Thursday, 28 January 2010 21:46
Portugal’s diverse range of climates and habitats makes it the perfect retreat for the birding set. Whether it’s spotting tree birds in a cork oak along the plains of the Alentejo or catching a glimpse of a rare shore bird in the Algarve, Portugal offers a wide range of birding opportunities. It is home to 300 species of birds ranging from the Iberian imperial eagle to the azure-winged magpie. In the estuary of the River Tagus located a mere 20 minutes from Lisbon it’s possible to observe 100 bird species in a single day.
Some of the finest bird watching areas are located in Portugal’s protected forests and nature reserves. Occupying more than a fifth of the country, these national parks include river valleys, ocean estuaries and scenic mountains. In Northern Portugal, cruise the River Douro where Egyptian vultures build their nests. In the Tagus International Park outside of Lisbon, the ample hiking and biking trails provide an excellent opportunity to watch black storks and griffon vultures. In the Algarve, take a break from swimming and sunbathing on the golden beaches to cruise the Ria Formosa and the Sapal de Castro Marim marshland, two important wetlands populated by flamingos, herons and dozens of other species.
Birding in Portugal isn’t just limited to the mainland. The Azores and Madeira are home to exotic species not found anywhere else in the world, such as the Zino’s petrel, the long-toed wood pigeon or the Azores Bullfinch. The best spots are Ponta do Pargo, Ponta de São Lourenço and islands of Desertas in the Archipelago of Madeira, or Pico da Vara on the Azores island of São Miguel.
Where ever you go, you’re sure to be amazed by the spectacular landscapes. Go to www.visitportugal.com
or http://birdwatching.spea.pt/en for more information on bird watching in Portugal.
Portugal National Tourist Office