The Sierra Brava Dam is a compacted concrete hydraulic structure located on the Pizarroso Creek, within the municipality of Zorita, in the province of Cáceres, Extremadura. Built in 1996 and now fully operational, the dam stands 54.13 meters high and has a crest length of 786 meters, forming a reservoir with a surface area of 1,650 hectares and a capacity of 232.49 hm³. Its technical design and geological context on the Trujillo-Cáceres plateau give this area its own unique character, combining a pseudo-steppe landscape with a wetland of great ecological value. From the dam wall itself, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the reservoir and its winter abundance of birds, as well as the fertile irrigated lands to the south. This site is one of the most important reservoirs for wintering birds in Extremadura, standing out especially in fall and winter due to the presence of waterfowl and other wetland-dependent species. The reservoir is considered one of the region’s most notable wetlands, with waterbird populations that are significant on a national and international scale; it is the third most important wetland in Spain after Doñana and the Ebro Delta. The area was designated in 2003 as the “Llanos de Zorita and Sierra Brava Reservoir” Special Protection Area (SPA), reflecting its importance for biodiversity conservation. In addition, it is a highly sought-after spot for sport fishing enthusiasts, with significant populations of black bass, carp, and pike, and features submerged obstacles such as holm oaks and scrub that serve as refuge for these species. The reservoir can be crossed via the road that runs over it, facilitating access and direct observation of the area. The best time to visit the Sierra Brava Reservoir is during the fall and winter, when the presence of wintering birds is most abundant and the water surface is at its most vibrant. Although it can be visited year-round, these seasons offer the optimal conditions for birdwatching and for appreciating the wetland landscape at its most vibrant.
