Birds & Habitats of Valencia
The province of Valencia contains an extensive network of coastal wetlands, perhaps the most famous being that of Albufera de Valencia. However, one has to view the network as a whole, with each specific site playing a crucial role in the area’s ecology. During spring and early summer, these wetlands provide breeding territory for species such as Collared Pratincole, Whiskered Tern, Little Tern, Great Reed Warbler, Moustached Warbler and more. Valencia is also the only place in Europe that has a regular breeding site for Elegant Tern. Aquatic species include Little Bittern, Night Heron, Purple Heron and Great Egret. There is also a huge population of Glossy Ibis and Greater Flamingo. Wildfowl include White Headed Duck, Red Crested Pochard, Garganey and Pintail. In winter, huge numbers of Teal and Lapwing fly in from the north, as does the ever-popular Bluethroat.
The extensive rice fields of Albufera de Valencia
The mountainous areas tend to be largely forested or covered in Mediterranean scrub, provide nesting habitat for Eagles, including Short-Toed, Golden, Bonelli´s and Booted as well as species such as Egyptian Vulture, Blue Rock Thrush, Black Wheatear, Black-eared Wheatear and Alpine Swift. In winter, the highest peaks are frequented by Alpine Accentor.
Valencia´s highland interior
The interior of the region offers vast areas of remote hill country and river valleys which provide home to breeding populations of Golden Oriole, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Red Rumped Swallow, Melodious Warbler, Crested Tit, Dartford Warbler, Wryneck and another “favourite”, the Bee-Eater.
In terms of accommodation, one can choose from either contemporary or traditional hotels in the heart of the city of Valencia, or beautifully restored guesthouses and country hotels in the rural interior of the region. The choice is endless, and we’d be very happy to assist in providing suggestions if required.
Valencia´s famous City of Arts & Science complex
Many of our clients understandably want to enjoy both a stay in Valencia, enjoying its cultural delights as well as experiencing an authentic, traditional rural location. As such we could work together to design a bespoke twin-centre holiday that combines city, countryside and some fabulous birding days.
Please always feel free to contact us to discuss the possibilities, all without obligation.
Dartford Warbler
