Extremadura 24th April – 1st May 2012

Oriole Birding Tour Report

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TOUR LEADER Paul Roberts PARTICIPANTS Steve & Christine Clarke Trevor Cook Tony Jakeman & Megumi Sasaki Godfrey McRoberts Summary: A very successful trip with many impressive birding experiences, despite the sometimes challenging weather conditions. A respectable total of over 130 species was recorded. Bird highlights were numerous, but some that spring to mind are the sheer number of raptors, not least great views of Black-winged Kite, Spanish Imperial Eagle and Bonelli’s Eagle. Further noteworthy species logged included Great White Egret, Little Bittern, both bustards, Black Stork, Collared Pratincole, Gull-billed Tern, both Sandgrouse, Great Spotted Cuckoo and Spectacled Warbler. We stayed at Hotel Rural Viña las Torres, about 10km south east of Trujillo on the EX 208 Guadalupe road. This proved an idyllic location to stay, with fabulous hospitality from hosts Juan-Pedro and Belen. The hotel itself is located in a bird-rich location, although our planned pre-breakfast and evening walking opportunities were limited by the inclement weather. Opportunities to record insects, especially butterflies, were severely restricted because of this. Despite the wet weather we encountered during the tour, the region had suffered a severe drought the previous winter, leaving some areas looking rather parched with a reduced floral display. Other wildlife noted included Marbled Newt, Iberian Water Frog, Grass Snake, Spanish Terrapin, Otter, Iberian Hare, Roe Deer, Red Deer and Red Fox. We would like to thank everyone for their great company and enthusiasm, and for helping making this such a rewarding holiday. 25th April - Hotel Rural Vina las Torres Dry and overcast. We flew from Gatwick to Madrid courtesy of Easy Jet, landing on schedule. Good progress was made heading south west on the A5 motorway and we chose not to stop off en route from the airport, arriving at our destination at around 5pm. We were greeted warmly by Belen, with Juan-Pedro then giving us a guided tour of the hotel and grounds. Several Common Nightingales loudly proclaimed their territories, including a particularly showy and vocal bird in the hotel grounds that subsequently provided a backdrop to most of our meals there. A gentle stroll down the rough track from the hotel before dinner provided an opportunity to familiarise ourselves with the local birdlife. Southern Grey Shrike, Woodchat Shrikes, several European Beeeaters, European Serin, Sardinian Warbler, Corn Bunting [ubiquitous in Extremadura], Azure-winged Magpie, Black-billed Magpie, Collared Dove, Common Stonechat, Common Hoopoe, Common Cuckoo, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Blackbird, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Great Tit, Blue Tit and Crested Lark were all soon on the list. In addition, a fine display of Champagne Orchids was noted in damp spots along the lower lane, not to mention the hotel grounds. The local pair of Booted Eagles was over the adjacent wooded hillside and a Short-toed Eagle drifted over.

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Common Ravens, White Storks, a Red Kite, several Black Kites, Griffon Vultures and a distant Black Vulture soon followed, with the town of Trujillo visible beyond; a great introduction to Extremadura. 26th April – Embalse de Sierra Brava, Madrigalejo, Vegas Altas, La Serena Steady rain for most of the day, although not windy. The poor weather meant that our proposed itinerary had to be reorganised and the best option was deemed to be a trip to the low lying area of rice cultivation to the south. The planned pre-breakfast walk was cancelled, although we did score our first Red-rumped Swallows of the trip near the hotel. Our first port of call was Embalse de Sierra Brava, a large reservoir south east of Zorita, where a service road provides a handy quiet route to view the water and surrounding farmland. An abandoned farm building close to the track provided close views of a sizeable Lesser Kestrel colony, although most appeared somewhat bedraggled in the rain. A Common Hoopoe briefly poked its head out from under a broken tile. The reservoir was scanned; visibility was not ideal, but two Common Pochard, a flock of Common Coots and around one hundred Great Crested Grebes were noted, plus a couple of Common Sandpipers on the shoreline. Following the road alongside a canal a probable Stone Curlew flew up and landed close to the roadside. We disembarked and were able to confirm the identification as it flew off over some newly ploughed fields, being joined for a while by a second bird, while another called nearby. A Melodious Warbler was spotted in some nearby scrub and a migrant Common Whitethroat popped up briefly. A couple more Common Sandpipers were by the canal and other species noted in the vicinity were Southern Grey Shrike, Common Stonechat, Northern Wheatears [3], Marsh Harrier [4+], Common Raven and Crested Larks. A little further on we took a right turn at an intersection where a road crosses an area of rice cultivation, eventually ending up at the town of Madrigalejo. This area of rice fields has now partly been subsumed by a huge photovoltaic solar power plant, a controversial move as the area is an important wintering ground for Common Cranes, among many other species. The once quiet rutted track is now covered with tarmac and is busy with site traffic. Hence, it was no surprise that a former Black-winged Kite breeding location appears to have been abandoned, although we did pick up several calling Common Quails, Zitting Cisticola, Common Buzzard and Common Kestrel whilst looking. A little further down the road were a few small pools, where Little Grebe, Common Moorhen, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Southern Grey Shrike were logged. After a visit to a café in Madrigalejo we stopped at a nearby pool at former gravel workings on the edge of another expanse of rice fields. Here the eucalypts were alive with Spanish Sparrows, two Spotted Flycatchers were noted and a Cetti’s Warbler showed very well. Flocks of the hyperactive Red Avadavat, a naturalised finch originally from tropical Asia, were evident in fields and ditches. A couple of Little Ringed Plovers, presumably breeding here, were added, with our first Purple Heron a bonus.

