The black-necked swans
On still water.
Yoanna Silvera — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Adrian Vallarino Chiossi — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Adrian Vallarino Chiossi — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Yoanna Silvera — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Yoanna Silvera — CC BY-SA 3.0
Laguna de Rocha is a broad shallow body of water separated from the Atlantic by a sand barrier, in Rocha Department. It covers 72 square kilometres with an average depth of only 0.6 m. It is among the richest places in Uruguay for birds, drawing nature lovers with flocks of black-necked swans and flamingos and its open, calm scenery. It formed as the sea rose over the last 6,000 to 8,000 years. The opening and closing of the sand barrier changes the salinity of its water, which explains its rich biodiversity. It lies within a UNESCO biosphere reserve, became a national lake park in 1977, joined the national protected areas system in 2010 at 22,000 hectares and became a Ramsar site on 1 June 2015. Still blue water stretches between green grass and distant trees, with swans swimming, flamingos standing in the shallows and storks flying over. On the shore are small red fishing boats and spread nets, as fishermen still work here. Small owls sometimes perch on posts, and at sunset the sky and water turn calm shades of orange. It is about 12 km in a straight line from La Paloma, best by car, as some roads are unpaved. Bring binoculars, mosquito repellent and a windproof jacket. Keep away from the birds, especially in nesting season, stay clear of fishermen's nets and ask before taking their picture. Boat trips may be possible depending on the weather, so ask locally.
On still water.
In the shallows.
Red on the shore.
Rocha Department, near La Paloma
No, its average depth is 0.6 m.
Binoculars, repellent and a windproof jacket.