Custom Search
The birds and wildlife of the Algarve
To the south of Portugal is the stunning coastal area known as the Algarve. Although perhaps most commonly known for its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife which appeal to package-holiday makers, the Algarve also offers an abundance of birds and wildlife that nature lovers can explore whatever time of year.
In the south west of the Algarve is the Sagres Peninsular, a coastal area that attracts a surprising number of seabirds and other coastal bird life. The most impressive location is Cabo de So Vicente (or Cape of St. Vincent) which is situated right next to Sagres Point. Here every year (especially around spring and autumn) there are regular sightings of coastal birds such as the Common Scoter, Great, Arctic and Pomarine Skua's, Kittiwake and the Little Gull.
The Cape of St. Vincent is also the home to impressive birds of prey, such as the Booted Eagle, Sparrowhawk and Griffin Vulture which are most commonly spotted during the migratory autumn period. Other unmissable parks for bird-lovers visiting the Algarve include the 'Ria Formosa Natural Park' right to the south, the wetlands and woodlands of 'Quinta do Ludo' and 'Quinta do Lago', and the marshland of 'Reserva Natural do Sapal de Castro Marim e de Vila Real de Santo Antnio' on the Algarve-Spanish border.
Algarve wildlife is equally as diverse and widespread, as the area is home to fantastic wooded and grassy habitats. Alongside the birds, butterflies also take the skies, but back on the ground visitors can watch out for geckos, chameleons, mongooses, snakes, foxes, and even the humble hedgehog.
The most prolific time to visit the Algarve for its wildlife and birds is of course between spring and autumn, when birds are migrating, babies are born and animals are on the hunt. Whilst the Algarve is indeed a perfect holiday destination for beaches and partying, there is so much exciting wildlife to explore that a day bird-watching or exploring the natural parks would enhance any Algarve experience.
In the south west of the Algarve is the Sagres Peninsular, a coastal area that attracts a surprising number of seabirds and other coastal bird life. The most impressive location is Cabo de So Vicente (or Cape of St. Vincent) which is situated right next to Sagres Point. Here every year (especially around spring and autumn) there are regular sightings of coastal birds such as the Common Scoter, Great, Arctic and Pomarine Skua's, Kittiwake and the Little Gull.
The Cape of St. Vincent is also the home to impressive birds of prey, such as the Booted Eagle, Sparrowhawk and Griffin Vulture which are most commonly spotted during the migratory autumn period. Other unmissable parks for bird-lovers visiting the Algarve include the 'Ria Formosa Natural Park' right to the south, the wetlands and woodlands of 'Quinta do Ludo' and 'Quinta do Lago', and the marshland of 'Reserva Natural do Sapal de Castro Marim e de Vila Real de Santo Antnio' on the Algarve-Spanish border.
Algarve wildlife is equally as diverse and widespread, as the area is home to fantastic wooded and grassy habitats. Alongside the birds, butterflies also take the skies, but back on the ground visitors can watch out for geckos, chameleons, mongooses, snakes, foxes, and even the humble hedgehog.
The most prolific time to visit the Algarve for its wildlife and birds is of course between spring and autumn, when birds are migrating, babies are born and animals are on the hunt. Whilst the Algarve is indeed a perfect holiday destination for beaches and partying, there is so much exciting wildlife to explore that a day bird-watching or exploring the natural parks would enhance any Algarve experience.
About the Author:
Don't miss out on the best value holidays to Algarve and cheap holidays to other destinations.