Birds of Spain: Second Edition (Helm Wildlife Guides) [2 ed.] 1399405012, 9781399405010

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JAMES LOWEN & CARLOS BOCOS

BIRDS OF

SPAIN A PHOTOGRAPHIC GUIDE SECOND EDITION

HELM Bloomsbury Publishing Plc 50 Bedford Square, London, WC1B 3DP, UK 29 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, Ireland BLOOMSBURY, HELM and the Helm logo are trademarks of Bloomsbury Publishing Plc This edition published 2024 This electronic edition published in 2023 by Bloomsbury Publishing Plc Text © James Lowen 2024 Photographs © Carlos Bocos 2024, bar images listed on page 219 James Lowen and Carlos Bocos have asserted their rights under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act, 1988, to be identified as Authors of this work. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from the publishers. Bloomsbury Publishing Plc does not have any control over, or responsibility for, any third-party websites referred to or in this book. All internet addresses given in this book were correct at the time of going to press. The author and publisher regret any inconvenience caused if addresses have changed or sites have ceased to exist, but can accept no responsibility for any such changes. A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library. Library of Congress Cataloguing-in-Publication data has been applied for. ISBN: PB: 978-1-399-40501-0; ePub: 978-1-399-40503-4; ePDF: 978-1-399-40502-7

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CONTENTS Introduction4 Natural Spain

5

Birds and Bird Conservation in Spain

6

Good Birdwatching Sites in the Region

8

How to Use This Book

21

Species Accounts

22

Further Reading and Resources

219

Acknowledgements219 Photo Credits

219

List of Species Names

220

Index222

4

Introduction

INTRODUCTION Millions of British tourists visit Spain every year – more than any other country, in fact, and not far off the combined total of visitors to France and Germany. While the majority may prioritise their time on sun-drenched beaches, an ever-increasing proportion is exploring Spain’s wilder side – especially the birdlife of its remarkably varied countryside. And for good reason. Spain is the second-largest country to lie wholly within Europe, so is much bigger than many visitors might appreciate. It boasts a hugely diverse landscape that contains many spectacular and important habitats for wildlife. It has snow-capped mountains that stretch more than 3km into the sky, where vultures soar around lofty peaks, and swathes of traditionally managed dehesa wooded pasture, beneath which Common Cranes gulp down acorns each winter. Despite the best (i.e. typically deleterious) efforts of agricultural intensification, extensive areas remain shrouded in semi-natural grasslands – the steppe-like home of bustards and sandgrouse. Not all agriculture is bad, of course: the expansion of rice cultivation has created new wetlands that sometimes harbour large numbers of wintering and migrant waterbirds. Then there are rocky deserts, a vast central plateau, rich and verdant wetland deltas, ancient oak forests, both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines, and the insular havens of the Balearics. And if that were not enough, Spain lies at the interface between Europe and Africa, funnelling avian migrants between the two continents. It is truly a land of avian plenty. Moreover, Spain’s average human population density of 92 people per km2 places the country firmly in the more sparsely populated half of the European league table. The UK, by comparison, is roughly three times more densely populated. Furthermore, 80 per cent of Spaniards live in urban areas – which leaves vast areas of uninhabited countryside to explore. And wherever you explore in Spain, you should find birds – which is where this book comes in. Drawing on a rich font of digital photography, this guide illustrates and describes 301 bird species that are most likely to be encountered on a visit to Spain, including the Balearic Islands (but excluding the far-flung archipelago of the Canary Islands).

The Iberian Peninsula – comprising Spain and Portugal – is isolated from the rest of Europe by the great mountain range of the Pyrenees. The remainder of the landmass is fringed either by the Mediterranean Basin or by the Atlantic Ocean. The coast is important in Spain; only five European countries have a seaboard longer than its 5,000 or so kilometres. Nor should Spain’s proximity to Africa be underestimated: at its closest point, it is nearer to Morocco than England is to France. Where not overlain with concrete, Spain’s Mediterranean coast holds impressive wetlands, jagged cliffs and vast sandy strands. The Atlantic coast tends to be rockier, but is interspersed with estuaries and cosy coves. Much of inland Spain comprises a vast upland plateau known as the Meseta. One-sixth of Spain lies above 1,000m and, across Europe, only Switzerland has a higher average land height. The Meseta is split by the Sistema Central, a mountain range that peaks just shy of 2,600m. Further north, the Cordillera Cantábrica attains roughly the same altitude in the Picos de Europa. The 400km-long Pyrenees tower above them all, however, reaching 3,400m. The zone above the treeline teems with specialised wildlife, from arctic–alpine plants to hardy butterflies, evolutionarily adapted mountaineering mammals, reptiles and amphibians, and exciting birds such as Bearded Vulture, Wallcreeper and Alpine Accentor. As the Meseta tilts towards the south-west, four main rivers (the Duero, Guadalquivir, Guadiana and Tajo) drain into the Atlantic, leaving only the Ebro to exit at the Mediterranean. The Meseta is dotted with rocky gorges and standing waterbodies (particularly reservoirs), which serve as oases for birds – especially ducks – in an otherwise largely arid, agricultural domain. This is the home of Spain’s dwindling ‘pseudo-steppes’, semi-natural grasslands where Eurasian Stone-curlews rub shoulders with bustards, while various species of lark sing overhead in skies through which sandgrouse career. Among Spain’s natural wetlands are the famous river deltas of the Ebro and Guadalquivir (the latter better known as the Coto Doñana). Reedbeds and marshes nudge lagoons and riverine forests, creating a diversity of landscape packed with herons, rallids and warblers. Spain offers wooded habitats, too. Cantabrian slopes are cloaked in Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea), Downy Birch (Betula pubescens) and Beech (Fagus sylvatica). The Pyrenees are renowned for ancient forests of pines (Pinus spp.) and European Silver Fir (Abies alba). Where these upland woodlands have been cleared for agriculture, grassland has developed – notably hay meadows, in which butterflies and orchids thrive. Further south lies the dehesa, the wooded pasture dominated by Cork Oak (Quercus suber) and Holm Oak (Q. ilex). This region is of huge significance for wildlife, with the oaks’ umbrella-shaped canopy providing nesting sites for Cinereous Vulture, Spanish Imperial Eagle, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Iberian Magpie and many more species of bird. Finally, on particularly dry or unstable ground that is no longer suitable for agriculture, secondary scrub communities (usually known as maquis or garrigue) have developed. Warblers, shrikes and open-country specialists such as Hoopoe thrive here.

Natural Spain

NATURAL SPAIN

5

6

Birds and bird conservation in Spain

BIRDS AND BIRD CONSERVATION IN SPAIN Of more than 550 bird species recorded in Spain, roughly 350 occur regularly in mainland Spain and the Balearics, and more than 240 routinely breed. Many will be familiar to visitors coming from the British Isles. Excitingly, however, others that are at best rare in the UK and Ireland transpire to be common and widespread in Spain, including Black Redstart, Cirl Bunting and European Serin. You will soon notice other differences, too. Although climate change is pushing some of these species north into the UK, long-legged waterbirds such as egrets, herons and spoonbills are generally more frequently encountered in Spain. Bustards and sandgrouse roam the rolling, grassy plains, and there is a wider variety of woodpeckers in Spanish forests. In addition, there is a much broader diversity of birds of prey (including several eagles and vultures), and many more warblers and larks. Wildfowl and waders may feel pretty familiar, but less familiar are colourful, exotic-looking creatures such as Hoopoe, European Roller, European Bee-eater and Great Spotted Cuckoo. Gulls include unexpected interlopers, notably Audouin’s and Slender-billed. High-altitude zones offer special birds – including such evocatively named species as Alpine Chough and White-winged Snowfinch. According to current classifications by BirdLife International and the International Union for Conservation of Nature, 23 species occurring in Spain (here including the Canary Islands) are considered globally threatened (which means they face a very real chance of extinction), with 22 others (including Cinereous Vulture, Little Bustard and Woodchat Shrike) on the cusp of being so. Roughly half of these globally threatened species breed in Spain, which is consequently of particular importance for them. Balearic Shearwater breeds nowhere else in the world other than the Balearics. Should you wish to see globally threatened birds such as White-headed Duck, Spanish Imperial Eagle or Iberian Grey Shrike in Europe, your best bet is to visit Spain – so we indicate the status of such birds in the species accounts. Make no mistake, Spain is special. Despite such importance for birds, Spain has not always garnered positive press in conservation circles. However, things do seem to be changing. Interest in and awareness of environmental issues has widened in the country. This development has been reflected in the expansion of protected areas (and associated investment in their infrastructure) as well as the ever-growing membership of conservation organisations. Foremost among these is the BirdLife International partner in Spain, Sociedad Española de Ornitología (SEO/BirdLife; in English, the Spanish Ornithological Society). Founded in 1954, SEO/BirdLife works on the conservation of birds and their habitats, conducting scientific studies, disseminating knowledge and developing environmental initiatives. It engages in conserving particularly threatened bird species, identifies Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs), manages internationally important locations, and advises the management boards of other reserves. Many of the IBAs benefit from protection under European Union biodiversity

MAP OF THE REGION A Coruña

Avilés

Ferrol

Santiago de Pontevedra Compostela Vigo

Gijón

Santander

Ourense

Ponferrada

Bay of Biscay Bilbao

Oviedo

Lugo

Logroño

León

Zamora

Soria

Lleida

Ávila

Guadalajara Alcalá de Henares Getafe Cuenca Aranjuez

Toledo

Girona Manresa Vic Terrassa Mataró

Barcelona

Reus

L’Hospitalet Tarragona

Segovia

MADRID

Cáceres

Figueres Huesca

Zaragoza

Valladolid

Salamanca

PORTUGAL

Pamplona

Burgos Palencia

Atlantic Ocean

FRANCE

San Sebastián

Vitoria

Teruel

Mallorca Castellón de la Plana Sagunt

Valencia

Tomelloso Albacete Ciudad Real Mérida Badajoz Valdepeñas Alcoy Puertollano Elda Elche Alicante Linares Orihuela Murcia Córdoba Úbeda Jaén Lorca Écija Cartagena Huelva Seville Granada Utrera Antequera Ronda Jerez de la Frontera Almería Málaga Cádiz La Línea Algeciras Gibraltar (UK) A l b o r a n S e a Ceuta (Spain)

Ibiza

Minorca

Palma de Mallorca

Ibiza

Formentera

Mediterranean Sea

ALGERIA

7

Birds and bird conservation in Spain

legislation. Several have complementary national-level designations, of which the four most prominent are, in descending order of protection level: Parque Nacional (National Park), Parque Natural (Natural Park), Paraje Natural (Natural Locality) and Reserva Natural (Nature Reserve). Protected areas do not help birds occurring outwith their boundaries, of course. And Spain’s natural environment, like every other country worldwide, suffers from a raft of pressures. Change in land use is a key threat, with examples being the conversion of pseudo-steppes to agriculture or forestry. Urban expansion, from tourist villas to new roads, reduces the available land. The expansion of ski facilities imperils birds inhabiting montane regions, and windfarms (while generating carbon-free electricity) have not always been sited in ideal locations and can cause direct avian mortality. Climate change – or the climate crisis, as we should call it now – will assuredly have long-term impacts, although the precise details are a work in progress. Nevertheless, the sight of forest fires and desiccating wetlands (a problem exacerbated by increased human demand for water) are already commonplace, and will surely only become more so. As people increasingly visit the countryside for recreation, disturbance to birdlife increases: think quad bikes and off-lead dogs for a start. You can do your bit to rectify this, of course. If you travel to Spain by air, why not offset your carbon emissions? You might demonstrate your support for SEO/BirdLife endeavours by becoming a member of that organisation, in exchange receiving its birdwatching magazine Aves y Naturaleza. You could even subscribe to the scientific journal Ardeola, published by SEO/BirdLife but written almost entirely in English. You could choose to stay at accommodation that abides by robust sustainability principles. Above all, you could ensure that local hoteliers, restauranteurs and other service-providers are aware that the reason you are visiting is to enjoy Spain’s thrilling birdlife in its natural setting. The stronger the financial incentive to safeguard wildlife, the greater the chance that future generations can enjoy birdwatching in Spain in the future every bit as much as we do now.

GOOD BIRDWATCHING SITES IN THE REGION

8

Good birdwatching sites in the region

You can see birds anywhere in Spain, and you don’t need to make any special trips to enjoy watching attractive species. But one thing is clear: you will not see precisely the same suite of species wherever you travel. The assemblage of birds at any given location depends on habitat, altitude and season. Spring (March–May) is optimum for seeing the widest range of species, with migrant breeders arriving while winterint species are still in situ. The mountains are best left for summer (June–August), when they are easily accessible and suffer less than lowlands from drought or disturbance. Autumn (September–November) can be exciting, with non-breeding visitors arriving and migration concentrated along coastlines. Winter (December–February) is particularly good in the lowlands, especially wetlands, which may host congregations of waterbirds, Common Cranes and raptors. The sections below suggest some good birdwatching sites across the country (mainly mainland Spain, but also briefly covering the Balearic Islands), focusing on the most interesting birds. Regions are listed roughly north to south, with sites listed alphabetically within each. Andalucía is so rich in birding locations that the province is also specified for each site. The suggestions are intended to be illustrative, not exhaustive, and are no substitute for detailed insights (for further information, see Further Reading and Resources, p. 219).

GALICIA A Ínsua and Traba Lake Ensenada de A Ínsua is a sheltered estuary north of A Càrballa, while Laguna de Traba is a small, reed-fringed lagoon nudging the coast. Autumn is best, followed by winter. Regular birds include Eurasian Oystercatcher, Red Knot, Dunlin, Eurasian Curlew and Bar-tailed Godwit. Waterfowl include Eurasian Wigeon. Both sites are famous for attracting vagrants from North America, with a mouth-watering list ranging from Bufflehead and Pied-billed Grebe to Semipalmated Plover and Least Sandpiper.

Estaca de Bares Iberia’s northernmost point, a steep headland protruding into the Bay of Biscay,

Cape Bares is famous for watching passing seabirds. August to November are best, following strong winds from the northwest quadrant. Using a telescope, watch from the bird observatory balcony, east of the lighthouse. Standard species include shearwaters (Cory’s, Great, Balearic, Sooty, Manx), skuas (including Pomarine), gulls (including Little Gull and Black-legged Kittiwake), terns, Common Scoter and Grey Phalarope. A notch up in excitement levels are Sabine’s Gull and Long-tailed Skua, while real prizes include Pterodroma petrels and Wilson’s Storm-petrel.

Galician Islands A national park protects several small islands lying less than 8km offshore. Boat trips run most regularly in spring and

O Grove Peninsula The sheltered inlet (ensenada) east of the small peninsula of O Grove harbours intertidal mud and saltmarsh, which attracts nationally important numbers of shorebirds such as Dunlin, Grey Plover, Eurasian Oystercatcher and Ruddy Turnstone. Waterfowl are prominent in winter, alongside Great Northern Diver, grebes and Razorbill. Autumn passage can prove rewarding. Other estuaries along the west coast, including Río Miño and Ría de Ortigueira, are worth visiting for similar species.

ASTURIAS Eo Estuary This estuary running north into the Mar Cantábrico is one of northern Spain’s most important coastal wetlands. A few thousand duck may be present in autumn and winter, notably Northern Pintail and Eurasian Wigeon. Passage and wintering waders include Northern Lapwing, European Golden Plover, Common Redshank and Eurasian Curlew. During migration periods, there is the chance of scarcer species. Meadows near Tapia hold Richard’s Pipit in winter.

Picos de Europa One of Spain’s foremost wildlifewatching locations, this 650-km2

national park straddles the border with Castilla y León. Dominated by the rugged Cordillera Cantábrica, varied habitats include alpine pastures, hay meadows, deep gorges, steep cliff faces and deciduous forests. Extensive road and trail networks, plus the Fuente De cable car, provide easy access above 2,000m. This makes the area perfect for seeking high-altitude specialities such as Wallcreeper, White-winged Snowfinch and Alpine Accentor. Common Rock Thrush, Water Pipit and both species of chough are widespread. Citril Finch may be encountered at high-level passes. Griffon Vultures and various eagles soar overhead, and Bearded Vulture has been reintroduced. Black and Middle Spotted Woodpeckers frequent woodlands, with Western Bonelli’s Warbler and Redbacked Shrike often nearby.

Somiedo Breeding raptors in this national park include Egyptian Vulture, Griffon Vulture, Golden Eagle and Short-toed Snake Eagle. Black Woodpecker and Middle Spotted Woodpecker inhabit forests. Grey Partridge occurs at high altitude, with Water Pipit, Wallcreeper and White-winged Snowfinch higher still. It is best to visit in late spring and summer; Puerto de Somiedo pass (good for Ortolan Bunting and Ring Ouzel) may be blocked by snow in winter.

CANTABRIA Santoña This shallow, sheltered inlet serves as northern Spain’s most important coastal wetland. Tidal mudflats, saltmarsh and sand bars provide wintering habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds. Eurasian Wigeon and Dunlin predominate. In winter, look for Brent Goose, all three

9

Good birdwatching sites in the region

summer. Islas Cíes and Ons hold Spain’s largest colonies of European Shag, and other breeding birds include European Storm-petrel, Cory’s Shearwater and Yellow-legged Gull. Passage seabirds include Balearic and Manx Shearwaters, and Northern Gannet. Breeding landbirds include Peregrine, Alpine Swift, Redbilled Chough, Sardinian Warbler and Dartford Warbler.

10

Good birdwatching sites in the region

Curavacas, Cantabrian Range.

divers, and Red-necked and Slavonian Grebes. A wide variety of waders, including Pied Avocet and Purple Sandpiper, migrate through the area. A noteworthy feature of autumn is a large congregation of Eurasian Spoonbill. Resident birds include Western Marsh Harrier, Northern Goshawk, Sardinian Warbler, Dartford Warbler, European Serin and Cirl Bunting.

CASTILLA Y LEÓN Gredos In the south of Castilla y León, the Sierra de Gredos forms part of the Sierra Central mountains. Alpine meadows are interspersed with montane lakes. Slopes are swathed in oaks and pines. Probably the best birding area is readily accessed from La Plataforma car park. Look for Ortolan Bunting, Rock Bunting, Water Pipit, Common Rock Thrush, Red-billed Chough, Alpine Accentor and Bluethroat. In pine forests, European Crested Tit, Red Crossbill and Citril Finch occur. Cinereous Vulture breeds in the Iruelas Valley. The Gredos’ southern slopes harbour species such as European Bee-eater, Woodchat Shrike and Iberian Grey Shrike.

gorges. Salida de Lineas is a good vantage point. Bonelli’s Eagle is prominent, and a superlative array of cliff-nesting birds includes Egyptian Vulture, Griffon Vulture, Golden Eagle, Black Stork, Eurasian Eagle-owl, Alpine Swift, Eurasian Crag Martin and Redbilled Chough. Spring and summer are best, also offering the chance of Rednecked and European Nightjars, Great Spotted Cuckoo and Spectacled Warbler.

Duratón Gorge A cliff-lined river gorge surrounded by open plain, this natural park stretches from Burgomillodo to Sepúlveda. Large colonies of Griffon Vulture breed, with small numbers of Egyptian Vulture and Eurasian Eagle-owl. Overhead raptors include Black Kite, Booted Eagle and Short-toed Snake Eagle. Cliff-loving birds include Red-billed Chough, Blue Rock Thrush, Common Rock Thrush, Black Wheatear, Rock Sparrow and Rock Bunting. A few Dupont’s Larks inhabit the plains (best seen on spring mornings).

River Duero South-west of Zamora and north-west of Salamanca, the River Duero and tributaries flow through spectacular

Mediterranean Forest, Cerrato.

Villafáfila

PAÍS VASCO Urdaibai Some 250 bird species are recorded annually in the varied habitats of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The rocky coast holds breeding European Shag, European Storm-petrel and Yellow-legged Gull, plus wintering Purple Sandpiper. Great Northern Diver and auks winter offshore, while autumn seawatching from two headlands may produce Northern Gannet, shearwaters, skuas and terns. Wildfowl and waders throng on an estuary and adjacent saltmarsh. Breeding birds include Little Bittern, Zitting Cisticola and Great Reed Warbler. Shorttoed Eagle, Eurasian Hobby, Red-rumped Swallow and Red-backed Shrike are sometimes seen. A visit at any season is likely to be worthwhile.

LA RIOJA Iregua, Leza and Jubera Three deep limestone gorges separated by deciduous woodland and scrubby habitats make for productive raptor-watching. The

area is well known for Griffon Vulture, but Golden Eagle and Eurasian Eagleowl also breed. The wooded areas are better for Short-toed Eagle and Booted Eagle. Smaller birds inhabiting the gorges include rock-associated species such as Eurasian Crag Martin, Common Rock Thrush, Blue Rock Thrush, Red-billed Chough and Rock Sparrow.

Sierra de la Demanda A scenic area offering decent birding for hikers. Alpine pastures host montane species such as Alpine Accentor, Water Pipit and Citril Finch. Woodland dominated by beech and oak harbours raptors such as European Honey Buzzard, Short-toed Snake Eagle and Booted Eagle. The area is good for the localised European Pied Flycatcher. Turza and Tobía Valleys provide prospects of Egyptian Vulture, Common Rock Thrush, Short-toed Treecreeper and Red-backed Shrike.

NAVARRA Bardenas Reales Various reserve designations protect parts of a large desert-like plateau scored by ravines, Unfortunately, the presence of a military base restricts access to major thoroughfares. Spring is best for opencountry birds such as Dupont’s Lark, Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Black-bellied Sandgrouse and Red-necked Nightjar. Cliff-nesters include Griffon Vulture, Eurasian Eagle-owl and Alpine Swift. In summer, a notable attraction is a roost of Egyptian Vultures at Caídas de la Negra.

Pico Gorramendi and Selva de Irati A large area with extensive forests separated by rocky gorges and topped by mountain peaks. Several localities are worth exploration, including Pico

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Good birdwatching sites in the region

Pseudo-steppes and large wetlands provide good, year-round birding. The stars are Spain’s largest Great Bustard population, with a supporting cast of Little Bustard, Eurasian Stone-curlew and Black-bellied Sandgrouse, plus Lesser Kestrel and Montagu’s Harrier in spring and summer. Steppe passerines include Calandra Lark, Greater Short-toed Lark and Tawny Pipit. During winter, floods hold tens of thousands of Greylag Geese. In winter, ducks include Mallard, Gadwall and Northern Shoveler, and raptors like Red Kite, Common Buzzard, Western Marsh Harrier and Hen Harrier.

12

Good birdwatching sites in the region

Gorramendi (mountains), Quinto Real and Selva de Irati (forests), and Collado de Ibañeta (migration watchpoint). All seven Spanish woodpeckers occur, the star being White-backed. Other woodland denizens include European Honey Buzzard, Northern Goshawk, Common Redstart and European Pied Flycatcher. Rocky areas are good for Bearded, Egyptian and Griffon Vultures, Golden Eagle and Alpine Chough. Highaltitude pastures hold Citril Finch and Water Pipit. Migration watchers may experience a huge passage of Common Wood Pigeon, plus storks, Black Kite, harriers and Common Cranes.

Infierno, Wallcreeper is now best looked for near Garbadito refuge.

Roncal Valley

Gallocanta Lake

Belchite Focus on two reserves in this important but fragmented pseudo-steppe: La Lomaza de Belchite and El Planerón. This is probably Spain’s best area for Dupont’s Lark (easiest in spring), with good numbers of Black-bellied Sandgrouse and Pin-tailed Sandgrouse. Other steppe birds include Eurasian Stone-curlew, Lesser Short-toed Lark, Calandra Lark, Western Black-eared Wheatear and, in summer, Greater Shorttoed Lark and Tawny Pipit. In autumn, passage flocks of Eurasian Dotterel occur.

At high altitude in the Pyrenees look for Bearded Vulture, Alpine Accentor, Wallcreeper and White-winged Snowfinch. Forests around the Belagua refuge host European Nightjar, Black and White-backed Woodpeckers, with an outside chance of Tengmalm’s Owl. Burgui Gorge has a vibrant colony of Griffon Vulture, plus Eurasian Eagleowl, Red-billed Chough and Blue Rock Thrush. Down-valley is good for Iberian Green Woodpecker, Eurasian Wryneck and Red-backed Shrike.

Spain’s largest natural lake covering 15km2 (with seasonal fluctuations) within a protected area totalling quadruple that. Tens of thousands of Common Cranes use the site on passage (notably November and late February), and many also winter. Wildfowl winter in large numbers. Breeding birds include Black-winged Stilt, Kentish Plover, Whiskered Tern and Gull-billed Tern. The surrounding pseudo-steppes hold Pin-tailed and Black-bellied Sandgrouse, plus Eurasian Stone-curlew.

ARAGÓN

Los Monegros

Anso and Hecho Valleys Spectacular Pyrenean valleys with cliffs, woodland and alpine pastures. A diverse raptor offering includes Bearded, Griffon and Egyptian Vultures, and Short-toed Snake Eagle. Gorges hold cliff-nesters including Eurasian Eagle-owl, Alpine Swift, Eurasian Crag Martin, Blue Rock Thrush, Rock Sparrow and Rock Bunting. Alpine and Red-billed Choughs are common. Once expected at Boca del

A mosaic of pseudo-steppe and agricultural land lying mainly north of the AP-2 motorway. Although similar to Belchite, Los Monegros also offers juniper and pine forest plus seasonal lagoons. Little Bustard is more regular than at Belchite, and Lesser Kestrel has become a prominent breeder. For Dupont’s Lark, try north of Osera de Ebro. In winter, lagoons south of Bujaraloz may hold wildfowl. Eurasian Dotterel passage peaks in September. Cliff faces may

produce Egyptian Vulture, Alpine Swift, Eurasian Crag Martin and Rock Sparrow.

Spain’s first national park, Ordesa’s 156 km2 covers grassy alpine pastures, fir and pine forests and rushing rivers. On mountaintops, look for Alpine Accentor, White-winged Snowfinch and Water Pipit. In summer, rocky areas hold Common Rock Thrush and Black Redstart. Clifffaces may produce Golden Eagle, Bearded Vulture, both choughs, Alpine Swift and Wallcreeper. Forest residents include Northern Goshawk, Black Woodpecker and European Crested Tit, with Citril Finch in more open areas.

CATALUÑA Aigüestortes This spectacular Pyrenean national park holds lakes, streams, forests, meadows and towering peaks. Raptors are excellent. Montane birds include Bearded Vulture, Golden Eagle, Rock Ptarmigan, Alpine Accentor, Wallcreeper, Alpine Chough, White-winged Snowfinch, Common Rock Thrush and Water Pipit. Forest species include Tengmalm’s Owl and Black Woodpecker, with Citril Finch nearby. Spring or early summer are best.

Aiguamolls de l’Empordà A coastal wetland with freshwater lagoons, marshes, reedbeds and seasonally flooded grassland. Access is from Castelló d’Empúries. Greater Flamingo, Great Bittern, Western Marsh Harrier, Purple Swamphen and Moustached Warbler are resident, with spring and summer also seeing Purple Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron, Little Bittern, Black-winged Stilt and Savi’s Warbler. During migration, look

Cadí–Moixeró This large, montane natural park possesses habitats ranging from rugged peaks and evergreen forests to alpine pastures and valley meadows. High-altitude specialities include Bearded Vulture, Alpine Accentor, Wallcreeper, Common Rock Thrush and Citril Finch. Forests hold Northern Goshawk, European Honey Buzzard, Tengmalm’s Owl and Black Woodpecker. Lower reaches are frequented by Eurasian Wryneck, European Bee-eater, Western Subalpine Warbler and Red-backed Shrike. Best visited in spring and summer, but the winter adventurer may encounter Whitewinged Snowfinch.

Ebro Delta Spain’s second-largest wetland spans more than 300km2, and its variety of watery habitats and coastal location explain its attraction to birds. Following autumn’s rice harvest, tens of thousands of ducks and Common Coot throng the paddies. Waders (mainly Dunlin and Little Stint) occur in great numbers during winter and on migration. Winter also sees many Slender-billed Gull and Mediterranean Gull, but Audouin’s Gull arrives only in spring. Whiskered and Gull-billed Terns breed. Little Bittern, Squacco Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron and Glossy Ibis are common. Greater Flamingo is resident. Breeding shorebirds include Collared Pratincole, Black-winged Stilt and Kentish Plover.

Lleida Although heavily fragmented, the pseudo-steppe east of Utxesa reservoir and south of Lleida offers opportunities

13

Good birdwatching sites in the region

Ordesa

for Garganey, Little Crake, Spotted Crake, Whiskered Tern, Red-footed Falcon and, increasingly, Black-winged Kite.

14

Good birdwatching sites in the region

to see Montagu’s Harrier, Little Bustard, Pin-tailed Sandgrouse and Eurasian Stone-curlew plus Calandra, Lesser Shorttoed and even Dupont’s Larks. Other open-country species include Great Spotted Cuckoo, Red-necked Nightjar, European Roller, Black Wheatear and Western Black-eared Wheatear. The reservoir may hold Purple Heron, Little Bittern and Great Reed Warbler in spring and summer.

El Hondo

Llobregat Delta

This coastal wetland lies north-west of Dénia. The main attraction is a substantial resident population of Moustached Warbler. Purple Swamphen and Red-crested Pochard occur yearround, and the lucky visitor may encounter Marbled Teal. Breeding birds include Little Bittern and Purple Heron, while winter wildfowl are complemented by Bluethroat and Eurasian Penduline Tit.

Conveniently located adjacent to Barcelona airport, this coastal wetland is shared between two reserves. Winter offers large numbers of Mediterranean Gull, with Ferruginous Duck on the wetlands, and Balearic and Yelkouan Shearwaters offshore. Breeding species include Little Bittern, Black-crowned Night Heron, Red-crested Pochard, Audouin’s Gull and Great Reed Warbler. Birding excels during spring and autumn migration, when crakes, waders, gulls and terns occur.

COMUNIDAD VALENCIANA Albufera de Valencia This coastal lagoon is complemented by marshes, reedbeds and rice fields – a combination rendering it a haven for birdlife. Large numbers of various herons and egrets breed, as does Red-crested Pochard and the occasional Marbled Teal. Purple Swamphen and Red-knobbed Coot have been introduced. Audouin’s, Slender-billed and Mediterranean Gulls breed. Glossy Ibis and Moustached Warbler are resident. Thousands of Blacktailed Godwits occur among passage waders. Wildfowl abound in winter, with Red-crested Pochard, Common Pochard, Gadwall and Northern Pintail.

This natural park harbours two large reservoirs, marshes and other wetlands. Waterbirds are impressive, including Marbled Teal (resident) and White-headed Duck (particularly in winter). Greater Spotted Eagle winters. In summer, enjoy breeding herons, egrets and Little Bittern, plus large colonies of Black-necked Grebe and Whiskered Tern.

Marjal de Pego-Oliva

MADRID La Pedriza Part of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, La Pedriza offers good birding-cumhiking close to Madrid. Griffon Vulture breeds. Cinereous Vulture, Spanish Imperial Eagle and Golden Eagle may appear overhead. European Crested Tit breeds in the pine forests. Iberian Magpie inhabits the scrub. In spring and summer, look also for Common Rock Thrush, Western Black-eared Wheatear and Redbilled Chough. Further west, birds include Alpine Accentor at high altitude, Citril Finch beside upland forests, and breeding Cinereous Vulture.

CASTILLA–LA MANCHA Navalcán Navalcán is a large reservoir surrounded by scrub and dehesa, best visited in

Oropesa Immediately south of Navalcán, between the A-5 at Oropesa and the CM-4101 running west from Calera y Chozas to El Puente del Arzobispo, is an interesting area of pseudo-steppe. Spring is best for Little Bustard, Great Bustard, Blackbellied Sandgrouse and Eurasian Stonecurlew. Lesser Kestrel nests in villages. In the dehesa, look for Booted Eagle, Great Spotted Cuckoo and Iberian Magpie.

Cabañeros A large national park with high-quality Mediterranean forest. Numerous breeding Cinereous Vultures are complemented by Spanish Imperial Eagle and Blackwinged Kite. Common Crane winters, large numbers feeding below evergreen oaks. Little Bustard and Eurasian Stonecurlew are resident in open areas. Look also for Woodchat Shrike, Iberian Magpie, Iberian Grey Shrike and Spanish Sparrow. Access to much of the park must be booked in advance but driving the CM-4017 between Horcajo de los Montes and Retuerta del Bullaque is one alternative.

La Mancha Húmeda A sprawling UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with more than 100 seasonally-flooded lagoons, of which the best are Laguna de la Veguilla (north-west of Alcázar de San Juan), two lagoons north-east of Villafranca los Caballeros, and Laguna

de Manjavacas, east of Pedro Muñoz. Across the area there is a large breeding population of Black-necked Grebe, plus White-headed Duck, Marbled Teal, Red-crested Pochard, Purple Swamphen, Collared Pratincole, Gull-billed Tern, Whiskered Tern, Moustached Warbler, Savi’s Warbler and Great Reed Warbler. Various ducks, Common Crane and Bluethroat occur in winter.

EXTREMADURA Allcollarín Reservoir This reservoir south-west of Guadalupe attracts large numbers of wintering ducks and grebes. In spring and summer, Gullbilled Tern and Collared Pratincole are highlights. Various waders have been recorded on passage. Several scarcities have been observed, and further coverage is likely to extend this list.

Badajoz Urban birding at the permanently flooded Río Guadiana either side of Badajoz city centre can be rewarding. Footpaths follow the river banks; bridges enable circular walks. Numerous breeding long-legged waterbirds include Cattle Egret, Squacco Heron, Blackcrowned Night Heron, Glossy Ibis and Eurasian Spoonbill. Purple Swamphen is resident. Alpine Swift breeds on bridges. Black-winged Stilt and Osprey migrate through.

Cáceres and Trujillo plains Pseudo-steppes either side of the A-58/N-521 between Cáceres and Trujillo offer excellent birding. One good route is to take the CC-99 north-east, then a minor road north past La Pulogsa bird hide, then west to reach the EX-390. This area is good for Great (and possibly

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Good birdwatching sites in the region

winter: the north-western arm is typically productive. Common Crane congregates in numbers. Cinereous and Griffon Vultures are present, as are Spanish Imperial Eagle and Black-winged Kite. The dehesa holds Iberian Magpie and, in spring and summer, Western Orphean Warbler and Western Subalpine Warbler.

