Travel and leisure
Interests
Birdwatching in Andalusia: flock to the sun
Thanks to its prime location midway on the migration route from northern Europe to southern Africa, the provinces of southern Spain have become a mecca for bird lovers
Hundreds of wintering species touch down in and around Andalusia during the springtime, while waterfowl, birds of prey and myriad other species can be seen year round.
Doñana National Park in the south of the region is a prime spot for ornithologists as well as walkers and is one of Europe's most important wetland reserves.
Officially protected since 1969, the vast delta is created by the Guadalquivir River and drains in the spring to leave sandbanks and islands – the perfect breeding ground for geese, flamingos and Spanish imperial eagles. In total the park spans more than 500 square miles.
Another important site for wildlife in the region is Los Enebrales, 400 acres of sand dunes, beach and woods of subtley scented juniper and pine.
As well as azure-winged magpies, nightjars and goldfinches, the woods are home to lots of small mammals and reptiles, and well-signed footpaths meandering through the nature park enable visitors to get a glimpse of them in their natural setting.
The other significant nature reserve in Andalusia is Marismas del Odiel, a large estuary where the Odiel and Tinto rivers make their way out to the Mediterranean.
Twenty square miles of marshland provide the ideal habitat for spoonbills, herons, flamingos, cormorants and many other species, and thanks to the walkways which lace the reserve it's possible to see many of these birds among the sun-warmed lagoons.
Of course there's much more to southern Spain than birds. Emerald-green fairways entice golfers to pick up their clubs for a game in the sun; myriad water sports are on offer along the sand-fringed coast; traditional wine bodegas and village tavernas make a delightful diversion from the livelier bars of the costas; and a host of historic cities such as Seville and Jerez provide plenty for culture-vultures too.
The bustling resort of Punta Umbria is within easy reach of all these attractions. The seaside town is a popular choice with sun-worshippers from Seville and its bars and restaurants are the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring the landscapes and wildlife of this beautiful part of Spain.
A birdwatcher's guide to Andalusia
Head for the hills to see raptors circling in the sky – the black vulture, Spanish imperial eagle, buzzards, kestrels and kites are among those you might be privileged to spot.
To the west of the province you can see white storks in abundance, and the birds' huge nests can be seen during the spring and summer months.
Wild ducks and flamingos are among the vast number of waterfowl to be spotted in the wetlands.
Woodlands also provide an important habitat for birds such as the golden oriole, the striking hoopoe as well as bee-eaters, woodpeckers and owls.
