Birdlife of Spain

Spain is a top destination for birdwatchers, hosting over 600 bird species. Iconic species include the Spanish imperial eagle, Eurasian griffon vulture, and common crane. Other notable birds include flamingos, hoopoes, and bee-eaters. Spain’s varied landscapes—mountains, forests, wetlands, and coasts—support diverse habitats. The country lies on key migratory routes between Africa and Europe, attracting birdwatchers during migration season. Spain’s birdlife reflects its rich natural heritage and offers a thrilling experience for bird enthusiasts.

Black Vultures in Spain. Rewilding Spain, Terra Naturalis and GREFA’s Conservation Odyssey

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Black Vulture - aegypius monachus - Birds and Birdwatching in Spain

In the heart of the Iberian Highlands, the resurgence of black vultures in Spain unfolds through dedicated conservation efforts. In Alto Tajo Nature Park and the Sierra de la Demanda, new nests signify a strategic push to reintroduce these majestic raptors. With support from the Regional Government of Castilla-La Mancha, Rewilding Spain, Terra Naturalis, and GREFA, the black vulture’s return becomes a compelling narrative of successful collaboration.

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Griffon Vulture M68: Crossed the Strait, Rescued at Sea, and Returns to Spain

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griffon-vulture

At just one year old, a griffon vulture named “M68” has embarked on an incredible journey filled with perilous twists and turns, ultimately leading it back to its homeland in Spain. This remarkable bird’s odyssey includes being plucked from the high seas by Moroccan fishermen, a pit stop at the Jbel Moussa vulture recovery center, … Read more

Controversy Surrounding the Release of white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) in Asturias

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Reintroduction to Spain of the extinct white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)

Controversy has ignited (yet again) over the reintroduction of white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) in the Asturias region, with conflicting views on their impact. Concerns have been raised by ecologists about the potential threat these “superpredator” eagles pose to local wildlife. A recent incident involving an encounter between a bearded vulture and a released “pigargo”, shared … Read more

Cinereous Vulture Reintroduction Program Takes Flight in Spain’s Iberian Highlands

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Black Vulture - aegypius monachus - Birds and Birdwatching in Spain

In an ambitious effort to restore the majestic Cinereous vulture (Aegypius monachus) to its historic home, a collaborative reintroduction project has been launched in Spain’s Iberian Highlands. Once a common sight, this magnificent scavenger bird faced decline and extinction in the region due to shrinking forest habitats a century ago.

Organised by the Castilla-La Mancha regional government and Alto Tajo Nature Park. The initiative is a joint endeavor between Terra Naturalis association and Rewilding Spain. The project involves the reintroduction of the Cinereous vulture with seven individuals recently released after a meticulous seven-month acclimatization period in an aviary. These birds, equipped with GPS transmitters, are now becoming acquainted with their new environment.

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