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Good birdwatching sites in the region

Little) Bustard, both sandgrouse and Eurasian Stone-curlew. Cinereous Vulture and Spanish Imperial Eagle may be seen overhead. Calandra Larks sing loudly. Lesser Kestrel and White Stork nest in Cáceres and Trujillo. Other good plains lie west of Cáceres.

La Serena The plains offer both bustards, both sandgrouse, Eurasian Stone-curlew, Montagu’s Harrier, European Roller, various larks and Spanish Sparrow. Spring is generally best. Birds move in response to changing land use, but good areas include the road between Cabeza del Buey and Embalse del Zújar. Immediately south, Sierra de Tiros is good for Alpine Swift, Eurasian Crag Martin and Redrumped Swallow; White-rumped Swift is sometimes seen. Black Stork and Bonelli’s Eagle may sail overhead.

Los Canchales A reservoir north-west of Mérida with many wintering waterfowl and roosting Common Crane. Collared Pratincole, Gull-billed Tern, Whiskered Tern and Black-winged Stilt breed. In autumn, wader passage can be good, and White Stork and Eurasian Spoonbill occur. Mérida itself is worth visiting; from the Roman bridge over the Río Guadiana, look for Black-crowned Night Heron, Little Bittern, Glossy Ibis and Alpine Swift.

Madrigalejo In the Guadiana Valley, extensive rice fields around Madrigalejo village attract many wintering Common Crane, wildfowl and Black-tailed Godwit. Western Marsh Harrier and Hen Harrier are common, while passerines such as Bluethroat, Spanish Sparrow, Common

Waxbill and Red Avadavat frequent weedy areas and drainage channels.

Monfragüe A well-known national park covered with scrubby Mediterranean woodland and incised by gorges that offers excellent birding. Numerous Cinereous Vultures are a highlight, as are large colonies of Griffon Vulture. Spanish Imperial Eagle, Egyptian Vulture and Black Stork breed. Eurasian Eagle-owl can be heard at dusk. White-rumped Swift is a summer highlight. Alpine Swift, Eurasian Crag Martin, Iberian Magpie and Rock Bunting are easily seen. Good areas include Monfragüe castle, El Salto del Gitano and Tajadilla, Higuerilla and Portillo del Tietar miradors.

MURCIA Mar Menor A large coastal lagoon with saltpans to its north, at San Pedro de Pinatar. The combination often offers rewarding birdwatching. Resident species include Audouin’s and Slender-billed Gulls, plus Calandra and Lesser Short-toed Larks. In summer, terns include Gull-billed, and Pallid Swift breeds. Great Crested and Black-necked Grebes feature in winter, while waders and terns may be encountered on passage.

ANDALUCÍA Brazo del Este (Sevilla) Rice fields and other wetlands on the east bank of the Ríos Guadaira and Guadalquivir provide excellent birding similar to the busier Coto Doñana, immediately to the west. On a spring visit, expect Squacco Heron, Blackcrowned Night Heron, Purple Heron,

Cabo de Gata (Almería) A diverse area with saltpans, brackish lagoons, beaches, rocky hills, pseudosteppes and a headland useful for seawatching. The saltpans hold Greater Flamingo, Black-winged Stilt, Audouin’s Gull and sometimes Slender-billed Gull, plus passage waders and terns. Trumpeter Finch stars in the hills, where there is a chance of Dupont’s Lark. The latter also occurs in the steppe-like habitat of Las Amoladeras, as do small numbers of Little Bustard, Black-bellied Sandgrouse and Lesser Short-toed Lark, plus Trumpeter Finch in winter.

unproductive periods. Huge numbers of Greylag Geese, ducks and Black-tailed Godwit winter. Thousands of Glossy Ibis breed, along with large numbers of herons, egrets and Eurasian Spoonbill. Raptors such as Black Kite and Shorttoed Eagle are common. Pinewoods hold Red-necked Nightjar, Western Olivaceous Warbler and Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin. Access to core areas is restricted to pre-booked tours, but good, publicly accessible areas include El Rocío, and El Acebuche and La Rocina information centres.

Fuente de Piedra (Málaga) A large saline lagoon just south-west of Fuente de Piedra village has a large breeding colony of Greater Flamingo – provided the water is deep enough. Intriguingly, Lesser Flamingo has also nested. Given sufficient water, other breeders include Gull-billed Tern, Whiteheaded Duck and Red-crested Pochard.

Córdoba city (Córdoba)

Guadalhorce Estuary (Málaga)

City-break tourists could do worse than birdwatch alongside the Río Guadalquivir near San Rafael bridge. Riparian woodland and river islands support a decent variety of birds. Spring and early summer are best for views of Black-crowned Night Heron, Glossy Ibis and Purple Heron. Flocks of hirundines include Red-rumped Swallow. In winter, White Wagtail, Bluethroat and Eurasian Penduline Tit occur. Waders and terns are possible on passage.

The Guadalhorce Delta offers convenient birding for those reaching or leaving Spain via the adjacent Málaga airport. Little Bittern, Black-winged Stilt and Great Reed Warbler breed. Audouin’s Gull, Mediterranean Gull and sometimes Slender-billed Gull frequent the coast. Winter brings Greater Flamingo, Whiteheaded Duck, Booted Eagle, Great Crested Grebe and Black-necked Grebe.

Coto Doñana (Huelva/Sevilla) This huge World Heritage Site, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and national park is among Europe’s most famous wetlands. Birding can be good year-round, although spring and summer droughts result in

Guadalquivir Estuary (Cádiz) At the mouth of the Guadalquivir Estuary, Chipiona harbour holds breeding Little Swift. Upriver, Bonanza saltpans host a variety of waders during migration periods, while Gull-billed Tern breeds, and both Slender-billed Gull and Greater Flamingo are usually present. The small lake at Tarelo

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Good birdwatching sites in the region

Glossy Ibis, Eurasian Spoonbill, Purple Swamphen, Collared Pratincole and Savi’s Warbler. Passage waders may be present in spring and autumn. The area holds the non-native, naturalised Yellowcrowned Bishop and Black-headed Weaver plus the more widespread Common Waxbill and Red Avadavat.

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Good birdwatching sites in the region

has Purple Swamphen and sometimes White-headed Duck. Both of these species, plus Red-knobbed Coot, also occur at nearby Camino Colorado lakes.

Lantejuela (Sevilla) North and east of Lantejuela village are seasonal lagoons of which Laguna del Gobierno is most likely to hold water year-round. This is a good site for the resident White-headed Duck, Purple Swamphen and Black-winged Kite, while Black-necked Grebe also breeds. In winter, Greater Flamingo and various wildfowl may occur.

Cañada de Las Norias (Almería) Immediately north of Las Norias de Daza are two lakes that excel for White-headed Duck, which often show at close range. Black-necked Grebe also occurs, and you may see Marbled Teal, Red-crested Pochard and Little Bittern. A heronry includes breeding Squacco Heron.

Medina Lake (Cádiz) South-east of Jerez, ‘Laguna de Medina’ was a former haunt of White-headed Duck which, alongside other wildfowl, has fortunately returned after invasive fish were removed. Check the large flocks of Common Coot for Red-knobbed Coot. Purple Swamphen is resident, and Great Reed Warbler sings in summer. During migration periods, passage waders may frequent the lake’s muddy fringes.

Mirador de las Águilas (Málaga) Thirty minutes’ drive west of Fuengirola is a raptor migration watchpoint worth visiting during suitable conditions in autumn. In August, Black Kites pass overhead, being replaced by European Honey Buzzards in September. Migrating Western Marsh Harrier, Montagu’s Harrier, Short-toed

Spanish Fir Forest, Grazalema.

Eagle and Booted Eagle are also regular. Bonelli’s Eagle is resident.

Odiel Estuary (Huelva) On the west side of the Río Odiel, near Huelva city in particular, tidal and freshwater wetlands offer excellent birding. Eurasian Spoonbill is common and Osprey resident. Breeding waders include Collared Pratincole. Purple Heron, Purple Swamphen and Whiskered Tern nest. Winter is good for Greater Flamingo, and large numbers of Blacknecked Grebe occur offshore. Wader diversity is greatest during migration periods.

Puerto de la Ragua (Granada) This mountain pass is good for Citril Finch. Also look for Red Crossbill and European Crested Tit in the pines, and – in summer – Tawny Pipit. Migrants including raptors and swifts may pass overhead in autumn.

Punta Entinas–Sabinar (Almería)

Sierra Crestellina (Málaga) Barely 30 minutes’ drive west of Estepona brings keen birdwatchers into contact with birds typical of rocky uplands. Looking eastwards from the A-377 should provide views of Griffon Vulture and Bonelli’s Eagle. Passerines include Black Wheatear, Western Black-eared Wheatear, Spectacled Warbler and Western Subalpine Warbler. Lesser Kestrel breeds in the adjacent town of Casares. White-rumped Swift occurs in summer.

Sierra de Andújar (Jaén) Best known for Iberian Lynx tourism, this rocky, scrubby and lightly wooded range of hills also excels for seeing eagles, including Spanish Imperial and Bonelli’s. Cinereous, Griffon and Egyptian Vultures all occur. Among smaller birds, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Iberian Grey Shrike and Iberian Magpie are resident, with summer

adding typical Mediterranean birds such as European Roller, Hoopoe, Alpine Swift and Woodchat Shrike.

Sierra de la Plata (Cádiz) Accessed west from Bolonia, this site has breeding White-rumped Swift and Little Swift, as well as the more commonplace Pallid, Common and Alpine Swifts. Griffon Vulture breeds, and Bolonia itself is good for Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin.

Tabernas Desert (Almería) Dry, open countryside west and northwest of Tabernas is home to Little Bustard, Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Eurasian Stonecurlew and Trumpeter Finch. Western Olivaceous Warbler favours tamarisks. Other species typical of arid terrain are found, such as Black Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush and Thekla’s Lark. Various raptors may wander overhead.

Tarifa area (Cádiz) A wealth of birding sites surrounds Tarifa, which fronts the Strait of Gibraltar. Tarifa beach is good for gulls, terns and waders. The migration of storks and raptors is world class, with a wide range of species (and often massive numbers) including regular rarities such as Rüppell’s Vulture and Long-legged Buzzard. Good watchpoints include Alto del Cabrito, Cazalla and Punta Camorro. White-rumped Swift breeds inland. The cork woodland of El Bujeo holds Iberian Green Woodpecker, Iberian Chiffchaff and Western Bonelli’s Warbler.

Vejer de la Frontera (Cádiz)

Hoya de Guadix.

Just outside the town is a nesting colony of Northern Bald Ibis, which stems from an introduction programme started in 2004. Birds give good views at close range and feed at sites including Barbate Estuary

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Good birdwatching sites in the region

Between Almerimar and Roquetas de Mar, and south of a huge expanse of horticultural greenhouses, is an interesting strip of coastal wetlands and scrub. Focusing on Punta Entinas, Punta del Sabinar and Cerillos saltpans, look for breeding Slender-billed Gull and Gull-billed Tern, wintering White-headed Duck, or resident Greater Flamingo and Audouin’s Gull.

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to the south-east, which sometimes also holds migrant gulls, terns and waders.

Good birdwatching sites in the region

Zóñar Lake (Córdoba) Laguna de Zóñar is good for White-headed Duck, which is resident with greater numbers in winter. Wintering wildfowl includes Common Shelduck and Northern Pintail. Slightly to the south-east, Laguna de Rincón is reliable for White-headed Duck, alongside Black-necked Grebe and Red-crested Pochard. Both locations hold Great Reed Warbler and Common Nightingale in spring and summer.

BALEARICS Boquer Valley/Formentor Peninsula (Majorca) Boquer Valley is worth searching for the often-elusive Balearic Warbler. More readily encountered are Booted Eagle, Egyptian Vulture, Cinereous Vulture, Eurasian Crag Martin and Blue Rock Thrush. A short drive north-east is the Cap de Formentor, where the standout species is Eleonora’s Falcon. Look from the mirador, and explore the surroundings, for another chance of Boquer Valley species, plus Pallid Swift. Audouin’s Gull and European Shag may be seen on the coast, with Firecrest and Red Crossbill in the pines.

Es Grau and other sites (Menorca) In common with several Menorcan beaches, Es Grau holds Audouin’s Gull and European Shag. Nearby S’Albufera wetland has Black-necked Grebe, Redcrested Pochard and Purple Swamphen. Of other sites on Menorca, Son Bou and Son Parc marshes hold similar species. Son Saura lake is worth a visit, with a chance of Ferruginous Duck as well as Red-crested Pochard and Common Pochard. Booted Eagle, Red Kite and Egyptian Vulture are

Los Alcornocales, Strait of Gibraltar.

widespread on the island. Alpine and Pallid Swifts can be seen in many places, including Cala Galdana cliffs. Blue Rock Thrush is common near rocky coasts. Tawny Pipit is widespread.

S’Albufera (Majorca) This famous wetland offers good opportunities to see Purple Swamphen, Red-knobbed Coot and Moustached Warbler. Long-legged waterbirds include Little Bittern (in spring and summer) and Glossy Ibis. Wildfowl depends on the time of year, but should include Redcrested Pochard. Western Marsh Harrier and perhaps Eleonora’s Falcon may be seen overhead. Waders include Kentish Plover and Black-winged Stilt, plus others during migration. Audouin’s Gull, Whiskered Tern and Gull-billed Tern may be encountered. The smaller S’Albufereta wetland offers similar species.

Tramuntana (Majorca) These rugged mountains are easily accessed by road, but a paucity of places to stop suggests that the most suitable points for birding are Lluc Monastary and Cuber Reservoir. Overhead, you could see Booted Eagle and Cinereous Vulture. Look also for Peregrine and Red Kite. Passerines and near-passerines include Eurasian Wryneck, Eurasian Crag Martin, Spectacled Warbler and Cirl Bunting.

This book describes and depicts the 301 species that, on balance, you are most likely to see in Spain (including the Balearics, but excluding the Canaries). Where it makes sense to do so, images of different plumages (male or female, adult or immature) are included, along with images of flying birds for species often seen in flight. Each species is introduced by its English and scientific names, plus the total body length in centimetres (and wingspan for birds frequently seen in flight). The names used, taxonomy (the arbitration on what constitutes a full species rather than subspecies) and the order of families essentially follow the expert advice of the Association of European Records and Rarities Committees (aerc.eu). On pp. 220–222, there is a section on Spanish (Castilian) names, which may be useful if you chat to local birdwatchers. (Note, however, that we don’t list Galician, Basque or Catalan bird names, which are in common use in the respective areas.) If the species is globally threatened or Near Threatened, as determined by BirdLife International on behalf of IUCN, its status is given at the start of the species account. The text suggests the best ways to distinguish the bird concerned from similar-looking species. Quite intentionally, we neither provide a feather-by-feather description nor recount what you can see in the photographs. Instead, we adopt a more user-friendly approach that directs your attention to the diagnostic characteristics of the species. For example, if Bird A differs from all similar-looking species by having a bold white band on the wing, this is noted, but not the colours and patterns of every other feather tract, which in any case will be visible in the accompanying photograph(s).This helps start the identification process: you are unlikely to see a summer visitor in winter, or to encounter in Andalucía a bird that occurs only in the Pyrenees. If you are unfamiliar with the geography of Spain, bookmark the map on p. 7, which illustrates the country’s administrative regions. (Note that we have used the local names for regions, rather than the English names.) Otherwise, each species description starts with a summary of the distribution, status, seasonality and habitat of the bird in question, and it ends with ‘Where to see’, a summary of the distribution, status, seasonality and habitat of the bird in question. A note on the photos All images depict an adult, unless otherwise stated. The key below explains the regularly used abbreviations. Male – ♂ Female – ♀ Juvenile – juv. First-winter – 1st-win.

Second-winter – 2nd-win. Third-winter – 3rd-win. Immature – imm. Sub-adult – sub-ad.

Breeding – br. Non-breeding – non-br. Summer – sum. Winter – win.

How to use this book

HOW TO USE THIS BOOK

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Greater White-Fronted Goose

Anser albifrons 70cm, wingspan 145cm

Geese and ducks

Smaller and more compact than Greylag Goose, with clearly darker, browner plumage overall. In flight, upperwing solidly dark, unlike Greylag’s striking pale grey forewing. Bill smaller and duller toned than Greylag, this being true whether the subspecies involved hails from Greenland (subspecies flavirostris: orange bill and legs) or Siberia (albifrons: pink bill and legs). Adult also differs in its white forehead blaze and variable black barring on belly. Where to see Rare winter visitor, usually single birds or small groups, mainly in north, Extremadura or Doñana. Favours wetlands and damp grasslands. juv.

Greylag Goose

Anser anser 80cm, wingspan 160cm

The goose most likely to be seen. Stocky and thick-necked, it differs from other geese in its deep-based, wholly orange bill and pink legs. Plumage greyer than others, with unique, strikingly pale grey bands on forewings prominent in flight. Loud, nasal cackling or honking calls (recalling a ‘farmyard goose’).

Where to see Largely a winter visitor (scarcer now due to climate change), widespread in north plus Doñana and Extremadura. Breeds locally. Frequents waterbodies, pastures and crop fields.

Brent Goose

Branta bernicla 58cm, wingspan 110cm

Geese and ducks

Europe’s smallest goose, size of Common Shelduck. Diagnostic white throat collar stands out on wholly black head and neck. At distance, bright white undertail contrasts with mostly dingy brown plumage. Slim and elegant in flight, with sharply pointed wings. Flocks issue a distinctive gargling or chuckling call. Most birds are of the ‘dark-bellied’ Siberian subspecies bernicla, with occasional birds of the ‘pale-bellied’ subspecies hrota (from Canada, Greenland and Spitsbergen). Where to see Scarce, irregular winter visitor to intertidal areas of coasts, particularly in the north.

Common Shelduck

Tadorna tadorna 60cm, wingspan 110cm

♀ Unmistakable, large, goose-like duck. At distance, appears strikingly piebald: white with dark patches. At closer range, head, neck and inner rear wing have a green sheen, breast-band is chestnut, bill is red and legs are shockingly pink. In flight, looks eye-catchingly white, with a dark head, neck, rear upperwing,

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♂ shoulder-patches and upper back. Calls include a nasal, conversational ga-ga-gaga; wings whistle audibly in flight. Where to see Breeds locally, particularly along Mediterranean coasts. Most abundant in winter. Particularly favours saline habitats.

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Mallard

Anas platyrhynchos 55cm, wingspan 85cm

Geese and ducks

Like the next eight ducks featured, feeds by dabbling or up-ending on water surface, or by grazing vegetation on land, rather than diving. Familiar large duck: a benchmark for identifying others. In flight, looks heavy and dark, with two white lines along wings bordering a blue rectangle. Orange legs are unlike those of any other Spanish duck except the massive-billed Northern Shoveler. Male’s combination of green head, thin white neck collar, purple-brown breast and curly black tail feathers is unique. Female differs from female Gadwall in its stripier face and limited (rather than extensive) orange sides to grey bill. Beware oddly plumaged birds deriving from captive stock.

♂

Where to see Widespread, common breeder. Locally abundant in winter. Frequents all types of wetlands.

♀

♂

Eurasian Wigeon

Anas penelope 46cm, wingspan 80cm

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Geese and ducks

♂ Size between Mallard and Eurasian Teal, with short neck and round head. Bill pattern unique among European dabbling ducks: pale blue with a black tip. Male’s chestnut head and yellow forehead-stripe are distinctive; in flight, shows a striking white forewing patch. Female dull brown, differing from other ducks by having subtly chestnut flanks and (visible when on land) a contrasting white belly. Gregarious, uttering evocative whistling calls and taking to the air in rapid, wheeling flocks. Even within large flocks, pairs typically keep together.

♂

Where to see Widespread and common winter visitor, especially along coasts. Frequents waterbodies and marshes.

♀

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Gadwall

Anas strepera 51cm, wingspan 85cm

Geese and ducks

Slightly smaller and slimmer than Mallard. Male is the only duck with almost wholly silvery-grey plumage, a solid black rear end and black bill. In flight, has eye-catching white patch on rear wing. Female resembles female Mallard but has plainer face, blackercentred back and wing feathers (with very narrow buff fringes), and more extensive orange sides to bill. Usually in pairs; flocks rare, although pairs may aggregate. Unobtrusive; rarely vocal. Where to see Locally resident, more common and widespread in winter. Favours large, well-vegetated freshwater bodies.

♂

♀

Eurasian Teal

Anas crecca 36cm, wingspan 55cm

♀

♂

Geese and ducks

Spain’s smallest dabbling duck, appearing compact particularly in urgent, twisting flight. Often occurs in dense flocks. Smaller groups often nervous, calling repeatedly (a plaintive peep) and fleeing rapidly (almost vertically) when afraid. Attractive males have a rufous head partitioned by a broad green mask with yellow edges. Grey body is divided by two horizontal stripes (one black, one white), and a yellow triangle on vent glows on gloomy afternoons. Female noticeably smaller than other brown female ducks, differing from female Garganey in plainer head, white tail-sides and (often) orange base to bill.

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♂ Where to see Winters commonly, particularly in extensive wetlands, marshes and large estuaries. Rare breeder, mainly in the north (Galicia, Asturias, Soria).

♂

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Northern Pintail

Anas acuta 56cm (+ 10cm tail in male), wingspan 80cm

Geese and ducks

Both sexes are slender, long-necked, sharp-winged and graceful. Male is distinctive, with elongated tail-streamers, a chocolate-brown head contrasting with white breast, and a cream stripe on rear flanks contrasting with black vent and undertail. Female differs from female Mallard and Gadwall in lacking any orange on bill, and having an entirely plain head and whitish breast. Usually occurs as loose groups within flocks of other ducks. Where to see Rare breeder. Relatively common in winter and on passage in scattered wetlands.

♀

♂

♀

Garganey

Anas querquedula 39cm, wingspan 60cm

Where to see Widespread on migration. Rare breeder. Shy, preferring secluded, well-vegetated lakes, especially those flanked by reeds.

♂

♀

Geese and ducks

Slightly larger than Eurasian Teal, but unlike that species, rarely up-ends to feed, preferring to dabble on surface. At a distance, male is a duck of two halves – dark-fronted, but pale at the rear. At closer range, head pattern (long white stripe from eye to nape, on chocolate-brown head) is distinctive. Female and juvenile/firstwinter resemble female Eurasian Teal but differ in boldly striped face, contrastingly creamy chin and all-dark bill (Teal often has an orange bill base).

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Northern Shoveler

Anas clypeata 48cm, wingspan 75cm

Geese and ducks

Smaller, stockier with a bigger head than Mallard, and with a massive spatulate bill (the origin of its name) that makes identification easy. Male is distinctive, with a green head (like male Mallard) but white breast and rusty flanks. In flight, male has eye-catching large, pale blue upperwing-patch (grey in female). Female recalls female Mallard in plumage, but has a plainer head. Forages undemonstratively, usually in pairs and rarely in flocks. Where to see Rare breeder in major wetlands; more widespread and locally common (even numerous) in winter. Favours shallow, well-vegetated waterbodies.

♂

♂

♀

Marbled Teal

Marmaronetta angustirostris 40cm, wingspan 55cm

Red-crested Pochard

Geese and ducks

Near Threatened. Roughly Garganey-sized with longer rear end, and markedly large head (often with crest on nape) and bill. Plain plumage recalls female Northern Pintail, although latter is larger. At distance, best identified by dark bill, striking dark eye-mask and pale forehead. At closer range, large pale buff spots apparent on back, wings and flanks. In flight, upperwing pale and monotone; lacks conspicuous, isolated, pale or coloured patches that characterise several other ducks. Usually shy, in pairs or small groups.

Where to see Rare and very local, essentially in south and east. Favours shallow, well-vegetated ponds or lagoons.

Netta rufina 55cm, wingspan 85cm

♂ Long yet thickset, large-headed, Mallardsized duck, which feeds by dabbling and up-ending (despite being called a ‘pochard’; see Common Pochard, a diving duck). At distance, male can look mainly dark and white, but diagnostic burnt orange head and vivid red bill remain visible. Female is uniform, unmarked brown but with a contrastingly bicoloured head (dark cap, pale cheeks) – a far more striking pattern than superficially similar female Common Scoter. In flight, shows a prominent white wing-stripe.

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♂

♀ Where to see Sparse breeder in wellvegetated lakes of major wetlands. More widespread in winter.

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Common Pochard

Aythya ferina 46cm, wingspan 75cm

Geese and ducks

Vulnerable. Fairly small – the size of Eurasian Wigeon – but compact and stocky. Feeds by diving fully underwater; typically gregarious. Both sexes of Common Pochard have a distinctive profile, with a gently sloping forehead and longish bill. Head of male is a deeper chestnut than male Red-crested Pochard, and bill is bluish grey/black (red on latter). Female’s dark eye surrounded by diffuse pale ‘spectacles’ is quite unlike

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the staring yellow eye of female Tufted Duck. Female’s two-tone plumage (silvery grey other than brown head and breast) is unlike the broadly uniform dark brown of female Tufted Duck. Where to see Uncommon and local breeder; numbers vary with water levels. Common, widespread winter visitor, often on expansive, sparsely vegetated waterbodies.

Tufted Duck

Aythya fuligula 42cm, wingspan 70cm

Where to see A few pairs breed in the north. Scattered winter populations, particularly in Galicia, Asturias, Extremadura and Castilla–La Mancha, favouring deep water.

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Geese and ducks

Marginally smaller and slighter than Common Pochard, with a shorter bill. Female differs from female Common Pochard by having a vibrant yellow eye and pale blue bill with a black tip; it may also have a hint of a tuft on rear crown, which becomes a long drooping crest in male. Latter is unmistakable, being all black with white flanks. In flight, both sexes have a prominent white stripe on rear upperwing (indistinct in Common Pochard).

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Common Scoter

Melanitta nigra 49cm, wingspan 80cm

Geese and ducks

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♂ Between Eurasian Wigeon and Mallard in size, but stockier. Both sexes lack white in wing. Male is only wholly black Spanish duck and has bright yellow on bill. Female’s pale cheek-patch is less distinct than that of female Red-crested Pochard; also lacks latter’s conspicuous white wing-stripe. Typically observed in large groups bobbing on the sea, or long

Common Goldeneye

lines of chunky, all-dark ducks flying in long lines low over the water, as if playing follow-my-leader. Where to see Gregarious seaduck. Common winter and passage visitor to Atlantic coasts; rare in the Mediterranean, occasional inland.

Bucephala clangula 46cm, wingspan 70cm

♂ Size between Common Pochard and Tufted Duck. In both sexes, eye-catching white wing panels show clearly in flight. Smaller and more squat than Red-breasted Merganser with a short, triangular, dark bill (not slender and red), bulbous head (not crested) and pale eye. Male also differs by white breast

(not chestnut) and white facial spot. Immediately differs from Tufted Duck in male’s white breast, and in female’s dark grey bill and brown head contrasting with grey body. Where to see Rare winter visitor to coastal and inland waterbodies in north.

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator 55cm, wingspan 75cm

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Geese and ducks

Northern Pintail-sized, long-bodied duck with distinctively slender bill and shaggy crest. These characteristics distinguish it from Common Goldeneye, which is closest in terms of plumage pattern and coloration. Female’s head more chestnut than the dark brown of female Goldeneye, while male differs from Goldeneye in chestnut breast and grey flanks. In flight, long wings, neck and bill could lead female to be confused with Great Crested Grebe, but latter has noticeable trailing feet and extensively white forewing.

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♀ Where to see Scarce, localised winter visitor to coasts, occasionally inland.

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White-headed Duck

Oxyura leucocephala 45cm, wingspan 60cm

Geese and ducks

Endangered. Unmistakable. Common Pochard-sized, but looks smaller and stockier as length includes its long, pointed tail (often cocked). Smaller and rounder than Common Scoter or Red-crested Pochard, females of which recall male White-headed Duck, having a pale face contrasting with black cap. Male White-headed’s face is bright

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white, however, and swollen blue bill and chestnut tones to remaining plumage are distinctive. Female dowdier than male, with broad black cheek-stripe and extensive dark crown interrupting white face; black bill is also large. Where to see Scarce resident of scattered, well-vegetated lakes in the south.

Rock Ptarmigan

Lagopus muta 33cm

Where to see Resident in the Pyrenees on bare rocky mountain slopes with montane meadows, typically above 2,000m.

Western Capercaillie

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Tetrao urogallus 75–90cm

♂ Turkey-like male has no confusion species in Spain, being huge, largely black, with an ivory bill and red eye-wattle. In display, male fans tail and postures. Female theoretically confusable with Common Pheasant, given mottled brown plumage, but habitat differs. Moreover, female Capercaillie is larger, heftier and darker brown, lacking elongated tail feathers.

♀ Female potentially confusable with Rock Ptarmigan in non-winter plumage, but latter avoids forests and always shows extensive white in plumage. Where to see Resident in open, oldgrowth pine forests – usually at high altitude – in Pyrenees and Cantabrian Mountains.

Grouse, partridges, quail and pheasant

Montane specialist renowned for moulting between plumages offering seasonally effective camouflage: blotchy grey-brown in summer, wholly white in winter. Wings white and tail black throughout the year. Given altitude and habitat, Grey Partridge is the most likely confusion species and, even then, only outside winter when Rock Ptarmigan’s plumage is superficially similar. A smaller bird, Grey Partridge lacks male Rock Ptarmigan’s diagnostic red eye-wattle; also lacks bright white belly and wings.

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Common Quail

Coturnix coturnix 17cm

Grouse, partridges, quail and pheasant

Tiny (Eurasian Skylarksized), skulking gamebird. Best located by male’s song: a liquid wit-wi-wit. Streaky, camouflaged brown plumage recalls upland-dwelling Grey Partridge but is smaller with comparatively longer wings, and prominently striped face and back. Red-legged Partridge is far too boldly patterned to be a confusion species. Spotted Crake might cause confusion, but inhabits marshes rather than dry grasslands, is larger (Song Thrush-sized), essentially grey and moves with a hunched, creeping demeanour.

Red-legged Partridge

Where to see Summer migrant, inhabiting grassy plains, cultivated fields and valleys throughout Spain, except in upland Cantabria.

Alectoris rufa 34cm Near Threatened. Partridges are wary; when alarmed, they run or fly low and quickly away, with rapid wingbeats and stiff-winged glides. Red-legged is more colourful and boldly patterned than Grey Partridge, with red (not grey) bill and legs. Much larger than Common Quail: the size of Eurasian Jay rather than Eurasian Skylark. Call a rhythmic, grating, jerky spluttering. Gregarious outside the breeding season. Where to see Declining but still common resident throughout much of Spain, mainly below 1,500m in grasslands and agricultural landscapes; rarer in north. Status confused by hunting releases of captive-bred birds.

Grey Partridge

Perdix perdix 30cm

Common Pheasant

Rock Ptarmigan for differences from that species. Where to see Frequents montane grasslands, heathlands and scrub at 1,000–2,000m altitude, exclusively in northern Spain (particularly the Pyrenees and Cantabrian Mountains).

Phasianus colchicus 55–90cm (including tail)

♀ Unmistakable chicken-sized gamebird with a diagnostic very long tail. Typically plumaged male has no confusion species. Female similar to female Western Capercaillie, but latter exclusively frequents old-growth pine forests, usually at high altitude. A tailless female or short-tailed young bird might recall Grey Partridge, but latter has largely grey plumage, orange face,

♂ and dark brown horseshoe-shaped mark on belly. Very vocal, uttering raucous squawks, often followed by wing rustling. Where to see Non-native. Scattered distribution results from releases for hunting, particularly in Cataluña and the Balearics. Inhabits lightly wooded terrain mixed with meadows and cultivation.

Grouse, partridges, quail and pheasant

Plumage is duller, more uniform and more camouflaged than in Red-legged Partridge, with diagnostic dark brown horseshoe-shaped belly patch and orange face. Confusable with Common Quail, but markedly larger (equivalent to the difference between Stock Dove and Eurasian Skylark), plumage vermiculated rather than striped, and plain-faced. See

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Great Northern Diver

Gavia immer 81cm, wingspan 135cm

Divers

Divers differ from the more common Great Cormorant and European Shag by never perching upright on land and lacking those species’ hooked bill. In flight, divers (particularly Great Northern) have obvious trailing feet and narrower wings, and fly more powerfully. Great Northern Diver is notably hefty, with deep, almost goose-like wingbeats in muscular flight, when its particularly long, trailing feet are obvious. See Blackthroated Diver for differences.

Black-throated Diver

Where to see Scarce winter visitor off coasts of north-west Spain; rare elsewhere.

Gavia arctica 70cm, wingspan 110cm

br.

Intermediate between the smaller, rarer Red-throated Diver (not illustrated) and the larger, commoner Great Northern Diver. Head and neck more curved than former; less angular than latter. Bill neither uptilted like Red-throated nor thick like Great Northern. Winter plumage contrasting, with a clean divide between darker upperside and white underside; Red-throated usually looks

whiter on head and neck, and Great Northern browner. If visible, isolated white rear-flank patch diagnostic. In flight, again intermediate; unlike Redthroated carries neck straight without drooping head. Where to see Regular if scarce winter visitor to coasts, particularly north-west Atlantic and north-east Mediterranean.

Little Grebe

Tachybaptus ruficollis 26cm, wingspan 40cm

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plumage, Little Grebe also differs from Black-necked by a yellow rather than black bill. In breeding plumage, adults have a unique chestnut cheek and whitish patch on the bill base. Where to see Common resident of wellvegetated freshwater bodies throughout Spain, but scarce in mountains. Gregarious in winter.