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Next we drove a short distance south to Vegas Altas. Here the rice fields are always worth checking, especially where any standing water remains. Sure enough a stop at some flooded fields just before the village produced a Gull-billed Tern, a Blackheaded Gull [the only one of the trip], twelve Black-winged Stilts, a few Dunlin and best of all a gaudy European Roller. A flock of Lesser Kestrels congregated on telegraph wires here, presumably waiting for the rain to abate. Continuing past the village we came across another small area of water, where we were surprised to find two Sanderling - a scarce migrant this far inland – plus six Dunlin and a couple more Gull-billed Terns. Pride of place, however, went to two Collared Pratincoles that gave great views and almost allowed us to forget the damp. From here we picked up the road south to Acedera and then on past Embalse de Orellana [noting a Great White Egret in the wetland beneath the dam], making a stop at a wetland on the Rio Zujar. This formerly peaceful spot is now a busy sand excavation site, but we managed to put up with the passing vehicles long enough to find Eurasian Spoonbill, Great White Egret [increasing in Extremadura], Purple Heron, Great Cormorant, White Wagtail and two Booted Eagles. The latter are the commonest and most widespread eagle in Extremadura and at least a handful are to be expected everyday on a spring trip here. With the weather showing signs of drying up we decided to head further south to the huge open expanses of La Serena, one of the most important grassland areas in Europe. The road east from Campanario snakes through a very barren yet impressive rocky landscape where numerous Lesser Kestrels hunted. Some roadside Thekla Larks allowed close scrutiny of their distinguishing features, two Little Owls eyed us up and a few Red-legged Partridge were observed. The latter species is frequently seen at the roadside whilst driving in Extremadura. Finally, we found ourselves on La Serena proper, taking the quiet road that bisects the plain, eventually leading to Cabeza del Buey, although we didn’t venture this far down. The scenery here is breathtaking: an enormous rolling plain stretching off way into the distance, with a backdrop of impressive mountains. A Great Spotted Cuckoo flew past and landed in one of the few trees present and a distant Stone Curlew called. Before long we were enjoying excellent views of one of the iconic birds of Europe – the Great Bustard – with a flock of nine nearby males. Soon others were seen feeding and in flight, making a total of twenty two. Our attention was drawn to six Black-bellied Sandgrouse that shot up from a ploughed field, with twenty six Pin-tailed Sandgrouse also appearing shortly after. Several hundred Spanish Sparrows called noisily from broom bushes. The birds were coming thick and fast along this road with a European Golden Plover accompanying a flock of twenty five Yellow-legged Gulls, two Short-toed Eagles, Booted Eagles, two Short-toed Larks, numerous Calandra Larks, up to ten Montagu’s Harriers and more Black-winged Stilts on a farm pool. Two migrant Garden Warblers were in isolated bushes and a Northern Wheatear was also found. As if all this wasn’t enough, three Collared Pratincoles flew overhead calling, rounding off an all too brief but exciting diversion to this amazing landscape. It was very noticeable how parched La Serena looked. Indeed, a large area of southern Spain had suffered a severe drought the previous winter and the usual swathes of wildflowers were seriously lacking on this trip. No doubt the rain that was an irritant to us was very welcome by the local farmers.

