Birdwatching and wildlife tours in Spain
Bird migration in the Strait of Gibraltar
BIRD MIGRATION IN THE STRAIT OF GIBRALTAR: THE RAPTORS PARADISE
To witness the bird migration in the Strait of Gibraltar is a must for any keen birder and naturalist. Every spring (February to May) and autumn (July and October) happens what is considered one of the greatest natural events, the migration of millions of birds. The Strait of Gibraltar as it is the narrowest point (14 Km) is the best spot in Europe to watch the bird migration between the two continents, Europe and Africa.
The Strait and Tarifa are not the only places that deserve a visit for any birder. In addition, the province of Cadiz has areas of high ornithological value such as La Janda, Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, and the Cadiz side of Doñana Natural Park. The last one is a very interesting area for birdwatching throughout the year.
The Strait of Gibraltar Natural Park has a diverse range of habitats, making it the perfect place for birding. Due to its geographical position between the two continents, and the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, the Strait of Gibraltar is a strategic point for migratory birds, including seabirds. Many different groups of birds use this flyway. However, the Strait is probably best known for the large number of soaring birds. Some days can be seen the dramatic formation of enormous flocks of hundreds or even thousands of birds. Particularly for Black Kites, White Storks, and Honey Buzzards.
The Strait, a birding hotspot
For watching the bird migration between two continents, there is a variety of sites available that will be chosen by our guides according to the forecast conditions. Places such as Punta Carnero, Algarrobo, Punta Camorro and Cazalla watch points, Playa de Los Lances, Sierra de la Plata and Puerto de Facinas are great options.
Best time of the year: Spring and autumn.
Time: Full and half day
This trip can be combined with the visit to the Cadiz side of Doñana or/and La Janda. Here we will look for some iconic species such as White-headed Duck, Marbled Duck, and Slender-billed Gull. Besides, we can look out for Spectacled Warbler, Lesser and Greater Short-toed Larks, Little Swift, and Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin. If we are lucky, we might see some interesting raptors: Bonelli’s Eagle, Spanish Imperial Eagle, Spotted, and Lesser Spotted Eagle.
Guided birding tours in the Strait of Gibraltar are available all year round. In addition, you can join our 7-day trip around Andalucia and visit the Strait, Coto de Donana, and other remarkable wildlife places like Granada. Please, for more info contact us or visit our tour calendar.
Price of the tour “bird migration in the Strait of Gibraltar”:
170 € per day/ 1-3 people .
55 € per day/ 4-8 people
What is included:
– Telescopes and binoculars
– Tour guided in English / Spanish by a professional bird guide
– Basic travel insurance
– Fuel
What is not included:
– Air fare (Low cost companies operate daily flights to Granada from several European airports)
– Drinks, food and other items of a personal nature