Grebes

Tiny and rotund: the smallest bird likely to be seen swimming on lakes and ponds (much smaller and shorter-winged than Eurasian Teal). Shorter-necked and dumpier than other grebes. Markedly fluffy, with a shaggy rear end. The brownest grebe – never strikingly black and white like non-breeding plumage of Black-necked Grebe, which is the nearest species in size and shape. In equivalent

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Great Crested Grebe

Podiceps cristatus 49cm, wingspan 65cm

Grebes

Largest grebe, the size of a Northern Shoveler, but much more rakish. Longerand thinner-necked than other grebes. In summer plumage, no other grebe has a black crest, white face and white neck. In winter, long pink bill and white stripe above dark eye rule out Black-necked Grebe. First two characters plus white (not dusky) neck also eliminate Rednecked Grebe (not illustrated; winters

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very rarely in north). In flight, could be confused with Red-breasted Merganser, but has an even longer neck, long feet that trail beyond the tail, and extensive white wing patches. Where to see Common throughout on sheltered, vegetated waterbodies. More widespread in winter, when seen especially on deep reservoirs.

Black-necked Grebe

Podiceps nigricollis 31cm, wingspan 45cm

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Grebes

Small size eliminates confusion with Great Crested Grebe. Distinctive in breeding plumage, with a golden fan of feathers behind red eye, predominantly black plumage and chestnut flanks. In winter, differs from Little Grebe by black, white and grey plumage (not brown and beige), upturned black bill and red eye (yellow and black, respectively, in Little). More similar to Slavonian Grebe (not illustrated; scarce winter visitor to Cantabrian coasts), but has fluffy ‘bottom’, slightly upturned bill and steeper forehead, and typically much duskier neck.

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Where to see Frequent winter visitor along the Mediterranean coastline and nearby freshwater lakes. Scattered breeding colonies throughout Spain, but fickle, nesting only where conditions suit.

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Scopoli’s/Cory’s Shearwater

Calonectris diomedea/borealis 53cm, wingspan 113cm

Shearwaters and petrels

Scopoli’s and Cory’s Shearwaters are increasingly treated as separate species. Both occur in Spain; given their very similar appearance, they are treated collectively here. Firstly, beware confusion with young Northern Gannet, which is larger with angled wings, and a longer bill and tail creating a sharper profile. Larger, longerwinged and paler than Balearic and Sooty Shearwaters. Great Shearwater (not illustrated), flies more stiffly and shows a neat black cap.

Sooty Shearwater

Where to see Scopoli’s breeds in the Balearics and in a few mainland colonies. Occurs off Mediterranean coast, particularly, on passage. Cory’s is seen off Atlantic coasts.

Ardenna grisea 45cm, wingspan 100cm Near Threatened. Fairly large seabird, midway between Scopoli’s/Cory’s Shearwater and Balearic Shearwater in size. At distance looks entirely blackish bar pale flash on underwing that catches the light; even dark Balearic Shearwaters never show a blackish belly. Shape differs subtly from Balearic, with longer, more pointed tail and narrower, more angled, sharper-tipped wings. Flight urgent, with rapid flaps interspersed by prolonged curved glides that can extend several metres above the sea surface. Where to see Off Atlantic coasts, particularly Galicia and Asturias, in autumn, particularly after onshore winds.

Balearic Shearwater

Puffinus mauretanicus 36cm, wingspan 84cm

Shearwaters and petrels

Critically Endangered. Smaller than Cory’s Shearwater; looks longer-tailed in flight due to projecting toes, and is more compact and distinctly dusky, particularly on head and underparts. Flight is rapid, on urgent wingbeats, and generally low over water. More heavily built and duskier than black-and-white Manx Shearwater (not illustrated; generally uncommon in summer and autumn along Atlantic coasts). Lacks more angled shape, looping glides and silvery underwings of larger, almost blackish Sooty Shearwater. Where to see Breeds exclusively in the Balearics (March–June), particularly Formentera. On passage (mainly June–October), seen off all coasts as

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it wanders to the Bay of Biscay and further north. Winters off north-east Spain (December–January).

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Yelkouan Shearwater

Puffinus yelkouan 35cm, wingspan 75cm

Shearwaters and petrels

Vulnerable. Intermediate in appearance between Balearic Shearwater and Manx Shearwater (not illustrated), so close views needed to separate them. Not as clean-cut black and white as Manx, with projecting toes visible at close range. Underparts not as dusky as most Balearic (which are larger, stockier and fly more heavily), with distinct brown bar on underwing and white hook on rear flanks. Where to see Nests on Menorca. Records year-round along Mediterranean coast, particularly in Cataluña, probably reaching Atlantic.

European Storm Petrel

Hydrobates pelagicus 15cm, wingspan 40cm

Tiny black seabird, far smaller than shearwaters, with a white rump, so superficially recalls Common House Martin when seen from above. (The latter’s white underparts clearly set it apart, however.) Typically seen flying low over sea, with flight either bat-like or fluttery. At close range, white band on underwing distinguishes it from other,

rarer storm petrels (not illustrated). Where to see Fairly common breeder, with scattered colonies along north and north-west coasts in the Balearics and in Murcia/Comunidad Valenciana. Visits nest at night, spending day out at sea, so most often seen when onshore winds blow birds close to coast.

Northern Gannet

Morus bassanus 92cm, wingspan 180cm

Gannet

Spain’s largest seabird, substantially larger than Great Black-backed Gull, although elegance belies its size. Flies with deep, airy wingbeats. Catches attention by dramatically plunging into sea when fishing. Unique shape is key to identification of distant birds (particularly youngsters): long wings angled juv. back from ‘elbow’; long, slender tail; and elongated head and bill. First-winter brown, gradually whitening with age until reaching adult plumage (all white save for extensive black wingtips and orange-yellow wash to head) at about four years old.

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Where to see Passage migrant along Atlantic and Cantabrian coasts, especially in autumn (August– November), with smaller numbers in spring (February–April).

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Great Cormorant

Phalacrocorax carbo 85cm, wingspan 135cm

Cormorants

Large, long-billed, dark waterbird. Swims low in water with bill tilted upwards. Stands erect and stretches out wings to dry. Usually flies low over the water, but flocks typically fly (including high in the sky) in ‘V’ formation like geese, but look broader-winged than latter, with a long, broad tail, and often glide. Most likely to be confused with the closely related European Shag (see that species for differences) and divers (see Great Northern Diver for differences).

Where to see Increasingly common and widespread winter visitor throughout Spain, particularly along coasts and river valleys. Frequents shores and inland freshwaters.

European Shag

Phalacrocorax aristotelis 73cm, wingspan 105cm

Cormorants

Very similar to Great Cormorant but smaller, slimmer and often sits lower in water. Often dives with a pronounced leap (Great Cormorant tends to roll underwater). Flight lighter, lacking glides. Adult lacks Great Cormorant’s white patches on cheek and (in breeding plumage) thighs/head, and has a tousled crest. The brown-plumaged immature differs from young Great Cormorant in more uniform underparts, reduced yellow facial skin and white chin. Where to see Strictly coastal, breeding on rocky islands and ledges. Winters offshore, including around harbours. Widespread resident along Atlantic, Cantabrian and Balearic shores, with scattered populations elsewhere;

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Mediterranean birds are a separate subspecies, desmarestii, which breeds only around that sea.

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Eurasian Bittern

Botaurus stellaris 75cm, wingspan 115cm

Herons

Male’s far-carrying spring call is unmistakable: a deep boom, like blowing over a bottle. Large, bulky heron with cryptically variegated brown and buff plumage. Only confusion species are female Little Bittern (which is less than half the size!) and immature Blackcrowned Night Heron (smaller; spotted, not striped). While not shy, tends to stay deep within reedbed habitat, often immobile. Distinctive in flight: broad, arched wings; thick, tucked-in neck; and long trailing legs. Where to see Rare, localised resident, most reliably present in the Ebro Valley (Aragón, Navarra). More frequent and widespread on passage and in winter. Reedbed specialist, preferring large areas of wetland habitat.

Little Bittern

Ixobrychus minutus 36cm, wingspan 55cm

Where to see Uncommon, sparsely distributed breeder in reedbeds and wellvegetated waterbodies, particularly along major river valleys. Summer visitor; rare in winter.

Herons

Very small heron, size and wingspan of Common Moorhen. Clandestine, making only brief appearances in the open – normally in flight, when it flies rapidly for a short distance on elastic wingbeats. Male distinctively plumaged: black back and crown (shared only with larger Black-crowned Night Heron), but otherwise cream and striped (not grey/white and plain). Bicoloured wings are eye-catching in flight. Female and immature resemble a tiny Eurasian Bittern, but buffier, with a streakier back and stripier underparts; subdued version of male’s wing pattern, being tawny and brown rather than cream and black. Male’s call is a gruff bark, uttered every few seconds.

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♂

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Black-crowned Night Heron

Nycticorax nycticorax 62cm, wingspan 110cm

Herons

Largely nocturnal, typically emerging at dusk, flying on crow-like beats of broad, rounded wings. Mid-sized heron, but stocky, big-headed and thick-necked. Juvenile differs from Eurasian Bittern by being dark brown with whitish droplets across wings and back. Adult plumage takes two years to develop so immatures in their second year tend to be a less streaky version of juvenile, with dark grey back and cap. Adult distinctively tricoloured, with large blocks of black, grey and white without stripes or streaks (unlike, say, the smaller Little Bittern). Where to see Uncommon, sparsely distributed breeder, inhabiting reedbeds and well-vegetated waterbodies, mainly along major river valleys. Mostly a summer visitor; scarce in winter. Prefers marshy vegetation, often by waterbodies.

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Squacco Heron

Ardeola ralloides 45cm, wingspan 80cm

Where to see Summer visitor to scattered wetlands, particularly large ones, in southern, central and eastern Spain. Frequents marshes, ditches and damp meadows, usually with scattered bushes and trees.

Herons

Spain’s second-smallest heron. Surprisingly camouflaged until it takes flight, at which point it reveals egret-like white wings and tail. Confusion with egrets (especially marginally larger Cattle Egret) is removed by back, breast and head being extensively peachy-buff (summer adult) or sandy-brown (other plumages), with long plumes extending over nape in summer. At peak of courtship, adults are stunning, with reddish feet, long head plumes and a black-tipped blue bill. Immatures follow same basic plumage pattern, but are greyish-brown where the adult is sandy or buff.

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Cattle Egret

Bubulcus ibis 48cm, wingspan 85cm

Herons

Small, compact, thick-necked heron that typically sits hunched. Slightly larger than Squacco Heron with white back and underparts. Smaller and stockier than Little Egret, with a shorter, thicker neck and shorter legs, and a short, pale bill (not long and dagger-like). Great Egret, like Cattle, has a pale bill but is far larger, with a very long, serpentine neck. In summer, adult Cattle Egret has peachy patches on crown, breast and back (but never as extensive as

Squacco Heron); legs turn pale and bill becomes pinkish-red. Where to see Locally common, particularly in south-west, along the Mediterranean coast and inland to the Basque Country. Resident, but wanders outside the breeding season. Frequents marshes and damp meadows, often hunting invertebrates flushed (as its name suggests) by cows.

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Little Egret

Egretta garzetta 60cm, wingspan 95cm

Herons

All-white plumage; can be confused only with other egrets. In size, nearer Cattle Egret than Great Egret, but closer to the latter in shape (long legs, neck and bill). Bare parts are key to identification: adult Little has a black bill/legs and yellow feet year-round (greener in juvenile); Cattle always has a pale bill; Great has a black bill (but pale legs) in summer and dark legs (but yellow bill) in winter. When hunting, motionless for long periods, then suddenly springs into action. Call is a deep croak. Where to see Increasingly common breeder, mainly in south-west Spain.

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More widespread in winter, particularly along coasts. Frequents marshes, rivers and lakes; also saltpans and shorelines.

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Great Egret

Egretta alba 95cm, wingspan 155cm

Herons

Very large – taller and much slimmer than Grey Heron, with a long, slender, serpentine neck. All-white plumage means Cattle Egret and Little Egret are the main confusion species, but much larger than both (for differences in barepart coloration, see Little) with markedly heavier-looking flight on slower, deeper wingbeats. Bigger also than all-white Eurasian Spoonbill, with a shorter, dagger-like (rather than spatulate) bill. Very different from that species in flight: Great Egret flies with neck tucked in and with deep, slow wingbeats, whereas Eurasian Spoonbill flies with neck extended on quicker, more taut wingbeats.

Where to see Scarce summer visitor, breeding mainly in the Ebro Delta and Guadalquivir wetlands. Winters mainly in Cataluña. Favours wetlands, saltpans and rice fields.

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Grey Heron

Ardea cinerea 93cm, wingspan 165cm

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Herons

Large, long-legged, long-necked and mostly greyish bird. Often motionless – a stealth hunter. Flight is slow on deep wingbeats. In flight, Purple Heron looks smaller, has narrower and more tapered wings, and more prominent feet. Purple’s neck ‘keel’ is more angular while Grey’s is more rounded. Grey plumage (not brown) prevents confusion with Eurasian Bittern and young Purple Heron. Adult Purple is more colourful, with rufous, chestnut and mauve swathes, plus thick black neck stripes. In good views, Grey’s upperwing is contrasting and bicoloured (not tricoloured). Call a loud, explosive fraaank. Where to see Common, widespread resident; population swollen by winter vsitors. Frequents coasts, watercourses and agricultural land.

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Purple Heron

Ardea purpurea 80cm, wingspan 130cm

Herons

Colourful adult is confusable only with larger Grey Heron (for differences, see that species). Juvenile could be mistaken for Eurasian Bittern, having essentially brown plumage, a dark cap, streaked foreneck and striped face. Shape eliminates confusion: Bittern is thickset and deep-billed, whereas Purple Heron has a long, tapered, serpentine neck and elongated bill. Where to see Summer breeder, occasional in winter. Fairly common, particularly in coastal wetlands in the south and east; range is expanding north. More often associated with extensive reedbeds and shallow marshes than Grey Heron.

Black Stork

Ciconia nigra 100cm, wingspan 190cm

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Where to see Largely a summer visitor to the south-west. Hunts in rivers; breeds on cliffs and, occasionally, in tall trees. A few winter in south. Widespread on migration.

Stork, ibis and spoonbill

Massive, long-legged bird – larger than Grey Heron. Storks are almost vulture-like in flight with long, broad wings ending in separated ‘fingers’ – but long neck/bill and long, trailing legs complete a different silhouette. Realistically, can be confused only with White Stork. Lankier than that species, with a slimmer neck. Also, plumage is largely black (brown in juvenile) not largely white, with white restricted to belly, undertail and ‘armpits’. Both on the ground and in flight, this means that the names are accurate: a predominantly white bird should be White Stork, and very largely black one will be Black Stork.

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White Stork

Ciconia ciconia 105cm, wingspan 195cm

Stork, ibis and spoonbill

Massive and unmistakable. Differs from other large white birds such as Great Egret and Eurasian Spoonbill by its halfblack wings, and bright red bill and legs. To distinguish it from Black Stork, see that species. Where to see Resident population boosted by summer migrants. Common breeder in the western half of Spain, particularly Extremadura and Castilla y León; also seen on migration. Typically occurs in open fields and wet meadows – more open terrain than Black Stork. Builds a huge stick nest in trees or atop buildings.

Glossy Ibis

Plegadis falcinellus 60cm, wingspan 95cm illustrated), which has a pink bill (not dark grey), bare facial skin, punkish crest, and truncated rear end (formed by legs not protruding beyond short tail). Where to see Rare resident of major wetlands in the east and south (particularly Doñana); locally numerous in winter.

Stork, ibis and spoonbill

Easily identified by its all-dark plumage and downcurved (rather than straight) bill. The bill shape means the ibis could conceivably be confused with Eurasian Curlew and Whimbrel in poor views, but those species never look blackish and always show a white ‘V’ on the rump. In Cadiz, confusion is plausible with the reintroduced Northern Bald Ibis (not

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Eurasian Spoonbill

Platalea leucorodia 85cm, wingspan 125cm

Stork, ibis and spoonbill

Slightly smaller than Grey Heron; intermediate in size and wingspan between Little Egret and Great Egret. Although wholly white like egrets (albeit with black wing-tips in juvenile), unlikely to be confused unless asleep with unique spoon-shaped bill concealed under its wing. Unlike egrets, flies rapidly and mechanically with neck outstretched, giving a shape more reminiscent of swans. Markedly smaller than the latter, however, with more hurried wingbeats, long bill and long legs. Where to see Breeds colonially in a few wetlands, mainly on the south-west coast. More visible on spring and autumn migration, when flocks are often seen resting in shallow freshwater bodies.

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Greater Flamingo

Phoenicopterus roseus 120–145cm, wingspan 155cm

Where to see Occurs along the Mediterranean and south-western coasts, inhabiting saltpans and shallow saline lakes. Breeding success depends on water levels; most successful colony is in Málaga.

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Stork, ibis and spoonbill

Unmistakable shape, combining immensely long legs, very long ‘S’shaped neck and remarkable deep, down-kinked bill. Shape equally striking in hurried, rather mechanical flight, when legs and neck are extended and held rigidly horizontal. Adult very colourful, being pale pink, with deeper pink and extensive black areas on wings (therefore looking tricoloured in flight). Juvenile dirty white with scruffy brown feathering on back, and grey legs.

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European Honey Buzzard

Pernis apivorus 55cm, wingspan 120–150cm

Honey Buzzard

Not a true buzzard, but similar; Common Buzzard is key confusion species. Secretive inside forest, so usually seen in flight. Typically soars with wings held flat (Common: generally raised in a shallow ‘V’) and glides with wings held downwards (Common: level). Shape also subtly different: neck and tail longer, and wings narrower with straighter rear edge. Plumage variable, but often shows a neat black trailing edge to underwing and a noticeably banded tail. Unique display flight, performed high above trees, sees male swooping upwards and then fluttering wings above back. Where to see Summer visitor, breeding in northern and central Spain. Favours large forests near open areas. More common on passage, particularly in migration ‘funnels’ formed by geographical constraints, such as the Pyrenees and Strait of Gibraltar.

Black-winged Kite

Elanus caeruleus 33cm, wingspan 76–88cm

Where to see Uncommon resident, with population centred on Extremadura, but expanding. Favours oak forests and cultivation.

Kites

Unmistakable. Size of a Common Kestrel, but more thickset with a larger head. In flight, shape is distinctive, with a very short, square-cut tail and broad-based but pointed wings. Pale, ghostly grey plumage means confusion possible only with males of the larger, longerwinged Hen Harrier and Montagu’s Harrier. Adult’s black ‘shoulder pads’ and juvenile’s extensive black wing-tips distinguish them from both harriers; in addition, all ages have white tail sides, and lack harriers’ white rump. Varied flight styles: hovers like Common Kestrel, glides on raised wings, and hunts with deep wingbeats like Short-eared Owl.

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Black Kite

Milvus migrans 53cm, wingspan 135–155cm

Kites

Large, dark raptor, flying on bowed and often angled wings, swooping regularly, twists tail. Flight style, slightly forked tail and more obviously ‘fingered’ wing-tips (primaries) should remove confusion with buzzards and harriers, but beware moulting immature or female Western Marsh Harrier, which may have a ragged tail or wings. Look also for Black Kite’s distinctive white flash on underside of wing at base of the wing-tip. See Red Kite for differences. Where to see Summer visitor throughout most of Spain. Most common in major river valleys; rarer along the Mediterranean coast.

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Red Kite

Milvus milvus 67cm, wingspan 140–165cm

Kites

Distinctive large, fork-tailed raptor with long, supple wings; flight agile with much tail twisting. Black Kite is only confusion species but only between spring and autumn (as Black otherwise absent). Best differentiated by narrower wings (five ‘fingers’ at wing-tip rather than six); longer, more obviously forked and distinctly chestnut tail; more colourful plumage; and large white flash on underwing, isolating black wing-tip. Where to see Resident in a broad swathe of central and western Spain, but absent from the east and north-west. Rapidly declining, and now frequent only in parts of Navarra, Aragón, Castilla y León, and Extremadura. More widespread and common in winter. Prefers more wooded habitat than Black Kite but routinely hunts in open areas.

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1st-win.

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Bearded Vulture

Gypaetus barbatus 115cm, wingspan 235–275cm

Vultures

Near Threatened. Also called Lammergeier. Dramatic vulture that feeds by dropping mammal bones from a height to smash them (the Spanish name Quebrantahuesos means ‘bone-breaker’). Most often seen patrolling steep slopes or cliffs, or sailing high above valleys. Distinctive shape: longer- and slimmerwinged than other vultures, with a diagnostic elongated wedge-shaped tail that is clearly longer than width of wing. Only Egyptian Vulture approaches this shape, but is barely half the size, with blunter wings and a shorter tail. Juvenile plumage starts dark, then becomes paler with age to become contrastingly peach/ black in adults.

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Where to see Sparsely distributed resident of mountains in the Pyrenees; also reintroduced to Cantabria and Jaén.

Egyptian Vulture

Neophron percnopterus 60cm, wingspan 155–170cm

Where to see Summer migrant, mainly to mountains and rugged gorges. Declining and local, with four broad

Vultures

Endangered. Smallest vulture by a long way, with broad wings and a longish wedge-shaped tail (but less dramatic than that of Bearded Vulture). All-dark juvenile confusable with Cinereous Vulture, but tail shape, black-striped underwing and pale head differentiate it. Adult has distinctive underwing pattern (half-white, half-black), but take care to rule out White Stork – distinguished by long neck, red bill and long red legs protruding beyond tail. See Bearded Vulture for differences from that species.

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sub-ad.

breeding areas in mainland Spain plus one in the Balearics. Some winter in Extremadura.

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Griffon Vulture

Gyps fulvus 105cm, wingspan 230–265cm

Vultures

Typically seen sailing high in the sky once the day has warmed up, but also readily encountered at breeding colonies. Soars and glides on slightly raised wings with long, widely spaced ‘fingers’ at wing-tip; flaps with heavy, deep, slow wingbeats. Massive bird that dwarfs even large eagles. Upperwing distinctively two-toned (buff at front, dark at rear), contrasting with pale head and neck, and white stripes on underwing. These features distinguish it from rarer, all-dark Cinereous Vulture, which also glides with wings slightly inflected downwards. Where to see Gregarious, colonial breeder on cliffs in rugged areas: the only vulture in Spain likely to be seen

in groups. Frequents most mountain ranges in Spain (except westernmost Cantabria and along the Mediterranean coast). Especially common in Aragón and Castilla y León. Immatures also migrate across the Strait of Gibraltar.

Cinereous Vulture

Aegypius monachus 110cm, wingspan 250–285cm ‘fingers’ to wing-tip, the outer two of which often curve upwards. Uniquely among vultures, comes in to land with tail raised rather than with legs dangling. Where to see Fairly common resident of wooded hills in the south-western quarter of Spain, notably Extremadura. Sometimes wanders. Spain holds the vast majority of the European population.

Vultures

Near Threatened. Also called Black or Monk Vulture. Huge bird, even larger than Griffon Vulture, which is the sole confusion species. More eagle-like shape than Griffon, as wings more evenly broad and head more protruding. Usually flies with slower, more deliberate wingbeats. Also has evenly black plumage, with only immature showing even a hint of Griffon’s pale underwing. To rule out eagles, look for markedly short tail and more obvious

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Short-toed Snake Eagle

Circaetus gallicus 66cm, wingspan 160–180cm

Eagles, harriers and buzzard

Routinely hovers like a (massive!) Common Kestrel, and soars on flat wings (slightly raised in other eagles and Common Buzzard). Pale underparts rule out Golden and Spanish Imperial Eagles. Only slightly larger than Bonelli’s Eagle but looks heftier and larger-headed. In flight, wing shape differs too: Bonelli’s tends to look rectangular, with straight leading edge and broadly straight trailing edge, whereas the inner rear wing of Short-toed bulges, and the wings overall are angled slightly forward. Moreover, Short-toed’s underwing is essentially pale, whereas Bonelli’s is largely dark. Much larger and longer-winged than Common Buzzard.

Where to see Widespread, fairly common summer migrant to most of Spain. Reptile specialist, favouring sunny, scrubby hillsides. Also migrates through the Strait of Gibraltar.

Western Marsh Harrier

Circus aeruginosus 50cm, wingspan 120–135cm

Where to see Scattered breeding populations, particularly in the Ebro Valley, Castilla–La Mancha, Castilla y León and western Andalucía. More widespread and common in winter (principally along coasts). Favours wetlands (mainly with reedbeds) but also hunts over agricultural land.

♂

♀

♀

Eagles, harriers and buzzard

Typically seen quartering low over vegetation, with steady, elastic wingbeats between glides on raised wings. Heavier and broader-winged than other harriers, but not as round-winged as buzzards. Straighter wings and rounded tail eliminate kites, although moulting harriers with ragged tail may cause confusion. Male distinctively tricoloured (grey, warm brown and black). Female and immature dark chocolate with variable cream patches on head, breast and wings. Striking spring display flight, including toe-to-toe food passes between male and female.

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Montagu’s Harrier

Circus pygargus 45cm, wingspan 95–115cm

Eagles, harriers and buzzard

Slender, long-tailed harrier, confusable only with Hen Harrier (and very rare Pallid Harrier; not illustrated). Slimmer wings than Hen, with more pointed wing-tip (importantly, showing four ‘fingers’ rather than Hen’s five), and flight generally more buoyant. Male has longer black wedge on wing-tips than Hen, with black-striped upper- and underwings (latter plain white in Hen). Female plumage very similar to female Hen; best distinguished by structure. Immature has unstreaked, brick-coloured body and underwing (streaked and buff in Hen). Where to see Common summer visitor to lowlands across much of Spain, particularly in the western half. Rare in the north and along coasts. Inhabits extensive cultivated plains, grasslands, heaths and sometimes marshes.

♂

♂

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Hen Harrier

Circus cyaneus 50cm, wingspan 100–120cm

Typical harrier flight (see Western Marsh Harrier). Large raptor, but smaller and slimmer than Western Marsh, with quite different plumage (male ghostly pale grey with black wing-tips; female/immature brown with a white rump and banded tail). Most similar to Montagu’s Harrier (for differences, see that species). Female/ immature also conceivably confusable with Common Buzzard, but latter has

Eurasian Sparrowhawk

comparatively shorter, broader wings and very different plumage (no white rump for a start). Where to see Uncommon breeder in northern and west-central Spain. Fairly common throughout the country in winter. Frequents wetlands, agricultural land and lightly forested areas.

Accipiter nisus 30–40cm, wingspan 60–80cm

Roughly the size of Common Kestrel (females larger than males), but has broad, rounded wings (not narrow and pointed). Flight intersperses rapid flapping with long glides, low above ground when hunting; never hovers like Common Kestrel. Male blue-grey above with an orange-flushed face. Female steel-grey above, pale with fine grey barring below. Immature brown with coarsely barred underparts (not streaked as in juvenile Northern Goshawk and most falcons). Most similar to Northern Goshawk (for differences, see that species). Where to see Resident and common in wooded habitat throughout most of Spain, particularly in north. More numerous on passage and in winter.

♀

Eagles, harriers and buzzard

♀

♂

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Northern Goshawk

Accipiter gentilis 50–64cm, wingspan 90–125cm

Eagles, harriers and buzzard

Readily detected during late-winter display, flying slowly over woodland before plummeting. Male barely crowsized, female almost the size of Common Buzzard. Differs from latter in long tail, bulging ‘S’ shape to rear wing and frequently pointed wing-tips. Most similar to Eurasian Sparrowhawk; latter often misidentified as Northern Goshawk. Most reliable differences are latter’s larger size, deep chest, bulging hindwing, broad undertail (often fluffed out and gleaming white) and long, protruding head. Eurasian Sparrowhawk also tends to flap more quickly between longer glides. Dark eye-mask, broad white stripe over eye and strongly barred underparts are visible in good views.

♂

♀ Where to see Fairly common but shy resident of large, undisturbed forests throughout most of Spain. Most likely to be seen in heavily wooded parts of the north; absent from non-forested land in the south.

Common Buzzard

Buteo buteo 52cm, wingspan 110–130cm

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Eagles, harriers and buzzard

Benchmark bird of prey when identifying other species. Large, with broad, rounded wings, often seen soaring buoyantly or sitting still on exposed perches such as posts. Shorter-tailed than Western Marsh Harrier and does not quarter low over ground like that species. Although plumage is variable (covering the spectrum from whitish to dark brown), consistent features include a broad, diffuse, dark trailing edge on underwing and, at best, a poorly defined tail-band. For differences from European Honey Buzzard, see that species. Often heard calling – a loud, sharp mewing that drops in tone. Where to see Very common raptor resident across the whole of Spain (although absent from the Balearics), frequenting any habitat with trees.

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Spanish Imperial Eagle

Aquila adalberti 78cm, wingspan 180–210cm

Eagles, harriers and buzzard

Vulnerable. Very similar to the more widespread Golden Eagle, but tail shorter (markedly less than width of wings). Soaring shape also differs: Spanish Imperial’s wings are more evenly broad, with a straighter rear edge rather than bulging towards inner rear wing, and it glides on flatter wings. Body and wings typically look darker, plainer brown than Golden Eagle, and rear crown and nape usually contrastingly buff (Golden Eagle’s nape is slightly paler than body so does not contrast). Prolonged views of an adult should also reveal the unique broad white ‘shoulders’ and leading edge to the inner forewing, which is particularly obvious when the bird is head on.

Where to see Scarce but increasing resident in south-west quarter of Spain. Favours dry, rocky pine woodland.

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos 85cm, wingspan 190–225cm

Eagles, harriers and buzzard

Circles sedately high in the sky, apparently with little effort. Much larger than the more familiar Common Buzzard, with longer, more bulging wings and more prominent head, and a squarer tail. Longer-tailed and longer-winged than other Spanish eagles. Largely dark plumage, although adult has a golden nape (making head appear pale at a distance), and immature has extensive white tail base and broad white flashes in wing. Lacks white shoulders and inner forewing edge of Spanish Imperial Eagle. Where to see Resident of rocky areas in most mountain ranges, notably the Pyrenees and Ebro Valley.

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sub-ad.

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Booted Eagle

Eagles, harriers and buzzard

Smallest Spanish eagle (Common Buzzard-sized) with short, narrow and straight-sided wings. Variable plumage, with pale, dark and intermediate morphs. Dark morph recalls Black Kite (particularly given broad, pale bar on upperwing) but differs in square tail, narrow white rump and less acrobatic flight. Pale phase has contrasting underwing pattern like Egyptian Vulture – white at front, black at rear. Differs from Bonelli’s Eagle in size, shape and wholly dark tail (rather than pale tail with dark terminal band).

Aquila pennata 47cm, wingspan 110–135cm

Where to see Common in summer and occasionally winter; resident in the Balearics. Frequents most of Spain,

particularly south-west. Common in the Pyrenees and, particularly, the Strait of Gibraltar on migration. Inhabits extensive deciduous woodland, typically on slopes and with clearings.

Bonelli’s Eagle

Aquila fasciata 60cm, wingspan 145–165cm

Eagles, harriers and buzzard

Larger and longer-tailed than Common Buzzard and Booted Eagle. Wings also bulge more than Booted. Adult has a diagnostic white saddle; grey tail with broad, dark terminal band; and dark underwing contrasting with white belly. Largely pale plumage and smaller size distinguish it from Golden Eagle. Short-toed Snake Eagle differs in having bulging, broad wings; multiple bars on tail; and (typically) a dark chest bib. Where to see Resident; scarce and sparsely distributed, favouring rocky country. Most frequent along the Mediterranean coast and in Extremadura.

Osprey

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Pandion haliaetus 56cm, wingspan 155–175cm Large raptor, between Common Buzzard and Golden Eagle in size, but with longer, slimmer and more angled wings than those species. Flight almost gull-like, with steady wingbeats and regular glides. Strikingly twotoned plumage is distinctive: chocolate-brown upperparts and largely white underparts, with diagnostic broad, dark eye-mask standing out on white head. Enters water feet first to catch fish. Where to see Rare breeder in the Balearics and reintroduced to Andalucía. Scarce winterer in Andalucía and along the Mediterranean coast. Uncommon passage migrant across much of mainland. Favours fish-rich rivers, waterbodies, estuaries and coasts.

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Common Kestrel

Falco tinnunculus 34cm, wingspan 65–80cm

Falcons

Falcons have long, slender wings and generally long tails. This is the benchmark falcon (see other species for differences). Frequently seen hovering before dropping to the ground like a stone to catch a small mammal. Also soars well, when it may prompt confusion with Eurasian Sparrowhawk, which has more rounded wings. Perched upright on a post, looks front-heavy, tapering towards tail-tip. Male has a bluegrey head and brick-coloured mantle; female has a pale brown head with a heavily barred copper back. Where to see Spain’s most common and widespread falcon, abundant in most open habitats, from urban areas to

♀

♂ mountains. Largely resident, although numbers are boosted by winter arrivals.

Lesser Kestrel

Falco naumanni 30cm, wingspan 63–72cm

Where to see Locally common summer visitor to much of central and southern Spain; some winter. Often breeds colonially in villages and towns.

♀

Falcons

Smaller, slimmer and more elegant than Common Kestrel, seemingly with quicker, lighter wingbeats. Male Lesser differs from male Common in having a bluer head (lacking black moustache), unspotted chestnut back, blue-grey band across inner upperwing and almost white underwing. Female very similar to female Common, but has finer black barring on wings and back, and possibly looks gentler thanks to paler cheek and lack of dark smudge behind eye. However, reliably distinguished only in very close views, when pale claws of Lesser (not black like Common Kestrel) may be visible. Hunts (often hovering) over open areas.

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♂

♂

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Merlin

Falco columbarius 30cm, wingspan 55–67cm

Falcons ♀

♂1st-win. Spain’s smallest falcon. Compact and agile, with short, sharply pointed wings. Typically dashing flight, close to ground. Female dark brown (much duller and darker than female Common Kestrel), with concolorous head and upperparts, and thickly striped underparts. Male upperparts blue-grey (compared to chestnut in male Common Kestrel) and

Eurasian Hobby

underparts suffused orange. Both sexes lack prominent dark facial mask of other falcons such as Eurasian Hobby, which, being a summer visitor, is only likely to overlap in April and September. Where to see Uncommon but widespread in winter. Favours open lowlands, such as grasslands and wetlands.

