This artificial lake, which today blends in perfectly with its natural setting, was built by the monks of the nearby monastery between 1500 and 1530. It is surrounded by a deciduous wood of various species, including Alder, Ash, Birch and Oak trees. Water Lilies abound on the surface of the lake, which extends for almost 10 hectares. Its maximum depth is 4.5 m.
Bird´s route: Sobrado Lake
Ornithological interest
This site is home to an interesting range of water birds, including the Great Crested Grebe and the Little Grebe (both of which build floating nests on the lake surface). Other species to look out for are the Great Cormorant, the Grey Heron, Eurasian Teal, Mallard, Northern Shoveler, Common Pochard, Tufted Duck, Common Moorhen, Eurasian Coot or Common Kingfisher, to name but a few. The surrounding meadows and woods are also ideal for spotting forest birds throughout the year. It is easy to spot birds of prey such as the Common Buzzard or Sparrowhawk, and in spring and summer, the Eurasian Hobby.
Phenology
Any time of year is suitable for visiting this lake. In spring, you will be able to marvel at the mating rituals of the Great Crested Grebes, and listen to the dawn chorus of the many forest and field species. Many more species of water birds can be spotted during autumn and winter.
What to see
From the birding hide you will be able to spot practically all the species in the area on the day of your visit. Many will be located mainly to your right. Do not go to meet them: they are sure that nobody will disturb them. You will notice that as they become accustomed to your presence, they will gradually come closer.
As you follow the wooden walkway that runs along the north-west shore of the lack, observe the water and the fields on the opposite side. They are home to Buntings, Flycatchers and other field birds. Look up into the trees to Spot Great, Coal and Blue Tits. In the heart of winter, these meadows occasionally provide shelter for Lapwings and Golden Plovers.
Getting there, accessibility and recommendations
From the centre of Sobrado, the AC-934 road leads straight to the lake. Watch out for the traffic if you’re walking! You can watch the birds either from the birding hide (there is space for parking your car next to it) or from the wooden walkway that runs along part of the north-west shore. Take care not to raise your voice or make a lot of noise in order not to startle the various species.
Resources
The wooden birding hide is ideal for watching the various species without disturbing them. Inside there are information panels providing details about them. You will find full information about this lake on the Fragas do Mandeo Foundation website at: http://www.fragasdomandeo.org/habitats-es/la-laguna-de-sobrado/?lang=es
Nearby sites of ornithological interest
The smaller Millares Lake is just a stone’s throw away. Little Grebes and Eurasian Teals are a common sight here. Slightly further away, a walk along the Casa do Gado oak wood public path is a great opportunity to see and hear forest birds such as the Great Spotted Woodpecker, Brambling or Treecreeper.
Birds of the Mariñas
Other places to visit:
Sobrado Monastery
A Ciadella Roman Camp
Useful telephone numbers and addresses:
For details of bus times, call A Coruña bus station on 981 184 335
Emergency services: 112
Sobrado Town Hall: 981 787 508
Sobrado Tourist Information Office: Praza Portal, 1, 15813 Sobrado dos Monxes (A Coruña) 981 787 508. turismosobrado@gmail.com