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The journey back to the hotel was not without its interest, notably eight European Rollers by nest boxes between Madrigalejo and Zorita and a Eurasian Spoonbill at a small farm pool in the same general area, not to mention widespread Black Kites and Common Hoopoes, so numerous in Extremadura. 27th April – Arrocampo, Casas de Miravete, Jaraicejo, Belen Steady rain until 2pm, then drier for a spell until rain again in the evening. With rain falling the pre-breakfast walk was again shelved and the scheduled trip to Monfragüe was postponed in favour of a visit to Embalse de Arrocampo at Almaraz where the hides might provide some shelter, if needed. The Arrocampo Reservoir has become established as the premier wetland in Extremadura; its function is to act as a coolant for Almaraz nuclear power station and the stable water levels have allowed the establishment of extensive marginal vegetation, while the slightly elevated water temperature favours the diversity of birds. After collecting a key for the hides from the visitor centre near Saucedilla we parked on the causeway near hide 4. Even before reaching the hide we were already onto a showy reeling Savi’s Warbler, several Great Reed Warblers, a calling Penduline Tit and several hundred hirundines and swifts forced low over the water. Scrutiny of the swifts revealed the presence of a number of Pallid Swifts, some giving a close flypast. Further sightings from the vicinity of hide 4 included Great Crested Grebe, Great Cormorant [4+], Blackcrowned Night Heron [6], Cattle Egret [200+], Great White Egret, Little Egret [3], Little Bittern [6], Grey Heron, Purple Heron [5], Gadwall, Mallard, Marsh Harrier, Quail [heard], Water Rail [heard], Purple Swamp Hen, Common Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Gull-billed Tern [2], Little Tern [3], Common Kingfisher, Zitting Cisticola, Cetti’s Warbler, Eurasian Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler [a migrant here], Sardinian Warbler and Southern Grey Shrike. Not a bad little collection for a rain-sodden stop by the roadside! After a comfort break at the nearby service station we handed the key back in and had a quick look at a pool near the visitor centre, where more Purple Swamp Hens and Little Bitterns were present. Taking the old road south from Almaraz, we climbed past Casas de Miravete, before stopping for lunch near to the highest point [666m], in the pine forest and Mediterranean scrub. Unfortunately, heavy bands of rain meant we were mostly confined to the minibus and the fabulous views there were something we had to imagine, but a short stroll after fuelling up on bocadillos did produce single pairs of Wood Lark and Crested Tit. The only sensible option was to head for low ground and so we headed south until we crossed the Arroyo de la Vid, then turning left a few km before Jaraicejo along an unmetalled road to view a large expanse of broom scrub dotted with isolated trees. Our targets here were Sylvia warblers and sure enough several Dartford Warblers were quickly found. A male Spectacled Warbler then showed brilliantly and more Dartfords and a couple of brief Subalpine Warblers kept up the pace. Many Thekla Larks chased around, although few allowed views on the deck, a flock of European Bee-eaters shot through and Red-legged Partridges called nearby. The rain finally eased off and as if by magic raptors began to rise up in all directions, mainly Griffon Vultures, but also Black Vulture, Booted Eagles, Common Buzzards and the ever present Black Kites. 5

A short walk over the other [west] side of the road gave us two showy Golden Orioles, three Great Spotted Cuckoos, several Subalpine Warblers and Azure-winged Magpies in some lovely habitat. With a little time to spare before we needed to be back at base we decided to return via Belen Plain. This entailed rejoining the motorway for one junction, before exiting and passing through the town of Torrecillas de la Tiesa, then turning right onto the quiet potholed Belen road that cuts through the plain. We were soon enjoying a Short-toed Eagle perched on a post close to the road, followed by two Little Owls on a farm building and a couple of squadrons of Cattle Egrets, perhaps numbering over 200 overall. Two Great Spotted Cuckoos crossed the road ahead, one of which we inadvertently saved shortly after by surprising a Booted Eagle in the road verge that was in the process of dispatching its unfortunate victim which it must have just taken. Both birds shot off; the cuckoo into a nearby tree with the eagle in hot pursuit. A close shave! Another Great Spotted Cuckoo and Stone Curlew were seen more distantly and two Great Bustards were found, followed by our first Little Bustard, albeit some way off. Plenty of birds of prey could be seen over the plains and more distantly including our first Egyptian Vulture of the trip, Black Vulture, Griffon Vultures, Red Kites, more Booted Eagles, another Short-toed Eagle, Montagu’s Harrier, Lesser Kestrel and Common Kestrel. A Northern Wheatear was seen whilst enjoying the multitudes of larks, most numerously Calandra. Spanish Sparrows were nesting in the White Storks nests in some dead trees, where Western Jackdaws and Common Ravens were also evident. Regarding White Storks it should be stated that they are very numerous in Extremadura and are to be seen almost anywhere. The same can also be said for Spotless Starling and Crested Lark. Mallard is another under reported species, occurring as it does on most farm pools. We headed the short distance back to the hotel, via the tiny winding street of the village of Belen and then Trujillo, reflecting on another fabulous day in the field, and perhaps praying for some drier weather to come our way. 28th April – Monfrague, Rio Almonte Steady rain until about midday, clearing gradually to sunny spells late afternoon, and later thunder, hail and heavy rain in the evening. The weather we woke up to was far from ideal for a visit to the craggy Monfragüe National Park, where raptors are the main target, but it was time to ‘bite the bullet’ and take a chance. Certainly, no trip to Extremadura would be complete without a visit to this incredible haven, containing as it does the highest density of breeding raptors in Europe, and time was rapidly moving on. We had intended to first visit the Castillo de Monfragüe, with its breeding Choughs and panoramic views over the Dehesa. However, the approach road was blocked due to a rock fall, necessitating a change of plan. With rain looking set for a while at least we decided to visit the furthest point on our day’s itinerary, the cliff at Portilla de Tietar. The highlight here was two well-grown Eurasian Eagle Owl youngsters nestled in their cave, although the adults remained hidden.