Falco subbuteo 32cm, wingspan 70–85cm

Slightly smaller than Common Kestrel but with markedly longer, more pointed wings and a long tail. Adult differs from Common Kestrel in prominent dark eye-mask contrasting with white neck, black-striped underparts, grey upperparts and rufous thighs. Juvenile similar but with dark brown-grey upperparts and buff thighs.

Differs from Peregrine Falcon in smaller size, thinner wings, slimmer tail base, striped underparts and coloured thighs. Where to see Widespread summer visitor throughout north, very local in south. Prefers open areas near wetlands and deciduous woodland, where it hunts aerial insects.

Eleonora’s Falcon

Falco eleonorae 40cm, wingspan 90–105cm

Falcons

Agile hunter, targeting aerial insects and migrating birds. Typically glides on flat wings, with forceful beats of long wings and searing bursts of speed. Roughly the size of Peregrine Falcon, but wings and tail longer, and body much slimmer. Shape closer to very large Eurasian Hobby, but with even longer, broader wings and tail, and dark underwing (whitish and finely barred in Eurasian Hobby). Plumage variable: has pale, intermediate and dark morphs. Where to see Summer visitor, nesting in isolated colonies in the Balearics. Seen on the mainland in early summer, especially in pine woodland on the Mediterranean coast, and on migration.

dark morph.

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pale morph.

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Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus 45cm, wingspan 90–115cm

Falcons

Large, powerful falcon. Thick-necked, short-tailed and typically deep-chested, with broad-based wings narrowing rapidly to a pointed tip. Much stockier than any other Spanish falcon, and easily differentiated by shape. Plumage clean and striking, with blue-grey upperparts (browner in immature), finely barred white underparts (streaked in immature) and a clear-cut dark eye-mask on white face. Rests for long periods before taking to the air in fast, direct chase with whippy wingbeats, often stooping to seize its victim. Where to see Breeds widely across Spain, but unevenly distributed; most frequent in the east. Favours rocky or mountainous areas, including coasts. Largely a winter visitor in the south-west. Additional birds from northern Europe winter in Spain, often in grasslands and wetlands.

Water Rail

Rallus aquaticus 25cm

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Rails, crakes and gallinules

Rails, crakes and gallinules are small to medium-sized birds that creep shyly through dense waterside vegetation. Typically Water Rail is more often heard than seen: the piglet-like squeals can be rather alarming for the uninitiated. Slightly smaller than Common Moorhen, and distinctly pear-shaped, although larger than Spotted Crake. Most eyecatching feature is also diagnostic: a long, decurved red bill (short in all other members of the family). Where to see Fairly common and widespread resident in lowland wetlands, marshes and other vegetated waterways. More numerous in winter.

Spotted Crake

Porzana porzana 21cm

Reclusive, with hunched movements. Smaller and dumpier than Water Rail, with short bill that is never red like that species. Water Rail is brighter toned both above (warm brown) and below (unmarked bluish-grey); Spotted Crake is essentially dingy grey-brown, with white spotting on the breast and neck, and

more extensive black feathering on back and wings. Breeding birds sing after dark: a far-carrying whiplash-like whit. Where to see Fairly frequent on passage, particularly along the Mediterranean coast. Some winter. Rare breeder. Favours densely vegetated wetlands.

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Common Moorhen

Gallinula chloropus 35cm, wingspan 60cm

Rails, crakes and gallinules

Plump, with a small head and long legs. Bobs head when swimming; scuttles off if disturbed. Adult can be confused only with Eurasian Coot; unique features are red-and-yellow bill, large white patch under tail and white stripe along sides. Being brown, juvenile could be confused with juvenile Water Rail, but differs

in shape, short (rather than long) bill, greener legs, and indistinct white side stripe rather than striking black and white barring on flanks. Where to see Very common resident on waterbodies throughout, except in mountains and arid regions; more numerous in winter.

imm.

Purple Swamphen

Porphyrio porphyrio 48cm, wingspan 95cm merging into a frontal shield on the forehead and crown, and long, thick pink legs. Adult’s plumage, uniquely, is iridescent purplish-blue with a contrasting white undertail. Distant birds could conceivably be mistaken for Common Moorhen, but latter much slighter, and has yellowish (not red) legs and a white side stripe. Moves sedately yet imposingly, taking long, slow strides through vegetation, tail cocked.

Size and coloration unmistakable. Much larger than Eurasian Coot and thickset, with a stocky neck, massive red bill

Where to see Resident in well-vegetated lakes, scattered across south-central, southern and eastern Spain, plus the Balearics.

Eurasian Coot

Fulica atra 39cm, wingspan 75cm

Red-knobbed Coot

Rails, crakes and gallinules

Slightly larger than Common Moorhen, bulkier and longer-winged in flight, with wholly black plumage (i.e. lacking white on sides or undertail). White bill and frontal shield are ivory-white (red and yellow in Common Moorhen). Staring red eye lends an irate look – and members of a group squabble perpetually. For differences from Red-knobbed Coot, see that species. Gawky on land, walking awkwardly on peapod-like lobed toes. Runs across water to take off.

Where to see Common, widespread resident in wetlands, except in mountains; more numerous in winter.

Fulica cristata 39cm, wingspan 80cm

br.

Formerly known as Crested Coot. Very similar to Eurasian Coot and differs from Common Moorhen in the same ways. Distinguished from Eurasian Coot by longer body, pointier rear end, blue tinge to blunter bill and unique red ‘knobs’ on forehead. In spring, the protrusions are swollen and vividly crimson; otherwise,

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they are small so may be hard to discern. In flight, Red-knobbed also differs in its solidly black wings, which lack Eurasian’s white trailing edge. Where to see Rare resident of wellvegetated wetlands in Andalucía and Comunidad Valenciana.

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Common Crane

Grus grus 95–120cm, wingspan 180–220cm

Crane

Tall, imposing, stately bird; long-legged, slim-necked and small-headed. Immense in flight. Size and mainly grey plumage suggest Grey Heron, but taller and more slender, with adult’s white blaze standing out on black head and neck. In flight, extends long neck (unlike herons and egrets); wings held straighter to form a rectangle, with much stiffer, more methodical, stork-like wingbeats. Congregations provide one of Europe’s most exciting avian spectacles – and soundscapes, given that the species is very vocal, its call an evocative, rippling oboe-like krrooo. Where to see Locally common in winter (notably in Extremadura) and on passage, when its north-east to south-west trajectory includes a traditional stopover at Gallocanta Lake (Aragón).

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Little Bustard

Tetrax tetrax 43cm, wingspan 83–90cm

♂

Bustards

Near Threatened. Body size (i.e. without tail) roughly that of Common Pheasant, and mottled brown females potentially confusable with that species, particularly if bird crouches semi-concealed in vegetation. However, lacks Common Pheasant’s long tail, and has longer legs, a large head and a long, thick neck. During mating period, adult males display striking black-and-white neck ruff. In display, male throws back head and utters ‘farting’ call, occasionally jumping in air. Unmistakable in flight, with rapid duck-like beats of broad wings and bright white outer wing etched black. For differences from Great Bustard, see that species.

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♀ Where to see Resident, uncommon and declining on pseudo-steppe grasslands, notably in Extremadura; forms flocks in winter.

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Great Bustard

Otis tarda 75–105cm, wingspan 170–240cm

Bustards

Vulnerable. Huge: males are Europe’s heaviest bird. Strongly built, with a thick neck, deep chest, sturdy legs and long wings. Dwarfs Little Bustard (sole confusion species). Great’s neck is plain grey, not mottled brown (female Little) or extensively black (male Little). Flies majestically with deep, elastic and unhurried wingbeats, very different from Little’s rapid, duck-like flapping. When airborne, both bustards have extensively white wings (which, in Great’s case, prevent conceivable confusion with eagles or Common Crane). However, Great has partly pale wing-tips (dark in Little) and a broad dark border to rear wing (black dots in Little).

♂

♂ Where to see Fairly common but declining resident of arid grassy and cultivated plains in central and southern Spain. Gregarious in winter.

Black-winged Stilt

Himantopus himantopus 35cm

Where to see Widespread and locally common in freshwater wetlands and salt

♀

Waders

Unmistakable, elegant, slender shorebird, with unfeasibly long strawberry-pink legs immediately revealing its identity. Wholly black upperwing and longish, needle-fine black bill additionally differentiate it from other large, black-and-white waders (Pied Avocet and Eurasian Oystercatcher). In flight, recalls a giant Green Sandpiper, but all-white tail and extravagantly long, bright legs avoid confusion. Juvenile/firstwinter – with dull yellow-orange legs and brown upperparts – might be confusable with other shorebirds (e.g. Common Greenshank), but length of the legs should resolve matters!

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pans, particularly in western Andalucía, Mediterranean coast and Extremaduran rice fields. Mainly a summer visitor, but also winters in the south-west.

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Pied Avocet

Recurvirostra avosetta 44cm

Waders

Large, easily recognised wader: piebald plumage and long, thin, upturned bill are unique. Black-winged Stilt has wholly black upperwing, and Eurasian Oystercatcher has all-black head and neck, plus an orange bill and pink legs. Also differs from both in its unique feeding action, swishing bill from side to side in water. At distance, possibly confusable with Common Shelduck: look for long, protruding bill and legs, and wholly white rear wing (except black wingtips). Where to see Scarce breeder, particularly in Andalucía and along Mediterranean coast. Winters mainly in south-west. Frequents shallow wetlands, muddy bays, lagoons and marshes.

Eurasian Oystercatcher

Haematopus ostralegus 42cm range: all-black head distinguishes it from both Black-winged Stilt and Pied Avocet (and has more extensively black upperparts than latter). In flight, reveals a distinctive broad white wing-stripe and white ‘V’ extending from uppertail to back – an eye-catching pattern that only Black-tailed Godwit approaches. Very vocal, often grabbing attention with loud, strident piping.

Near Threatened. Large, stocky. Blackand-white plumage and long orange bill enable identification even at long

Where to see Passage and winter visitor to coastal habitats, local breeder in north and east.

Eurasian Stone-curlew

Burhinus oedicnemus 42cm

Collared Pratincole

Waders

An unusual wader that shuns water, inhabiting arid terrain with short or sparse vegetation. Camouflaged and reclusive. Gawky, shaped like a long-winged, long-legged plover. At a distance, it looks white-faced, with a pale base to thick bill, features that quickly differentiate it from European Golden Plover. In close views, look for long white band on folded wing and black tip to bill. In flight, uniquely patterned, markedly long wings appearing largely black against brown body, with striking white flashes.

Where to see Common breeding species or resident in pseudo-steppes and the Balearics, forming flocks in winter.

Glareola pratincola 25cm

Typically stands alert or hawks elegantly for insects like a tern (from which differs by brown wings and black tail). On the ground, somewhere between Little Ringed Plover and European Golden Plover in shape, but with an attenuated rear end due to long wings and tail.

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Diagnostic features are buff throat-patch outlined in black and red base to short bill. Where to see Locally common summer visitor to east coast, Castilla–La Mancha and south-west.

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European Golden Plover

Pluvialis apricaria 27cm

Waders

Often occurs with Northern Lapwing. Medium-sized wader, much larger and more thickset than Common Ringed Plover but with a similar run–stop–pivot feeding action. In wavering flight, flocks shimmer gold and white, often calling (an evocative, mournful whistle). On the ground, spangled upperparts create an overall yellow-brown effect. In adults retaining or developing breeding plumage, face and most of underparts are variably black. See Grey Plover for differences. Where to see Locally common and widespread in winter, favouring agricultural plains and short grassland, but also estuaries, particularly in southwest and the Balearics.

non-br.

juv.

Grey Plover

Pluvialis squatarola 28cm

Northern Lapwing

Waders

Although only marginally larger than European Golden Plover, appears stockier and heavierbilled. Typically feeds alone; never in large flocks like European Golden. As Grey’s name suggests, spangled upperparts give a silvery impression (European Golden: yellowish). In breeding plumage, non-br. face and underparts are strikingly black and white. In flight, look for diagnostic black ‘armpits’ (wholly white underwing on European Golden). Call: melancholy, drawn-out tee-ooo-eee.

Where to see Coastal migrant and winter visitor (particularly to the Atlantic coast and Cataluña), favouring coasts, i.e. estuaries, rocky coasts and saltmarshes.

Vanellus vanellus 30cm

Near Threatened. Gregarious, stocky, unmistakable plover. Bottle-green upperparts (can appear black), largely black breast and pied head with a long, wispy crest. Typical plover feeding action (run–stop–pivot). Distinctive rolling or buoyant flight on rounded wings, which are all dark above (contrasting with white

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band on tail) and boldly bicoloured below. Calls include a distinctive wheezy peee-wit. Where to see Scarce breeder, mainly on plains, and in Doñana and Castilla y León. Common and widespread in winter, on dry and wet terrain.

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Little Ringed Plover

Charadrius dubius 17cm

Waders juv.

Typical plover feeding action. Small wader with front-heavy shape, and long tapering rear end. Plain-backed with prominent markings on head and breast. Differs from similar Common Ringed Plover by plain upperwing lacking a wing-bar. Adult also differs in yellow eye-ring, straw legs (not orange) and black (not bicoloured) bill. Juveniles are

Common Ringed Plover

trickier; Little has a darker head with indistinct (at best) stripe behind eye. Bisyllabic, whistling calls differ: Little Ringed is downward-inflected, whereas Common Ringed is upward-inflected. See also Kentish Plover. Where to see Rare breeder. Widespread on passage. Small numbers winter.

Charadrius hiaticula 18cm

♂ Very similar to Little Ringed Plover (for differences, see that species). Distinguished from Kentish Plover by bolder dark markings on head and breast (black in adult, brown in juvenile), particularly complete breastband. Upperparts also markedly darker (Kentish appears pale). Adult has bright orange legs, and juvenile yellow (those of Kentish are dark, but can appear

1st-win.

paler when muddy). Call is an upwardinflected too-ee, whereas Little Ringed is the opposite: a downward-inflected tee-ooo. Where to see Fairly common winter visitor to Atlantic and, to a lesser extent, Mediterranean coasts. Frequents shorelines, wetlands and estuaries. Rare inland.

Kentish Plover

Charadrius alexandrinus 16cm

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Waders

♀

♂ Only slightly smaller than Common Ringed Plover but looks weedier; see latter for other differences. Less elongated than Little Ringed Plover, but looks similarly delicate. Adult male has more white and less black on head than adult male Little Ringed, and an attractive chestnut cap. Female and juvenile similar to juvenile Little Ringed; look for paler

Eurasian Dotterel

upperparts, paler patch on breast-sides, white wing-stripe in flight and lack of pale eye-ring. Call surprisingly different from both Common Ringed and Little Ringed: an abrupt, monosyllabic pwitt. Where to see Widespread, particularly on sandy coasts and saltpans. More common on passage.

Charadrius morinellus 22cm

♀ Size between Common Ringed Plover and European Golden Plover; shape nearer latter. Differs from all plovers in broad, whitish supercilium (stripe above eye) that meets in a ‘V’ on nape, contrasting with blackish cap. Spring birds attractive, with chestnut lower breast and belly (female brighter), white breast stripe and bluishgrey neck and upperparts. Juvenile and

juv.

non-breeding plumage buff-brown, with variegated effect on back and wings. In flight, long, slender wings look all dark above, lacking pale wing-bar of European Golden Plover. Where to see Scarce and local passage migrant, particularly in dry habitats of the north-east. Rare winterer.

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Whimbrel

Numenius phaeopus 41cm

Waders Large wader, size between Black-tailed Godwit and Eurasian Curlew. Like the latter, differs from other large shorebirds by strongly downcurved bill. Compared

Eurasian Curlew

to Eurasian Curlew, bill is shorter and more sharply decurved. Whereas Eurasian Curlew is plain-faced, Whimbrel has contrasting face pattern with dark eyestripe and crown divided by pale band over eye and central crown-stripe. In flight, similar to Eurasian Curlew and Bar-tailed Godwit, with wholly dark upperwing incised by triangular white rump. Call distinctive: seven rapid whistles strung together as a trill. Where to see Common migrant along coasts; occasionally winters.

Numenius arquata 53cm

Near Threatened. Spain’s largest wader. Very long, downcurved bill distinguishes it from all waders except Whimbrel (for differences, see that species). In flight, like Whimbrel, could be confused with Bar-tailed Godwit, showing similarly plain brown wings and a white ‘V’ on rump and lower back: focus on bill shape

to differentiate. Various calls, notably a loud, clear cur-leei, from which the species derives its name. Where to see Common winter visitor and passage migrant, particularly along coasts. Frequents mudflats, bays, estuaries and marshy grassland.

Black-tailed Godwit

Limosa limosa 40cm

Waders

Near Threatened. Large wader, size between Common Greenshank and Eurasian Curlew. Size, black legs and very long, almost straight bill eliminate almost all other waders. Spotted Redshank is easily excluded on leg colour (red). Eurasian Curlew and Whimbrel have strongly downcurved bills; Common Greenshank’s is gently upcurved. In flight, striking white wingbar recalls Eurasian Oystercatcher, but has a square white rump (not extensive ‘V’). At rest, similar to Bar-tailed Godwit but larger with a straighter bill. In flight, however, striking dark-and-white wing pattern differs from Bar-tailed’s solid brown wings. Where to see Common in winter and on passage, particularly on Atlantic coasts and in major wetlands. Equally at home on coast or inland; and on shallow estuaries, freshwater marshes or lagoons.

sum.

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Bar-tailed Godwit

Limosa lapponica 37cm

Waders

Near Threatened. Smaller than Blacktailed Godwit, but larger than Common Greenshank. Differs from Black-tailed Godwit by shorter, slightly (but distinctly) upturned bill, shorter leg above joint, and (in flight) plain brown upperwing with white ‘V’ on rump. Winter adult and juvenile plumages are both streaky on back and wings (chequered in juvenile Black-tailed, plain in adult). Breedingplumage Bar-tailed has more extensive solid brick-red underparts, lacking Blacktailed’s barred belly. In flight, similar to Whimbrel and Eurasian Curlew, but bill shape very different. Upcurved bill similar to Common Greenshank, but plumage much paler (looks white and grey, never brown or reddish). Where to see Common passage migrant in spring and autumn, particularly along Atlantic side of country. Coastal in winter, favouring estuaries, beaches and bays.

sum.

win.

juv.

Ruddy Turnstone

Arenaria interpres 23cm

win.

chestnut upperparts and a white-andblack head. Stripy in flight, with wingbars and three white lines along back. Vocal, mainly when disturbed, uttering urgent, guttural calls and chattering trills. Where to see Winters on Atlantic coasts, especially in the north-west and near Cádiz, but more widespread on passage. Favours rocky shores and beaches with ample seaweed.

Waders

Busy but inconspicuous (rather camouflaged) wader, flipping stones and searching detritus for concealed invertebrates. Stocky and stumpylegged, with a short neck and small head. No other shorebird possesses the combination of orange legs, white undertail and belly, black breast, and short, sharply pointed, triangular bill. Dingy grey-brown in winter plumage but summer adult colourful, with largely

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Red Knot

Calidris canutus 25cm

Waders win.

Near Threatened. Attractive breeding plumage boasts spangly black-andgold back contrasting with brick-red face and underparts. In non-breeding plumage, however, grey and distinctively nondescript. This wader is medium-sized (although rather tubby) with a moderately long bill and legs, and lacks striking plumage features. Larger than Dunlin, with a thicker bill and greenish legs.

Sanderling

Smaller and shorter-billed than similarly grey Common Greenshank and winterplumaged Spotted Redshank. Underparts never clean white as in Sanderling. In flight, lacks pale wing-stripe of Sanderling and Dunlin. Where to see Uncommon winter visitor and passage migrant, favouring coasts.

Calidris alba 20cm

win.

Dunlin-sized wader, but less fullchested and bill shorter. Winterplumaged adult is gleaming white on head and underparts (thus much cleaner-looking than Red Knot), with pale grey upperparts. Juvenile has wholly unmarked underparts (Dunlin has streaking on breast). In flight, has a mostly grey rump and tail (Dunlin’s

rump is white with a dark central line). Distinctive foraging behaviour, sprinting beside waves parallel to tideline, rather than Dunlin’s standing and probing. Where to see Common winter visitor and migrant along sandy and shingly tidelines of Atlantic coast, rarely on Mediterranean side.

Dunlin

Calidris alpina 19cm

sum.

Waders

Often in flocks of thousands. Frequents estuaries, rocky coasts and marshes. Small numbers inland. Starling-sized, grey-brown and common, Dunlin is the benchmark for identifying small waders. Smaller than Red Knot but larger than Little Stint, with a longer bill than both. Smaller than Curlew Sandpiper, with a shorter, straighter bill and a black line down rump (rather than a wholly white rump). Summer adult and juvenile have more heavily marked underparts than similar waders: black belly in former, streaked breast in latter. See Sanderling and Little Stint for differences from those species. Regularly calls in flight: a scratchy preeee.

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juv.

Where to see Very common winterer and passage migrant, particularly along Atlantic coasts. Scattered pockets on the Mediterranean coast (notably Cataluña); sometimes inland.

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Little Stint

Calidris minuta 14cm

Waders juv.

sum.

Dainty, compact, active. Even smaller than Dunlin (House Sparrow-sized), with a shorter, straight (not downcurved) bill about length of head (Dunlin’s is longer). Size differentiates it from the larger Sanderling, as do its habits (latter typically sprints along tideline). Temminck’s Stint is as tiny as Little, but has pale legs (not black) and plainer

Temminck’s Stint

upperparts, and shuffles unobtrusively rather than runs. Juvenile Little also shows white stripes on sides of predominantly chestnut back. Where to see Common on passage, uncommon in winter, both inland and on coasts, particularly in south and east.

Calidris temminckii 14cm

sum.

Size of Little Stint but with attenuated rear end as if being tugged backwards. Unobtrusive, with creeping, mouselike movements. Typically solitary or in very small groups; never flocks. Brown plumage very different to Little Stint, and differs further, critically, in yellow (rather than black) legs. Brown plumage rather recalls larger Common Sandpiper, but

sum.

behaviour different to that species (e.g. never bobs up and down). In flight, looks tiny, dark-winged with extensively white tail catching the eye. Where to see Scarce passage migrant in spring and autumn, favouring muddy inland waterbodies or saltpans.

Ruff

Calidris pugnax 22–32cm

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Waders

Variable, confusing wader. Male much larger than female; sometimes bigger than Common Redshank but always lankier, shorter-billed and more elegant. Larger and slimmer than Red Knot, with longer neck and legs. Female typically brown with yellow-orange legs. Non-breeding male plumage varies from whitish to dusky-brown. Juvenile has diagnostic unmarked apricot-buff underparts. Flies languorously on long wings, revealing diagnostic white ovals on rump sides. Where to see Common, widespread passage migrant (particularly in spring) to coast and inland, including in the Balearics. Scarce winter visitor, mainly in Doñana (Andalucía). Frequents wet grasslands, freshwater marshes and muddy lagoons.

♂win.

juv.

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Curlew Sandpiper

Calidris ferruginea 21cm

Waders win.

sum.

Near Threatened. Long decurved (curlewlike) bill rules out Ruff, Red Knot and Sanderling. Most confusable with Dunlin, but is larger, slimmer and longer-legged, with a longer, more sharply decurved bill. Juvenile has a striking head pattern, with a broad white stripe above the eye (supercilium) contrasting with dark crown and eye-stripe. Breeding-plumaged adult

Purple Sandpiper

distinctive with Red Knot-like brick-red head and underparts. In any plumage, flying bird differs further because it reveals an eye-catching, unblemished white rump (Dunlin’s is split by a central black line). Where to see Common on passage, particularly in autumn, at inland and coastal waterbodies.

Calidris maritima 20cm

A dark, dumpy wader. Generally keeps to its own or perhaps consorts with Ruddy Turnstone; never joins estuary flocks. Most likely to be confused with Dunlin, which is similar in size and shape, but immediately differs by orangey legs and orangey bill base (both black in Dunlin). Plumage also an attractive purplish-grey, highlighting a clear white win. eye-ring that gives the bird a benign expression. Leg, bill and overall plumage colour distinguish this species from all other Spanish shorebirds.

Where to see Scarce winterer along the north Atlantic coast, almost exclusively frequenting rocky shores.

Eurasian Woodcock

Scolopax rusticola 36cm

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Waders

Essentially nocturnal, typically seen when flushed. Breeding males have a flickering display flight (roding) at treetop level, alternately croaking and uttering a sharp, teeth-sucking tsiwick. Hard to spot: cryptic brown-and-buff plumage blends in with leaf litter. Larger and stockier than Common Snipe, with a comparatively shorter, thicker bill. Lacks Common

Jack Snipe

Snipe’s pale tramlines on back. Face less stripey, with black bands across crown, and has consistently barred (not partly striped) underparts. Where to see Scarce breeder in old-growth forests of the north. Widespread and common in winter, particularly in north, favouring woodland or nearby damp fields.

Lymnocryptes minimus 18cm

By day, usually first seen when flushed, often at point-blank range, typically flying only a short distance before returning to cover. When feeding, bobs like a clockwork toy. Essentially a pintsized version of Common Snipe, with a comparatively shorter bill, darker head with more contrasting face pattern, and long buff stripes contrasting with dark

back. In flight, looks more compact than Common Snipe, with a fainter whitish trailing edge to darker wings. Where to see Uncommon winterer and passage migrant across much of Spain, favouring densely vegetated inland wetlands.

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Common Snipe

Gallinago gallinago 26cm

Waders

Typically hides in dense cover or feeds inconspicuously with intent, sewing-machine-like probing. Size of Common Redshank but fatter, with short legs and very long bill. Heavily striped head and back are distinctive. Camouflaged plumage comprises stripes, bars and crescents. Flies off urgently when nervous, typically uttering a harsh kartch, and powers away into distance, zigzagging and towering. Much larger and longer billed than the scarcer Jack Snipe (see that species for other differences). See Eurasian Woodcock for differences.

Common Sandpiper

Where to see Common and widespread on passage and in winter, frequenting well-vegetated wetlands.

Actitis hypoleucos 20cm

Dunlin-sized, with nondescript sandy brownand-white plumage. Behaviour, however, is distinctive. Moves with a nervous, straining gait, bobbing its elongated rear body constantly like a wagtail. Feeds with darting motions. Upperparts paler brown than Green Sandpiper and plainer than the spangled Wood Sandpiper. On ground, differs from both in white ‘hook’ on breast-sides. No chance of confusion in often-flickering flight, when it shows a white wing-bar, dark rump and central tail. Distinctive loud, ringing calls,

particularly in flight: swee-wee-wee. Where to see Common passage migrant. Scarce breeder on rivers, particularly in northern mountains.

Spotted Redshank

Tringa erythropus 31cm

Where to see Common migrant throughout Spain, particularly along coasts. Small numbers winter in major wetlands.

moulting into sum.

Waders

Generally feeds alone in deepish water. Larger than Common Redshank, with grey (non-breeding/juvenile) or black (breeding) plumage rather than brown, and in winter a prominent white line over eye (Common has a relatively plain face). In flight, appears all dark with an isolated white oval on rump; lacks Common’s white triangle on rear wing. Long red legs and reddish bill-base rule out all other waders. If leg colour not seen, confusable with Common Greenshank, but differs by white line over eye, dark tail (not largely white) and straight bill (rather than upturned). Emphatic disyllabic call: chiu-uit.

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win.

win.

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Green Sandpiper

Tringa ochropus 22cm

Waders

Similar to Common Sandpiper, but larger, tubbier and less elongated, with slower movements and only occasional bobbing. Looks black and white (more contrasting than Common), particularly in flight (when can recall a giant Common House Martin!) as both upper- and underwing are wholly dark, and square rump is white (Common Sandpiper has noticeably white wing-stripe and dark rump). If disturbed, often flies high and far, uttering a high-pitched klu-wi-wi. See Wood Sandpiper for differences.

Common Greenshank

Where to see Widespread and common on freshwater wetlands in winter and on passage.

Tringa nebularia 32cm

Tall, long, elegant wader with greyish plumage, usually foraging alone, typically wading leggily through deep water. Bigger and greyer than the distinctly brown Common Redshank, with pale yellow-green (not bright red) legs and uniformly dark wings (lacking broad white triangle). Leg colour, slightly upcurved rather than straight bill (with no red) and prominent black eye (without white stripe above) differentiate it from similar-sized Spotted Redshank. Call is a loud, ringing, unhurried diu-diu-diu.

Where to see Widespread and common on passage. Locally common along coasts in winter.

Wood Sandpiper

Tringa glareola 20cm

Common Redshank

Waders

Smaller than Common Redshank, with yellow (not red) legs. Legs and neck longer than Common Sandpiper, appearing more elegant. Readily wades. Differs from both Common and Green Sandpipers by spangled back and white stripe above eye. In flight, all-dark upperwing and white rump distinguish it from Common, and both upper- and underwing clearly paler than Green, so looks much less contrasting. Flight call is a trisyllabic kif-kif-kif.

Where to see Common on passage in south, along the east coast and in the Balearics. Rare winterer in south-west. Frequents freshwater wetlands, typically foraging alone.

Tringa totanus 26cm

sum.

Alert, active, boisterous wader: often bobs head and flees noisily when wary (uttering a loud, nervy diu-u-u). Although usually feeds alone, loose groups are commonplace. Bright red legs mean confusion is possible only with Spotted Redshank (see for differences), although yellower-legged birds might occasionally be mistaken for Common Greenshank

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(see for differences). A benchmark medium-sized wader, familiarity with it facilitates size comparisons with other waders, aiding identification. Where to see Local breeder in major wetlands. Common winter and passage visitor to coasts, favouring estuaries, marshes and damp grasslands.

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Great Skua

Stercorarius skua 54cm, wingspan 130cm

Skua/Terns

A large, muscular seabird, flying with heavy beats of deep-based, angular wings. Dark brown plumage may prompt thoughts of a young European Herring Gull or Lesser Black-backed Gull, but – in flight – striking white wing flashes dispel any such notion. A pirate, feeding by pursuing other seabirds (even the larger Northern Gannet) then forcing them to relinquish their catch. Where to see Frequent passage and winter visitor to Atlantic and, to a lesser extent, Mediterranean coasts. Best seen from headlands during onshore winds.

Little Tern

Sternula albifrons 23cm, wingspan 44cm Terns are smaller and slimmer than gulls, with thin, pointed bills and sharply angled wings. Little Tern is a tiny tern that flies rapidly, emphatically beating its angular wings. Hovers rapidly then plummets vertically, smashing through the water surface. Size and shape distinguish it from other terns, but, at close range, also look for two unique features: discrete white forehead, surrounded by a black cap, and blacktipped yellow bill. Where to see Summer visitor, breeding along sandy Mediterranean and Andalusian coasts, but also inland, particularly in Extremadura. Common on passage along all coasts.

Gull-billed Tern

Gelochelidon nilotica 40cm, wingspan 81cm

Terns

Resembles Sandwich Tern, but shorter wings, thicker neck, rounded head and shorter bill produce a different flight impression. All-black bill lacks Sandwich’s yellow tip; rump and tail are pale grey (white in Sandwich). Feeding behaviour differs: never plunges into water (like Sandwich), but hawks or swoops over water or land. In nonbreeding plumage has a broad, variably dark eye-mask (rather like Mediterranean Gull), with no crest. Where to see Uncommon summer visitor, breeding on fringes of wetlands and hawking insects over open countryside. Patchily distributed, both inland and on the coast.

Caspian Tern

Hydroprogne caspia 52cm, wingspan 105cm

1st-win.

The world’s largest tern, only marginally smaller than Lesser Black-backed Gull – and noticeably hefty: a real brute of a bird. Long, thick neck and long, deep bill combine with long, angular wings and short tail to create a distinctive silhouette. Bulk, shaggy black crest and vivid scarlet bill render Caspian Tern easily distinguished

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br.

from similar-coloured but much smaller and more elegant Common Tern. Where to see Scarce passage migrant, particularly along Mediterranean (but also Atlantic) coasts, occasionally inland, with a few wintering in south-west Andalucía. Favours lakes, bays and other wetlands.

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Whiskered Tern

Chlidonias hybrida 26cm, wingspan 60cm

Terns

Spain’s default ‘marsh tern’. Hunts by skimming the water rather than diving into it like most terns. Summer adult unmistakable: mainly ash-grey, with contrasting white cheeks and a neat black cap, this smart attire neatly set off by a blood-red bill. Dark underparts (in summer adult) and pale grey, barely forked tail (in all plumages) rule out Common Tern. See Black Tern for differences. Where to see Fairly common but localised summer visitor, breeding at scattered wetlands, mainly in south

Black Tern

and east. Common on passage; rare in winter. Favours shallow waterbodies with floating vegetation.

Chlidonias niger 24cm, wingspan 59cm

A ‘marsh tern’: feeds by dipping to the water surface without diving. Spring adults unmistakable, being sooty-grey above with a black head and underparts. Black lacks the white cheeks of breeding adult Whiskered and has black, rather than red, bill and legs. More similar to Whiskered in other plumages, so look for a diagnostic large blackish patch on the breast-sides – a feature also eliminating the noticeably larger Common Tern. Where to see Passage migrant, particularly common along the Mediterranean coast and in the Balearics. Favours freshwater wetlands, such as well-vegetated marshes.

Sandwich Tern

Sterna sandvicensis 40cm, wingspan 90cm

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Terns

juv.

A fairly large, angular, pale grey tern with long wings and a short tail, often flying high above water, particularly when hunting: makes a big splash when it dives. Common Tern is slighter, slimmerwinged and longer-tailed. At close range, adult Sandwich reveals a unique yellow tip to black bill and a shaggy black crest (rather than a neat cap). Juveniles are variably scalloped with black on the otherwise pale grey back and upperwing.

Vocal: a loud, grating ki-urr-ik. Fishes at sea, diving from on high with a resounding splash. Where to see Scarce, local breeder in Cataluña and Comunidad Valenciana. Widespread and common along all coasts during migration; rare in winter. Frequents shingle beaches, coastal lagoons and mudflats.

