IN THE TALL GRASS

The moist westerly winds blow from the ocean, refreshing the air of the coastal lagoon of Merja Zerga, one of the most important wildlife reserves in Morocco. It is late August, and the dry summer is almost over. Soon, the autumn rains will begin, bringing some relief from the summer heat, and along with the rains, the migratory birds will arrive. Some of them have already made their appearance, with swifts (Apus apus) darting through the afternoon sky, replenishing themselves with insects during their long migration to sub-Saharan Africa.

Merja Zerga is a crucial gathering point for migratory birds. During the autumn migration, numerous species will make their presence known. Some will spend the winter in Morocco, while others will continue their journey towards the southern hemisphere along the “Eastern Atlantic Flyway.”

Merja Zerga is not only a refuge for migratory species; it is also home to a bird that seems to have taken a reverse route: originating from sub-Saharan Africa, it has included Morocco and Andalusia within its range. This bird is the African Marsh Owl (Asio capensis).