Valencia Birding is back in action after the birth of our daughter!
Our blog and social media accounts have been quiet for a few months. The reason for that is that our daughter Alya suddenly came into the world in late September – two months before she was expected. There were some sudden and serious complications which resulted in the premature birth, but after a few weeks in an incubator and thanks to the excellent care provided by the health professionals at San Juan de Alicante hospital, we were able to bring her home in November. She’s doing great, growing fast and doing what babies do! Mum suffered some problems but I’m…
Early September in Albufera and Pego Oliva Marsh.
In early September, I had the pleasure of finally meeting Bridget and Chris from the UK. We had previously communicated about a possible trip to the region, and had discussed options at length. So it was great to finally put faces to names and to enjoy two days together. Autumn migration was already underway, so we were keen to see what was moving through. Wood Sandpiper Early September is still quite hot over here, so we adapted the trips accordingly, and started our first day in the wetland site of Albufera de Valencia. After a short walk to a hide…
Last Trips to Alicante before the Summer Break
Alicante is not widely known for its birding, but the truth is, it has some of Spain’s most important wetlands, as well as huge expanses of mountainous terrain, highland forests and even an area of steppe. In the weeks prior to the summer break, during which time I turn my attention to the Osprey Reintroduction Project, working alongside Itziar (Fundacion Migres) and Ian Perks (Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation), I spent many days in Alicante with clients from both the UK and USA. White Headed Duck This region has a number of key species that are always very popular with visiting…
A Very Busy Spring Season in Valencia
I’m both delighted and very grateful to report that this spring season has been extremely busy, with clients from across Europe and the USA. For those based in Valencia, trips have included the coastal marshes and the rice growing wetland region of Albufera, as well as the mountains of the interior. One client in particular, Erik from the Netherlands, flew down to Valencia with the hope of seeing Elegant Tern. With only a couple of days in which to locate it, the challenge was on, but he indeed returned home having had good views, and the opportunity to photograph it…
Presentation on the History of Osprey Conservation in Scotland and Beyond
As a collaborator of Fundación Migres, and the representative of the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation for the Osprey Reintroduction Project here in Spain, I am honoured to be heavily involved in this incredible work. Back in February I was delighted to assist Itziar Colodro and Ian Perks in giving a presentation in the town of Pego. The focus was on the history and success stories of Osprey conservation in Scotland and beyond. Here you can see the presentation (both in English and Spanish). Click on the image below to go to the YouTube video… Continue reading
2 Day Birding Break in Alicante
Alexia has been a loyal client and close friend for many years, so it was with great anticipation and joy that I welcomed her back for another trip together. We began our first of two days in Alicante, specifically the wetlands to the south of the city. Common Pochard Two of our target species were seen well within the first 15 minutes of the day – Red Knobbed Coot and Marbled Teal. Migration was obviously underway, with huge numbers of Red Rumped Swallow, Barn Swallow, House Martin and Common Swift constantly passing through. Close observation of a particularly large mixed…