Spain

Europe isn’t exactly known for high biodiversity but this densely populated continent still has its share of world class birding sites. The large amounts of high quality steppe grasslands, wetlands, montane habitats and Mediterranean woodlands make Spain one of the best countries for birding in Europe. Southern Spain in particular is where many visiting birdwatchers focus their efforts, because such a high number of specialty birds are possible.

Species that are fairly widespread but often hard to find in other parts of Europe are common in southern Spain. These include fancy looking birds such as the Common Hoopoe, Eurasian Bee-eater, Eurasian Roller, and Lesser Kestrel. More localized birds, such as Black-eared and Black Wheatears, Orphean Warbler and Great Spotted Cuckoo, are also readily found while searching for much rarer species.

Some of the rarest birds are found in and around Coto Doñana National Park. A large refuge that protects a very important area of wetlands and Mediterranean habitats, it provides the most important stronghold for the critically endangered Spanish Imperial Eagle, and the only European site for African species such as Crested Coot and Red-necked Nightjar. The wetlands are also home to Montagu’s Harrier, and loads of more common waterbirds such as Greater Flamingo, herons and egrets, and thousands of ducks during migration and the winter months.

Speaking of migration, thousands of storks and raptors pass through the Gibraltar area when migrating to and from Africa. The soaring, wheeling flocks of huge White Storks and Honey Buzzards are impressive enough to convert many a non-birder into a full fledged, binocular carrying birdwatcher.

After birding the southern province of Andalucia, most visiting birdwatchers head west and slightly north to the province of Extremadura. Its dramatic gorges, hilly countryside, oak forests and wetlands make it one of the wildest areas in Europe and simply fantastic for birding. Both Little and Great Bustards occur on the steppe grasslands, along with two species of sandgrouse and Calandra Lark, while the very local Azure-winged Magpie and majestic Black Stork occur in the Cork Oak woodlands. Overhead, a large number of raptors can be seen, including Griffon and Egyptian Vultures, and Bonelli’s, Booted and Golden Eagles. Eurasian Eagle-Owls and Little Owls are also frequently seen at any time of the year.

Many of these species are most easily seen at the excellent Monfragüe National Park. The fact that this reserve protects some of the best preserved Mediterranean habitats in Europe is demonstrated by the presence of massive Monk Vultures (common in the park), Black-winged Kite, several other raptors and Black Storks.

During the winter months, the birding in Extremadura actually heats up when a veritable spectacle of Common Cranes visit the province by the thousands. Flocks of bustards and sandgrouse can also be found and high numbers of ducks occur on the reservoirs and other wetland habitats.

As a bonus, the dramatic scenery, historical towns, and rich history of southern Spain also make it the perfect destination to bring a non-birding partner.

flickr image by crossn81

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