Spain - Extremadura....... 21st to 27th April 2012

The region of Extremadura offers a wonderful array of plains birds and a variety of evocative landscapes: open, rolling steppes, the managed parkland of holm oak (dehesa), and the rugged mountain ranges which are so attractive to raptors. Steppe birds will feature prominently, with Great & Little Bustards high on the list of birds to be searched for. Migrant breeding birds such as Short-toes Eagle, Alpine Swift, European Roller, European Bee-eater and Woodchat Shrike should have arrived.

Day 1: Arrive at Madrid Airport to be met by Ray Tipper and drive to Parque Natural de Monfragüe where, if time permits, a brief visit will be made to Peñafalcón, an impressive rock pinnacle famous for its Eurasian Griffon Vultures. Overnight - Torrejón el Rubio

Days 2-6: Over the next few days we shall explore the Parque Natural de Monfragüe and surrounding areas. The park is renowned for its raptors, especially its vultures with resident Eurasian Griffon & Eurasian Black, Egyptian Vulture, Spanish Imperial & Bonelli’s Eagles are all present in Spring. Calandra Lark, Eurasian Crag Martin, Sardinian Warbler, Southern Grey Shrike, Azure-winged Magpie, Spanish Sparrow and Rock Bunting are just some of the resident passerines and Rock Sparrows are always possible, if difficult to find. Black-shouldered Kite is a speciality we shall search for, along with Black-bellied & Pin-tailed Sandgrouse.
Overnights - Torrejón el Rubio

Day 7: After a mornings bird watching we will return to Madrid to catch our return flight to the UK.

Tour ref: AA1213

Cost: £1,375
Deposit: £250
Single Room Supplement: £90

Leader: Ray Tipper

Max Group: 14 + 2 Leaders

Includes: Economy class scheduled return flights (UK-Madrid-UK), accommodation based on twin occupancy, meals, transport in Spain & services of leaders.

Excludes: Travel insurance, drinks & items of a personal nature.