TARIFA - Migration Watchpoints (off the N340 Algeciras-Tarifa road)
Introduction - i) Raptor Passage
Main Migration Periods for Key Species (Note numbers and timings may vary from year to year)
One of the single most enthralling experiences that a birdwatcher can hope to enjoy is the sight of a steady, visible passage of migrating birds of prey (plus storks). For simple reasons of geography and the dynamics of flight, such movements tend to become concentrated at the coast (particularly near the narrow straits) and along mountain ridges (the latter point especially the case for larger birds). This means that the passage of birds in this area (particularly near Tarifa) is one of the great bird spectacles of Europe. Great flocks (or "kettles") of Black Kites, Honey Buzzards, Marsh & Montagu's Harrier, Booted & Short-toed Eagles, Griffon & Egyptian Vultures (plus Black & White Storks) wheeling against the brilliant Mediterranean sky remains breathtaking no matter how many times it is observed. This is the best area in Europe to find vagrant Ruppell's Vultures and other rare raptors have also occurred. Lanner is rare, but regular, and some other species - Eleonora's Falcon, Goshawk & Merlin - occur in very small numbers.
Anywhere in an elevated position overlooking the straits can be good for watching raptors and storks, but there are a number of migration watchpoints dotted along the coast. This shouldn't wholly distract, however, from the less conspicuous or spectacular movement of smaller birds. Be aware, though, that local conditions and winds can mean that flocks of raptors seemingly intent on the crossing can slip back again making accurate counting difficult. Most species are deterred by bad winds, but some, like Honey Buzzard, push on through regardless. As a general rule most active migration takes place from mid-morning to early afternoon (c10:00 – 13:00) and to a lesser degree late afternoon, although plenty of raptors can be around at ‘quieter’ times.
The migration of raptors (and other broad-winged migrants) is systematically recorded by the ‘Migres’ organisation (www.fundacionmigres.org ) which publishes annual totals (in Spanish) on the internet. However, day-to-day reporting of what’s been seen is not, apparently part of the organisation’s remit (although they are posted on a whiteboard at the Albergue-Inturjoven Sur de Europa (youth hostel) between Algeciras and Tarifa (see www.inturjoven.com) where many volunteers stay).
Gibraltar is rightly famous in this regard and has another advantage; helpful English speaking experts on tap at the Jew's Gate information centre and bird observatory. It is also the European mainland's only site for Barbary Partridge.
Note - many areas have been marred aesthetically by numerous wind generators which now form a massive picket fence between Tarifa and Algeciras. This includes large ‘wind farms’ within the Natural Park and besides well established raptor watching points. In recent years several large ‘wind farms’ have also been built between Alcalá and Jerez. These doubtless kill large number of birds.
Information Centres
There is an information centre at Centro de Visitantes Huerta Grande off the Algeciras bound carriage way halfway between that city & Tarifa. It has a new & impressive educational display. The Spanish staff here speak little English, After many years of ignoring the tourism potential of the raptor passage Tarifa town council built some facilities at Cazalla, but scandalously, this still remains empty! The Colectivo Ornitológico Cigüeña Negra (Cocn) has a small information centre in a rather run down building off the N-340 a couple of km north-west of Tarifa. The staff here are helpful, but often have only limited English. A little further north along the N-340 is an information centre for the area (Punto del Informacion del P.N. Del Estrecho)
Many raptors, plus Black & White Stork, can be seen migrating on favourable days in spring and autumn. Note that spring passage starts in February and continues to the end of May whilst autumn passage extends from August into October. (In June/July a few birds continue to drift north whilst others take an 'early bath' and start to head south!) Each species peaks at different periods (see the table above). However, unusual birds can be seen at any time of the year; in January 2007 a Rűppell's, two Black Vultures and a Lammergeier were reported in a large flock of Griffons near Tarifa, Cádiz.
Comfort – if you’re serious take a comfortable folding chair and plenty of water to drink.
