Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve

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Puerto Madero viewed from the Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve

Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve, Reserva Ecológica de Buenos Aires, also known as Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve, Reserva Ecológica Costenera Sur, is a 865-acre (3.50 km²) tract of low land on the Río de la Plata riverbank located on the east side of the district of Puerto Madero in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

1 History
2 Nature trails
3 References
4 See also
5 External links

[edit] History

The Ecological Reserve, declared a natural park in the 1980s, was formed by a land-fill of waste material of demolished buildings dumped in the river off Costanera Sud avenue to make way for highway construction throughout Buenos Aires in the 70s. Over time, sand and sediment began to build up and developed itself into a biodiversity sample of the native Llanura Pampeana ecosystem, the area now boasts a few trees, mostly willows, ceibos and acacias and is home to the city's only wild flamingos, egrets, ducks, parrots and nutrias. Unfortunately, the reserve's future is uncertain since commercial real estate schemes are a constant menace as well by a north-south expressway connector that may come by this area. In any case, time is working on its side and we may see the controversial Ecological Reserve give Buenos Aires a breath of fresh life after all ^[1].

Great Egret

Black-necked Swan

Pampas Grass

Bird's-eye view of the Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve

[edit] Nature trails

Being adjacent to the city, a visit to the Ecological Reserve is an escape from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis, a number of trails leading to the river are perfect for birdwatching, strolling, cycling and nature lovers, the Ecological Reserve is also a Gay friendly meeting point.