raptors, steppe birds & cranes
The area we visit during this route is part of the Campiña Sur region, in the extreme south of Extremadura, near the border with Andalusia.
The main landscapes of the Campiña Sur are open agricultural fields and dehesas (open oak forest). It is known for being one of the most important areas in Extremadura for the steppeland birds and raptors, and during winter, the second area of importance for the wintering flocks of Common Crane.
This region is crossed by the Matachel River, one of the main tributaries of the Guadiana River. The surrounding hillsides are covered with Mediterranean woodland and rocky outcrops.
The whole area is a prime site for birding, with remarkable populations of steppe birds, raptors and cranes.
Among the steppe birds, the most outstanding ones are Great and Little Bustard and Black-bellied Sandgrouse. Although they are all threatened species, this area still a good place to watch them.
As for the raptors, the 3 largest eagles can be seen (Spanish, Golden and Bonelli’s Eagle), as well as good numbers of Griffon and Cinereous vultures. There are also several Lesser Kestrel colonies, some of which, like the one in Llerena, are very numerous.
Between October and March, several thousand Common Cranes occupy the area, mainly visiting the dehesas to feed on acorns.
The list of birds in the area is extensive, but we can highlight the following ones: Iberian Magpie, Black Stork, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Southern Grey Shrike, European Roller…
Great opportunities to observe birds of prey and steppe birds.
During the winter amazing flocks of cranes.
Discover one of the least explored birding hotspots in Extremadura.
We will visit two main areas. On the one hand, the agricultural and dehesa areas to the north of Llerena. And on the other hand the valley of the river Matachel. The itinerary will be variable depending on your target species, time of the year and weather conditions.
We will drive mainly on secondary roads and tracks, to explore the extensive plains in search of the birds of your interest and to visit the most interesting birding hotspots.
No long walks are necessary for this route, as all the observations will be done from the car or close to it.
Most wanted birds
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Red-necked Nightjar
Great Spotted Cuckoo
European Scops Owl
Pallid Swift
Red-rumped Swallow
Subalpine Warbler
Black-eared Wheatear
Black-shouldered Kite
Bonelli's Eagle
Golden Eagle
Eurasian Griffon Vulture
Southern Grey Shrike
Thekla Lark
Calandra Lark
Spotless Starling
Blue Rock Trush
Spanish Sparrow
MAIN HABITATS
TOP BIRDS
Spanish Imperial Eagle, Great Bustard, Black-bellied Sandgrouse…
LOCATION
DURATION
From Seville: ≈ 12 hours.
From Llerena: ≈ 9 hours.
AVAILABILITY
All year round.
| Nº Adults | Total price |
|---|---|
| 1 | €445 |
| 2 | €450 |
| 3 | €480 |
| 4 | €520 |
| 5 | €550 |
| 6 | €660 |
| 7 | €770 |
| 8 | €880 |
Feel free to ask us about the option of joining open groups to share costs.
Free for children under 12.
Meals and drinks.
Accomodation.