Bird migration in lockdown from Albufera de Valencia
Last days of April and first of May are always exciting for enjoying bird migration through out the coastline of Valencia, Spain.
I am lucky enough to be lockdown in Albufera de Valencia, an important wetland beside the Mediterranean Sea and south of Valencia City.
The Devesa Forest, the Mediterranean Sea and a small brackish lake
My apartment block is surrounded by a Mediterranean Forest, a large fresh water lake (Albufera), a small brackish lagoon, marshes, rice paddies and the Mediterranean Sea, it could be said I am living surrounded by a huge range of different habitats home of a wide diversity of bird species and wildlife. I could say Albufera of Valencia is one of the most important birding hotspots of Spain.
Since lockdown begun, I was looking for one of those days… when strong winds from west blow, affecting the inner bird flyway to move east along the coast line.
Those type of days are perfect for spending hours and hours birding from the terrace.
At least those days have arrived!!
It’s impressive seeing such a good numbers of raptors trying to achieve their nesting grounds!
Some of the most interesting species I have enjoyed include…
Black Kite, Honey Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Hobby, Short-toed Eagle, Kestrel, Osprey, Booted Eagle, Peregrine Falcon and even a very late Red Kite.
Passerines migration it was also spectacular: thousands of Bee-eaters and Common Swift, Yellow Wagtail, Alpine Swift, Sand Martin, House Martin, Barn Swallow and Red-rumped Swallow, Collared Pratincole, Gull-billed Tern and more!!
Written by Yanina Maggiotto
Bird Watching Guide at Visit Natura