Wind direction - Broad winged migrants like raptors tend to drift with the wind so determining the best place from which to watch depends on whether the wind is from the east or west. So naturally after strong or prolonged westerlies birds drift towards Gibraltar (and beyond), in similar easterlies they drift towards Bolonia whilst in calm or light winds they congregate around Tarifa. A prolonged spell of unsuitable winds can delay movements making them all the more impressive when favourable conditions occur. Raptors also like a good clear view of across the straits before they move in numbers. Also note that counting can be difficult as some birds seem to head out towards Africa, only to drift back to Europe further along the coast.
Anywhere in an elevated position overlooking the straits can be good for watching raptors and storks, but there are a number of migration watchpoints dotted along the coast. This shouldn't wholly distract, however, from the less conspicuous or spectacular movement of smaller birds. Be aware, though, that local conditions and winds can mean that flocks of raptors seemingly intent on the crossing can slip back again making accurate counting difficult. Most species are deterred by bad winds, but some, like Honey Buzzard, push on through regardless. As a general rule most active migration takes place from mid-morning to early afternoon (c10:00 – 13:00) and to a lesser degree late afternoon, although plenty of raptors can be around at ‘quieter’ times.
The migration of raptors (and other broad-winged migrants) is systematically recorded by the ‘Migres’ organisation (www.fundacionmigres.org ) which publishes annual totals (in Spanish) on the internet. However, day-to-day reporting of what’s been seen is not, apparently part of the organisation’s remit (although they are posted on a whiteboard at the Albergue-Inturjoven Sur de Europa (youth hostel) between Algeciras and Tarifa (see www.inturjoven.com) where many volunteers stay).
Gibraltar is rightly famous in this regard and has another advantage; helpful English speaking experts on tap at the Jew's Gate information centre and bird observatory. It is also the European mainland's only site for Barbary Partridge.
Note - many areas have been marred aesthetically by numerous wind generators which now form a massive picket fence between Tarifa and Algeciras. This includes large ‘wind farms’ within the Natural Park and besides well established raptor watching points. In recent years several large ‘wind farms’ have also been built between Alcalá and Jerez. These doubtless kill large number of birds.
Information Centres
There is an information centre at Centro de Visitantes Huerta Grande off the Algeciras bound carriage way halfway between that city & Tarifa. It has a new & impressive educational display. The Spanish staff here speak little English, After many years of ignoring the tourism potential of the raptor passage Tarifa town council built some facilities at Cazalla, but scandalously, this still remains empty! The Colectivo Ornitológico Cigüeña Negra (Cocn) has a small information centre in a rather run down building off the N-340 a couple of km north-west of Tarifa. The staff here are helpful, but often have only limited English. A little further north along the N-340 is an information centre for the area (Punto del Informacion del P.N. Del Estrecho)
Many raptors, plus Black & White Stork, can be seen migrating on favourable days in spring and autumn. Note that spring passage starts in February and continues to the end of May whilst autumn passage extends from August into October. (In June/July a few birds continue to drift north whilst others take an 'early bath' and start to head south!) Each species peaks at different periods (see the table above). However, unusual birds can be seen at any time of the year; in January 2007 a Rűppell's, two Black Vultures and a Lammergeier were reported in a large flock of Griffons near Tarifa, Cádiz.
Comfort – if you’re serious take a comfortable folding chair and plenty of water to drink.
Wind direction - Broad winged migrants like raptors tend to drift with the wind so determining the best place from which to watch depends on whether the wind is from the east or west. So naturally after strong or prolonged westerlies birds drift towards Gibraltar (and beyond), in similar easterlies they drift towards Bolonia whilst in calm or light winds they congregate around Tarifa. A prolonged spell of unsuitable winds can delay movements making them all the more impressive when favourable conditions occur. Raptors also like a good clear view of across the straits before they move in numbers. Also note that counting can be difficult as some birds seem to head out towards Africa, only to drift back to Europe further along the coast.
ii) Watchpoints
Map showing location of main watchpoints
a) - Puntas Carnero & Secreta
Why visit? – An excellent watchpoint for raptors (esp. in spring) with the added bonus of seabird passage.