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Plenty of other birds were on show, including the colony of Griffon Vultures, Blue Rock Thrush, Rock Bunting, Crag Martin, Red-rumped Swallow, Eurasian Jay, Great Cormorant and White Wagtail. Not surprisingly, no raptors were braving the elements away from the safety of the crag. Heading back on ourselves we stopped at some pines where some rather elusive Crested Tits were present, and then to a dam where a pair of Grey Wagtails and a flock of Long-tailed Tits were seen. At the bridge over the Tajo good views were obtained of around six Alpine Swifts, a flock of Rock Doves, plus a few Black Kites gliding around beneath us. A comfort stop at the park’s only habitation at Villareal de San Carlos preceded our lunch destination at Pena Falcon. Here the towering cliffs created by the Tajo River provide a great opportunity to study close up some of the typical birds of the park, most obviously a large colony of Griffon Vultures that give fabulous views. Several each of Black Vulture and Egyptian Vulture were also noted, while a pair of noisy Peregrines attended the nest. This particular spot is always busy with visiting birders and day tripping locals, unlike most of the rest of Extremadura. It is, however, a small price to pay and can have its plus side; on this occasion we were kindly alerted by a Geordie birder to a perched immature Spanish Imperial Eagle. Unfortunately, the bird soon flew, allowing only brief views for the group of this much sought after species. The same hillside also held a number of Black Vulture nests in the Mediterranean forest. Several Black Storks were another highlight here, this being a regular nesting location in the park. Small birds recorded here included Short-toed Treecreeper, Black Redstart, several Cirl Buntings, Rock Bunting, Blue Rock Thrush, Northern Wren and Subalpine Warbler. One of the group saw a probable Black Wheatear which disappeared before it could be confirmed. An Otter in the river here was also notable. With the weather improving somewhat we opted to retrace our tracks back to Portilla de Tietar for the possibility of Spanish Imperial Eagle, known to nest nearby. Their presence was confirmed to us by some Dutch birders we met when we stopped briefly en route at Mirador de la Bascula; they had only just been watching an adult at the nest there. Wasting no time in embarking we headed off and were delighted to spot an adult soaring over a ridge as we approached the Portilla, with a Booted Eagle in attendance. Pulling quickly into a lay-by, we were treated to prolonged views of this magnificent rare raptor against a blue sky; what a privilege! After subsequently parking up back at the Portilla, we were again treated to more excellent views of the eagle soaring over its territory, perched on the cliff top and even bringing in talons full of lichen to the nest on top of a large Cork Oak. Nothing was going to top this, but a few other birds caught our attention whilst watching the eagle, including Black Stork, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Booted Eagle, Grey Heron and our first European Robin of the trip. On our way back to the hotel we stooped en route at Rio Almonte, south of Torrejon el Rubio. Here we enjoyed two Black Storks [one feeding in the river, one flying], a Short-toed Eagle, two Red Kites, Black Vulture, Booted Eagles, a flock of European Bee-eaters, Crag Martins, White Wagtails, Western Jackdaws [every bridge crossing seems to have its resident Jackdaws] and two Little Egrets. All in all, a great day’s birding!

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29th April – Santa Marta, Rio Magasca, Rio Almonte, Belen Cold breezy start, with showers increasing through the day to heavy rain/hail by late afternoon. It was good to finally be able to take a pre-breakfast walk from the hotel, even if it was rather chilly. Birds noted included Common Cuckoo, Golden Oriole [heard], Azure-winged Magpies, Sardinian Warbler, Woodchat Shrike and the regular Common Nightingale. Our first destination was to be the plains west of Trujillo, sometimes known as the Santa Marta Loop. First we drove the south eastern section of the loop off the N 521 Caceres road, signposted Santa Marta de Magasca, stopping at the left hand bend where the landscape opens out, looking north over the rolling steppe [or pseudo-steppe to be correct]. The first impression is the massed lark song; mainly Calandra, but also Crested. Calandra are particularly common in this area, often appearing surprisingly large whilst delivering their exuberant song flights. On scanning with ‘scopes we are soon onto two small groups of strutting Little Bustards, totalling eight, with some nice flypasts to enliven things further. A Montagu’s Harrier drifted past, as did a Common Cuckoo. A Southern Grey Shrike hunted close by and Spanish Sparrows were also seen here. A little further along the road some Great Bustards were seen on top of a ridge, with another group flying over to land in a field west of the road [13 in all]. A flock of at least thirty six Pin-tailed Sandgrouse were feeding near the aforementioned ridge in the almost bare field. A further one kilometre on is a rough track on the right which gives good views over the plains. Both Red and Black Kite were feeding side by side on carrion, giving a good comparison. More Montagu’s Harriers appeared, including one feasting on a fresh kill. Soon more Great Bustards were spotted, notably a group of twelve, plus another eight Little Bustards. A group of five Pin-tailed Sandgrouse flew over and lots of raptors were rising up in the distance, most numerously Griffon Vultures, but also Egyptian Vulture, Black Vulture, Booted Eagle, Red Kite and Common Buzzard. One Great Spotted Cuckoo also flew past in this productive location. Driving north we came to the isolated village of Santa Marta de Magasca, stopping for a coffee in a small café [the one with the mounted Pin-tailed Sandgrouse behind the bar] before arriving at the narrow ravine at Rio Magasca. Here Common Kingfisher, Wood Lark, White Wagtail, Eurasian Serin and European Bee-eater were recorded. Leaving the picturesque valley we travel through a mixed area of both stony fields and dehesa, with typical birds noted from the vehicle. A large raptor that brought us to an abrupt stop turned out to be an immature Spanish Imperial Eagle, with Shorttoed Eagle, resting Griffon Vultures and several Common Ravens also seen. A little further on hundreds of Spanish Sparrows were gathered in roadside broom; this plant seems to be much favoured by the species. We continued north west in the direction of Monroy, before stopping at a craggy crossing of the Rio Almonte. This has previously proved a reliable location for Black Wheatear, but sadly none were seen, although Cirl Bunting, Rock Bunting, Black Stork, Black Vulture and a pair each of Little Ringed Plovers and Common Sandpiper were some compensation.