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Common Tern

Sterna hirundo 35cm, wingspan 75cm

Terns

Much larger than Little Tern (for differences, see that species) but smaller than Sandwich Tern. Adult distinctive, with a long, forked tail, neat black cap, and red bill. Juvenile has pale basal half to bill, unlike all-black bill of Sandwich. Differs subtly from the mainly coastal Arctic Tern (not illustrated), which is almost exclusively seen on migration. Call, mainly given by pairs or small groups, a rather bickering, stuttering ki-i-i-i. Where to see Fairly common summer visitor, breeding in wetlands, gravel pits and lagoons, particularly along the Mediterranean coast. More common and widespread on migration; rare in winter.

Black-legged Kittiwake

Rissa tridactyla 40cm, wingspan 93–105cm

Where to see Exclusively coastal, with a couple of breeding enclaves in Galicia. More widespread along all coasts on passage and in winter, but often stays offshore, unseen, unless blown in by storms.

1st-win.

Gulls

Vulnerable. Delicate pelagic gull, with buoyant flight even in strong wind. Adult can be confused only with adult Common Gull. Smaller and looks much neater than that species, with prominent, wholly black wing-tips (as if dipped in ink) and an unmarked yellow bill. In winter, can show dusky smudges on head – but never streaked as in Common Gull. First-winter is distinctive, with a broad black collar on hindneck, black zigzag across wing, and black tip to tail that gives it the illusion of being forked.

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Slender-billed Gull

Larus genei 40cm, wingspan 90–102cm

Gulls

Delightful, elegant gull, often seen delicately picking insects off the water surface while swimming buoyantly. Only confusion species is the abundant Black-headed Gull; although Slenderbilled is larger, it is also noticeably longer and slimmer, with a distinctive profile comprising a thinner neck, elongated head and long bill. Adult is wholly white-headed (Black-headed always has at least a dark spot behind

eye). First-winter very similar to firstwinter Black-headed; dark marks on plumage are fainter, but best identified by different shape. Audouin’s Gull is larger than Slender-billed with (in adult) a thick, mainly red bill. Where to see Scarce, localised resident of coastal wetlands (particularly saltpans) in Cataluña, Comunidad Valenciana and Andalucía.

Black-headed Gull

Larus ridibundus 37cm, wingspan 86–99cm

win.

Gulls

The default small gull. Adults have a unique chocolate-brown hood in summer, but only a small dark ear spot in winter. In flight, look for long white triangle on upperwing ‘hand’ and neat black trailing edge: only Slender-billed Gull has a similar pattern (for differences, see that species). Adult Little Gull (not illustrated; coastal migrant) is smaller, with a smoky underwing and black bill (and, in summer plumage, black hood rather than Blackheaded’s chocolate-brown). First-winter Black-headed resembles adult winter but has variable dark wing markings and a black tail-tip. See Mediterranean Gull for differences from that species.

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sum.

Where to see Scattered breeding colonies, particularly on the Mediterranean coast and occasionally at inland wetlands. Common and widespread in winter.

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Mediterranean Gull

Larus melanocephalus 39cm, wingspan 94–102cm

Gulls

Between Black-headed Gull and Common Gull in size. More robust than the former, especially in flight. Summer adult Mediterranean Gull has a unique jet-black hood with white eye crescents. In any plumage, adult is distinctive – the only gull with wholly pale grey/white wings and a red bill (Black-headed has black on wing-tip and underwing). White (not smoky) underwings, larger size and bill colour distinguish it from adult Little Gull (not illustrated; coastal migrant). In winter, at all ages, prominent, blackish ‘pirate’ eye-mask differentiates Mediterranean Gull from all other gulls. Where to see Localised breeder, particularly along the Mediterranean coast. Common on passage; numerous in winter. Favours freshwater bodies, saltmarshes, bays and sandy shores.

br.

1st-win.

Ad win.

Audouin’s Gull

Larus audouinii 48cm, wingspan 117–128cm

Gulls

Vulnerable. Once a conservation success story, now much decreased in numbers. In shape, recalls a small, attenuated and slender-winged European Herring Gull. Protracted sloping forehead culminates in a thick bill. In all plumages has grey legs, which rules out most gull species. Adult is attractive, with clean white, grey and black plumage topped off by a blood-red bill with a black subterminal band and yellow tip (like summer adult Mediterranean Gull). Younger plumages rather scruffy and best identified on shape (long, droop-tipped bill and long wings) and leg colour. Where to see Resident along the Mediterranean coast, including the Balearics. Breeds on islands, in saltpans and in harbours.

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2nd-win.

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Common Gull

Larus canus 43cm, wingspan 100–115cm

Gulls

The largest of the small gulls, with very distinct plumage. Adult could be confused with Black-legged Kittiwake, but is larger and has white spots in more extensive black wing-tips. Otherwise, likely to be confused only with larger, stockier, thick-billed European Herring Gull, but adult is darker grey above, lacks European Herring’s red spot on bill and has yellowish legs (rather than pink). First-winter similar to second-winter European Herring, but has a broad black tail-band and extensive black triangle at wing-tip.

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Where to see Rare winter visitor to coasts, mainly in north, with numbers larger in harsh winters.

Larus fuscus 52–58cm, wingspan 117–134cm

Usually slightly smaller than European Herring Gull, and slimmer with more attenuated rear end, due to comparatively longer wings. Most adults have a coalgrey back and wings – darker than in adult European Herring or Yellow-legged Gull, but paler than in adult Great Blackbacked Gull. Adult also differs from the latter by much smaller size and yellow legs. Leg colour also distinguishes it from

European Herring (but, self-evidently, not Yellow-legged!). First-winter has a more coarsely marked back and wing, blacker bill and, typically, whiter head than European Herring of same age. Where to see Very common in winter and on passage, along coasts and inland (e.g. Madrid, Extremadura). Small numbers breed along the east coast.

European Herring Gull

Larus argentatus 54–60cm, wingspan 123–148cm

Gulls

Large gull, although smaller than Great Black-backed Gull. Among large gulls, adult has the palest back and wings. Pink legs additionally differentiate it from adult Yellow-legged Gull and Lesser Black-backed Gull. First-winter variable, but generally less coarsely marked than Lesser Black-backed of same age and less white-headed than that species or Yellow-legged. Second-winter confusable with Common Gull, but much larger. For differences from other ages of Common Gull, see that species.

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1st-win.

Where to see Scarce winter visitor to northern Atlantic coast, and occasionally elsewhere. 3rd-win.

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Yellow-legged Gull

Larus michahellis 52–58cm, wingspan 120–140cm

Gulls

Adult differs from European Herring Gull in lead-grey back/wings (not pale grey) and yellow legs (not pink). Adult Lesser Black-backed Gull shares yellow legs but has darker back/wings. First-winter is most similar to Great Black-backed Gull of same age, sharing white head and stocky all-black bill, but has a bolder black tail-band. First-winter has darker wings and whiter head than first-winter

1st-win.

European Herring, and is larger and cleaner-headed than first-winter Lesser Black-backed. Where to see Locally abundant resident along coasts, particularly along north Atlantic coast, in Cataluña and in the Balearics. Disperses in winter, occurring more widely.

2nd-win.

Great Black-backed Gull

Larus marinus 61–74cm, wingspan 144–166cm

Common Guillemot

Gulls/Auks

Spain’s largest gull: hefty and brutish, with a heavy flight. As well as size, adult differs from all other gulls by blackish back and wings, uniquely lacking contrast between wing-tip and remainder of wing. Pink legs also remove confusion with Lesser Black-backed Gull. First-winter resembles first-winter European Herring Gull, but larger, boasting a massive bill, colder-toned plumage and whiter tail. With age, immatures are less confusing as they become blacker above and whiter on the head.

Where to see Scarce winter visitor (and rare breeder) on north and Mediterranean coasts; occasional on Andalusian coast.

Uria aalge 42cm, wingspan 67cm

win.

Typically seen swimming on the sea, when smaller and more compact than similarly black-and-white Blackthroated Diver, or flying past with rapid wingbeats. Cheeks and throat predominantly white in non-breeding plumage. Only real confusion species is Razorbill, which has a thicker bill, blacker upperparts and lacks Guillemot’s long, dark ‘laughing line’ stretching

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backwards from eye. Distant flying birds may be indistinguishable, but closer birds may be discernible as slimmerheaded than Razorbill, less black above, with dusky (not gleamingly white) underwings. Where to see Common in winter and on passage off north coasts, most readily seen after strong onshore winds.

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Razorbill

Alca torda 41cm, wingspan 65cm

Auks/Sandgrouse win.

sum.

As Common Guillemot, usually seen either swimming on the sea, when smaller and more compact than Blackthroated Diver, or flying past with rapid wingbeats blurring. Only real confusion species is Common Guillemot; see that species for differences.

Black-bellied Sandgrouse

Where to see Common winter visitor and passage migrant along northern coasts plus Andalucía and Cataluña. Like Common Guillemot, essentially pelagic outside breeding season, but can come close inshore, particularly after harsh weather.

Pterocles orientalis 36cm

♀ Sandgrouse are stocky, fast-flying pigeonlike birds of open grassland. They are wary, and are usually seen flying in groups over grassland, often calling. Both of Spain’s species are largely brown above, with long, sharply pointed wings that are contrastingly black and white underneath – features that eliminate confusion with pigeons or doves. Black-

♂ bellied Sandgrouse is named after its key identification feature: a solid black belly and vent (areas that are white on Pintailed Sandgrouse), easily seen in flight. Where to see Uncommon and rapidly declining resident of lowland arid plains, particularly in Cataluña, Aragón, the southern plains and Extremadura.

Pin-tailed Sandgrouse

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Sandgrouse/Pigeons

Similar in appearance to Black-bellied Sandgrouse but with a clean white belly and vent, so appears much paler underneath in flight. Both sexes have protruding tail feathers (hence ‘pin-tail’) and this feature – along with its harsh, grating call – further differentiates the species from Black-bellied. At close range, this is a beautiful bird, with an orange face and chestnut breast-band.

Pterocles alchata 30cm

♀

Where to see Resident populations are scattered across Spain, but uncommon

Rock Dove/Feral Pigeon

and decreasing. Most frequent in Aragón and Castilla-La Mancha. Habitat as for Black-bellied Sandgrouse.

Columba livia 32cm

Rock Doves are smart birds, compact and neatly plumaged, with a triangular white rump contrasting with grey wings (featuring two black wing-bars) and a

black-tipped grey tail. Feral Pigeons, in contrast, are avian ragamuffins – thicknecked and stocky, and sometimes in poor condition. They vary dramatically in plumage, exhibiting various combinations of white, grey, red or black. Where to see Feral Pigeon is abundant throughout lowland Spain, particularly in urban areas. Birds resembling pure ancestral Rock Doves (from which Feral Pigeons descend) breed on cliffs in the Balearics, and along southern and eastern coasts of the mainland.

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Stock Dove

Columba oenas 30cm

Pigeons and doves The smallest true pigeon, neatly proportioned and smartly attired. Flies with rapid, deep beats of wings that lack the broad white band that characterises Common Wood Pigeon. Iris is black rather than white (Common Wood Pigeon) or orange (Feral Pigeon), creating a rather gentle, beady-eyed impression. Also distinguished by shiny green neck collar

Common Wood Pigeon

(no white patch, as in adult Common Wood Pigeon) and short black double wing-bar. Voice distinctive: long, disyllabic cooing, repeated once a second. Where to see Fairly common resident in the north-east, with birds wintering further south and west. Absent from extreme north-west.

Columba palumbus 40cm

The largest pigeon: fat-chested, broadwinged with a waddling gait. Clatters into flight, clapping wings noisily. Size alone eliminates other pigeons, but

diagnostic plumage feature is obvious in flight: broad white bar cutting across wing. Adult also has a white iris and extensive white patch on collar – characteristics shown by no other pigeon or dove. Where to see Very common resident everywhere except high mountains. Abundant in winter, particularly on agricultural plains, and on migration through Pyrenean passes. Breeds in any wooded habitat, from lowland forests to urban gardens.

Eurasian Collared Dove

Streptopelia decaocto 31cm black-and-white neck collar (absent in juvenile). More likely to be confused with European Turtle Dove in flight, with similarly contrasting wings and white tip to tail. However, latter feature is much broader than on European Turtle. Familiar song: a trisyllabic, mournful ou-ou-whoo. Where to see Unknown in Spain before 1960; has since colonised rapidly to become very common, particularly along coasts. Favours gardens, parks and farmland.

European Turtle Dove

Streptopelia turtur 27cm

Vulnerable. The smallest dove or pigeon, and the most colourful and boldly patterned. Plumage unique, with a boldly chequered orange back and wings, largely pink head and underparts, and a neck collar comprising several black-and-white lines. In flight, looks sharper-winged than Eurasian Collared Dove, more colourful above, with a narrower white band on tail-tip. Song is a prolonged, subdued and pleasant purring. Where to see Still fairly common throughout parts of lowlands, although

declining rapidly and now scarce in many areas. Breeds in open deciduous woodland, copses, and farmland with ample hedgerows.

Pigeons and doves

Large dove, almost the size of Rock Dove/Feral Pigeon, but slimmer and longer-tailed. Plumage is distinctive at rest: unmarked, wholly buffish-grey with

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Monk Parakeet

Myiopsitta monachus 30cm

Parakeet/Cuckoos

Being mainly green distinguishes it from everything except Eurasian Golden Oriole and Iberian Green Woodpecker. Both differ by short tail, and woodpecker

has a bounding flight, unlike the parakeet, which flies rapidly and directly. Beware confusion with Rose-ringed Parakeet (not illustrated; uncommon in major urban areas). Monk has a shorter tail, grey on head and breast, a whitish (not pink) bill, and lacks male Roseringed’s pink collar. Where to see Originally from South America, this species escaped from collections and is now widespread. Locally common, it favours cities and eastern Spain.

Great Spotted Cuckoo

Clamator glandarius 37cm

Inhabits Mediterranean lowlands with scattered trees. Recognisably cuckoolike, but big, gawky and rather clumsy. Very long wings and graduated tail give it a flight shape like no other Spanish species. Plumage also distinctive. Adult unmarked whitish below (unlike Common Cuckoo, which has a grey face and breast and juv. barred belly), with blackish upperparts stippled and barred white (plain grey in Common Cuckoo). Juvenile (below) similar but browner, with a neat black cap and eye-catchingly rufous outer wing.

Where to see Fairly common summer visitor across most of Spain bar the north and extreme south.

Common Cuckoo

Cuculus canorus 34cm

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Cuckoos/Owls

Best known for male’s far-carrying song: two-toned, with the second note lower, cu-cou. In flight, recalls both pigeons and falcons, but long tail is often spread, and broad-based wings taper rapidly to a fine point. Often perches prominently, usually horizontally, with long wings drooped

Barn Owl

and tail cocked. Plumage ash-grey with a barred belly; female has a barred breast. Where to see Common summer visitor throughout Spain, although avoids arid, treeless and urbanised areas. Frequents open-country and wooded habitats.

Tyto alba 33–39cm, wingspan 80–95cm Familiar, easy-to-identify owl – appears glowing white when quartering low over fields in the darkening evening. White face, underparts and underwing remove confusion with any other owl. Warm beige upperparts, suffused grey, are also unique. Eerie vocal repertoire comprises hisses, shrieks and squeals – uttered both at rest and in flight. Where to see Common and widespread throughout lowland Spain, particularly in plains, valleys, marshes, farmland and villages in southern and central regions. Often breeds in old or rarely used farm buildings.

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Eurasian Scops Owl

Otus scops 20cm, wingspan 47–54cm

Owls

Very small owl, the size of a Common Starling. Even smaller than Little Owl (main confusion species), but has a different shape and posture – slender, standing upright – and long ear-tufts. Latter, plus dark ‘V’ on forehead (dipping down to top of bill) and fine lines on underparts, also differentiate it from Little. For differences from Tengmalm’s Owl, see that species. Voice characteristic of balmy southern nights: liquid piou, whistled every couple of seconds. Where to see Common summer visitor throughout Spain, particularly near coasts. Scarce in the north and in mountains.

Eurasian Eagle-owl

Bubo bubo 60–75cm, wingspan 138–170cm Strictly nocturnal, emerging at dusk, when male and female call to each other: a deep bou-hou. Massive owl, larger than Common Buzzard. Size alone distinguishes it from other family members: thickset, big-headed and broad-winged. If seen perched in torchlight (or roosting bird encountered by day), orange eyes and ear-tufts differentiate it from all except the much smaller Long-eared Owl. Where to see Fairly common resident throughout most of Spain, but absent from Cantabria, the north-west and intensively cultivated regions. Favours undisturbed natural areas, far from human habitation, particularly rocky cliffs.

Little Owl

Athene noctua 23–27cm, wingspan 50–57cm

Where to see Common and widespread. Favours farmland, grassland, meadows and wooded parkland. Frequently seen sitting on walls and ruined buildings.

Tawny Owl

Strix aluco 37–43cm, wingspan 81–96cm

Nocturnal; rarely encountered by day (but look out for angry tits and finches mobbing one). Best known for its voice – a quavering hoot, hou-ouuu, and a sharp kee-wik (when heard together, classically, twit tu-woo). When perched, shape is very different from elongated Barn Owl or Long-eared Owl, being dome-headed, thick-bodied and short-tailed. In flight, has a large head and broad-based wings. Plumage includes mottled browns, buff and white, but can look disconcertingly pale in car headlights. Where to see Common resident throughout most of Spain (particularly the north), inhabiting forests, parks and wooded countryside.

Owls

With Short-eared Owl, the owl most likely to be seen by day. Small and rotund although not Spain’s ‘littlest’ owl. Broadly striped underparts, white eyebrows and white-blotched upperparts are distinctive. In bounding, woodpeckerlike flight, wings and tail appear short. Confusable with Eurasian Scops Owl and Tengmalm’s Owl (for differences, see those species). Song is a rhythmic, drawn-out hoot, with various calls comprising a sharp yet mournful keeoo.

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Long-eared Owl

Asio otus 34cm, wingspan 86–98cm

Owls

Roosts in dense cover by day, hunting at night. An upright owl with long ear-tufts, unlike Tawny Owl. Eyes are vivid orange, like those of much larger Eurasian Eagleowl. In flight, appears longer-winged than Tawny, with barred buff ‘hand’ on upperwing and isolated black comma at ‘elbow’ on underwing. Differs from rarer Short-eared Owl in long ear-tufts, barred tips to underwing (not solid black) and orange eyes (not yellow). Where to see A widespread but uncommon resident, most frequent in central and southern regions, inhabiting forests, hedgerows near grasslands, and parks.

Short-eared Owl

Asio flammeus 37cm, wingspan 95–105cm

Similar to the more frequent Long-eared Owl, but larger, with solid black wingtips, short ear-tufts and plain (rather than streaked) belly. At close range, yellow eyes can be discerned (orange in Long-eared). In buoyant flight, appears longer and slimmer-winged than Tawny Owl, with clearly buff-based (not brown)

plumage. Smaller and buffier than Eurasian Eagle-owl. Where to see Scarce winter visitor across much of Spain bar the far north. Rare breeder in north-central regions. Favours damp grasslands, hunting by day.

Tengmalm’s Owl

Aegolius funereus 23cm

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Owls/Nightjars

Also known as Boreal Owl. Very small, nocturnal owl best located by song – an accelerating series of haunting whistles. Only likely to be confused with Little Owl or Eurasian Scops Owl. Marginally smaller, larger-headed and sleeker than former. Plumage differs through wide, round facial disk, bordered blackish, creating distinctively quizzical impression. Montane

European Nightjar

preferences and rarity mean Tengmalm’s unlikely to be at same location as Eurasian Scops Owl, but differs in head pattern, and lack of long ear-tufts. Where to see Rare resident, restricted to the Pyrenees of Cataluña, where it mainly inhabits coniferous forests at 1,700– 2,200m altitude.

Caprimulgus europaeus 26cm, wingspan 56cm

Nocturnal; emerges at dusk, male singing with a long-lasting vibrating churr. Size of European Turtle Dove, but slim-bodied with long wings and tail. Shape apparent when at rest – sitting horizontally – and in silhouetted flight (when it recalls a small falcon); in contrast, all owls are roundbodied with a vertical posture. Male has

conspicuous white spots on wing-tip and tail corners. For differences from Rednecked Nightjar, see that species. Where to see Uncommon summer visitor, particularly to north, favouring sandy heaths with scattered trees, particularly pines.

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Red-necked Nightjar

Caprimulgus ruficollis 32cm, wingspan 62cm

Nightjars/Swifts Nocturnal. Bigger and noticeably longertailed than European Nightjar: size and shape are best way to distinguish the two in the dark. By torchlight or in daylight, look for Red-necked’s rusty collar, and four rows of white dots on folded wing (rather than European’s single line). Most easily differentiated by voice: in contrast

Common Swift

to European’s long, vibrating churr, female Red-necked gives a hoarse, chugging call like a steam train and male’s song is a hollow, disyllabic knocking. Where to see Common summer visitor to open, particularly sandy woodlands in dry lowlands, mainly in south.

Apus apus 18cm, wingspan 42cm

Swifts resemble swallows and martins, but are larger, with long, pointed wings. They fly rapidly (as their name suggests), scything high through the sky, alternating glides with rapid wingbeats, and often in screaming groups. As well as shape, alldark underparts remove confusion with swallows and martins – and Common Swift never perches on wires. High-flying bird could possibly be confused with similarly shaped Eurasian Hobby, but Common Swift is much smaller and has wholly dark underparts. To distinguish it from other swifts, see those species. Where to see Abundant summer visitor throughout Spain, particularly in the north.

Pallid Swift

Apus pallidus 17cm, wingspan 42cm

Where to see Common summer visitor to eastern and southern coasts, with breeding pockets inland. Rare in the north but may be overlooked.

Alpine Swift

Apus melba 22cm, wingspan 57cm

Markedly larger, longer-winged and more powerful-looking than Common Swift. Plumage is very different, with mid-brown upperparts similar in tone to Sand Martin and much paler than other swifts. Underparts also recall Sand Martin, with white throat-patch (sometimes hard to see) and white belly isolated by broad brown collar

and undertail. Call also differs from other swifts’ screaming: a mechanical, chattering ti-ti-ti-ti-ti. Where to see Uncommon summer visitor, breeding colonially on cliffs or similar structures. Fragmented distribution, mostly in the east but scattered throughout Spain; rare in the north.

Swifts

Very hard to separate from Common Swift. Subtle plumage differences include Pallid’s prominent black eye and dark eye-mask (because face is paler), more extensive and diffuse white throat, paler brown inner section to upperwing (such that darker saddle stands out) and scaly underparts (visible at close range). Screaming call similar to Common Swift.

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White-rumped Swift

Apus caffer 14cm, wingspan 32cm

Swifts A small swift, shorter-winged than Common Swift or Pallid Swift, although size hard to judge in lone birds. Differs from those species in long, deeply forked tail, clean-cut white throat patch, and fairly narrow white rump that does not extend onto the flank sides. More likely to be confused with similar-sized Little Swift,

Little Swift

which has a more extensive white rump that reaches the flank sides, a squareended (rather than forked) tail and a more fluttering flight on stubbier-looking wings. Where to see Rare summer visitor, breeding in montane or rocky areas of Extremadura and Andalucía.

Apus affinis 13cm, wingspan 32cm

A small swift, noticeably stubbier-winged than Common Swift or Pallid Swift, with a rather bat-like, fluttering flight. Differs further from those species in its squareended (rather than forked) tail, fairly distinct white throat patch, and broad white rump. Most likely to be confused

with similar-sized White-rumped Swift, but that species has longer wings, a smaller white rump patch and deeply forked tail. Where to see Mainly a rare summer visitor to Andalucía.

Common Kingfisher

Alcedo atthis 18cm

Where to see Fairly common resident throughout Spain except in mountains and the arid south-east. More numerous in winter. Frequents rivers, streams and lakes.

European Bee-eater

Merops apiaster 27cm

Unmistakable harlequin of a bird, roughly the size of European Turtle Dove, with long, pointed wings and a central spike to rounded tail. At close range, appears multicoloured, although impression at a distance may be of chestnut upperparts, electric-blue underparts and pale underwing. Often in flocks, which attract attention with noisy, rolling prrrp calls.

Acrobatic feeder, tumbling and twisting after flying insects. Where to see Summer visitor throughout most of Spain, particularly abundant in the south, but absent from the north. Favours open areas with abundant insects and exposed perches from which to hunt.

Kingfisher/Bee-eater

Unmistakable, even in typically brief view – a blurred flash of electric blue as the bird speeds low over water, attracting attention with a strident, sometimes wavering tsiiiiii. Smaller than Common Starling, and noticeably stocky, with a long dagger of a bill. Scintillant blue upperparts and warm orange underparts, with a white throat and half-collar on neck.

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European Roller

Coracias garrulus 30cm

Roller/Hoopoe

Slightly smaller than Western Jackdaw, but stockier with a heavier head and bill. Confusion possible only with silhouetted birds; unmistakable when bright coloration is seen. Unique neonblue head, underparts and forewings are offset by a rich chestnut back. When hunting, perches well above ground, on telegraph wires for example. Distinctive slow, powerful flight on broad, largely blue wings. Juveniles are duller and faintly streaked, but nevertheless distinctive.

Hoopoe

Where to see Uncommon, declining summer visitor, mainly to south. Favours open, dry environments with scattered trees.

Upupa epops 27cm

Unmistakable whether waddling along the ground mechanically probing with its long, decurved bill, or in flopping flight on eye-catching stripy wings. On the ground, it can be surprisingly discreet, stripes blending into grass (rather like a zebra!) and pinkish upper body merging into stony ground. Crest is usually kept flattened, but occasionally erected, mohawk-like. Song is a fluty, repetitive poo-poo-poo – audible over a considerable distance.

Where to see Summer visitor throughout Spain except the far north. Particularly common in the south and east. Frequents open country with scattered trees.

Eurasian Wryneck

Jynx torquilla 17cm and dark stripe along centre of pale grey back. Although flight undulating, less so than other woodpeckers, and recalls shrikes. Song is a nasal, Common Kestrellike ki-ki-ki, with up to 20 notes in five seconds. Where to see Fairly common summer visitor to north. Resident in the Balearics, on parts of the south and along the Mediterranean coast. Frequents orchards, scrubby hedges and woodland clearings.

Iberian Green Woodpecker Green plumage rules out thrushes, which also feed on the ground. Confusable only with non-native green parakeets that occur in some cities (e.g. Monk Parakeet), whose flight is fast and direct, rather than undulating, and which have a long tail (rather than short). Formerly considered the same species as Eurasian Green Woodpecker, but this is now judged to occur solely north of the Pyrenees, so presents no confusion. Rarely drums.

Picus sharpei 33cm

Where to see Locally common and widespread resident. Frequents open environments; largely terrestrial.

Woodpeckers

An odd woodpecker, often hopping on the ground, with nightjar-like camouflaged plumage. In a good view it is unmistakable: look for dark eye-stripe,

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Black Woodpecker

Dryocopus martius 43cm

Woodpeckers

The only mainly black woodpecker, with additional unique features comprising a pale ivory bill and eye, and red crown (extensive in male, just a small patch in female). Likely to be confused only with flying Carrion Crow or Rook, but shape is different, with broad, rounded wings; longer, pointed tail; and long neck. Flight also differs: floppy and clumsy rather than mechanical. Perched call is a haunting kluuuu-i. Song is an evenly pitched, rhythmical kwee-kwee-kwee-kweekwee. Drumming is louder and longer than Great Spotted Woodpecker. Where to see Scarce resident of mature, extensive forests in north and north-east.

Great Spotted Woodpecker

Dendrocopos major 25cm Eye-catchingly piebald woodpecker. Often attracts attention with abrupt tchik or rapid drumming (in spring). Covers long distances in bounding flight, when white shoulder-patch is most visible. Similarly black-and-white Common Magpie is much larger with a very long tail. See Middle Spotted Woodpecker for differences from that species. Lesser Spotted Woodpecker is much smaller, with an extensively barred white back and white (not red) undertail. Whitebacked Woodpecker (not illustrated) has a white rump instead of a white shoulder-patch. Where to see Common and widespread, particularly in conifer forests of the north.

Middle Spotted Woodpecker

Dendrocopos medius 21cm

Woodpeckers

Smaller than the similar Great Spotted Woodpecker. Middle Spotted is dumpier, with a rounded head and short bill, has a red crown (rather than black) and whiter face (notably, black stripe falls well short of bill). The underparts are extensively streaked (plain on Great Spotted) and the vent is washed pink (rather than scarlet). Unlike Great Spotted, does not drum; instead, it defends territory with a whining, nasal song, recalling a sloweddown Common Kestrel call. Where to see Scarce resident of deciduous woodlands of Pyrenees and Cantabrian Mountains.

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker

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Dendrocopus minor 15cm Size of a sparrow, but looks stockier – like Eurasian Nuthatch. Compared to Great Spotted Woodpecker is substantially smaller (barely half the size), with an extensively barred white back (rather than a black back contrasting with long white shoulder-patches) and white (not red) undertail. Undemonstrative and often overlooked except when calling in spring: a nasal kee-kee-kee-kee-kee. Drum is short and faint. Where to see Uncommon and local resident, particularly Castilla y León, Cantabrian Mountains, the upper Ebro Valley and Cataluña. Inhabits deciduous woodland, groves and parkland, preferring smaller upper branches of mature trees.

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Dupont’s Lark

Chersophilus duponti 18cm

Larks

Vulnerable. Shy and hard to see, as it sprints between low, sparse thickets on dry terrain. Accordingly, best located during songflight, typically performed at dawn and dusk: melancholy opening notes are followed by whistles and a nasal miaow. When it is glimpsed, long, downcurved bill is unique among Spanish larks. In flight, lacks Eurasian Skylark’s pale trailing edge to upperwing. Moreover, pale underwing rules out both Crested Lark (underwing rusty) and Calandra Lark (underwing black). Where to see A scarce, declining resident with a localised distribution, principally in north-central Spain.

Calandra Lark

Melanocorypha calandra 19cm Larger and heftier lark than Eurasian Skylark. Thick bill and bold black breast-side patches are diagnostic, with only Greater Short-toed Lark coming close on the latter. Obvious in flight too, showing unique black underwing with white trailing edge. Song rather like that of Eurasian Skylark, but slow wingbeats in display flight give the impression of a bird simply hanging in the wind. Where to see Common resident of extensive agricultural plains in Spain’s interior. Absent from much of the Mediterranean coast and the north.

Greater Short-toed Lark

Calandrella brachydactyla 15cm unmarked white underparts. Shows only a hint of black on breast-sides (unlike bold pattern of Calandra). Lack of long crest rules out Crested Lark, Thekla’s Lark and Eurasian Skylark. In flight smaller than latter, with compact finch-like appearance and without Eurasian’s prominent white trailing edge to upperwing. For differences from Lesser Short-toed Lark, see that species. Calls include a White Wagtail-like chirrup. Where to see Common and widespread summer visitor to dry, open areas.

Mediterranean Lesser Short-toed Lark Spain’s smallest lark, recalling a dwarf Eurasian Skylark, but with a stubbier bill and bolder face pattern, and lacking a crest. Similar to Greater Short-toed Lark,

Calandrella rufescens 14cm

but streakier, both on the back and, critically, the breast. At close range, check the wing-tip: if the black primaries extend beyond the buffy tertials, it’s a Lesser Short-toed (on Greater Short-toed, the longer tertials cloak the primary tips). Buzzy trilling call. Where to see Locally common resident. Gregarious inhabitant of arid, bare ground in eastern Spain, principally in the Ebro Valley (Cataluña and Aragón) and extreme south-east.

Larks

A small, pale lark. Differs from all Spanish larks except the much bigger Calandra Lark in its almost entirely

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Crested Lark

Larks

Slightly smaller and slimmer than Eurasian Skylark, with sandier coloration. Long crest ends in a point and is often

Galerida cristata 17cm raised vertically (short and usually flattened in Eurasian Skylark). Bill is long and slightly decurved (stubby and straight in Eurasian). In flight, looks shorter-tailed than Eurasian, with a rusty underwing and no white trailing edge to wing. Very similar to Thekla’s Lark; see that species for differences. Call is a fluty, melodic tu-tee-tou. Where to see Widespread in lowland Spain, except far north and the Balearics. Favours open, stony environments including non-natural habitats.

Thekla’s Lark

Galerida theklae 17cm

Close views needed to distinguish from very similar Crested Lark. Look for Thekla’s greyish (rather than rusty) underwing in flight, chestnut (rather than

sandy-brown) tone to rump, thicker bill, and more distinct breast streaking. Unlike Crested, Thekla’s regularly perches in bushes and trees. Differs from Eurasian Skylark in long, pointed crest, thicker bill and bolder black streaking on breast against a clean white background. Where to see Very common resident, particularly in the southeast, in dry mountains and in the Balearics. Favours arid, bushy terrain, often on slopes. Avoids nonnatural habitats, unlike Crested Lark.

Woodlark

Lullula arborea 15cm obvious. Plumage similar to Eurasian, but look for bolder patterning on back, broad white stripe over eye, ginger cheeks, and diagnostic white–black–white pattern on leading edge of wing. Creeps inconspicuously over ground, flying away at the last moment. Song is repetitive, melodic and liquid; a beautiful, mellifluous sound. Call is a distinctive, yodelling tle-wee. Where to see Common, widespread resident in open woodlands.

Eurasian Skylark

Alauda arvensis 17cm

Larger and bulkier than sparrows, with broad wings obvious in stuttering flight. Similar to Crested Lark, Thekla’s Lark and Woodlark (for differences, see those species). Corn Bunting has a longer tail and very deep bill. Meadow Pipit is smaller, slighter, longer-tailed and thinner-billed. In flight, white trailing edge to wing is diagnostic. Gives a guttural, chirruping call; aerial song is famous for its length and melodious trilling. Where to see In north, widespread and common in agricultural fields and meadows. Montane in central Spain. In south, numerous on passage and in winter.

