Serrania de Ronda – 1st in Europe for Raptors
The Serranía de Ronda and Sierra de Grazalema, is unique and an important area for European birds. Not only as the area rich in breeding species, but also because of its’ close proximity to the Straits of Gibraltar (only 12 kilometres from North Africa). It is an extremely important feeding area for migrant birds of western and northern Europe. Recent research has shown the importance of the area to several breeding species under threat. Such birds as Golden Eagle A. chrysaetos, Bonelli’s Eagle H. fasciatus, Egyptian Vulture N. percnopterus, Peregrine Falcon F. peregrinus, Black Wheatear O. leucura, Rock Thrush M. saxatilis, Orphean Warbler Sylvia hortensis and Chough P. pyrrhocorax, are all classified by the World Conservation Union (UICN) as being under varying danger levels of extinction.
The advantage of our day tours to the visitor can be extremely beneficial. Local knowledge ensures finding remote and otherwise ‘elusive’ areas, plus the guide will know where and when flowers, wildlife and birds are present. Whatever your level of experience, from a beginner to expert, your local guide will be able to discuss all aspects of the birdlife here and assist with identification.
Whether you enjoy spectacular scenery or fauna and flora, then this personally guided birdwatching tour of the Serranía de Ronda and Sierra de Grazalema is for you! With mountains and hills predominately of limestone, the bio-diversity of the Serranía and Sierras is stunning. From rocky outcrops, mountaintop and valleys, the birding tour will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Spain.
The geographical location of the Serranía and Sierras makes it one of Europe’s best areas for the concentration of raptors. The Serranía and Sierras have four breeding species of eagle and many other raptors.
The importance of the area is recognized for the habitat it provides for so many breeding bird species. Apart from this, the area is also an important staging area in spring and autumn for spectacular numbers of migrant birds of prey. Indeed, being placed so near to the famous ‘Straits of Gibraltar’ the area is rich in passerine bird species migrating to other parts in spring and autumn.
Even in winter, the area provides a temperate living quarter for many familiar summer birds of northern Europe. Whatever the time of year, the Serranía de Ronda and the Sierra de Grazalema is a must for any interested in birds and wildlife in general. Routes taken vary according to the weather, but in any event, the number of bird species seen will be considerable!Birds of interest are virtually guaranteed, though of course time of year and the weather, will dictate the number and type of bird species you will see. Accompanied by your own expert tour guide, you will waste no time searching for those elusive ‘best bird areas’. Your birding guide will be able to assist beginners and discuss the area with visiting experienced birders. So whatever your level of expertise, there will be much to reward your birding trip.
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