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Continuing north through Monroy, we take the EX390 Caceres to Torrejon el Rubio road, where we parked under some Umbrella Pines with conspicuous White Stork nests, plus many attendant Spanish Sparrows. Here a track leads off into a pretty floriferous area of mixed farming and olive groves, which is a known area for the beautiful Black-winged Kite. A walk some way down the track drew a blank, although as ever in Extremadura there were plenty of other birds to divert the attention, including calling Quail, Black Vulture, a flock of Linnets, two Great Spotted Cuckoos, and a pylon-nesting Common Kestrel that briefly raised our hopes. Not wanting to accept defeat we elected to walk further along the track, getting caught in a prolonged hail and rain shower in the process. After taking refuge under a large Holm Oak, and with further showers threatening, we were just about to give up when our target bird appeared ghost-like in the field in front of us. Black-winged Kite – yes, we earned that one! The bird hunted and hovered for a while, with another seen more distantly. By now the showers were merging together, so we beat a retreat to the vehicle and headed towards home. As we had a little time to spare we took a diversion over Belen Plain. With the weather deteriorating we didn’t get out of the vehicle, but still managed to see both bustards, Egyptian Vulture, Great Spotted Cuckoo and a flock of Lesser Kestrels, among others. 30th April – Sierras de Las Villuercas, Embalse de Sierra Brava A little rain in the morning, then cool with sunny spells and a couple of isolated showers. A rather nippy pre-breakfast walk brought no major surprises, although a migrant Common Whitethroat was an addition to the hotel list. Today’s plan was to visit the scenic and peaceful mountainous region in the vicinity of Guadalupe known as the Sierras de Las Villuercas. The craggy mountains and parallel rocky ridges shelter steep-sided valleys of olive, almond and cherry groves, while other areas of chestnut groves and mixed oak occur. After first driving to Guadalupe via Zorita, we headed north along the EX118, turning left opposite the Ermita del Humilladero. This old military track leads up to the top of the highest peak [1601m] and we were to take this route to the summit, stopping at several points along the way. As we gained height vegetation changed noticeably; a band of conifers soon gave way to sweet chestnut and Pyrenean oak. Species recorded included Crested Tit, Longtailed Tit, Wood Lark, Northern Wren, Blackcap, Eurasian Jay [rather common here] and Great Spotted Woodpecker. The locality looked very suitable for raptors such as eagles, although none were seen here; perhaps the clearing rain and mist was a disincentive to flying. As we neared the summit the visibility worsened and lying snow appeared, thus scuppering our chances of searching for Rock Thrush, reported to occur here. After a surreal coffee break surrounded by snow and mist we made our way down the opposite side of the mountain down some incredibly tight hairpin bends. A couple of brief stops brought more of the same birds recorded on the ascent, with the addition of Common Nuthatch. Once off the mountain we found ourselves in an attractive region of orchards and oak groves as we headed roughly north through the village of Navezuelas and then Roturas. Roadside birds included Cirl Bunting, Subalpine Warbler, Chaffinch and Eurasian Jay. 9