♂

♀

Larks

Smaller than Eurasian Skylark, neater and more round-winged, with a shorter tail. The latter is particularly apparent in flight, when rounded wings are also

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Sand Martin

Riparia riparia 12cm

Martins and swallows

Spain’s smallest hirundine (member of the swallow and martin family), smaller than a sparrow although looks larger in flight due to long wings. Brown plumage is shared only by Eurasian Crag Martin. Differs in having striking white underparts partitioned by broad brown breast-band, which is visible even at distance. Pattern recalls Alpine Swift, but that species is far larger and longer-winged. Main call is a buzzy twittering, more rasping than Barn Swallow or Common House Martin. Where to see Breeds locally in colonies, particularly in north and in river valleys. Widespread and common on passage.

Eurasian Crag Martin

Ptyonoprogne rupestris 14cm appearing less agile. Call similar to Sand Martin but shorter and harsher. Where to see Widespread summer visitor, particularly to upland and craggy areas, with cliffs for nesting. Scarce in winter, when principally found in the south and along coasts.

Martins and swallows

Being brown, this hirundine can be confused only with the smaller, slighter Sand Martin (for differences, see that species). In flight, from below, ‘armpits’ are contrastingly dark. From above, white tail spots are diagnostic – particularly obvious when tail is spread. Rather stiff-winged in flight compared to other hirundines,

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Barn Swallow

Hirundo rustica 17–19cm

Martins and swallows

The most familiar hirundine, with a graceful flight and long streamers on forked tail. Pale underparts rule out Common Swift, which is also larger and has much longer, narrower wings. Dark throat and wholly dark upperparts (no white rump) rule out Common House Martin. Red-rumped Swallow is more similar; see that species for differences. Where to see Very common summer visitor throughout, including mountainous regions. Especially abundant on migration. Rare in winter in the south. Frequents open areas, but also seen in towns and routinely hunts insects over freshwater bodies. juv.

♂

Common House Martin

Delichon urbicum 14cm

Where to see Very common summer visitor throughout, including in mountains (where it breeds on cliffs) and urban areas. Rare in winter in the south. Hawks insects over freshwater bodies.

Martins and swallows

In between Sand Martin and Barn Swallow in size. See both species for differences, but, fundamentally, broad white rump separates it from all Spanish hirundines except Red-rumped Swallow. Differs from latter in short, broad, forked tail (not long and spike-like), dark upper cheeks (head is blue-black and white, not chestnut and blue) and lack of any rufous on upper rump. Call an inoffensive chattering.

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Red-rumped Swallow

Cecropis daurica 16–17cm

Martins and swallows

Barn Swallow-like shape, with long tail-streamers, rules out martins. For additional differences from Common House Martin, see that species. In flight, glides more stiffly than Barn Swallow, with less manoeuvrability. Tail shape differs, with less wispy long feathers often suggesting a single spike. This impression is exacerbated by dark (not white) undertail, making tail appear ‘stuck on’. In plumage, pale rump (white and rufous) and isolated dark cap are quite different to those of Barn. Call very different to other hirundines: an almost Budgerigarlike jrup. Where to see Summer visitor to south, with odd enclaves elsewhere. Generally scarce, but common in the south-west.

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Tawny Pipit

Anthus campestris 17cm large, slender and long-tailed, with plain whitish underparts and almost unstreaked, sandy upperparts. It often scampers around with a wagtail-like horizontal posture. A broad whitish stripe above the eye is unique among Spanish pipits. Rather melodic calls recall House Sparrow or White Wagtail. Where to see Fairly common summer visitor, particularly to north-central Spain plus the mountainous south. Favours short grassland and bare ground.

Tree Pipit

Anthus trivialis 15cm

Tree Pipit is generally yellower than Meadow Pipit, particularly on breast, which contrasts with white belly. Stripe above eye is more pronounced, and often shows a pale spot at rear of cheek. Unlike Meadow, sings from a tree – or at least starts/ ends its songflight from one. Call is a buzzy, breathy skeeeez – very different from Meadow’s weedy sip. Where to see Fairly common summer visitor to the northern third of Spain, up to foothills (and sometimes higher).

Passage migrant elsewhere, including in the Balearics. Frequents forest edge, wooded clearings and tree-strewn meadows.

Pipits and wagtails

Slimmer and thinner-billed than larks, pipits are similar-looking, streaky, largely ground-dwelling birds that walk and scurry around. Tawny Pipit is one of the most distinctive Spanish pipits, being

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Meadow Pipit

Anthus pratensis 14.5cm

Pipits and wagtails

Near Threatened. Variable coloration, toned greyish, brownish or olive depending on age and time of year. Some birds look clean-cut and neat, others dingy and streaky. Gregarious in winter, feeding in active, nervous flocks that take off abruptly, flying weakly and usually calling (an insipid sip). For differences from Tree Pipit and Water Pipit, see those species. Potentially confusable with Eurasian Skylark (for differences, see that species) or Corn Bunting (larger, tubbier and deep-billed).

Water Pipit

Where to see Abundant winter visitor and passage migrant throughout Spain, favouring open, grassy country.

Anthus spinoletta 17cm

sum.

Larger than Meadow Pipit and Tree Pipit. Distinctive summer plumage, with a blue-grey head marked by a bright white stripe over eye (supercilium), unstreaked grey-brown back and pink flush to largely unmarked underparts. In winter, differs from Meadow and Tree by black (not pink) legs, a more boldly patterned head (with a prominent white supercilium),

win.

and markedly white underparts. For differences from Rock Pipit, see that species. Call feasst, more insistent than Meadow Pipit. Where to see Breeds commonly in montane meadows of northern Spain. Descends to lowlands in winter, where widespread in damp habitats.

Rock Pipit

Anthus petrosus 17cm

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win.

Larger than Meadow Pipit with dingy grey-brown plumage, diffusely streaked underparts and upperparts, and dark face with prominent eye-ring. Unlikely

Grey Wagtail

Where to see Scarce, localised winter visitor and passage migrant to northern coasts, favouring rocky shores.

Motacilla cinerea 18cm

♂ Wagtails are long-tailed, pipit-like birds that run along the ground, bobbing their tail. Grey Wagtail is distinctive: no other wagtail has an isolated, bright yellow wrap-around rump, vent and undertail that contrasts with white belly. Largely grey face, lacking black on crown, also separates it from White Wagtail. Ash-grey back (rather than olive) additionally

♀ distinguishes it from Yellow Wagtail – and habitat differences are also useful. Explosive call: tzit or tzit-tzit. Where to see Common resident in northern Spain and southern uplands. In winter and on passage, more widespread. Always associated with water, particularly rivers.

Pipits and wagtails

to be confused with Tree Pipit, as seasonality differs. Dingier than Water Pipit, with duskier underparts and bold white eyering rather than Water’s prominent white stripe over the eye, and lacks that species’ whitish wing-bars and outer tail-feathers. Water is much less likely on coasts with seaweedcovered rocks. Call similar to Water Pipit: fiist.

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Yellow Wagtail

Motacilla flava 17cm

Pipits and wagtails

Breeding birds are of the subspecies iberiae, ‘Spanish’ (or ‘Iberian’) Wagtail. Male recalls female Grey Wagtail, but has a bluer head, blacker cheeks, green back and wholly yellow underparts, and lacks Grey’s isolated yellow rump. Female’s green upperparts and bold white supercilium distinguish it from female Grey. On passage, other subspecies occur, notably ‘Blue-headed’ (flava), whose male differs by its blue head and yellow throat. Green-and-

yellow head of male ‘Yellow’ (flavissima) is distinctive. Immature differs from young White Wagtail in dark face and lack of breast-band. Call a liquid, slightly upslurred tswee. Where to see Fairly common but local summer visitor to river valleys and along most coasts. Inhabits meadows, grasslands, marshes and farmland (but never fastflowing rivers like Grey Wagtail). Common and widespread on passage.

1st-win.

♀

♂ iberiae

♂ flava

White Wagtail

Motacilla alba 18cm

Where to see Widespread resident; numerous in the north but scarce towards the south (where mainly montane). Abundant in winter. Favours rural environments, but also winters in urban areas.

♂alba

juv. alba

win. yarrellii

Pipits and wagtails

Differs from other wagtails in being wholly monochrome in all plumages. Adult distinctive, with white face flanked by black crown and black bib. Immature could be confused with Yellow Wagtail of same age, but has a pale face (and thus prominent eye) and (often blotchy) black bib (particularly contrasting in male). Most birds have a pale grey mantle (White Wagtail, subspecies alba), but black- or dark grey-backed birds of the British race (Pied Wagtail, yarrellii) also occur rarely on passage or in winter in northern and western Spain. Various calls, commonly a cheery, liquid tsu-wii.

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White-throated Dipper

Cinclus cinclus 18cm

Dipper/Wren

Stocky and short-tailed, shaped like a Winter Wren but twice the size. Bobs on rocks, flies with whirring wings (often uttering a rasping dzit call), swims buoyantly, and (uniquely among Spanish songbirds) dives or walks underwater. Adult unmistakable: look for extensive white bib sandwiched between chestnut head and very dark belly. Juvenile – grey and mottled – may cause confusion, but combination of shape and habitat is distinctive, and adults are usually also present. Where to see Fairly common resident on fast-flowing rivers in northernmost Spain; otherwise very localised.

Winter Wren

Troglodytes troglodytes 9.5cm

Tiny, with a distinctive short, cocked tail and loud voice. Typically skulking, and more often heard than seen. Gives a variety of scolding, rasping and rattling calls. Song is amazingly loud and vibrant, combining warbles and trills. Differs from Dunnock and (scaly brown) juvenile European Robin in smaller size; short, cocked tail; and broad cream stripe above eye. Where to see Abundant, widespread resident anywhere with dense undergrowth, shunning only pseudo-steppes and agricultural land.

Dunnock

Prunella modularis 14cm

Alpine Accentor

(thick and often pale in House Sparrow) and boldly patterned (not plain) underparts. See Winter Wren for differences. Where to see Fairly common resident in northern Spain, but otherwise breeds only in isolated mountains. More widespread and common in winter, favouring scrub.

Prunella collaris 18cm

Resembles closely related Dunnock but is larger, tubbier, bolder and prefers open, rocky terrain not dense scrub. Alpine also differs in yellow bill-base, pronounced white spots on wing, black-and-white speckled throat, and broad streaks on belly and flanks (rufous in adult, ruddybrown in juvenile). Another high-altitude specialist, White-winged Snowfinch, differs in its extensively white wings. Where to see Scarce breeder in mountainous regions (above 1,800m) in the north, Sierra Nevada and Sierra de Gredos. Favours scree and alpine meadows. Descends slightly in winter, but always found in rocky places.

Accentors

Size of European Robin, but longertailed. Relatively nondescript, frequently unobtrusive bird. Creeps through vegetation or shuffles over open ground, flicking tail. Bold streaking rules out warblers. More heavily streaked than pipits, with grey face and throat. Plumage recalls House Sparrow, but has a fine black bill

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Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin

Cercotrichas galactotes 16cm

Robins, chats and wheatears

Usually seen bounding along on the ground, jerking tail vertically or spreading it open. Recalls a long-tailed, long-legged Common Nightingale. Tail shape and pattern are unique: long, splayed and strikingly chestnut, with black-and-white spots at its tip. Striking face pattern comprises a broad white stripe above eye, with narrow black lines through and below eye. Also known as Rufous-tailed Scrub-robin, Rufous Bush Chat, Rufous Bush Robin and Rufous Bush-robin.

European Robin

Where to see Locally frequent summer visitor in southern Spain (Andalucía, Murcia, Comunidad Valenciana). Frequents orchards, vineyards and olive groves in dry Mediterranean lowlands.

Erithacus rubecula 14cm

Robins and chats are small insectivorous birds with slim bills, usually seen on or near the ground. Adult European

Robin’s extensive orange face and bib are unique. Juvenile may cause confusion, lacking orange and being scaly on head, back and underparts. However, the presence of a parent should confirm identification. Familiar protracted, melodic song. Calls comprise a sharp tick and an insipid tsii. Where to see Common resident in mountains, particularly in north. More widespread and abundant in winter. Favours humid woodland.

Common Nightingale

Luscinia megarhynchos 16cm confused with female Common Redstart (which has whiter underparts and an obvious red tail) or Garden Warbler (different shape, and grey-brown plumage with no hint of a rufous tail). Well-known, remarkable, long and melodic song. Calls include a thin, whistling weeet and a low, rattling krrrrr. Where to see Widespread, common summer visitor to dense vegetation, particularly along watercourses, although rare in the far north. Common on passage.

Bluethroat

Luscinia svecica 14cm

♂sum. Breeding male has unique bright blue bib. All plumages differ from almost all other birds in having a broad white stripe over eye and chestnut sides to tail (flashed in low flight). Given reasonable views, confusion possible only between Sedge Warbler and female/first-winter Bluethroat, but former has a different shape, all-brown tail and entirely

♀ plain underparts (female/first-winter Bluethroat always has a dark band on upper breast). Where to see Uncommon breeder in montane scrub of north. More widespread on passage, and some winter in south, favouring scrubby reedbeds, ditches and meadows.

Robins, chats and wheatears

Secretive and skulking, but sometimes feeds on the ground and sings from a prominent perch. Larger and longertailed than European Robin, and lacks orange face and bib. Most likely to be

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Black Redstart

Phoenicurus ochruros 14cm

Robins, chats and wheatears

♀

♂ Slightly larger and slimmer than European Robin, with a long reddish tail that it quivers constantly. Favours open areas more than Common Redstart and behaves more like a wheatear, routinely feeding on the ground. Will also perch in trees, however, where available. Male is unmistakable, with sooty-grey plumage and a white

Common Redstart

wing-flash. Female resembles female Common Redstart, but dingier greybrown, particularly on underparts, often with pale grey wing flash. Where to see Locally common resident in rocky uplands and montane villages. Common throughout in winter and on passage.

Phoenicurus phoenicurus 14cm

♂ Adult summer male much more colourful than Black Redstart, with a black throat, white face, ash-grey back and orange underparts. To distinguish female from female Black Redstart and Common Nightingale, see those species. Young and winter-plumaged males resemble adult female, but have an orange breast and flanks, and a dusky throat. Reddish

♀ tail prevents confusion with all other species. Tends to be arboreal – often elusive in the canopy. Where to see Scarce, localised summer visitor, mostly in northern montane woodlands. More common and widespread on migration.

Whinchat

Saxicola rubetra 13cm

Where to see Local summer visitor to northern third of Spain; widespread and common on migration. Favours grassland and other meadows with bushes on which to perch.

♂

♀

1st-win.

Robins, chats and wheatears

Size of European Robin but with a short tail. Typically perches on a bush – always upright and alert, and often flies at first hint of danger. Male is particularly striking: boldly patterned upperparts, bold white stripe above eye on otherwise blackish face, and orange breast. Confusion likely only with European Stonechat (for differences, see that species). Face pattern might initially recall Northern Wheatear, but latter is larger, with a grey back and largely white rump and tail.

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European Stonechat

Saxicola rubicola 12.5cm

Robins, chats and wheatears

Frequents natural open environments such as heathlands and scrubby grassland; often associated with gorse and typically sits on prominent perch. Likely to be confused only with Whinchat, which is similar in size and behaviour. However, differs in all plumages by lacking Whinchat’s white stripe over eye and white sides to tail. Male Stonechat has a large white neck-patch below black head, enabling identification at long range. Where to see Common, widespread resident throughout most of Spain, except in arid or cultivated terrain. More widespread in winter, particularly along coasts and in the south-west, when numbers are swollen by arrivals from the north.

♂

juv.

♀

Northern Wheatear

Oenanthe oenanthe 15cm

Where to see Fairly common summer visitor, particularly to uplands. Widespread in the north, but restricted to mountains in the south. Common and widespread on passage. Frequents open habitats.

♂

♀

1st-win.

Robins, chats and wheatears

Wheatears are terrestrial species, venturing above ground level only to perch on a rock or fence. Distinctive feeding action, sprinting a short distance before standing erect. Northern Wheatear often flies when observer approaches, flashing large white rump and tail (latter with an inverted black ‘T’). This tail pattern rules out all species except Black Wheatear and Western Black-eared Wheatear. Male differs from latter in blue-grey back (not white or peach), while female is paler above and lacks orange breast. Both sexes have less white on tail. Black Wheatear differs in being mostly black or very dark brown.

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Western Black-eared Wheatear

Robins, chats and wheatears

Smaller and slighter than Northern Wheatear, so appears more compact. Routinely terrestrial but more readily perches on bushes than Northern. Male distinctive, with apricot crown and back rather than Northern’s blue-grey, and more extensive black on upperparts (due to contiguous black scapulars and upperwing). Some males also differ in displaying a black throat (only cheeks are black in Northern). Females and immatures are harder to differentiate. Focus on tail pattern: Northern has a solid black band at the tip, whereas Western Black-eared has a black stripe and sides, interspersed with white that reaches the tail tip – so appears whiter overall.

♂

Oenanthe hispanica 14cm

♀ Where to see Fairly common summer visitor, but declining. Restricted to open ground in dry, hot regions, particularly in the south and east.

Black Wheatear

Oenanthe leucura 17cm

A hefty, pot-bellied wheatear, larger than Northern Wheatear. Often pumps tail up and then down. Unmistakable plumage, ruling out potential confusion with Northern Wheatear or Western Black-eared Wheatear. Male is coal-black (female sooty-brown) all over except for white vent, rump and most of tail. Other black songbirds such as male Common

Blue Rock Thrush

Blackbird and Common Starling are distinguished by shape, and lack of white on tail and rear body. Where to see Common but localised resident, largely in the south and east. Tied to dry, rocky areas, and often found around abandoned buildings.

Monticola solitarius 20cm

♂ Although wholly shimmering dark blue, male can look black at distance, so could be confused with male Common Blackbird. Female Blue Rock also recalls a female Common Blackbird (although lacks reddish tones and is markedly scaly). In both instances, Blue Rock’s long black (not yellow) bill, dark legs (not pink) and smaller size are key to

♀ identification. Female superficially similar to female Ring Ouzel, but lacks latter’s buff bib and yellowish billbase. See Common Rock Thrush for differences. Where to see Widespread, common resident of rocky areas, particularly in uplands or along coasts.

Robins, chats and wheatears

♀

♂

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Common Rock Thrush

Robins, chats and wheatears

Rock thrushes recall both wheatears and thrushes, and are exclusively associated with warm, rocky places. Male Common Rock Thrush is a gorgeous creature, whose bright colours make it unmistakable. Female is more subtle; most have an orange wash to scaly underparts that excludes both the larger Song Thrush and female Blue Rock Thrush. Both are also excluded by Common Rock’s short, red-sided tail that protrudes only marginally beyond wing-tip.

Monticola saxatilis 19cm

Where to see Scarce summer visitor to scree-rich mountains in the northern half of Spain (where locally common) and upland Andalucía.

♂win.

♀

♂ sum.

Ring Ouzel

Turdus torquatus 25cm

Where to see Scarce resident of mountainous regions in the north (Pyrenees, Cantabria). In south, scarce on passage and in winter. Breeds in open conifer forests, but migrants use a variety of open grassy habitats.

Common Blackbird

♂

Turdus merula 24cm

Familiar medium-sized thrush that runs or hops along the ground and then stops to look for prey. All-black male possibly confusable with Alpine Chough (which is much larger and has bright red legs); also with starlings but is larger, longer-tailed, lacks gloss and hops rather than walks. See Blue Rock Thrush and Ring Ouzel for differences from those species. Female is darker than Song Thrush and Mistle Thrush,

♀

♀

particularly on underparts. Various calls include insistent shrreee, insistent chack and loud twink twink (the latter usually before going to roost). Where to see Abundant resident throughout Spain, with the population supplemented by arrivals from the north in winter. Inhabits a variety of habitats containing trees and bushes.

♂

Robins, chats and wheatears

Medium-sized, mainly dark thrush, confusable only with Common Blackbird, Mistle Thrush and female Blue Rock Thrush. Adults differ from all three species in broad bib (white in male, buff in female), silvery wings (particularly obvious in flight) and scaly underparts. Also much darker than Mistle Thrush, and differs from both that species and Blue Rock Thrush in its largely yellow (rather than mainly or entirely dark) bill. Harsh, grating call tuk tuk.

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Fieldfare

Turdus pilaris 25cm

Robins, chats and wheatears

Large, stocky, bold thrush – easy to recognise at rest, but sometimes confusing in flight. Size and striking white underwing mean Fieldfare is most

confusable with Mistle Thrush. Differs in dark brown-chestnut back contrasting with pale grey head and rump. In flight, seen from below, looks gingery with a white underwing; from rear, main impression is of a large, pale grey rump contrasting with black tail. Calls frequently: a harsh, chuckling chak-chakak. Often flocks with Redwing. Where to see Regular winter visitor to montane north, particularly juniper scrub; scarce elsewhere.

Song Thrush

Turdus philomelos 21cm

Archetypal thrush, with densely darkspotted white underparts and brown upperparts. Smaller, less pot-bellied and shyer than Mistle Thrush, with a more contrasting face, and more densely packed spots, sometimes almost forming streaks on underparts. Flies lower and with more urgency than Mistle, darting nervously into deep cover rather than posing in treetops. Underwing also differs noticeably: yellow-orange on Song but contrastingly white on Mistle. Typical call an insipid, unobtrusive sip but sometimes gives a harsh alarm call.

Where to see Fairly common resident in northern third; scarce in central mountains. Widespread and abundant in winter.

Redwing

Turdus iliacus 21cm

Mistle Thrush

Where to see Widespread on passage and in winter, most common in north, and mainly above 1,300m in south.

Turdus viscivorus 27cm

juv.

Big, bold thrush that hops confidently and often moves in family groups, flying high with powerful, stuttering wingbeats. Most similar in plumage to smaller Song Thrush (for differences, see that species). Paler and spottier than female Common Blackbird (see that species). In flight, when seen from below, white underwing

rules out all thrushes except similar-sized and much more colourful Fieldfare. Where to see Widespread, common resident. Favours woodland, parkland and hedgerows; rarer in cities and shuns arid, treeless areas.

Robins, chats and wheatears

Near Threatened. Similar in size to Song Thrush and can be hard to tell apart in brief flight views. Redwing tends to look ‘sharper’, almost recalling Common Starling. In good views, Redwing’s obvious broad cream stripe above eye is unique among Spanish thrushes, as are its rusty flanks and underwing. Migrating flocks call routinely, particularly at night (a classic late-autumn sound, as birds pass overhead): a thin, high, plaintive tsiii.

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Cetti’s Warbler

Cettia cetti 13.5cm

Warblers, cisticola and crests

Medium-sized, dark, skulking warbler. Flies low between patches of cover like a big Winter Wren with a long, rounded tail. More often heard than seen: song is a sudden, explosive outburst; calls include a sharp chip and a long trill. Differs from Eurasian Reed Warbler in dark chestnut upperparts, ashy underparts, strong pink legs and long, rounded tail. Differs from Common Nightingale in its short wings, sullied underparts and contrasting face pattern. Where to see Common, widespread resident in dense vegetation of wet habitats.

Zitting Cisticola

Cisticola juncidis 10cm Very small, with short, rounded wings and tail creating a distinctive silhouette during unique long, bounding songflight. Song is less impressive: a metallic tzik every second in a long series. Heavily streaked upperparts could prompt confusion with pipits, but smaller, with plain buff underparts and an open facial expression, and rarely (if ever) on the ground. Sedge and Grasshopper Warblers also streaked above, but former has a broad white stripe above eye and both lack Zitting Cisticola’s white band on tail-tip. Where to see Fairly common resident of open, grassy terrain. Favours the Mediterranean coast, Andalucía and Extremadura.

Common Grasshopper Warbler

Savi’s Warbler

face and longer tail that lacks white tips. Where to see Uncommon summer visitor to northernmost Spain, along the coast west of the Pyrenees. Common, widespread but overlooked passage migrant. Frequents damp scrub, wet meadows with dense vegetation, and bushy reedbeds.

Locustella luscinoides 14cm

Slightly larger and chunkier than Common Grasshopper Warbler and Eurasian Reed Warbler. Plumage differs from former in being plain, notably unstreaked on back. Plumage resembles Eurasian Reed, but structure differs, being longer-tailed, shorter-winged and flatter-headed. Usually located by song: like Common Grasshopper Warbler, this is a long, mechanical trill, but is quicker, lower-pitched and buzzier. Generally a shy bird, preferring to hide in dense vegetation, but often sings from prominent perch. Where to see Scarce, local summer visitor to reedbeds and well-vegetated wetlands. Mainly coastal, in southwest and east.

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Warblers, cisticola and crests

Secretive, creeping through undergrowth; typically located when singing: a long, mechanical, reeling trill, sounding more like a cicada than a bird. Streaked back eliminates Eurasian Reed Warbler. Lacks bold white stripe above eye of Sedge Warbler. Larger than Zitting Cisticola, with dark (not pale)

Locustella naevia 13cm

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Warblers, cisticola and crests

Western Olivaceous Warbler

Iduna opaca 13cm

Also called Isabelline Warbler. Fairly large, slim and long-tailed warbler with nondescript sandy-brown upperparts and off-white underparts. Plumage duller than Eurasian Reed Warbler, with a heavier bill and – importantly – square-ended (rather than rounded) tail. Dull hue differentiates Western Olivaceous from adult Melodious Warbler (which has yellow-and-green

tones). Harder to distinguish from immature Melodious, although latter usually has lemony tones to breast and face, and olive shade to upperparts.

Melodious Warbler

Where to see Scarce, local summer visitor to eastern and southern lowlands, particularly favouring tamarisks along former watercourses.

Hippolais polyglotta 13cm

Breeding adult’s olive-and-yellow coloration may prompt confusion with Willow Warbler. Chunkier, slowermoving and more skulking than latter, with rear crown feathers regularly raised (particularly when singing) and indistinct supercilium (not broad like Willow). Breeding adult’s coloration separates it from brown-and-whitish Eurasian Reed Warbler. However, first-winter and nonbreeding adult Melodious are greyish and more likely to be confused with Eurasian Reed – look for Melodious’s plain face (eye more prominent, making it look cuter) and longer, pinker bill. To distinguish from Western Olivaceous Warbler, see that species.

Where to see Widespread and common summer visitor, favouring scrubby terrain.

Moustached Warbler

Acrocephalus melanopogon 12.5cm

Where to see Locally resident in wetlands along the Mediterranean coast and in the Balearics.

Sedge Warbler

Acrocephalus schoenobaenus 12cm

Differs from Eurasian Reed Warbler in streaked back, contrasting head pattern (with broad whitish stripe over eye) and contrastingly rufous rump. For differences from Moustached Warbler, Common Grasshopper Warbler and Zitting Cisticola, see those species. Differs from Winter Wren in same way as Moustached Warbler (so see that species). Where to see Widespread but uncommon passage migrant in spring and autumn, particularly frequenting reedbeds but also other damp habitats with dense vegetation.

Warblers, cisticola and crests

In dense vegetation, usually just above the water. Similar to Sedge Warbler (although ranges overlap only on latter’s migration), but has a more contrasting black-and-white head pattern, particularly black crown, warmer brown, less streaked back, and neatly isolated white throat. Unlike Sedge, readily flicks and cocks tail. Could conceivably be confused with Winter Wren in poor view, but Moustached Warbler is larger, with a much bolder head pattern, streaked back and long tail.

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Eurasian Reed Warbler

Acrocephalus scirpaceus 13cm

Warblers, cisticola and crests

Often ascends a tall reed stem to sing, moving head from side to side. Weak stripe over eye, white eye-ring and longer bill differentiate it from larger,

Where to see Common, widespread summer visitor to north; local in south. Common on passage. Breeds in damp reedbeds, but frequents drier habitats, including bushes, on migration.

juv.

Great Reed Warbler

stockier Garden Warbler. Garden shuns reedbeds, but both species skulk in scrub on migration. Unstreaked back and white throat could prompt confusion with female/first-winter Common Whitethroat, but latter is larger, with a stubbier bill and white sides to long tail. See Sedge Warbler for differences.

Acrocephalus arundinaceus 18cm

As its name suggests, Great Reed Warbler recalls a very large version of Eurasian Reed, being noticeably chunky, with a large head, broad tail and hefty bill. Often crashes about reeds, whereas Eurasian Reed moves deftly and unobtrusively. Singing male raises crest and puffs out white throat. Song loud and coarser than that of Eurasian Reed:

deeper, harsher and more repetitive. Where to see Relatively common summer visitor to reedbeds, particularly in the east and south. Scarce in the north and absent from uplands. More localised than Eurasian Reed Warbler, with which it shares the habitat of tall reedbeds.

Balearic Warbler

Sylvia balearica 13cm

Dartford Warbler

reddish-pink (male) or dull pink-brown (female). Where to see Endemic to the Balearics, where it is a common resident across much of Mallorca, Cabrera, Ibiza and Formentera. Absent from mainland Spain. Inhabits low maquis and garrigue, plus rocky coastal scrub.

Sylvia undata 13cm

Near Threatened. A distinctively dark, longtailed bird that typically skulks in dense vegetation. Dark underparts rule out confusion with pale-bellied Common Whitethroat. Male’s russet-brown underparts could prompt confusion with male Western Subalpine Warbler, but brick-red coloration ♂ and white moustachial stripe of that species should be noticeable in a good view. In the Balearics, could be confused with Balearic Warbler; see latter for differences.

Where to see Common, widespread resident in dense scrub, although absent from intensively cultivated areas.

Warblers, cisticola and crests

Closely resembles Dartford Warbler, which is the only real confusion species, both being particularly small, long-tailed, punk-headed, all-dark and skulking warblers in the genus Sylvia. Adult Balearic differs from Dartford in having wholly grey underparts with, at best, a slight pinkish hue to flanks. In contrast, Dartford’s underparts are a rich

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Spectacled Warbler

Sylvia conspicillata 12.5cm

Warblers, cisticola and crests

Petite version of the widespread Common Whitethroat. Male differs in its more colourful appearance, with a darker, blue-grey head, particularly in front of eye, contrasting with broad white eye-ring (‘spectacles’). Neat white throat stands out against dusky-pink underparts; Common Whitethroat looks comparatively insipid. Females very similar, but can be differentiated by size; Spectacled also has a more striking chestnut wing. See Western Subalpine Warbler for differences.

♂

Western Subalpine Warbler

♂ Smaller and shorter-winged than Common Whitethroat. Male is attractive, with a bold white moustachial (lower cheek) stripe separating brick-red underparts from grey-blue upperparts. Red eye and underpart coloration distinguish it from male Spectacled Warbler. Females and first-winters are trickier to separate, but Western Subalpine tends to have a brown (rather

Where to see Locally common summer visitor to the southern two-thirds of Spain, particularly along Mediterranean coast, favouring low vegetation in arid areas.

Sylvia iberiae 12cm

♀ than chestnut) wing, a duller brown mantle, bluer tinge to the head and a ghosting of male’s underpart pattern. Latter feature also differentiates female Western Subalpine from female Common Whitethroat. Skulking. Where to see Common summer visitor to scrubby hillsides, although absent from far north.

Sardinian Warbler

Sylvia melanocephala 13.5cm

Slightly smaller than Common Whitethroat. Male distinctive: black head contrasts with bright red eye/eyering and white throat – a combination shown by no other Spanish warbler. Male Eurasian Blackcap has a grey throat and also lacks red eye. Female Sardinian’s red eye and eye-ring (and darker plumage) distinguish it from

Western Orphean Warbler

female Western Subalpine Warbler and female Spectacled Warbler (and also lacks latter’s chestnut wings). Where to see Very common resident throughout Spain except most of the north-western quadrant, and in the Balearics. Skulks in undergrowth, scrub and gardens.

Sylvia hortensis 15cm

Markedly heftier and strongerbilled than Eurasian Blackcap, with slow, deliberate movements. Adult differs from other Sylvia warblers in its startling white iris, which contrasts particularly with the male’s blackish hood. Additionally differs from male Sardinian Warbler in brown (rather than grey) back and buff (not grey) underparts. Juvenile has dark eyes, but size means it is unlikely to prompt confusion. Where to see Uncommon summer visitor to most of Spain, and absent from the far north and deforested regions. Favours

low, open Mediterranean woodland, including olive groves.

Warblers, cisticola and crests

♀

♂

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Common Whitethroat

Warblers, cisticola and crests

Inhabits scrub with dense undergrowth in a variety of open-country habitats. Large warbler, bright and perky, and less skulking than other species in the genus Sylvia. Male often seen in songflight before dropping to perch. Eye-catching bright chestnut patch on wing is common to all plumages, and rules out all similar species except Spectacled Warbler (for differences, see that species). For differences from Eurasian Reed Warbler, Dartford Warbler and Western Subalpine Warbler, see those species.

Sylvia communis 14cm

Where to see Fairly common summer visitor, mainly to northern Spain and mountains elsewhere. Absent from arid zones. Very common on passage.

♂

♀

juv.

Garden Warbler

Sylvia borin 14cm

Eurasian Blackcap

Warblers, cisticola and crests

Nondescript brown warbler with no obvious distinguishing features; paradoxically, this blandness makes it recognisable. Lacks black or chestnut cap of similar-sized Eurasian Blackcap. Lacks whitish underparts of Eurasian Reed Warbler and has a very prominent black eye in otherwise plain face (rather than a pale line above eye and eye-ring). Common Whitethroat is longer-tailed, with extensively chestnut wings and a white throat.

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Where to see Common summer visitor to northern Spain. Widespread and common on migration. Favours woodland and parks with decent undergrowth.

Sylvia atricapilla 14cm

♂ Stocky, lethargic warbler. Nondescript brown above and grey below. Uniquely among warblers has neat skullcap: black in male, chestnut in female. Male Sardinian Warbler has a more extensive black head, contrasting with red eye and white throat. On plumage, male Eurasian Blackcap is confusable with Marsh Tit, which is smaller and shorter-tailed, with

♀ black ’cap’ extending to nape, in front of eyes and to chin, with whiter cheeks and underparts. Call is a harsh tak, often several in quick succession. Where to see Widespread, common resident, favouring scrubby habitat and open woodland. Very common in winter.

