A few days ago, I was delighted to provide a mountain birding trip for two of clients from Scotland. They were experienced birders and after few days visiting Valencia City, they wanted a day out in the mountains to discover the birdlife of the area.
After I collected them from their hotel, we drove less than an hour to this beautiful mountain area. On the way, we had to speed down to enjoy a flock of Glossy Ibis and a pair of Short-toed Eagles displaying.
Glossy Ibis in flight
Ones in the area, our first stop a family of Serins catch our attention, suddenly the first Griffon Vultures started to show up with the background’s call of Sardinian Warbler.
In the Second stop, the distinctive call of the frogs didn’t take our concentration on spotting the majestic Egyphtian Vultures, we were extremely luck to see them mating and displaying.
Further on the gorge, we had nice views of Firecrest and Crag Martins flying everywhere.
Firecrest
It took us some time to arrive to the Griffon Vultures’ colony, an amazing spot at the end of the gorge where also Peregrine Falcon and Egyphtian Vulture use for nesting.
In the open and farming area we enjoyed great views of Crested Tit, Black Redstart and a lovely display of Ravens.
It was a long but beautiful day with many good sightings and special birds.
Species list of the day includes…
Common Buzzard, Short-toed Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Kestrel, Griffon Vulture, Egyphtian Vulture, Carrion Cow, Chough, Raven, Magpie, Grey Heron, Glossy Ibis, Moorhen, Green Woodpecker, Dipper, Spotless Starling, Crossbill, Crested Lark, Black Redstart, Serin, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Chaffinch, Firecrest, Crested-Tit, Coal Tit, Robin, Blackcap, Sardinian Warbler, Chiffchaff, White Wagtail, Wre, Crag Martin, Barn Swalow, House Martin, Collared Dove, Wood Pigeon, House Sparrow.