In a recent issue of Bird Watching, we looked at the birding riches of the Algarve, in southern Portugal. It's particularly good for waders, wetland birds and seawatching. But just to the north is the Alentejo, where steppe-like habitat plays host to species such as Great and Little Bustard, Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Roller, Iberian Grey Shrike and Woodchat Shrike. There are plenty of raptors, too, with Iberian Imperial Eagle, Golden Eagle and Bonelli's Eagle, plus Black and Griffon Vulture.
Around the beautiful, historic town of Mertola, overlooking the gorge of the Guadiana River, are species such as Blue Rock Thrush and Golden Oriole, plus a wealth of warblers, as well as possible Iberian Lynx.
Next year sees the first ever Mertola Bird and Wildlife Festival, from 19-23 February, and just ahead…
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Bird Watching (Digital) - 1 Issue, January 2025