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Western Bonelli’s Warbler

Phylloscopus bonelli 11cm

Warblers, cisticola and crests

Warblers in the genus Phyllosocopus are small, active, pale birds that usually forage high in trees. In Spain, Western Bonelli’s is unique in being relatively plainfaced, with bright yellow-green wings and tail contrasting with dull grey-olive upperparts and gleaming white underparts. Song is a soft, bubbling trill. Call is a loud, disyllabic tu-iii, recalling Common Redstart.

Wood Warbler

Where to see Locally common summer visitor to warm, open woodlands, particularly in hills. More common and widespread on passage.

Phylloscopus sibilatrix 12cm

Distinctively bright warbler, singing birds glowing in the leafy subcanopy. Closest to Willow Warbler, but with more vibrant green upperparts, intensely lemon-yellow

face and breast, and shimmering white (not dull yellow) underparts. Yellow tones to head and breast (and strong supercilium) eliminate Western Bonelli’s Warbler, and it lacks latter’s contrast between drab back and bright wings. Song is a short, fast, shivering trill. Where to see Scarce passage migrant, particularly in spring. Rare summer visitor, breeding in Cantabria and the Pyrenees.

♂

Common Chiffchaff

Phylloscopus collybita 11cm

Iberian Chiffchaff

Warblers, cisticola and crests

Nondescript grey-olive above and dingy whitish below; Willow Warbler is typically yellower. Uniquely among close relatives, it has black legs (rather than pink/ brown) and regularly dips its tail. Differs from Western Bonelli’s Warbler by contrasting face pattern (not plainfaced), and lacks latter’s silvery-white underparts and green-fringed wings. See Iberian Chiffchaff for differences. Song is a distinctive, simple, two-toned chip-chap, woven into a long series. Soft hoo-it call is less drawn-out than Willow.

Where to see Fairly common resident breeder in the Pyrenees, and locally elsewhere. Very common and widespread in winter and on passage.

Phylloscopus ibericus 11cm

Very similar to Common Chiffchaff, but slightly longer-winged, with a paler bill and brown legs (rather than black). It has yellower plumage overall (rather

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like Willow Warbler), particularly on throat and vent, and a weaker eye-ring than Common. Call is a soft, disyllabic, down-slurred wiii-ooo. Song starts similarly to that of Common, then includes a stammering phrase before finishing with long whistles. Where to see Fairly common summer visitor to north and north-west, with isolated populations in the south. Favours mixed and deciduous woodland, often along rivers.

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Willow Warbler

Phylloscopus trochilus 11.5cm

Warblers, cisticola and crests

An olive-yellow warbler with a prominent pale stripe over the eye. Very similar to Common Chiffchaff (for

differences, see that species). Less bright and crisp than Western Bonelli’s Warbler, and lacks that species’ bright yellowgreen fringing to wings and tail. Best known for its song (spring migrants may sing): a luscious, descending cadence. Where to see Abundant passage migrant; rare breeder in north and north-east Spain. Frequents woodlands, young conifer plantations and shrubby areas with scattered trees – although migrants may use other habitats.

Goldcrest

Regulus regulus 9cm

Europe’s joint smallest bird (with Common Firecrest) and thus easy to recognise. Differs from Phylloscopus warblers in tiny size, short tail, wellmarked wings (with a black square and two white bars), and black-and-yellow crown-stripes on otherwise plain face (lacks pale stripe above eye of warblers). Call is a shrill, high-pitched ssee-ssee-ssee, and song a tinny, scratchy warble with an accelerating flourish to finish. See Common Firecrest for differences.

Where to see Fairly common breeder in montane coniferous forests of north. More common and widespread in winter, but still absent from south.

Common Firecrest

Regulus ignicapilla 9cm underparts and a striking black-and-white face pattern. Differs from Phylloscopus warblers in size, shape, face pattern and bright yellow or orange central crown-stripe. Vocalisations similar to Goldcrest but call usually a more emphatic zi-zi and song a simpler, accelerating trill without the final flourish. Where to see Common breeder in open woodlands of north, southern Andalusian hills and locally elsewhere. More widespread in winter.

Spotted Flycatcher

Muscicapa striata 14cm

Flycatchers perch upright on bare branches, sallying out to catch prey. Spotted Flycatcher is the size of Common Chaffinch, but slimmer and with a vertical posture. Dull brown bird, differing from the similarly nondescript Garden Warbler in its posture, streaked underparts, white dots on wing and active flycatching behaviour. Call a squeaky, rather insistent tsitt tsitt. Where to see Generally a common summer visitor, but irregularly distributed. Most likely to be seen in the north and along the Mediterranean coast. Common and widespread on passage. Needs habitat that combines large trees and sunny, open areas.

Crests/Flycatchers

Like Goldcrest, tiny, but brighter coloured, with a vivid green back turning bronze on shoulders, contrasting white

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European Pied Flycatcher

Ficedula hypoleuca 13cm

Flycatchers/Reedling

More compact and strikingly patterned than Spotted Flycatcher. Male distinctive: no other Spanish landbird has black upperparts, bold white wing-flash, white droplet on forehead and white underparts. White Wagtail is similarly black and white, but typically runs along ground, wagging long tail, rather than sitting in bushes and trees. Female dowdier, but easily distinguished from Spotted Flycatcher by extensive white in wing and unstreaked underparts. Song a rather diffident, stuttering series of whistled notes; call an emphatic ppitt. Where to see Fairly common but localised summer visitor, particularly favouring montane forests in the north. Common on passage.

Bearded Reedling

♂

♀

Panurus biarmicus 15cm Also known as Bearded Tit. Unmistakable tit-like bird with a long, graduated tail that contributes nearly half its overall length. Pinkish-buff base colour helps the bird blend into its reedbed habitat, so is often first located by its distinctive call: a metallic ping, ostensibly like an old-style cash register. Female and first-winter are plain-faced, but adult male has a fantastic drooping black moustache. Only similar species inhabiting reedbeds is Eurasian Penduline Tit, which lacks long tail and (on adult) has a black bandana across face.

♂

Where to see Very local resident of large reedbeds on east coast and in Castilla–La Mancha.

Long-tailed Tit

Aegithalos caudatus 14cm

Marsh Tit

Where to see Locally common, widespread resident of deciduous woodland; in south, particularly in uplands.

Poecile palustris 12cm

Small tit with brown upperparts and a distinct black cap. This combination of colour rules out other Spanish tits bar

Coal Tit. Differs from latter in larger size, wholly black cap (lacking white stripe on nape), small bib, brown (not grey) upperparts and lack of white bands on wing. Could just about be mistaken for male Eurasian Blackcap (for differences, see that species). First clue to its presence (and identification) is often its distinctive call: a cheery, emphatic pit-chew. Where to see Localised resident of deciduous woodland in hills of northern Spain.

Tits

Unmistakable. Elongated tail accounts for two-thirds of its length. Only Bearded Reedling has proportions even vaguely similar; the latter’s basic coloration (sandy, not black and white) and habitat (reedbeds) eliminate confusion. In addition to tail, head pattern (largely white, with a broad black ‘bushy eyebrow’) eliminates confusion with Coal Tit (which has a largely black head with a white cheek and central nape-stripe). Parties flit through habitats, staying in contact with a distinctive rolling trill brrrrrp.

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European Crested Tit

Lophophranes cristatus 11.5cm

Tits

Jaunty tit, its perky demeanour accentuated by its most distinctive plumage feature: a tall black-and-white

crest. This ‘headgear’ differentiates it from all other Spanish birds. If crest is not visible (perhaps when bird is high in a tree), striking cheek pattern (a black ‘C’ on a white face) and black collar joining up with black throat are diagnostic. Birds are often first detected by their call: a unique long, purring trill. Where to see Common but localised resident, inhabiting variety of forests, particularly in hilly areas. Absent from the Balearics.

Coal Tit

Periparus ater 11cm

Spain’s smallest tit, barely bigger than Goldcrest. In a brief view, double white band on wing and general coloration may prompt thought of latter. However, diagnostic head pattern is obvious and also rules out other tit species: black head with white cheeks and white stripe on nape. Size and lack of yellow underparts additionally eliminate Eurasian Blue Tit and Great Tit. Call differs too: an insistent tsee tsee tsee.

Where to see Resident in coniferous forest: common and widespread in north; locally common and mainly in mountains in south.

Eurasian Blue Tit

Cyanistes caeruleus 12cm

Great Tit

Where to see Widespread and common resident in deciduous woods, parks and gardens.

Parus major 14cm

Spain’s largest tit, with distinctive plumage (particularly the yellow underparts) that minimises confusion with any bird except Eurasian Blue Tit

(for differences, see that species) and Coal Tit. Head pattern similar to latter, but Great Tit lacks Coal’s white nape. Brighter overall than Coal, with a green back (rather than grey) and yellow underparts (rather than sullied buff) with black central stripe. Has a varied vocal repertoire (mystery calls often transpire to be Great Tits), most famously a see-sawing teach-er. Where to see Common, widespread resident of woods, parks and gardens.

Tits

Familiar and confiding bird, often announcing its presence with a cheery trill. Brightly coloured plumage more like that of a tropical rainforest bird than a Spanish species, and confusable only with Great Tit. Differs from latter in being small and having a whiter face with a dark line through eye, a blue (not black) cap and strikingly blue (not grey) wings. Yellow underparts and head pattern differentiate it from all other tits.

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Eurasian Nuthatch

Nuthatch, wallcreeper and treecreepers

Arboreal, climbing up and down trunks and along branches. Size of a Great Tit, with a shorter tail, and longer head and bill. Uniquely pale blue-grey above and warm buff below. Most striking feature is long black mask running from behind cheeks through eye (leading into long, pointed grey-black bill), which sits between blue-grey crown and white cheeks. Call is a distinctive, abrupt chwit; song is a nasal, ringing (almost whinnying) twee-tweetwee.

Wallcreeper

Sitta europaea 14cm Where to see Common resident in montane forests of the Pyrenees and Cantabria, locally uncommon elsewhere. Favours open woodland.

Tichodroma muraria 16cm

♂ Uniquely, climbs up vertical rocky surfaces and swoops between them in butterfly-like flight on rounded wings. Unmistakable appearance – like a colourful treecreeper, but on rocks rather than trunks. In flight, crimson-and-black pattern on wings grabs attention. Harder to spot when climbing, but occasionally

♀ flashes wings, revealing its presence. Where to see Scarce breeder in mountains of the central Pyrenees and Picos de Europa, strictly on rocks and cliff faces. Some winter at lower altitudes, sometimes on buildings, thus becomes more widespread.

Eurasian Treecreeper

Certhia familiaris 13cm

Nuthatch, wallcreeper and treecreepers

Treecreepers are distinctive birds, almost always seen climbing via a spiralling route up tree trunks. Brown-and-white plumage rules out confusion with similarly arboreal Eurasian Nuthatch, and wooded habitat immediately distinguishes it from similarly shaped (but differently coloured) Wallcreeper. Only confusion species is the very similar Short-toed Treecreeper (for differences, see that species). May be quite shy; listen for the thin, high-pitched, quavering sriiii call. Where to see Resident in mature forests above 1,000m altitude in Pyrenees, Sistema Ibérico and Cantabrian Mountains, so much less likely to be encountered than the widespread Shorttoed Treecreeper.

Short-toed Treecreeper

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Certhia brachydactyla 13cm Typical behaviour (spiralling up tree trunks) means it is only confusable with Eurasian Treecreeper, with which it overlaps in the montane forests of northern Spain. Voice is the easiest way to tell this extremely similar pair apart: call is a penetrating, oft-repeated tuut, like that of Coal Tit. Identification by plumage involves careful examination of the exact pattern of the buff ‘V’ midway along the wing – a fairly neat line in Short-toed rather than the zigzag of Eurasian. Where to see Very common, widespread resident of broadleaved woodlands, parks and gardens.

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Eurasian Penduline Tit

Remiz pendulinus 11cm

Penduline Tit

Smaller than Eurasian Blue Tit, with a tiny conical bill. Plumage distinctive, confusable only with much larger Redbacked Shrike, whose preferred habitat

differs. Male more striking than female, with broader black mask that, along with short tail, eliminates confusion with Bearded Reedling. Juvenile dull brown, lacks mask; confusable with juvenile Bearded Reedling, but its short tail sets things straight. Often located by its call: a drawn-out pss-eee-oooo, more plaintive than Common Reed Bunting. Where to see Uncommon and locally distributed resident in valleys of east and south-west. More common and widespread in winter. Favours wetlands, reedbeds and ditches, particularly with reedmace (Typha latifolia) and usually with scattered trees for breeding.

Eurasian Golden Oriole

Oriolus oriolus 24cm

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Oriole/Shrikes

♀

♂ Despite bright coloration, habitually hides in dense, leafy canopy, attracting attention either by song (a rich, fluty whistling) or in sudden flight on surprisingly long wings. Adult male unmistakable, being golden-yellow with almost entirely black wings and tail. Female more subdued, largely green, so superficially similar to Iberian

Iberian Grey Shrike

Green Woodpecker, especially in flight, but the oriole has a shorter tail, contrastingly dark wings and a shorter, pinkish-red bill. Where to see Fairly common, widespread summer visitor to mature open woodland forest in lowlands. Scarce on passage in the Balearics.

Lanius meridionalis 24cm

Vulnerable. Sometimes known as Southern Grey Shrike. Fairly common and widespread but declining resident. This is a large grey shrike, with a long, mainly black tail. The plain grey back rules out both Red-backed Shrike and Woodchat Shrike, while white patches in the wing also eliminate the former. Superficially similar to much smaller Northern Wheatear, but has long, largely black tail, white in wing and a hooked bill. Rather shy.

Where to see Most abundant in central and south-west Spain. Favours open environments with scattered trees and bushes.

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Red-backed Shrike

Lanius collurio 17cm

Shrikes ♂ Like other shrikes, a medium-sized songbird with a hooked bill, which hunts from prominent perches and stores a ‘larder’ of primarily invertebrate victims. Male is distinctive, with a blue-grey crown and nape contrasting with chestnut back and wings, and a black eyemask. Upperpart colour differentiates it from Southern Grey Shrike and male Northern Wheatear (latter also lacks hooked bill and has a largely white tail). Female and first-winter resemble firstwinter Woodchat Shrike (for differences, see that juv. species).

♀ Where to see Common summer visitor to scrubby parts of the north, particularly Cantabrian Mountains and the Pyrenees. Frequents scrubby, semiopen environments.

Woodchat Shrike

Lanius senator 18cm

Where to see Widespread and common visitor to open, scrubby countryside. Most abundant in the south and south-

♂

Shrikes

Adult distinctive: black and white with a russet cap. Female looks scruffier than male. First-winter resembles female/first-winter Red-backed Shrike, but Woodchat is a colder grey (rather than warm brown) above, and much more heavily scalloped. Also has a barred whitish (not brown) rump and more white on shoulders (a ghosting of adult’s pattern).

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juv.

west, but absent from the extreme north, forests and mountains. Passage migrants may be encountered anywhere in spring.

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Eurasian Jay

Garrulus glandarius 34cm

Crows

Crows and jays are large, bulky and strong-billed birds. Eurasian Jay is distinctive, appearing largely pink at rest. Identity is less obvious in flight, but look for the electricblue flash on black-andwhite wings, and neat white rump contrasting with wholly black tail. For differences from Iberian Magpie, see that species. When airborne, could be confused with Hoopoe, but latter has black-and-white stripes all the way across its back and wings, and a banded tail. Distinctive call: a harsh, screeching jeer.

Iberian Magpie

Where to see Widespread and common resident in woodlands, particularly with oaks.

Cyanopica cyanus 33cm

juv.

Alert, shy and gregarious outside the breeding season, foraging actively in treetops. Size of a Eurasian Jay, although half of its length comprises the tail. Overall shape is like that of a Common Magpie. Unmistakable; although pink plumage prompts thought of Eurasian Jay, long and extensively blue wings rule out that species. In shady vegetation,

however, intensity of coloration can dissipate and cause momentary confusion. Rattling and nasal calls, particularly in alarm. Where to see Common resident of Extremadura and surroundings, where it favours lightly wooded terrain.

Common Magpie

Pica pica 45cm

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Crows

Distinctively long-tailed crow. Plumage is effectively black (with blue, green or purple gloss), bar white belly, shoulderpatches and (in flight) wing-tips. Only confusion might be with a partially leucistic (white) crow, but long tail should set the story straight. Clearly much larger than similarly long-tailed, piebald White Wagtail, which runs along the

Alpine Chough

ground pumping its tail. Various loud, scolding calls. Where to see Widespread and common resident throughout most of Spain, absent only from western Andalucía. Frequents most open-country environments as long as they contain trees, including near human habitation.

Pyrrhocorax graculus 38cm

Also called Yellow-billed Chough. Choughs are acrobatic crows, sailing buoyantly around cliff faces before plummeting downwards on half-folded wings. Alpine Chough is a small crow with a yellow bill and red legs. Most similar to Red-billed Chough (for differences, see that species). Yellow bill and all-black plumage could prompt

confusion with male Common Blackbird, but latter is much smaller, with a brighter yellow bill and pink-brown (not red) legs. Where to see Fairly common resident in Pyrenees and Cantabrian Mountains, frequenting alpine meadows and sheer cliffs. More widespread in winter, including at lower altitude.

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Red-billed Chough

Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax 39cm

Crows

Alpine Chough is the most likely confusion species; even then, it will provoke uncertainty only if Red-billed’s eponymous decurved scarlet bill cannot be seen. Fledglings have yellower bills, but will be with red-billed adults. Red-billed looks a glossier black than Alpine, and longer-bodied. In flight, its wing-tips are more prominently ‘fingered’ (rounded on Alpine). Red bill and legs remove confusion with other all-black crows (such as Western Jackdaw, which can also fly acrobatically, high in the sky) and with smaller male Common Blackbird. Call is striking: a long, nasal chiiiaooow.

Western Jackdaw

Where to see Uncommon, sparsely distributed resident of mountainous regions.

Corvus monedula 32cm

Compact crow, the size of Eurasian Jay. Smaller than Carrion Crow with staring whitish iris and pale grey shawl on neck. In flight, looks much smaller than that species, with quicker, flickering wingbeats. Flocks often swirl out from trees, particularly before roosting, sailing around lazily before returning to perch.

Voice distinctive: a metallic, abrupt, resonant jak. Where to see Common resident throughout most of Spain, but scarce or absent from northern coasts and declining in Cataluña. Needs cliffs, buildings or trees for nesting.

Rook

Corvus frugilegus 45cm

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Crows

Easily confused with more common and widespread Carrion Crow. Rook’s head is smaller, with a longer and more tapered bill. Critically, pale grey skin at bill base looks whitish (black in Carrion Crow). Juvenile Rook, however, has a black bill and is hard to distinguish from Carrion Crow. In flight, looks more ragged than

Carrion Crow

Carrion Crow, with a longer tail, more angled wings and more protruding head. Typical call a deep croaking caww. Where to see Scarce but gregarious resident confined to a small part of north-west Castilla y León.

Corvus corone 47cm

Black bird, larger than Western Jackdaw. Often solitary but occasionally gathers in flocks. Most similar to larger Northern Raven (for differences, see latter). Similar to Rook, but latter’s limited distribution means confusion is unlikely; moreover, Carrion Crow has a shorter, less tapered bill without bare white skin at its base,

and in flight looks less ragged, with a shorter tail, less angled wings and less protruding head. Call is a hoarse kraaa. Where to see Common resident in north, frequenting open environments. Absent from south, bar mountains.

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Northern Raven

Corvus corax 61cm

Crows/Starlings Massive black crow, the size of Common Buzzard. Northern Raven has a distinctive form in flight, with a long diamond-shaped tail (rounded in other crows), thick neck and powerful yet laidback beats of oftenangled wings. At rest, its bulk is apparent, being complemented by a heavy, steeply arched bill. Carrion Crow is the only

Spotless Starling

confusion species, but it is smaller and less extravagantly shaped. Call is distinctive: a deep, far-carrying tonk or prruk. Where to see Widespread and common resident, favouring rocky mountains but flocking on farmland in winter.

Sturnus unicolor 22cm

Confusable only with Common Starling. In winter, the duo need careful differentiation, because Spotless Starling

betrays its name by being slightly spotted! However, latter’s pale dots are smaller and usually absent from the crown and back (where Common always has spots). In addition, Spotless never shows Common’s brown fringing to the wings, and often has obviously bright pink legs. Moreover, any sheen is more likely to be solely purple compared to the various iridescent tones exhibited by Common. Where to see Common, widespread and gregarious resident throughout Spain, favouring open regions but also frequenting urban areas.

Common Starling

Sturnus vulgaris 22cm

Starlings

Gregarious, forming large flocks. Particularly in winter, adult is very similar to Spotless Starling, which betrays its name by having spots. The pale dots of Common Starling are, however, larger and continue onto the crown and back (unlike Spotless). Common also differs through brown fringing on wings, variously coloured iridescence and usually duller pink legs. In summer, differences are clearer-cut, because adult Common remains spotted, whereas Spotless now lives up to its name. Both starlings are dark birds that can be confused with Common Blackbird, but are smaller and shorter-tailed, and walk along the ground rather than hop. Where to see Common (and spreading) resident in northern and north-eastern Spain; abundant winter visitor elsewhere. Occupies many open environments, including urban areas.

br.

br.

juv.

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win.

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House Sparrow

Passer domesticus 15cm

Sparrows

Uniquely, male has a grey crown, chestnut band behind eye and a black bib. Breeding-plumaged male Spanish Sparrow differs in its black (not brown) back, more extensive black over most of underparts, largely white face and russet-brown (not grey) cap. Female House Sparrow lacks male’s head pattern; also lacks bold white wing-band of female Common Chaffinch and streaked underparts of Corn Bunting. Most similar to Rock Sparrow (for differences, see that species). Eurasian Tree Sparrow is easily distinguished from both sexes of House Sparrow by wholly chestnut-brown crown, large black spot on white cheek, and neat black chin not extending onto breast. Where to see Abundant resident throughout mainland Spain and the Balearics. Particularly common near human dwellings.

♂br.

♀

♀

Spanish Sparrow

Passer hispaniolensis 15cm

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Sparrows

♀

♂br.

Breeding male Spanish very smart, differing from both Eurasian Tree Sparrow and male House Sparrow in black back and more extensive black over most of underparts. Differs further from male House in largely white face and russet-brown cap. Winterplumaged male scruffier and more like House, but white cheeks and brown

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

crown remain. Female House and Spanish Sparrows are effectively identical; latter is sometimes more streaked on flanks and has a larger bill. Where to see Common resident throughout much of Spain except in the north and mountains. Favours cultivated land.

Passer montanus 14cm

Unlike House and Spanish Sparrows, sexes do not differ in plumage. Plumage differs readily from those two species

through its wholly chestnut-brown crown, large black spot on white cheek, and neat black chin not extending onto breast. Slightly smaller and more compact than House – a difference perceptible in flight, when it utters a distinctive, hard tec. Where to see Common resident throughout most of Spain, but absent from mountains. Typically occurs close to human habitation in countryside – for example, in scrub near villages.

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Rock Sparrow

Petronia petronia 16cm

Sparrows/Finches

Stockier than House Sparrow, with longer wings, a larger head, bigger bill and shorter tail, which give it a very

different silhouette, particularly in flight. At a distance, plumage looks variegated. Closer examination reveals Rock Sparrow to have a much more contrasting head pattern than female House – pale crown-stripe, dark side to head and broad pale band above eye – and heavily streaked underparts. Where to see Locally common and widespread resident, generally above 500m altitude. Absent from extreme north. Frequents open rocky environments and stony grasslands.

White-winged Snowfinch Large, long-winged finch of mountaintops. Nondescript grey and brown on the ground, but in flight reveals

Montifringilla nivalis 17cm diagnostic, startling white-and-black wings. Confusion species are few and far between at this high altitude. The most likely, if only on the ground, is Alpine Accentor, which is also grey and brown, but latter is heavily streaked and lacks white in wing. Accentor also looks rather thrush-like in flight (when all-dark wings negate any residual uncertainty). Where to see Scarce, localised resident of rocky areas above 2,000m in Cantabrian Mountains and the Pyrenees.

Common Waxbill

Estrilda astrild 11cm

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Finches

juv.

Originally from Africa, but introduced to Portugal in the 1960s, from where it spread into Spain. Very small, finch-like bird with a long tail (unlike any Spanish finch) and chattering call. Adult’s red bill (hence the name waxbill, from sealing wax) means it is likely to be confused only with the female of another non-native

Red Avadavat

member of the same family, Red Avadavat (see that species for differences). Where to see Gregarious, locally common resident in parts of Extremadura, Andalucía, western Galicia and some eastern wetlands. Favours damp vegetation such as rushes.

Amandava amandava 10cm

♂br. Originally from South Asia, but introduced to Spain in the 1970s or 1980s. Tiny; even smaller than Common Waxbill, with a similarly long tail. Red bill removes confusion with any other Spanish bird except Common Waxbill. Can be differentiated from that species in all plumages by white spots on black

non-br.

wings and eye-catching scarlet rump and uppertail-coverts. Breeding male dramatic, being largely bright red with white spots. Where to see Locally common resident in Extremadura, parts of Andalucía, Madrid and a few eastern wetlands.

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Common Chaffinch

Fringilla coelebs 15cm

Finches ♀

♂ House Sparrow-sized but with a longer tail. Sexes differ, but share diagnostic broad white wing-bands. This striking feature eliminates confusion with all other finches as well as sparrows. Brambling has a single white band on wing, but differs in its neat white rump and orange on forewing. Characteristic

Brambling

call (a cheery pink and a melancholy hooo-it) and accelerating rattle of a song. Where to see Very common resident throughout Spain, except treeless or arid regions. Large numbers also occur on passage and in winter.

Fringilla montifringilla 15cm

♂ Male is attractive, being black, orange and white; female is duller, with a largely grey head, scaly back, heavily marked flanks and a faint orange flush to breast. Such plumage features should avoid confusion with any other finch, but to avoid any doubt, wait until Brambling takes flight, at which point the neat

♀ white rump and orange forewing confirm its identity. Distinctive call is a nasal, upwards-inflected dju-ii. Where to see Scarce winter and passage visitor, possible anywhere in mainland Spain.

European Serin

Serinus serinus 11cm

♂

Finches

Tiny, streaky finch that attracts attention with its vocalisations (jingling trills) and, in flight, its bright yellow rump. Latter differentiates it from the larger, greener, less streaky European Greenfinch. Male has a largely yellow face, including crown – thus separating it from male Eurasian Siskin (which has a black crown). Female is duller and densely streaked: differs from Common Linnet in yellow rump, and from female Eurasian Siskin in subdued (not contrastingly black-and-yellow) wing pattern. Differs from the montane Citril Finch by its heavily streaked back and flanks (Citril is unmarked below), yellow rump and lack of grey shawl.

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♀ Where to see Widespread and common, mainly resident although some northern breeders move south in winter. Favours open environments with tall trees.

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Citril Finch

Serinus citrinella 12cm

Finches juv.

Similar in size and shape to Eurasian Siskin, but adults differ from that species (and from diminutive European Serin) by being only finely streaked on back. European Greenfinch is similarly unstreaked but much larger, while Citril Finch is further distinguished by grey shawl, yellower underparts and yellowgreen bars crossing wing (rather than

European Greenfinch

European Greenfinch’s broad yellow streak along length of wing). Altitude should also help: Citril is essentially montane. Where to see Locally common species of conifer forests and forest edges above 1,000m in northern and central Spain, and isolated southern mountains.

Carduelis chloris 15cm

♂ Similar size to Common Chaffinch, but shorter-tailed and thicker-billed. All plumages are easily identifiable in flight, when bright yellow streak along leading edge of outer wing catches the eye. No other species shows such a pattern, so this is the quickest way to distinguish juvenile European Greenfinch from other

♀ streaky finches such as European Serin and Eurasian Siskin. Male also differs from other verdant finches in wholly pink bill. Song – a ringing, energetic trill – is often given in songflight. Where to see Very common resident. Numerous in winter and on passage.

European Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis 12cm

Finches

Small, distinctive finch with an attractive, tinkling song. No real confusion species, as all plumages have a unique broad yellow band across wing, which is visible both at rest and in flight. Adult further differs from all other Spanish birds in red face contrasting with white cheeks and black crown/collar. Juvenile lacks this bold head pattern and could conceivably be overlooked among flocks of European Greenfinch or Common Linnet, until it shows yellow wing-bands in flight. Often in family groups. Where to see Widespread, common resident with larger numbers on passage and in winter.

Eurasian Siskin

Carduelis spinus 12cm

♂ Small, slender greenish finch often seen feeding acrobatically in upper branches, keeping in contact with others by its plaintive, disyllabic tlii-uu call. Male is boldly patterned with black, yellow, green and white. Female and firstwinter are paler, greyer and streakier, with isolated patches of yellow. For

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♀ differences from European Serin, Citril Finch and European Greenfinch, see those species. Where to see Rare, occasional breeder in northern montane forests. On passage and in winter, common and widespread, favouring alders.

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Common Linnet

Carduelis cannabina 13cm

Finches ♀

♂ Gregarious finch. Constantly active: rarely settles for long before bounding into the air, twittering, then dropping down. In flight, look for white flashes in wing and tail. At rest, male is easily identifiable by pink breast, red forehead and unstreaked chestnut back. Female and first-winter are less distinctive, being drab grey-brown

Red Crossbill

and streaky, and could be confused with juvenile Citril Finch. Latter, however, always has yellow tones to plumage and yellowish wing-bars, and lacks Linnet’s white wing-flashes. Where to see Widespread resident, more numerous on passage and in winter.

Loxia curvirostra 16cm

♂ Big, stocky, large-headed finch with a short, forked tail – a distinctive shape in rapid, whirring flight. At rest, diagnostic bill shape is strongly arched with crossed tips. Gregarious; groups maintain contact with a ringing jip-jip-jip. Plumage varies from greyish-green (juvenile and female) to dull scarlet (adult male), but lacks any

♀ contrasting white or yellow patches (as on European Greenfinch). Where to see Uncommon resident of conifer forests, typically in mountains, particularly in the east and north. Very rarely seen away from pines.

Trumpeter Finch

Bucanetes githagineus 14cm

213

Finches

♀

♂ Small compact finch with long wings, bulbous bill, beady black eye and pale, unstreaked plumage. Both sexes essentially sandy-brown all over with a yellow-orange bill, but male in breeding plumage becomes rather different – extensively pink and bluish grey, with a vibrant orange-pink bill. Rather

Eurasian Bullfinch

explosive, nasal call, perhaps a little like a toy trumpet. No confusion species. Where to see Scarce resident of eastern Andalucía and Murcia. Favours arid, rocky habitats.

Pyrrhula pyrrhula 16cm

♂ Unobtrusive, favouring dense vegetation in open woodland, scrubby forests and parkland. First sign of its presence is often a mournful, descending peeoo whistle; song is a quiet, creaking warble. Striking, simply plumaged bird (think ‘colour by numbers’). Sexes share a black cap, wings and tail, contrasting with extensive white

♀ rump and pale wing-bar. No other Spanish bird has such a pattern. Male has a bluegrey back and pink underparts, female a brown-grey back and buff-grey underparts. Where to see Uncommon resident in northernmost Spain, where patchily distributed. More widespread in winter.

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Hawfinch

Coccothraustes coccothraustes 17cm

Finches/Buntings ♀

♂ Large, handsome finch with a big head, thick bill and short tail. Often perches in treetops before flying rapidly and directly to feeding grounds. Usual flight call is a quiet tik, like that of European Robin. In flight, pattern of white is unique, comprising band on tail-tip, shoulder-patch and stripe along wing-

Snow Bunting

tip. This eliminates superficially similar male Common Chaffinch. At rest, very distinctive, with no confusion species. Where to see Uncommon and localised resident, particularly in south-western and central Spain, favouring open woodland.

Plectrophenax nivalis 17cm

Long-winged bunting that creeps along the ground – often inconspicuous until it takes flight, at which point male’s largely white wings attract attention (female has only a little white on the inner wing). Stubby yellow bill diagnostic. Theoretically could be confused with White-winged Snowfinch, which shares a not dissimilar plumage

pattern. However, latter distinguished by grey head and unstreaked back. Moreover, White-winged Snowfinch is strictly montane. Snow Bunting calls distinctive: a rippling trill and a clear, whistling psiuu. Where to see Rare winter visitor to northern coasts, occasional elsewhere.

Ortolan Bunting

Emberiza hortulana 16cm Where to see Uncommon summer visitor with an irregular distribution concentrated on north-central Spain. Widespread on passage. Breeds in farmland, chalk grassland, and hedgerows in cultivated areas.

♂br.

♂br.

♀

Buntings

Slender, pale bunting with a longish, narrow pink bill and distinctive face on which a broad pale eye-ring stands out – a combination not seen in any other Spanish bunting. Male is pastel-coloured, having a pale green face with a yellow cheek-stripe and chin, and pale orange underparts. Female and first-winter are more washed out, but share the same face pattern.

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Common Reed Bunting

Emberiza schoeniclus 16cm

Buntings

Female and first-winter are a mass of brown and buff stripes. Summer male is brighter, with a white stripe separating black head from black bib, and cleaner white underparts. Winter male has faded version of summer head pattern. No common Spanish bunting is even vaguely similar. On a poor view, female’s broad pale stripe above eye and stripey back could prompt thought of Sedge Warbler, but that species

1st-win.

♂

is much smaller and shorter-tailed, with plain underparts and a slender bill. Short, repetitive, clumsy, grating song. Call a slightly plaintive pseuuu. Where to see Rare and local resident in northern Spain. More widespread in winter, when particularly common in the east. The bunting most likely to be seen in wetlands.

♀

Yellowhammer

Emberiza citrinella 16cm

217

Buntings

♀

♂ Large, long-tailed bunting with yellow tones to plumage. Male is unique in its largely canary-yellow head and rusty rump; head lacks Cirl Bunting’s stripes. Female very like female Cirl, but rump is chestnut (not olive-grey) and underparts have thick streaks (not fine). Female’s yellow and rusty tones eliminate female

Cirl Bunting

Common Reed Bunting and Corn Bunting. Call a thick tsswick. Wheezy, whistling song commonly transcribed as ‘a little bit of bread and no cheese’. Where to see Uncommon resident of humid countryside in extreme northern Spain. Slightly more widespread in winter.