A good site for both raptors and seabirds (but note that, unlike sites along the Atlantic coast, this one faces east/south-east so seawatching in the morning can be difficult). There is limited parking. Be aware that if you park on the lighthouse road at Punta Carnero it can be tight to turn round. There is more parking on the ‘seafront’ in the “Urbanisation de Punta Carnero” (confusingly nearer Punta Secreta). Seawatching can produce numerous Gannets, Great Skua, Audouin’s Gull, Cory’s and Balearic Shearwater (plus Yelkouan?). In strong westerlies in spring birds of prey may come in very low (again, all expected species can be seen). Excellent views across to Gibraltar. The low scrub and stream near Getares (just off the N340) may be worth a second glance for migrants. Similarly the walk westwards to Torre del Fraille can muster more than the usual number of migrant passerines. Note that at weekends and during the holiday period, traffic jams can build up with the junction with the N 340.
Access – turn off the N-340 onto the CA-223 towards Getares – continue & park near lighthouse or go further on to park in the small hamlet at the end of the road. (Note – parked cars can make it difficult to turn round on the lighthouse road)
b - El Algarrobo (access from direction of Algeciras at 95 km).
Why visit? – Usually staffed by ‘Migres’ staff & hence well watched; Ruppell’s Vulture daily in the autumn.
This site is threatened with development. Take great care turning off (and onto) the main road – there is a ‘crawler’ lane - but some motorists still like to tailgate you even when you indicated well in advance. The track is at a right angle to the main road so you need to take it carefully. In Summer 2010 the track was in very poor condition and most non-4x4 traffic opted to park beyond the fence near the road. Space is limited so you may find parking difficult. From here it is only 30-40m to the official ‘observatorio’ (watchpoint). Along with Cazalla, this is the main ‘Migres’ watchpoint and is accordingly usually staffed by volunteers so the points notes under that site apply. Ruppell’s Vulture are also regularly reported here along with all the usual species.
Access – turn off the N-340 turn at 99.1 km Pista a Huerta Serafin
c) - Huerte Grande (access from direction of Tarifa 95 km or via the El Playo underpass nearer Algeciras).
Why visit? – An excellent new education centre, well wooded grounds and convenient chalets (with café).
This is a site with a good amount of cover and hence attractive to migrants. A footpath (Cerro del Tambor) runs east and then SW from here for 5km to reach an old bunker (return by the same route). Once again this provides superb views and the woodland along the route can attract all the usual migrants. On the downside it passes through a wind farm. It may be possible continue along the track here to Guadalmesi (c2 km). Naturally, views across to Africa are stupendous. As noted in the introduction there is accommodation (in the form of chalets) at Huerte Grande (see www.osmundasur.es). In previous years Long-legged Buzzard have lingered in this area. As of 2015 a birding tour company (see ingloriousbustards.wordpress.com/) run by Simon Tonkin and Nikki Williamson has been based at Huerte Grande. They are happy to advise visiting birders and maintain a sightings diary.
Access – turn south off the N-340 at km95 or access via El Playo
d) - Puerto del Bujeo (access from direction of Algeciras at 95 km).
Why visit? – All the usual raptors; plus a good walk along a wooded ‘canuto’ & possibly further inland.