Shortly after Roturas there is a great place to pull off the road with fabulous views over the mountain range, looking south east. Here we could see Griffon Vultures milling around the rocks at Cabanas del Castillo [our next intended destination], plus Lesser Kestrels and a Common Buzzard. Here we had a couple of tantalising glimpses of what appeared to be eagles, perhaps Bonelli’s, although the distance was too great to confirm. A little further on is a river crossing, where Grey Wagtails were present, although sadly no Black Wheatears, which have been recorded here in the past. A short distance after this is Cabanas del Castillo, a hamlet that nestles at the base of two rocky peaks. Parking at the entrance to the village a mirador affords scenic views westward. Following lunch we walked up past the houses and between two huge boulders, to emerge around the far side of the rocky peaks, where equally panoramic views can be had to the east and beyond. We saw Griffon Vultures, Blue Rock Thrush, Black Redstarts, Common Nightingale, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Northern Wren, Eurasian Serin, Red-rumped Swallow, Common Raven and best of all a pair of noisy Peregrines. We spend some time here scanning hopefully for large eagles, but they remain frustratingly absent despite our best efforts. From here we headed south on the remarkably car-free newly-surfaced road towards Solana. Not far from the village a large raptor is spotted over a crag and after a hurried stop is confirmed as Bonelli’s Eagle – magic! The bird soared over its territory for a while, making a fabulous sight against the pure blue sky, before giving perched views atop the cliff. Soon the bird gave a tremendous demonstration of its power, speed and agility, including stoops on closed wings followed by switchbacks. No wonder the species is a favourite raptor for so many birders! The second bird of the pair then joined it in the air to give further prolonged views and complete a memorable experience. After this excitement we continued south to Berzocana, where we take the minor road to Logrosan. This road descends through yet another very pretty area. A few birds noted in this vicinity were Short-toed Eagle, Booted Eagle, Common Kestrel, Common Buzzard, Azure-winged Magpie and Mistle Thrush. On our way back to the hotel we took a short diversion to Embalse de Sierra Brava. It was good to be at the reservoir in decent visibility after our earlier visit, although we didn’t linger as a shower was threatening and we decided we had had our fair share of those on the tour! The journey back to the hotel provided sightings of Short-toed Eagle, Red Kite, Marsh Harrier and Montagu’s Harrier, to complete another great day’s birding in Extremadura. 1st May – Trujillo Sunny spells, rather cool. With only a couple of hours after breakfast before we needed to head for the airport, we elected to visit nearby Trujillo. The old town is well worth visiting for its medieval buildings and imposing statue of the conquistador Francisco Pizarro, although the plaza mayor was filled up with stands from an international cheese festival that had taken place over the preceding three days. The clear up efforts indicated that quite a party had taken place the previous evening!

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The number of swifts, Lesser Kestrels and White Storks that nest in the town is truly impressive. As we made our way up the hill we to the castle we were afforded great views of Pallid and Common Swifts side by side, even picking out the Pallids by eye when familiarised to their subtle distinguishing features. After enjoying great views over the surrounding countryside from the castle, we took a coffee in the square before reluctantly heading back to the hotel to collect our belongings. Having said goodbye to our hosts, we set off north towards Madrid and an uneventful journey back to the UK, filled with many memories of this very special region. SYSTEMATIC LIST

GROUSE, PHEASANTS & allies - Phasianidae Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufa ; Noted daily in small numbers. Common Quail Coturnix coturnix : Heard near Madrigalejo, Embalse de Arrocampo and near Monroy.

GEESE, SWANS & DUCKS - Anatidae Gadwall Anas strepera : 4 at Embalse de Arrocampo, 2 at Rio Zujar.. Mallard Anas platyrhynchos : Noted in small to moderate numbers widely and daily. Common Pochard Aythya farina ; 2 at Embalse de Sierra Brava.

GREBES - Podicipedidae Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis : 1 near Madrigalejo. Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus : 100+ at Embalse de Sierra Brava, smaller numbers at Embalse de Arrocampo, present at Embalse be Orellana.

STORKS - Ciconiidae Black Stork Ciconia nigra : Noted on 2 days: 5 Monfragüe National Park, 3 at Rio Almonte (2 locations). White Stork Ciconia ciconia : Abundant, widespread and seen daily.

IBISES & SPOONBILLS - Threskiornithidae Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia : 1 at Rio Zujar, 1 south of Zorita

HERONS & BITTERNS - Ardeidae Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus : 6 at Embalse de Arrocampo. Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax : 6 at Embalse de Arrocampo. Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis : Noted in small to large numbers daily, especially on Belen Plain. Grey Heron Ardea cinerea : Widespread in small numbers. Purple Heron Ardea purpurea : 5+ Embalse de Arrocampo, 1 at Rio Zujar, 1 near Madrigalejo. Great White Egret Ardea alba : 1 Embalse de Arrocampo, 1 at Rio Zujar, 1 at Orellana dam. Little Egret Egretta garzetta : Widespread in small numbers.

CORMORANTS - Phalacrocoracidae Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo : 1 at Rio Zujar, 5+ Monfragüe National Park, 4 at Embalse de Arrocampo.

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FALCONS & allies - Falconidae Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni : Widespread in moderate numbers and seen daily. Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus : Widespread and common, though not always possible to separate from Lessers. Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus : A pair Monfragüe National Park, a pair at Cabanas del Castillo.

