The Birds of Andalucia
There are some 13 resident raptor species in Andalucía, as well as another 9 which migrate here annually from Africa. There are four eagle species which can be found in the mountainous regions, Golden and Bonelli’s Eagles being the stars, with Booted, and Short-toed Eagles providing the supporting cast. The best place to see them is in the more mountainous parts of the province where they can be seen hunting or riding the thermals. The much rarer Spanish Imperial Eagle can be found in areas just south of Sevilla but may appear anywhere in the region. Add to these Egyptian and Griffon Vultures and smaller birds of prey, such as the Kestrels, Buzzards, Harriers, Falcons and Kites, brings the total to some 23 species of raptors that can be seen in the region.
Migration hotspots in the spring can produce many thousands of raptors at any one time and a visit to the areas around Tarifa during April- May and August – October can be very rewarding.
In Andalucia up to 20 Warblers may be seen along with, Storks, Herons, Egrets, Terns, Larks, Pipits, Swallows, Swifts, Martins, Tits and Buntings. A splash of colour is added with Hoopoe, Golden Oriole, Roller, Shrikes, Serin and Kingfisher.
The region is also host to many, rare and endangered species such as Red-knobbed Coot, Marbled and White-headed Duck, Purple Swamphen, Spanish Imperial Eagle, Black Vulture, Black Stork and Glossy Ibis. Many species on most wanted lists also appear, Penduline Tit, Black Wheatear, Rufous-tailed Rock Thrush, Bonelli’s Eagle, Eagle Owl, Red-necked Nightjar, Audouin’s and Slender-billed Gulls to name but a few.
A group of introduced species such as Common Waxbill, Black-rumped Waxbill, Red Avadavat, Monk and Rose-ringed Parakeets adds colour (and noise) to the avifauna of the region.
Why not join one of our day trips and seek out some of these exotic and exciting species?
