Corroios: an environment rich either in bio diversity or in trash and scrap

Observatory of Birds in marsh of Corroios: a unique structure in Setúbal, Portugal, decisive to the conservation of nature, requiring attention. The marsh of Corroios is the best preserved wet area all over the estuary of Tagus, south of Alcochete, Portugal, with a high biodiversity. The existing Observatory of Birds is an important structure giving support to the observation of nature, but it should receive more attention. The marsh of Corroios plays a vital role in the populations of fish, bivalves, crustaceans and resident and migratory birds in the estuary of Tagus. Most of these birds come from the North of Europe; in winter, 5 to 10 thousand birds can stay in this area. The vegetation presents a high biological productivity and the capacity of cleaning water from pollution.

The marsh of Corroios is the best preserved wet area all over the estuary of Tagus, south of Alcochete, Portugal, with a high biodiversity. The existing Observatory of Birds is an important structure giving support to the observation of nature, but it should receive more attention.

The marsh of Corroios plays a vital role in the populations of fish, bivalves, crustaceans and resident and migratory birds in the estuary of Tagus. Most of these birds come from the North of Europe; in winter, 5 to 10 thousand birds can stay in this area.

The vegetation presents a high biological productivity and the capacity of cleaning water from pollution.

The Observatory of Birds in the marsh of Corroios is situated in Ponta dos Corvos, Peninsula of Alfeite, Corroios, Seixal. The innovative architectonic project, completely integrated in the landscape and with recycled plastics, is by the architect David Seabra. It is a very important structure to support the preservation of nature, with a high touristic value. However, in a visit in May, we saw the need of looking carefully to this observatory. There is much trash affecting the biodiversity and the balance of such an important ecosystem.

12.º1A, Colégio Valsassina, Lisbon, Portugal