Before I go any further, I would like to begin this article with a message of thanks to the many people who have contacted us over the past week or two, asking if we’re safe and well following the devastating flooding that has recently hit the Valencia Region. I feel extremely fortunate to be able to report that we’re absolutely fine and that our home has not been affected. Sincere thanks to you all for your kind thoughts.
Secondly, although the purpose of this article is to provide practical information with regard to bird watching in the area following the flooding, that is not to take away from the incredibly severe and horrific impact that so many people and families have suffered, and continue to face. Apart from practical help that we can offer, our thoughts and respect are with them constantly. The response from regional and national government has been the focus of much criticism, some of it deserved, but the mobilisation of volunteers, especially amongst young people, has been something that restores one’s faith in human nature.
Huge numbers of volunteers from all over Spain have sprung into action since the beginning of this crisis.
Now, I turn my attention to informing people of the current situation in the region. Many clients have chosen to cancel their trips in the month of November, which of course, is a decision that I respect and understand. However, I believe that it’s important to provide detailed information of what is happening here, and what is still possible for visiting bird watchers.
The City of Valencia and Surrounding Towns.
The most severely hit areas include the towns of Requena and Utiel (to the west of Valencia), and the neighbourhoods and adjoining towns that are located to the south and west of the city. The city centre of Valencia, and all of the areas to the north and east of the centre are unaffected and continue to function normally, the only exception being that the city’s Metro system and local trains are currently out of action. The airport is operating as are local buses and taxis. A few roads to the south and west of the city are closed, but diversions are in place.
Albufera de Valencia.
The wetland site of Albufera de Valencia has taken the brunt of the disaster in terms of impacts upon environment and habitat. The Natural Park is still suffering from much higher water levels than usual, and the lagoon and canals are the subject of a major clean-up operation. The nature reserves and visitor centres are currently closed until further notice. Therefore, visits to this site are at the time of writing, impossible. Many birds have dispersed to other coastal wetlands to the north and south of Albufera. We are indeed very fortunate to have so many other marshes and wetland sites, all of which are visitable and are providing refuge for huge numbers of birds.
Crucially, birds from Albufera have not had to travel far within the region in order to find suitable habitat in good condition.
The fact that the area has such natural resources has proved to be of very significant importance. There is no doubt that Albufera is facing a huge challenge, but much work is ongoing, and it will recover. It has done so in the past when faced with environmental impacts, and it will do so again.
Other Wetland Sites.
This region is blessed with a system of wetlands that extends along the entire coastline. The sites to the north of Valencia, and the sites to the south, including those in the province of Alicante, all of which we visit on a regular basis, are unaffected and continue to offer superb bird watching opportunities. Alicante has some of Spain’s most important wetland habitats, and provides habitat for species such as Marbled Teal, White Headed Duck, Red Knobbed Coot, Greater Flamingo, Spoonbill, Bluethroat, Crane, Osprey, Marsh Harrier, Spotted Eagle and much more.
The wetlands, coast and islands of Alicante are home to numerous protected reserves as well as successful conservation projects.
Other Habitats Within Alicante Province.
As many of our clients know, Alicante is a province that we work in on a very regular basis, as it has the extremely valuable combination of having a major international airport and incredible habitat diversity. We’ve already touched upon its many wetland sites, but after a short journey inland, we can reach its spectacular mountainous sierras, highland forests, farmland, steppe and Mediterranean desert. The species are far too many to specify here, but the list is as diverse as could be expected from such a habitat-rich region.
The rural interior of Alicante offers incredible habitat and species diversity
Where to Stay?
The selection of destinations in terms of where visitors can choose to stay remains largely unaffected. Even Valencia city centre and its historical quarter remain a viable option, and there are of course birding sites that are possible to visit from there. For those looking for smaller, authentic towns and villages, coastal locations which are always a popular option outside of the summer months, or more rural options, the possibilities are endless, and we are always more than happy to help with recommendations and advice.
Xativa – one of the region’s many historical and cultural towns
So the message, delivered with complete respect, is that the region is still very much open for business as a first-class bird watching destination. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any enquiries, questions, doubts or requests and we’ll be happy as always to provide answers, recommendations and proposals, all without obligation.
Written by Dave Warrington.
Valencia Birding.