Birds
It is no coincidence that the region of Extremadura is extremely popular with bird lovers from all over Europe. Nowhere else will you find such a wide diversity of fascinating bird species as you do here. In Extremadura, you can enjoy exceptional birds in peace and quiet throughout the year — species that elsewhere in Europe are now increasingly hard to find.
Extremadura is renowned for its large numbers of birds of prey, including golden eagle, Spanish imperial eagle, Bonelli’s eagle, short-toed eagle and booted eagle. Particularly striking are the commonly seen griffon vultures. Black vultures also breed here in greater numbers than anywhere else. Less common is the Egyptian vulture, which is present only during the summer months.
Extremadura also supports healthy populations of red kite, black kite, lesser kestrel and Montagu’s harrier. The beautiful black-winged kite, mainly active at dusk, can be admired in several locations.
Another remarkable species is the azure-winged magpie, whose European range is largely restricted to Extremadura. These sociable birds, which live in groups, are commonly found in dehesa landscapes. Colourful Mediterranean species such as the bee-eater and hoopoe can be seen almost everywhere. The European roller occurs in a few steppe areas, where nest boxes have been installed to support this vulnerable species.
Those specifically interested in steppe birds should certainly explore the vast plains of Cáceres and/or La Serena. Both areas support substantial populations of great bustards and little bustards. Other species to be found here include collared pratincole, stone-curlew, black-bellied and pin-tailed sandgrouse, calandra lark and short-toed lark.
Less conspicuous, but no less appealing, are the large numbers of smaller birds for which Extremadura provides ideal breeding habitats or wintering grounds. Species such as red-headed shrike, southern grey shrike, red-rumped swallow, Orphean warbler, blue rock thrush and corn bunting can be seen in many locations. This list is, of course, far from complete. Even the most seasoned birdwatcher will be thrilled by the birdlife of Extremadura.
In recent years, more than 120,000 common cranes have spent the winter months in Extremadura (source: SEO/BirdLife), where the vast dehesa landscapes provide ample peace and food. A specially designed route created by us takes you right into the heart of thousands of cranes.
Let yourself be surprised and come birdwatching in Extremadura. Odds are you’ll be captivated — and keen to return.