Emberiza cirlus 16cm

♂ Male’s distinctive head pattern comprises blackish-olive stripes on yellow face and olive chest-band. Pattern is much bolder and darker than in male Yellowhammer (for differences between females, see that species). Compared to male Rock Bunting, male Cirl has more stripes on clearly yellow (not blue-grey) face, and rufous streaks on flanks rather

♀ than unmarked chestnut belly. Song is an undistinguished thin trill, lacking Yellowhammer’s emphatic tones. Call a quiet, undemonstrative si. Where to see Widespread and common resident in scrubby countryside across much of Spain, particularly in the north.

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Rock Bunting

Emberiza cia 16cm

Buntings ♀

♂ Male is attractive, and female subdued in comparison (although basic plumage pattern is similar). Recalls male Cirl Bunting, but head is blue-grey rather than yellow and has fewer black stripes. Rump is rusty as in Yellowhammer and unlike olive-grey of Cirl. Uniquely among buntings, Rock’s belly and flanks are

Corn Bunting

unmarked chestnut. Call very like that of Cirl Bunting. Where to see Common resident across much of Spain, particularly from midaltitudes upwards, dispersing lower in winter. Favours rocky areas with ample scrub and bushes.

Emberiza calandra 18cm

♂ The most nondescript Spanish bunting: large, streaked and plain brown. Thickerbilled than other buntings, lacks white sides to tail and sometimes flies with legs dangling. Plausibly confused with Eurasian Skylark, which frequents similar habitats, but has an indistinct pale spot at back of cheeks and a much thicker, seed-

juv.

eating bill. Distinctive song described as ‘jangling of keys’. Call a rather metallic plik. Where to see Very common resident in most of Spain and the Balearics, but absent from mountains. Favours lowland agricultural areas.

BOOKS de Juana, E. and Garcia, E. 2015. Birds of the Iberian Peninsula. Christopher Helm, London. de Juana, E. and Varela, J. M. 2017. Birds of Spain. Lynx Edicions, Barcelona. Farino, T. and Lockwood, M. 2003. Travellers’ Nature Guide: Spain. Oxford University Press, Oxford. Garcia, E. and Paterson, A. M. 2019. Where to Watch Birds in Southern and Western Spain. 4th edn. Christopher Helm, London. Garcia, E. and Rebane, M. 2017. Where to Watch Birds in Northern and Eastern Spain. 3rd edn. Christopher Helm, London. Hilbers, D. 2013. Extremadura, Spain. Crossbill Guides, Arnhem. Hilbers, D. and Woutersen. K. 2016. Spanish Pyrenees and Steppes of Huesca, Spain. Crossbill Guides, Arnhem. Hume, R., Still, R., Swash, A. and Harrop, H. 2021. Europe’s Birds: an Identification Guide. Princeton University Press, Woodstock. Svensson, L., Mullarney, K. and Zetterström, D. 2023. Collins Bird Guide. 3rd edn. HarperCollins, London. WEBSITES SEO/BirdLife soe.org Website of the Sociedad Española de Ornitología (SEO/BirdLife), Spain’s national bird conservation organisation; includes an online field guide to Spain’s birds (effectively an Internet version of de Juana and Varela’s 2017 Birds of Spain; see above) and information on good birdwatching locations. Cloud Birders cloudbirders.com Cloud-based repository of birdwatching trip reports, including more than 1,500 from Spain. Rare Birds in Spain rarebirdspain.net Up-to-date information on vagrant birds in Spain.

SMARTPHONE APPS These two smartphone apps enable you to enter your sightings in Spain (and around the world), and therefore contribute to the collective understanding of the status and distribution of birds. It’s citizen science at its best. eBird tinyurl.com/ebirdapp NaturaList tinyurl.com/naturalistapp

Acknowledgements Jim Martin and Alice Ward (Bloomsbury) kindly commissioned this book. Jenny Campbell (Bloomsbury), Marianne Taylor and Guy Kirwan played invaluable roles during the book’s production. James thanks Sharon and Maya Lowen for granting him the time to write it and helping him explore Spain. He is grateful to: Mike Hoit, Martin Kelsey and Will Soar for companionship on various birdwatching escapades in Spain; Matthew Hobbs and Durwyn Liley for information; and Richard Bonser and Alick Simmons for images. Carlos thanks Aurélien Audevard and Daniele Occhiato for their generous photographic contributions, plus Ana Bocos and Mario Tovar for their continual support.

Photo credits All the photographs in this book were taken by Carlos Bocos, with the exception of the following: James Lowen: 22T, 22BR, 23T, 23M, 23 BR, 24M, 24B, 25T, 27B, 29T, 31ML, 35B, 37T, 39T, 42B, 44B, 45B, 47B, 50T, 64TL, 75TL, 75TR, 84BR, 86B, 88TR, 94T, 96T, 99BR, 100BR, 101T, 104TR, 104TL, 104BL, 107T, 109TR, 109BR, 109BL, 111T, 113BR, 114T, 117T, 117M, 117B, 119B, 125T, 136BL, 137TR, 150T, 151T, 152T, 153T, 154M, 117B, 192BL, 196B, 200BR, 202TR, 203M, 203BL, 207TR, 207TL, 207BR, 208BR, 210TR, 214BL, 214BR. Carlos Manuel Martin Jimenez: 27T, 34TR, 43B, 46T, 46B, 50B, 64T, 84TR, 84TL, 87B, 11B, 116B, 145M, 145B, 175B, 177T. Aurélien Audevard: 25B, 41B, 119T, 125M, 158BR. Alick Simmons: 34TL. Daniele Occhiato: 44T, 45T, 86B, 109TL, 192BR, 207TL. Jose Luis Rodriguez: 52T, 60BL, 79M, 81T, 141BR, 154B, 169BR, 201BR. Alex Colorado: 140BL. Juan Matute: 82T.

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Further reading and resources

FURTHER READING AND RESOURCES

220

List of species names

LIST OF SPECIES NAMES This list presents two names for each of the species described in this guide. The English name is indicated in upper case and the Spanish name in plain text. GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE Ánsar careto GREYLAG GOOSE Ánsar común BRENT GOOSE Barnacla carinegra COMMON SHELDUCK Tarro blanco MALLARD Ánade azulón EURASIAN WIGEON Sibilón europeo GADWALL Ánade friso EURASIAN TEAL Cerceta común NORTHERN PINTAIL Ánade rabudo GARGANEY Cerceta carretona NORTHERN SHOVELER Cuchara común MARBLED TEAL Cerceta pardilla RED-CRESTED POCHARD Pato colorado COMMON POCHARD Porrón europeo TUFTED DUCK Porrón moñudo COMMON SCOTER Negrón común COMMON GOLDENEYE Porrón osculado RED-BREASTED MERGANSER Serreta mediana WHITE-HEADED DUCK Malvasia cabeciblanca ROCK PTARMIGAN Lagópodo alpino WESTERN CAPERCAILLIE Urogallo común COMMON QUAIL Codorniz común RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE Perdiz roja GREY PARTRIDGE Perdiz pardilla COMMON PHEASANT Faisán vulgar BLACK-THROATED DIVER Colimbo ártico GREAT NORTHERN DIVER Colimbo grande LITTLE GREBE Zampullín común GREAT CRESTED GREBE Somormujo lavanco BLACK-NECKED GREBE Zampullín cuellinegro SCOPOLI’S/CORY’S SHEARWATER Pardela cenicenta/de Cory SOOTY SHEARWATER Pardela sombría BALEARIC SHEARWATER Pardela balear YELKOUAN SHEARWATER Pardela mediterránea EUROPEAN STORM PETREL Paiño europeo

NORTHERN GANNET Alcatraz atlántico GREAT CORMORANT Cormorán grande EUROPEAN SHAG Cormorán moñudo EURASIAN BITTERN Avetoro común LITTLE BITTERN Avetorillo común BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON Martinete común SQUACCO HERON Garcilla cangrejera CATTLE EGRET Garcilla bueyera LITTLE EGRET Garcetta común GREAT EGRET Garceta grande GREY HERON Garza real PURPLE HERON Garza imperial BLACK STORK Cigüeña negra WHITE STORK Cigüeña blanca GLOSSY IBIS Ibis eremita EURASIAN SPOONBILL Espátula común GREATER FLAMINGO Flamenco común EUROPEAN HONEY BUZZARD Abejero europeo BLACK-WINGED KITE Elanio común BLACK KITE Milano negro RED KITE Milano real BEARDED VULTURE (LAMMERGEIER) Quebrantahuesos EGYPTIAN VULTURE Alimoche común GRIFFON VULTURE Buitre leonardo CINEREOUS (BLACK) VULTURE Buitre negro SHORT-TOED SNAKE EAGLE Culebrera europea WESTERN MARSH HARRIER Aguilucho lagunero occidental HEN HARRIER Aguilucho pálido MONTAGU’S HARRIER Aguilucho cenizo NORTHERN GOSHAWK Azor común EURASIAN SPARROWHAWK Gavilán común COMMON BUZZARD Busardo ratonero SPANISH IMPERIAL EAGLE Águila imperial ibérica GOLDEN EAGLE Águila real BOOTED EAGLE Águila calzada BONELLI’S EAGLE Águila perdicera OSPREY Águila pescadora LESSER KESTREL Cernícalo vulgar COMMON KESTREL Cernícalo común MERLIN Esmerejón EURASIAN HOBBY Alcotán europeo

ELEONORA’S FALCON Halcón de Eleonora PEREGRINE FALCON Halcón peregrino WATER RAIL Rascón europeo SPOTTED CRAKE Polluela pintoja COMMON MOORHEN Galineta común PURPLE SWAMPHEN Calamón común EURASIAN COOT Focha común RED-KNOBBED COOT Focha moruna COMMON CRANE Grulla común LITTLE BUSTARD Sisón común GREAT BUSTARD Avutarda común EURASIAN STONE-CURLEW Alcaraván común BLACK-WINGED STILT Cigüenela común PIED AVOCET Avoceta común EURASIAN OYSTERCATCHER Ostrero euroasiático COLLARED PRATINCOLE Canastera común EUROPEAN GOLDEN PLOVER Chorlito dorado europeo GREY PLOVER Chorlito gris NORTHERN LAPWING Avefría europea LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Chorlitejo chico COMMON RINGED PLOVER Chorlitejo grande KENTISH PLOVER Chorlitejo patinegro EURASIAN DOTTEREL Chorlito caramboto WHIMBREL Zarapito trinador EURASIAN CURLEW Zarapito real BLACK-TAILED GODWIT Aguja colinegra BAR-TAILED GODWIT Aguja colipinta RUDDY TURNSTONE Vuelvepiedras común RED KNOT Correlimos gordo SANDERLING Correlimos tridáctilo DUNLIN Correlimos común LITTLE STINT Correlimos menudo TEMMINCK’S STINT Correlimos de Temminck RUFF Combatiente CURLEW SANDPIPER Correlimos zarapitín PURPLE SANDPIPER Correlimos oscuro EURASIAN WOODCOCK Chocha perdiz COMMON SNIPE Agachadiza común

TENGMALM’S OWL Mochuelo boreal EUROPEAN NIGHTJAR Chotacabras europeo RED-NECKED NIGHTJAR Chotacabras cuellirrojo COMMON SWIFT Vencejo común PALLID SWIFT Vencejo pálido ALPINE SWIFT Vencejo real WHITE-RUMPED SWIFT Vencejo cafre LITTLE SWIFT Vencejo moro COMMON KINGFISHER Martín pescador común EUROPEAN BEE-EATER Abejaruco europeo EUROPEAN ROLLER Carraca europea HOOPOE Abubilla común EURASIAN WRYNECK Torsecuello euroasiático IBERIAN GREEN WOODPECKER Pito real ibérico BLACK WOODPECKER Picamaderos negro GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Pico picapinos MIDDLE SPOTTED WOODPECKER Pico mediano LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Pico menor DUPONT’S LARK Arlondra ricotí CALANDRA LARK Calandria común GREATER SHORT-TOED LARK Terreracomún MEDITERRANEAN LESSER SHORTTOED LARK Terrera marismeña CRESTED LARK Cogujada común THEKLA’S LARK Cogujada montesina WOODLARK Arlondra totovía EURASIAN SKYLARK Arlondra común SAND MARTIN Avión zapador EURASIAN CRAG MARTIN Avión roquero BARN SWALLOW Golondrina común COMMON HOUSE MARTIN Avión común RED-RUMPED SWALLOW Golondrina dáurica TAWNY PIPIT Bisbita campestre TREE PIPIT Bisbita arbóreo MEADOW PIPIT Bisbita pratense WATER PIPIT Bisbita alpino ROCK PIPIT Bisbita costero GREY WAGTAIL Lavandera cascadeña YELLOW WAGTAIL Lavandera boyera WHITE WAGTAIL Lavandera blanca WHITE-THROATED DIPPER Mirlo acuático europeo WINTER WREN Chochín común DUNNOCK Acentor común ALPINE ACCENTOR Acentor alpino RUFOUS-TAILED SCRUB ROBIN Alza cola rojizo EUROPEAN ROBIN Petirrojo europeo COMMON NIGHTINGALE Ruiseñor

común BLUETHROAT Ruiseñor pechiazul BLACK REDSTART Colirrojo tizón COMMON REDSTART Colirrojo real WHINCHAT Tarabilla norteña EUROPEAN STONECHAT Tarabilla común NORTHERN WHEATEAR Collalba gris WESTERN BLACK-EARED WHEATEAR Collabla rubia BLACK WHEATEAR Collabla negra COMMON ROCK THRUSH Roquero rojo BLUE ROCK THRUSH Roquero solitario RING OUZEL Mirlo capiblanco COMMON BLACKBIRD Mirlo común FIELDFARE Zorzal real SONG THRUSH Zorzal común REDWING Zorzal alirrojo MISTLE THRUSH Zorzal charlo CETTI’S WARBLER Cetia ruiseñor ZITTING CISTICOLA Cisticola buitrón COMMON GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Buscarla pintoja SAVI’S WARBLER Buscarla unicolor WESTERN OLIVACEOUS WARBLER Zarcero bereber MELODIOUS WARBLER Zarcero común MOUSTACHED WARBLER Carricerín real SEDGE WARBLER Carricerín común EURASIAN REED WARBLER Carricero común GREAT REED WARBLER Carricero tordal BALEARIC WARBLER Curruca balear DARTFORD WARBLER Curruca rabilarga SPECTACLED WARBLER Curruca tomillera WESTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER Curruca carrasqueña SARDINIAN WARBLER Curruca cabecinegra WESTERN ORPHEAN WARBLER Curruca mirlona COMMON WHITETHROAT Curruca communis GARDEN WARBLER Curruca mosquitera EURASIAN BLACKCAP Curruca capirotada WESTERN BONELLI’S WARBLER Mosquitero papialbo WOOD WARBLER Mosquitero sibilador COMMON CHIFFCHAFF Mosquitero común IBERIAN CHIFFCHAFF Mosquitero ibérico WILLOW WARBLER Mosquitero musical GOLDCREST Reyezuelo sencillo

221

List of species names

JACK SNIPE Agachadiza chica COMMON SANDPIPER Andarríos chico GREEN SANDPIPER Andarríos grande SPOTTED REDSHANK Archibebe oscuro COMMON GREENSHANK Archibebe claro WOOD SANDPIPER Andarríos bastardo COMMON REDSHANK Archibebe común GREAT SKUA Págalo grande LITTLE TERN Charrancito común GULL-BILLED TERN Pagaza piconegra CASPIAN TERN Pagaza piquirroja WHISKERED TERN Funarel cariblanco BLACK TERN Furnarel común SANDWICH TERN Charrán patinegro COMMON TERN Charrán común BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE Gaviota tridáctila SLENDER-BILLED GULL Gaviota picofina BLACK-HEADED GULL Gaviota reidora MEDITERRANEAN GULL Gaviota cabecinegra AUDOUIN’S GULL Gaviota de Audouin COMMON GULL Gaviota cana LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL Gaviota sombría EUROPEAN HERRING GULL Gaviota argéntea europea YELLOW-LEGGED GULL Gaviota patiamarilla GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL Gavión atlántico COMMON GUILLEMOT Arao común RAZORBILL Alca común BLACK-BELLIED SANDGROUSE Ganga ortega PIN-TAILED SANDGROUSE Ganga ibérica ROCK DOVE/FERAL PIGEON Paloma bravía STOCK DOVE Paloma zurita COMMON WOOD PIGEON Paloma torcaz EURASIAN COLLARED DOVE Tórtola turca EUROPEAN TURTLE DOVE Tórtola europea MONK PARAKEET Cotorra argentina GREAT SPOTTED CUCKOO Crialo europeo COMMON CUCKOO Cuco común BARN OWL Lechuza común EURASIAN SCOPS OWL Autillo europeo EURASIAN EAGLE-OWL Búho real LITTLE OWL Mochuelo europeo TAWNY OWL Cárabo común LONG-EARED OWL Búho chico SHORT-EARED OWL Búho campestre

222

List of species names/Index

COMMON FIRECREST Reyezuelo listado SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Papamoscas gris EUROPEAN PIED FLYCATCHER Papamosca cerrojillo BEARDED REEDLING Bigotudo LONG-TAILED TIT Mito común MARSH TIT Carbonero palustre EUROPEAN CRESTED TIT Herrerillo capuchino europeo COAL TIT Carbonero garrapinos EURASIAN BLUE TIT Herrerillo común GREAT TIT Carbonero común EURASIAN NUTHATCH Trepador azul WALLCREEPER Treparriscos EURASIAN TREECREEPER Agateador euroasiático SHORT-TOED TREECREEPER Agateador europeo EURASIAN PENDULINE TIT Pájaro moscón europeo EURASIAN GOLDEN ORIOLE Oropéndula europea IBERIAN GREY SHRIKE Alcaudón real RED-BACKED SHRIKE Alcaudón dorsirrojo WOODCHAT SHRIKE Alcaudón común

EURASIAN JAY Arrendajo euroasiático IBERIAN MAGPIE Rabilargo ibérico COMMON MAGPIE Urraca común ALPINE CHOUGH Chova piquigualda RED-BILLED CHOUGH Chova piquirroja WESTERN JACKDAW Grajilla occidental ROOK Graja CARRION CROW Corneja negra NORTHERN RAVEN Cuervo grande SPOTLESS STARLING Estornino negro COMMON STARLING Estornino pinto HOUSE SPARROW Gorrión común SPANISH SPARROW Gorrión moruno EURASIAN TREE SPARROW Gorrión molinero ROCK SPARROW Gorrión chillón WHITE-WINGED SNOWFINCH Gorrión alpino COMMON WAXBILL Estrilda común RED AVADAVAT Bengalí rojo COMMON CHAFFINCH Pinzón vulgar BRAMBLING Pinzón real EUROPEAN SERIN Serin verdecillo CITRIL FINCH Verderón serrano

EUROPEAN GREENFINCH Verderón común EUROPEAN GOLDFINCH Jilguero europeo EURASIAN SISKIN Jilguero lúgano COMMON LINNET Pardillo común RED CROSSBILL Piquituerto común TRUMPETER FINCH Camachuelo trompetero EURASIAN BULLFINCH Camachuelo común HAWFINCH Picogordo común SNOW BUNTING Escribano nival YELLOWHAMMER Escribano cerillo CIRL BUNTING Escribano soteño ROCK BUNTING Escribano montesino ORTOLAN BUNTING Escribano hortelano COMMON REED BUNTING Escribano palustre CORN BUNTING Escribano triguero

INDEX Accentor, Alpine 161 Accipiter gentilis 76 nisus 75 Acrocephalus arundinaceus 178 melanopogon 177 schoenobaenus 177 scirpaceus 178 Actitis hypoleucos 110 Aegithalos caudatus 189 Aegolius funereus 137 Aegypius monachus 71 Alauda arvensis 149 Alca torda 128 Alcedo atthis 141 Alectoris rufa 38 Amandava amandava 207 Anas acuta 28 clypeata 30 crecca 27 penelope 25 platyrhynchos 24 querquedula 29 strepera 26 Anser albifrons 22 anser 22 Anthus campestris 155 petrosus 157

pratensis 156 spinoletta 156 trivialis 155 Apus affinis 140 apus 138 caffer 140 melba 139 pallidus 139 Aquila adalberti 78 chrysaetos 79 fasciata 81 pennata 80 Ardea cinerea 57 purpurea 58 Ardenna grisea 44 Ardeola ralloides 53 Arenaria interpres 103 Asio flammeus 136 otus 136 Athene noctua 135 Avadavat, Red 207 Avocet, Pied 94 Aythya ferina 32 fuligula 33 Bearded Reedling 188 Bee-eater, European 141 Bittern, Eurasian 50

Little 51 Blackbird, Common 171 Blackcap, Eurasian 183 Bluethroat 163 Botaurus stellaris 50 Brambling 208 Branta bernicla 23 Bubo bubo 134 Bubulcus ibis 54 Bucanetes githagineus 213 Bucephala clangula 34 Bullfinch, Eurasian 213 Bunting, Cirl 217 Common Reed 216 Corn 218 Ortolan 215 Rock 218 Snow 214 Burhinus oedicnemus 95 Bush-robin, Rufous 162 Bustard, Great 92 Little 91 Buteo buteo 77 Buzzard, Common 77 European Honey 64 Calandrella brachydactyla 147

rufescens 147 Calidris alba 104 alpina 105 canutus 104 ferruginea 108 maritima 108 minuta 106 pugnax 107 temminckii 106 Calonectris borealis 44 diomedea 44 Capercaillie, Western 37 Caprimulgus europaeus 137 ruficollis 138 Carduelis cannabina 212 carduelis 211 chloris 210 spinus 211 Cecropis daurica 154 Cercotrichas galactotes 162 Certhia brachydactyla 193 familiaris 193 Cettia cetti 174 Chaffinch, Common 208 Charadrius alexandrinus 99

Delichon urbicum 153 Dendrocopos major 144 medius 145 minor 145 Dipper, White-throated 160 Diver, Black-throated 40 Great Northern 40 Red-throated 40 Dotterel, Eurasian 99 Dove, Eurasian Collared 131 European Turtle 131 Rock 129 Stock 130 Dryocopus martius 144 Duck, Tufted 33 White-headed 36 Dunlin 105 Dunnock 161 Eagle, Bonelli’s 81 Booted 80 Golden 79 Short-toed Snake 72

Spanish Imperial 78 Eagle-owl, Eurasian 134 Egret, Cattle 54 Great 56 Little 55 Egretta alba 56 garzetta 55 Elanus caeruleus 65 Emberiza calandra 218 cia 218 cirlus 217 citrinella 217 hortulana 215 schoeniclus 216 Erithacus rubecula 162 Estrilda astrild 207 Falco columbarius 84 eleonorae 85 naumanni 83 peregrinus 86 subbuteo 84 tinnunculus 82 Falcon, Eleonora’s 85 Peregrine 86 Ficedula hypoleuca 188 Fieldfare 172 Finch, Citril 210 Trumpeter 213 Firecrest, Common 187 Flamingo, Greater 63 Flycatcher, European Pied 188 Spotted 187 Fringilla coelebs 208 montifringilla 208 Fulica atra 89 cristata 89 Gadwall 26 Galerida cristata 148 theklae 148 Gallinago gallinago 110 Gallinula chloropus 88 Gannet, Northern 47 Garganey 29 Garrulus glandarius 198 Gavia arctica 40 immer 40 Gelochelidon nilotica 115 Glareola pratincola 95 Godwit, Bar-tailed 102 Black-tailed 101 Goldcrest 186 Goldeneye, Common 34 Goldfinch, European 211 Goose, Brent 23 Greater White-fronted 22 Greylag 22 Goshawk, Northern 76 Grebe, Black-necked 43 Great Crested 42 Little 41 Red-necked 42 Slavonian 43 Greenfinch, European 210 Greenshank, Common 112 Grus grus 90 Guillemot, Common 127 Gull, Audouin’s 123 Black-headed 121

Common 124 European Herring 125 Great Black-backed 127 Lesser Black-backed 124 Little 121, 122 Mediterranean 122 Slender-billed 120 Yellow-legged 126 Gypaetus barbatus 68 Gyps fulvus 70 Haematopus ostralegus 94 Harrier, Hen 75 Montagu’s 74 Pallid 74 Western Marsh 73 Hawfinch 214 Heron, Black-crowned Night 52 Grey 57 Purple 58 Squacco 53 Himantopus himantopus 93 Hippolais polyglotta 176 Hirundo rustica 152 Hobby, Eurasian 84 Hoopoe 142 Hydrobates pelagicus 46 Hydroprogne caspia 115 Ibis, Glossy 61 Northern Bald 61 Iduna opaca 176 Isabelline Warbler 176 Ixobrychus minutus 51 Jackdaw, Western 200 Jay, Eurasian 198 Jynx torquilla 143 Kestrel, Common 82 Lesser 83 Kingfisher, Common 141 Kite, Black 66 Black-winged 65 Red 67 Kittiwake, Black-legged 119 Knot, Red 104 Lagopus muta 37 Lammergeier 68 Lanius collurio 196 meridionalis 195 senator 197 Lapwing, Northern 97 Lark, Calandra 146 Crested 148 Dupont’s 146 Greater Short-toed 147 Mediterranean Lesser Short-toed 147 Thekla’s 148 Larus argentatus 125 audouinii 123 canus 124 fuscus 124 genei 120 marinus 127 melanocephalus 122 michahellis 126

ridibundus 121 Limosa lapponica 102 limosa 101 Linnet, Common 212 Locustella luscinoides 175 naevia 175 Lophophranes cristatus 190 Loxia curvirostra 212 Lullula arborea 149 Luscinia megarhynchos 163 svecica 163 Lymnocryptes minimus 109 Magpie, Common 199 Iberian 198 Mallard 24 Marmaronetta angustirostris 31 Martin, Common House 153 Eurasian Crag 151 Sand 150 Melanitta nigra 34 Melanocorypha calandra 146 Merganser, Red-breasted 35 Mergus serrator 35 Merlin 84 Merops apiaster 141 Milvus migrans 66 milvus 67 Monticola saxatilis 170 solitarius 169 Montifringilla nivalis 206 Moorhen, Common 88 Morus bassanus 47 Motacilla alba 159 cinerea 157 flava 158 Muscicapa striata 187 Myiopsitta monachus 132 Neophron percnopterus 69 Netta rufina 31 Nightingale, Common 163 Nightjar, European 137 Red-necked 138 Numenius arquata 100 phaeopus 100 Nuthatch, Eurasian 192 Nycticorax nycticorax 52 Oenanthe hispanica 168 leucura 169 oenanthe 167 Oriole, Eurasian Golden 195 Oriolus oriolus 195 Osprey 81 Otis tarda 92 Otus scops 134 Owl, Barn 133 Boreal 137 Eurasian Scops 134 Little 135 Long-eared 136 Short-eared 136 Tawny 135

223

Index

dubius 98 hiaticula 98 morinellus 99 Chat, Rufous Bush 162 Chersophilus duponti 146 Chiffchaff, Common 185 Iberian 185 Chlidonias hybrida 116 niger 116 Chough, Alpine 199 Red-billed 200 Yellow-billed 199 Ciconia ciconia 60 nigra 59 Cinclus cinclus 160 Circaetus gallicus 72 Circus aeruginosus 73 cyaneus 75 pygargus 74 Cisticola juncidis 174 Cisticola, Zitting 174 Clamator glandarius 132 Coccothraustes coccothraustes 214 Columba livia 129 oenas 130 palumbus 130 Coot, Crested 89 Eurasian 89 Red-knobbed 89 Coracias garrulus 142 Cormorant, Great 48 Corvus corax 202 corone 201 frugilegus 201 monedula 200 Coturnix coturnix 38 Crake, Spotted 87 Crane, Common 90 Crossbill, Red 212 Crow, Carrion 201 Cuckoo, Common 133 Great Spotted 132 Cuculus canorus 133 Curlew, Eurasian 100 Cyanistes caeruleus 191 Cyanopica cyanus 198

224

Index

Tengmalm’s 137 Oxyura leucocephala 36 Oystercatcher, Eurasian 94

Pyrrhula pyrrhula 213

Pandion haliaetus 81 Panurus biarmicus 188 Parakeet, Monk 132 Rose-ringed 132 Partridge, Grey 39 Red-legged 38 Parus major 191 Parzana porzana 87 Passer domesticus 204 hispaniolensis 205 montanus 205 Perdix perdix 39 Peregrine Falcon 86 Periparus ater 190 Pernis apivorus 64 Petronia petronia 206 Phalacrocorax aristotelis 49 carbo 48 Phasianus colchicus 39 Pheasant, Common 39 Phoenicopterus roseus 63 Phoenicurus ochruros 164 phoenicurus 164 Phylloscopus bonelli 184 collybita 185 ibericus 185 sibilatrix 184 trochilus 186 Pica pica 199 Picus sharpei 143 Pigeon, Common Wood 130 Feral 129 Pintail, Northern 28 Pipit, Meadow 156 Rock 157 Tawny 155 Tree 155 Water 156 Platalea leucorodia 62 Plectrophenax nivalis 214 Plegadis falcinellus 61 Plover, Common Ringed 98 European Golden 96 Grey 97 Kentish 99 Little Ringed 98 Pluvialis apricaria 96 squatarola 97 Pochard, Common 32 Red-crested 31 Podiceps cristatus 42 nigricollis 43 Poecile palustris 189 Porphyrio porphyrio 88 Pratincole, Collared 95 Prunella collaris 161 modularis 161 Ptarmigan, Rock 37 Pterocles alchata 129 orientalis 128 Ptyonoprogne rupestris 151 Puffinus mauretanicus 45 yelkouan 46 Pyrrhocorax graculus 199 pyrrhocorax 200

Rail, Water 87 Rallus aquaticus 87 Raven, Northern 202 Razorbill 128 Recurvirostra avosetta 94 Redshank, Common 113 Spotted 111 Redstart, Black 164 Common 164 Redwing 173 Regulus ignicapilla 187 regulus 186 Remiz pendulinus 194 Ring Ouzel 171 Riparia riparia 150 Rissa tridactyla 119 Robin, European 162 Rufous-tailed Scrub 162 Roller, European 142 Rook 201 Ruff 107

Quail, Common 38

Sanderling 104 Sandgrouse, Black-bellied 128 Pin-tailed 129 Sandpiper, Common 110 Curlew 108 Green 112 Wood 113 Saxicola rubetra 165 rubicola 166 Scolopax rusticola 109 Scoter, Common 34 Scrub-robin, Rufous-tailed 162 Serin, European 209 Serinus citrinella 210 serinus 209 Shag, European 49 Shearwater, Balearic 45 Cory’s 44 Great 44 Manx 45 Scopoli’s 44 Sooty 44 Yelkouan 46 Shelduck, Common 23 Shoveler, Northern 30 Shrike, Iberian Grey 195 Red-backed 196 Southern Grey 195 Woodchat 197 Siskin, Eurasian 211 Sitta europaea 192 Skua, Great 114 Skylark, Eurasian 149 Snipe, Common 110 Jack 109 Snowfinch, White-winged 206 Sparrow, Eurasian Tree 205 House 204 Rock 206 Spanish 205 Sparrowhawk, Eurasian 75 Spoonbill, Eurasian 62 Starling, Common 203

Spotless 202 Stercorarius skua 114 Sterna hirundo 118 sandvicensis 117 Sternula albifrons 114 Stilt, Black-winged 93 Stint, Little 106 Temminck’s 106 Stonechat, European 166 Stone-curlew, Eurasian 95 Stork, Black 59 White 60 Storm Petrel, European 46 Streptopelia decaocto 131 turtur 131 Strix aluco 135 Sturnus unicolor 202 vulgaris 203 Swallow, Barn 152 Red-rumped 154 Swamphen, Purple 88 Swift, Alpine 139 Common 138 Little 140 Pallid 139 White-rumped 140 Sylvia atricapilla 183 balearica 179 borin 183 communis 182 conspicillata 180 hortensis 181 iberiae 180 melanocephala 181 undata 179 Tachybaptus ruficollis 41 Tadorna tadorna 23 Teal, Eurasian 27 Marbled 31 Tern, Arctic 118 Black 116 Caspian 115 Common 118 Gull-billed 115 Little 114 Sandwich 117 Whiskered 116 Tetrao urogallus 37 Tetrax tetrax 91 Thrush, Blue Rock 169 Common Rock 170 Mistle 173 Song 172 Tichodroma muraria 192 Tit, Bearded 188 Coal 190 Eurasian Blue 191 Eurasian Penduline 194 European Crested 190 Great 191 Long-tailed 189 Marsh 189 Treecreeper, Eurasian 193 Short-toed 193 Tringa erythropus 111 glareola 113 nebularia 112 ochropus 112 totanus 113 Troglodytes troglodytes 160 Turdus iliacus 173

merula 171 philomelos 172 pilaris 172 torquatus 171 viscivorus 173 Turnstone, Ruddy 103 Tyto alba 133 Upupa epops 142 Uria aalge 127 Vanellus vanellus 97 Vulture, Bearded 68 Black 71 Cinereous 71 Egyptian 69 Griffon 70 Wagtail, Grey 157 White 159 Yellow 158 Wallcreeper 192 Warbler, Balearic 179 Cetti’s 174 Common Grasshopper 175 Dartford 179 Eurasian Reed 178 Garden 183 Great Reed 178 Melodious 176 Moustached 177 Sardinian 181 Savi’s 175 Sedge 177 Spectacled 180 Western Bonelli’s 184 Western Olivaceous 176 Western Orphean 181 Western Subalpine 180 Willow 186 Wood 184 Waxbill, Common 207 Wheatear, Black 169 Northern 167 Western Black-eared 168 Whimbrel 100 Whinchat 165 Whitethroat, Common 182 Wigeon, Eurasian 25 Woodcock, Eurasian 109 Woodlark 149 Woodpecker, Black 144 Eurasian Green 143 Great Spotted 144 Iberian Green 143 Lesser Spotted 145 Middle Spotted 145 White-backed 144 Wren, Winter 160 Wryneck, Eurasian 143 Yellowhammer 217