After more than two decades without doing so in this protected area, included in the list of Ramsar wetlands, the endangered species has found an ideal habitat in the Almardà-Almenara marshland. The Valencian Government, through the Life Project (2021-2025), has promoted the improvement of this space.
The reintroduction of about 20 individuals at the beginning of the year has borne fruit. Two breeding pairs have been sighted: one with 13 ducklings and another with 11. The organization Acció Ecologista Agró, which has collaborated in the wetland's conditioning, does not rule out the presence of more undetected pairs.
The quality of the waters and the management of the marshland, thanks to the collaboration of Acció Ecologista Agró, local farmers, and administrations, have been key. The constant renewal of the waters, with contributions from the Font de Quart and other aquifers, along with partial drought management by farmers, has maintained optimal conditions for the species' reproduction.
The Life project has exceeded expectations, as the Marbled Teal population has doubled since late 2020, increasing from 74 to over 150 breeding pairs in 2025. This success is not only due to the captive breeding program but also to the habitat improvements being carried out in the Valencian territory.