If you want to combine raptor watching with a good walk then try this site. Approach from Algeciras (the only safe and legal way to get on the track!), but it’s still a tight right turn so take care (exiting also needs caution). Drive up a steep gravel track (easily missed as it's just over the brow of the hill) and park beneath trees c30m from the main road. This site has more cover than some of the alternatives so can attract migrants (e.g. Pied & Spotted Flycatchers, Whitethroats, etc), but also has a resident population of Cirl & Rock Buntings, etc. A walk along narrow steep sided wooded valley (= canuto) is botanically interesting; it also provided shelter for migrants. This is a pleasant circular walk (returning along the forest track) with some much needed shelter. Amongst the Mediterranean exotica in autumn/winter Siskin can come as a bit of a surprise! Tracks running up the hill from the parking place cross the Sierra de Bujeo to reach, in theory, the distant outer suburbs of Algeciras. In the process stunning views across the straits can be gained. I’ve never risked it as, when I checked, the track was in dreadful condition.
Access – turn north off the N-340 at km95
e) - Mirador del Estrecho (access from direction of Tarifa)
Why visit? – Although often overrun with tourists, the mirador remains is a good place to stop for refreshments as the birding needn't stop!
A great place to stop to get those inevitable snaps across to Africa. The refreshments are ‘bog standard’ fare, but where else can you munch a ‘bocadillo’ whilst viewing such fantastic raptor passage? Be prepared, though, to field questions from curious tourists – your chance to do some PR for birding,
Access – the mirador is well sign posted south off the N-340 not far east of El Cabrito. It is also a spot where you can legally change direction to head back towards Tarifa (although you cannot turn off left here approaching from Albeciras)
f) - El Cabrito (access from direction of Tarifa at 90.7 km)
Why visit? – All the usual raptors; possibility of exploring the rocky interior.
Noisy wind generators nearby and a lack of shade makes this a not entirely attractive proposition as a stop. However, maps indicate that the track here heads into the rocky hills which offer a slim chance of Black Wheatear. Despite being somewhat wind-blown, passerine migrants, exhausted Hoopoes, etc. can find shelter in what little cover is available.
Access – turn north off the N-340 at 90.7 km – Pista de la Ahumada
Why visit? – An excellent watchpoint for raptors (esp. in spring) with the added bonus of seabird passage.
A good site for both raptors and seabirds (but note that, unlike sites along the Atlantic coast, this one faces east/south-east so seawatching in the morning can be difficult). There is limited parking. Be aware that if you park on the lighthouse road at Punta Carnero it can be tight to turn round. There is more parking on the ‘seafront’ in the “Urbanisation de Punta Carnero” (confusingly nearer Punta Secreta). Seawatching can produce numerous Gannets, Great Skua, Audouin’s Gull, Cory’s and Balearic Shearwater (plus Yelkouan?). In strong westerlies in spring birds of prey may come in very low (again, all expected species can be seen). Excellent views across to Gibraltar. The low scrub and stream near Getares (just off the N340) may be worth a second glance for migrants. Similarly the walk westwards to Torre del Fraille can muster more than the usual number of migrant passerines. Note that at weekends and during the holiday period, traffic jams can build up with the junction with the N 340.
Access – turn off the N-340 onto the CA-223 towards Getares – continue & park near lighthouse or go further on to park in the small hamlet at the end of the road. (Note – parked cars can make it difficult to turn round on the lighthouse road)
b - El Algarrobo (access from direction of Algeciras at 95 km).
Why visit? – Usually staffed by ‘Migres’ staff & hence well watched; Ruppell’s Vulture daily in the autumn.
This site is threatened with development. Take great care turning off (and onto) the main road – there is a ‘crawler’ lane - but some motorists still like to tailgate you even when you indicated well in advance. The track is at a right angle to the main road so you need to take it carefully. In Summer 2010 the track was in very poor condition and most non-4x4 traffic opted to park beyond the fence near the road. Space is limited so you may find parking difficult. From here it is only 30-40m to the official ‘observatorio’ (watchpoint). Along with Cazalla, this is the main ‘Migres’ watchpoint and is accordingly usually staffed by volunteers so the points notes under that site apply. Ruppell’s Vulture are also regularly reported here along with all the usual species.
Access – turn off the N-340 turn at 99.1 km Pista a Huerta Serafin
c) - Huerte Grande (access from direction of Tarifa 95 km or via the El Playo underpass nearer Algeciras).
