Birds and wildlife in 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 south-western Algarve you will find the Sagres Peninsular, a coastal area abundant in seabirds and other coastal birds. Located just next to Sagres Point is Cabo de So Vicente (or Cape of St. Vincent) where most birds-watchers congregate for hopeful sightings of birds such as the Sooty Shearwater, Common Scoter, Kittiwake and the Mediterranean and Little Gulls, all of which are most regularly spotted during spring and more preferably, autumn.
Also around this peninsular and cape throughout the migratory autumn period, bird-watchers can spot impressive birds of prey including Griffin Vultures, Booted Eagles and Sparrowhawks and many others. But other important places for bird-lovers is the 'Ria Formosa Natural Park' on the south coastal, the wetland and woodland areas 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' to the east bordering Spain.
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 period between spring and autumn provide the best months for watching the wildlife, offering sightings of spring babies, migratory birds and hunting animals. Yes the Algarve is a great place for relaxing on its many beaches, but there's so much interesting wildlife to explore that a break-away from the resorts is a must at least once.
In south-western Algarve you will find the Sagres Peninsular, a coastal area abundant in seabirds and other coastal birds. Located just next to Sagres Point is Cabo de So Vicente (or Cape of St. Vincent) where most birds-watchers congregate for hopeful sightings of birds such as the Sooty Shearwater, Common Scoter, Kittiwake and the Mediterranean and Little Gulls, all of which are most regularly spotted during spring and more preferably, autumn.
Also around this peninsular and cape throughout the migratory autumn period, bird-watchers can spot impressive birds of prey including Griffin Vultures, Booted Eagles and Sparrowhawks and many others. But other important places for bird-lovers is the 'Ria Formosa Natural Park' on the south coastal, the wetland and woodland areas 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' to the east bordering Spain.
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 period between spring and autumn provide the best months for watching the wildlife, offering sightings of spring babies, migratory birds and hunting animals. Yes the Algarve is a great place for relaxing on its many beaches, but there's so much interesting wildlife to explore that a break-away from the resorts is a must at least once.
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