Hundreds of birds to watch first hand

The excellent state of conservation of the habitat of the birds turns Extremadura into a true bird watching paradise.

If you love nature and bird watching, you're in luck, because this autonomous region is considered to be one of the best European destinations for bird watching, where more than 340 different species can be seen throughout the year.

In recognition of its ornithological importance, more than 75% of Extremadura has been included within the Important Areas for Birds in Spain list, which is an exceptional accomplishment at both national and European level.

It is worth pointing out the importance that Extremadura plays in the conservation of some of the most threatened species of birds in Europe, as well as the habitats in which they live. This is the case for such emblematic species as the Iberian imperial eagle, black stork, the black vulture, the eagle, the vulture, the lesser kestrel, marsh harrier and bustard.

Every year a fair and two festivals are held with birds as the main attraction: the FIO (Feria Internacional de Turismo Ornitológico, or International Ornithological Tourism Fair), which is considered to be the most important of its kind in southern Europe; el Festival de las Aves Ciudad de Cáceres, or the Bird Festival of the City of Cáceres and el Festival de las Grullas de Extremadura, or the Festival of the Cranes of Extremadura.

19 bird watching routes have been created throughout the region, so that you can enjoy this outdoor nature activity in a large part of the region.

A bird watching club was recently established, where companies and institutions that provide specialised services for bird watchers can get together.

You can find much more information on the website specialising in this type of tourism at: www.birdinginextremadura.com