Why visit? – An excellent new education centre, well wooded grounds and convenient chalets (with café).
This is a site with a good amount of cover and hence attractive to migrants. A footpath (Cerro del Tambor) runs east and then SW from here for 5km to reach an old bunker (return by the same route). Once again this provides superb views and the woodland along the route can attract all the usual migrants. On the downside it passes through a wind farm. It may be possible continue along the track here to Guadalmesi (c2 km). Naturally, views across to Africa are stupendous. As noted in the introduction there is accommodation (in the form of chalets) at Huerte Grande (see www.osmundasur.es). In previous years Long-legged Buzzard have lingered in this area. As of 2015 a birding tour company (see ingloriousbustards.wordpress.com/) run by Simon Tonkin and Nikki Williamson has been based at Huerte Grande. They are happy to advise visiting birders and maintain a sightings diary.
Access – turn south off the N-340 at km95 or access via El Playo
d) - Puerto del Bujeo (access from direction of Algeciras at 95 km).
Why visit? – All the usual raptors; plus a good walk along a wooded ‘canuto’ & possibly further inland.
If you want to combine raptor watching with a good walk then try this site. Approach from Algeciras (the only safe and legal way to get on the track!), but it’s still a tight right turn so take care (exiting also needs caution). Drive up a steep gravel track (easily missed as it's just over the brow of the hill) and park beneath trees c30m from the main road. This site has more cover than some of the alternatives so can attract migrants (e.g. Pied & Spotted Flycatchers, Whitethroats, etc), but also has a resident population of Cirl & Rock Buntings, etc. A walk along narrow steep sided wooded valley (= canuto) is botanically interesting; it also provided shelter for migrants. This is a pleasant circular walk (returning along the forest track) with some much needed shelter. Amongst the Mediterranean exotica in autumn/winter Siskin can come as a bit of a surprise! Tracks running up the hill from the parking place cross the Sierra de Bujeo to reach, in theory, the distant outer suburbs of Algeciras. In the process stunning views across the straits can be gained. I’ve never risked it as, when I checked, the track was in dreadful condition.
Access – turn north off the N-340 at km95
e) - Mirador del Estrecho (access from direction of Tarifa)
Why visit? – Although often overrun with tourists, the mirador remains is a good place to stop for refreshments as the birding needn't stop!
A great place to stop to get those inevitable snaps across to Africa. The refreshments are ‘bog standard’ fare, but where else can you munch a ‘bocadillo’ whilst viewing such fantastic raptor passage? Be prepared, though, to field questions from curious tourists – your chance to do some PR for birding,
Access – the mirador is well sign posted south off the N-340 not far east of El Cabrito. It is also a spot where you can legally change direction to head back towards Tarifa (although you cannot turn off left here approaching from Albeciras)
f) - El Cabrito (access from direction of Tarifa at 90.7 km)
Why visit? – All the usual raptors; possibility of exploring the rocky interior.
Noisy wind generators nearby and a lack of shade makes this a not entirely attractive proposition as a stop. However, maps indicate that the track here heads into the rocky hills which offer a slim chance of Black Wheatear. Despite being somewhat wind-blown, passerine migrants, exhausted Hoopoes, etc. can find shelter in what little cover is available.
Access – turn north off the N-340 at 90.7 km – Pista de la Ahumada
Click here to edit.
Watch tower at Guadelmesi with North Africa beyond
g) - Guadalmesi (access from direction of Tarifa at 89.5 km)
Why visit? – All the usual raptors, plus small migrants plus stunning views of Africa from the shoreline.
