Tagus estuary, Portugal
The Tagus estuary, located in the south of Portugal (38º 45' N, 09º 50' W), is one of the largest wetlands in Western Europe, with an approximate area of 340 km2. The intertidal area covers about 97 km2 of mud and sand flats. The tides are semi-diurnal, and the amplitude ranges from 1 m to 3.8 m in neap and spring tides, respectively.
The Tagus estuary is classified as a Nature Reserve, and a Special Protection Area under the European Birds Directive.
The habitats
The intertidal area of the Tagus estuary covers about 97 km2 and is mostly composed of mud flats with smaller areas dominated by sandy sediments.
​
​​​​
​Extensive saltmarshes and saltpans (mainly abandoned or transformed into aquacultures) are the main high-tide roosting areas for waders.
​​
​
Saltpans are also important breeding areas for some waders such as the Black-winged Stilt and the Ringed Plover.
​
​
Agricultural fields (such as rice fields), are also used by waders, both as high-tide roosts and foraging areas