HAWKS, EAGLES & allies - Accipitridae Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus : A pair near Monroy. Red Kite Milvus milvus : Widespread in small number and noted daily. Black Kite Milvus migrans : Widespread and common. Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus : 6 Monfragüe National Park, singles at Belen Plain on two dates. Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus : Noted daily, most numerously at Monfragüe National Park. Black Vulture Aegypius monachus : Noted almost daily in small numbers. Short-toed Eagle Circaetus gallicus : Noted in small numbers daily. Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus : Several at Embalse de Arrocampo, Embalse de Sierra Brava and near Madrigalejo. Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus : Most numerous at La Serena, but also at Santa Marta, Madrigalejo and Belen plain. Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus : 1 at Monfragüe National Park Common Buzzard Buteo buteo : Noted everyday in small mumbers. Spanish Imperial Eagle Aquila adalberti : Adult at portilla de Tietar, immatures at Pens Falcon and near Monroy. Bonelli's Eagle Hieraaetus fasciatus : Pair near Cabanas del Castillo. Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus : Noted daily and widely in small numbers

BUSTARDS - Otidae Great Bustard Otis tarda : 22 at La Serena, 2 at Belen Plain, 25 at Santa Marta. Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax : 2 at Belen Plain, 16 at Santa Marta.

RAILS, CRAKES & COOTS - Rallidae Water Rail Rallus aquaticus : Heard Embalse de Arrocampo. Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio : Several at the Embalse de Arrocampo. Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus : A few at Embalse de Arrocampo, also near Madrigalejo. Common Coot Fulica atra : 12 at Embalse de Sierra Brava, also at Embalse de Arrocampo.

STONE-CURLEWS / THICK-KNEES - Burhinidae Eurasian Stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus : 3 in flight at Embalse de Sierra Brava, 1 at Belen plain, 1 heard at La Serena.

STILTS & AVOCETS - Recurvirostridae Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus : Widespread, notably 16 at Vegas Altas.

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PLOVERS & LAPWINGS – Charadriidae Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius : 2 near Madrigalejo, 2 at Rio Almonte.

SANDPIPERS, SNIPES & allies - Scolopacidae Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos : Several at Embalse de Sierra Brava, 2 at Rio Almonte. Sanderling Calidris alba : 2 at Vegas Altas. Dunlin Calidris alpina : 8 at Vegas Altas.

COURSERS & PRATINCOLES - Glareolidae Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola : 2 at Vegas Altas, 3 at La Serena.

GULLS, TERNS & SKIMMERS – Laridae Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahelis : 25 over at La Serena. Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus : 1 at Vegas Altas. Little Tern Sterna albifrons ; 3 at Embalse de Arrocampo. Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica : 3 at Vegas Altas, 2 at Embalse de Arrocampo.

SANDGROUSE - Pteroclididae Pin-tailed Sandgrouse Pterocles alchata : 41+ at Santa Marta, 26 at La Serena. Black-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles orientalis : 6 at La Serena.

PIGEONS & DOVES - Columbidae Rock Dove / Feral Pigeon Columba livia : Noted widely in variable numbers. Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus : Noted widely and daily. Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto : Noted widely daily, 100+ at Orellana.

CUCKOOS - Cuculidae Great Spotted Cuckoo Clamator glandarius : 1 at La Serena, 3 at Jaraicejo, 3 at Belen Plain, 2 near Monroy. Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus :1 or 2 noted most days.

OWLS - Strigidae Eurasian Eagle-Owl Bubo bubo : 2 well-grown young at Monfragüe National Park. Little Owl Athene noctua : 2 near Campanario, 2 at Belen Plain, 1 near Monroy.

SWIFTS - Apodidae Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba : 6 Monfragüe National Park. Common Swift Apus apus : Widespread, especially numerous at Embalse de Arrocampo in bad weather, and at Trujillo. Pallid Swift Apus pallidus : 2+ Embalse de Arrocampo and a few at Trujillo.

ROLLERS - Coraciidae European Roller Coracias garrulus : 1 Vegas Altas, 8 north of Madrigalejo.

KINGFISHERS - Alcedinidae Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis : 2 at Embalse de Arrocampo, 1 at Río Magasca.

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BEE-EATERS - Meropidae European Bee-eater Merops apiaster : Seen widely and daily.

HOOPOES - Upupidae Eurasian Hoopoe Upupa epops : Widespread in small numbers and seen daily

WOODPECKERS – Picidae Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major : 3+ at Sierras de Las Villuercas.

SHRIKES - Laniidae Southern Grey Shrike Lanius meridionalis : Noted widely in small number daily. Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator : Common and also noted widely daily.

FIGBIRDS/ORIOLES – Oriolidae Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus ; 2 at Jaraicejo, 1 south of Jaraicejo, heard at Monfragüe National Park and the hotel.

CROWS, JAYS & MAGPIES - Corvidae Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius : Several at Monfragüe National Park, common at Sierras de Las Villuercas . Azure-winged Magpie Cyanopica cooki : Quite common and widespread, especially in the dehesa. Black-billed Magpie Pica pica : Abundant, widespread and seen daily in moderate number. Western Jackdaw Corvus monedula : Locally common, especially by bridges and in settlements. Common Raven Corvus corax : Widespread in small numbers.

TITS & CHICKADEES - Paridae Great Tit Parus major : Widespread and locally common. Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus : Widespread and locally common.

