Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary

Saint-Louis Region, Senegal

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Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary in the Saint-Louis Region of Senegal is a vast wetland ecosystem covering about 16,000 hectares in the Senegal River delta.

It serves as a crucial habitat and resting place for approximately 1.5 million birds, including over 300 species with more than 120 species of Palaearctic migratory birds such as white pelicans, great egrets, African spoonbills, and flamingos. The sanctuary comprises lakes, streams, ponds, backwaters, dense reed beds, and floodplains, making it a vital breeding and wintering ground for waterfowl and other aquatic birds after their long migration across the Sahara Desert.

It is also home to crocodiles and manatees, enhancing the area's biodiversity. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Djoudj plays a significant role in regional conservation efforts, engaging local communities in protecting habitat quality, controlling invasive species, and promoting sustainable tourism for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.​