Tour Diary - Iberian Lynx and Migration, Spring in Southern Spain, 2025

29th March to 9th April 2025

This exceptional 12-day wildlife tour through southern Spain delivered extraordinary encounters with some of Europe's most charismatic and endangered species. Beginning at the remarkably full Fuente de Piedra lagoon, where thousands of Greater Flamingos fed across the lake, the journey then progressed through a multitude of diverse Mediterranean ecosystems.

The tour's crown jewel occurred at El Encinarejo private estate in Sierra de Andujar, where an unforgettable encounter with two Iberian Lynx unfolded. Nigeria, a resident female, and male Haz provided extended viewing opportunities over two hours, resulting in 15,000 photographs between our group of these critically endangered cats. The same estate offered close encounters with recently reintroduced European Bison and soaring Spanish Imperial Eagles and Black Vultures. In the wider mountains we encountered Spanish Ibex, a family of Otters, roosting bats, Ocellated Lizards and flowering Narcisuss and Orchids.

Transitioning to Doñana National Park, the group experienced the unique Wild West atmosphere of El Rocio—a sandy-streeted town with 2,200 horses and just 1,100 residents. Exceptional March rains had transformed the entire region, creating unusual wildlife viewing conditions which included species such as Little Swift, White-headed Duck and Little Bittern.

The coastal phase near Tarifa showcased spectacular bird migration across the Strait of Gibraltar, with nearly 100 Booted Eagles and various other species such as Montagu’s Harriers, Short-toed Snake Eagles and Bee-eaters streaming in from Africa. Whale watching produced magical encounters with Long-finned Pilot Whales and Bottlenose Dolphins, while a visit to the Northern Bald Ibis colony highlighted critical conservation efforts for this endangered species.

Unique experiences included exploring Europe's only mainland cloud forest, discovering rare orchids and endemic reptiles like the bizarre Iberian Worm Lizard, and joining entomologist Dave Grundy to examine migrant moths fresh from Africa.

This remarkable journey showcased Spain's incredible biodiversity while highlighting successful conservation stories and the importance of protecting Mediterranean ecosystems for future generations.

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