PENDULINE TITS - Remizidae Eurasian Penduline Tit Remiz pendulinus : One heard at Embalse de Arrocampo.

SWALLOWS & MARTINS - Hirundinidae Sand Martin Riparia riparia : Seen most days in small numbers, most numerous at Embalse de Arrocampo. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica : Common and widespread. Crag Martin Ptyonoprogne rupestris : Several at Río Magasca and Monfragüe National Park. House Martin Delichon urbicum : Common, widespread and seen daily. Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica : Widespread in small number and seen daily.

BUSHTITS, LONG-TAILED TITS - Aegithalidae Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus :, A flock at Monfragüe National Park, several at Sierras de Las Villuercas and by the hotel.

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LARKS - Alaudidae Calandra Lark Melanocorypha calandra : Common and widespread in the steppes. Greater Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla : 2 at La Serena, 1 at Santa Marta. Crested Lark Galerida cristata : Common, widespread and noted daily at numerous sites. Thekla Lark Galerida theklae : Positively identified near Campanario (La Serena) and at Jaraicejo. Wood Lark Lullula arborea : Pair at Casa de Miravete, 1 at Rio Magasca, 1 at Sierra de Las Villuercas.

CISTICOLAS & allies – Cisticolidae Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis : Widespread in suitable habitat in small numbers.

OLD WORLD WARBLERS - Sylviidae Cetti's Warbler Cettia cetti : Widesread in suitable habitat, not recorded daily. Savi's Warbler Locustella luscinioides : 3 at Embalse de Arrocampo. Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus : Vegas Altas, near Madrigalejo and Embalse de Arrocampo . Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus : 1 at Embalse de Arrocampo. Eurasian Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus : Several at Embalse de Arrocampo. Melodious warbler Hippolais polyglotta ; 1 at Embalse de Sierra Brava. Garden Warbler Sylvia borin ; 2 at La Serena. Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla : 1 heard at Sierras de Las Villuercas. Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis : Singles at Embalse de Sierra Brava and at the hotel. Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata : 5+ Jaraicejo. Spectacled Warbler Sylvia conspicillata : 1 male Jaraicejo. Subalpine Warbler Sylvia cantillans : 4+ Jaraicejo, also at Monfragüe National Park and Sierras de Las Villuercas. . Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala : Widespread and fairly common.

WRENS - Troglodytidae Northern Wren Troglodytes troglodytes : At the hotel, Rio Almonte, Monfragüe National Park and Sierras de Las Villuercas.

NUTHATCHES & WALLCREEPER - Sittidae Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea : Heard at Sierras de Las Villuercas.

TREECREEPERS - Certhiidae Short-toed Treecreeper Certhia brachydactyla : 1 at Monfragüe National Park, 1 near the hotel and 1 at Sierras de Las Villuercas.

STARLINGS - Sturnidae Spotless Starling Sturnus unicolor : Abundant, widespread and noted daily.

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THRUSHES – Turdidae Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus ; 1 north of Logrosan. Common Blackbird Turdus merula : Common, widespread and noted daily in small number.

OLD WORLD CHATS & FLYCATCHERS - Muscicapidae European Robin Erithacus rubecula : 1 at Monfragüe National, also at Sierras de Las Villuercas. Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos : Widespread and fairly common. Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros : Several at each of Monfragüe National and Cabanas del Castillo. Common Stonechat Saxicola rubicola : Common, widespread and noted in small number daily. Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe : 4+ at Embalse de Sierra Brava, also at La Serena and Belen Plain. Blue Rock Thrush Monticola solitarius : Several males at Monfragüe National Park, 2+ at Cabanas del Castillo. Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata ; 2+ near Madrigalejo.

OLD WORLD SPARROWS & allies - Passeridae House Sparrow Passer domesticus : Common, widespread and noted daily. Spanish Sparrow Passer hispaniolensis : Abundant in some steppe areas.

WAXBILLS, MUNIAS & allies - Estrildidae Red Avadavat Amandava amandava : Flocks near Madrigalejo.

WAGTAILS & PIPITS - Motacillidae White Wagtail Motacilla alba : Widespread in small number. Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea ; 1 near Casa de Miravete, 2 at Monfragüe National Park, 1+ near Roturas.

FINCHES & allies - Fringillidae Common Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs : In small numbers at Casas de Miravette, Monfragüe National Park and Sierras de Las Villuercas. European Serin Serinus serinus : Widespread and fairly common. European Greenfinch Carduelis chloris : A few seen at several sites, including the hotel. European Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis : Abundant, widespread and seen daily. Common Linnet Carduelis cannabina : Several sites including the hotel, most numerous near Monroy.

BUNTINGS, NEW WORLD SPARROWS & allies - Emberizidae Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra : Abundant and widespread. Rock Bunting Emberiza cia : Several at Monfragüe National Park, 1 at Rio Almonte. Cirl Bunting Emberiza cirlus : 1 male at Río Almonte, 2+ at Pena Falcon, several roadside at Sierras de Las Villuercas.

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