Turn off the main N-340 onto military road No4 (only safely done as you approach from Tarifa). When I last visited the road down to the coast was blocked about 1km from the main road by a military camp. It was, however, possible to take a very rough & degraded track to the left round the camp to reconnect with the track. However, I have since been told that it is now possible to drive all the way down to the coast. Once at the coast the road skirts along the coast to the small settlement of Guadalmesi where there is an old watch tower, a migration watchpoint and a small stream disgorging into the sea. The scrub here (and along the coast) may attract small migrant passerines. The views of Africa here get gradually more and more stupendous. Good for small migrants and excellent for Monarch butterflies. Even if birds are few, this walk is worth it for the views! In 2008 the area north of the tower held a couple of (elusive) Long-legged Buzzards.
Note - Although in recent years birdwatchers often accessed this route by car, since 2016 the military authorities, despite the closure of the camp, have been turning back 'unauthorised' vehicles and permitting parking only by the N-340. Pedestrian access is also reportedly uncertain (despite sendero signs directing you round the perimeter of the camp). However, a newly refurbished and signposted sendero runs for 11km along the coast to Guadalmesi from Tarifa – this must be superb when there are falls of small birds as well as being below a major raptor migration route. However, you will have to walk back along the coast or up to the N 340 and into Tarifa. Parts of this walk are shaded, but for the most part this area is open with only small bushes so take precautions against heatstroke.
Access – south off the N-340 turn at 89.5 km
Why visit? – All the usual raptors, plus small migrants plus stunning views of Africa from the shoreline.
Turn off the main N-340 onto military road No4 (only safely done as you approach from Tarifa). When I last visited the road down to the coast was blocked about 1km from the main road by a military camp. It was, however, possible to take a very rough & degraded track to the left round the camp to reconnect with the track. However, I have since been told that it is now possible to drive all the way down to the coast. Once at the coast the road skirts along the coast to the small settlement of Guadalmesi where there is an old watch tower, a migration watchpoint and a small stream disgorging into the sea. The scrub here (and along the coast) may attract small migrant passerines. The views of Africa here get gradually more and more stupendous. Good for small migrants and excellent for Monarch butterflies. Even if birds are few, this walk is worth it for the views! In 2008 the area north of the tower held a couple of (elusive) Long-legged Buzzards.
Note - Although in recent years birdwatchers often accessed this route by car, since 2016 the military authorities, despite the closure of the camp, have been turning back 'unauthorised' vehicles and permitting parking only by the N-340. Pedestrian access is also reportedly uncertain (despite sendero signs directing you round the perimeter of the camp). However, a newly refurbished and signposted sendero runs for 11km along the coast to Guadalmesi from Tarifa – this must be superb when there are falls of small birds as well as being below a major raptor migration route. However, you will have to walk back along the coast or up to the N 340 and into Tarifa. Parts of this walk are shaded, but for the most part this area is open with only small bushes so take precautions against heatstroke.
Access – south off the N-340 turn at 89.5 km
Click here to edit.
Cazalla
h) - Cazalla (access from 85 km post -see below)
Why visit? – Usually staffed by ‘Migres’ staff & hence well watched; Ruppell’s Vulture daily in the autumn and sometimes has a Long-legged Buzzard.
The classic, and well watched, raptor watching point where huge flocks of Black Kites, Honey Buzzards, Griffon Vultures and White Stork can be seen plus a good sprinkling of various eagles and falcons (inc. Eleonora’s if lucky). North African Long-legged Buzzards (cirtensis) are often reported (but be beware of local hybrids (aka 'Gibraltar Buzzards'). Ruppell’s Vulture seen daily in the autumn – as much reflecting 24/7 coverage. Many of the 'Migres' employees have now been made redundant due to the economic crisis, but there's often good numbers of watchers here.
After years of prevarication and doubt, a proper access road has now been built off the N-340 to the purpose built information centre to the north of the road (i.e. westbound from the direction of Algecias). The improved access seems to have increased the volume of visitors and parking can sometimes be difficult. The 'temporary' watchpoint on the opposite side of the road now seems to be redundant and rarely used (although more easily accessed from the direction of Tarifa) but I strongly advise visitors to use the access road from the westbound carriageway to the purpose built centre . If you park on the hard shoulder here the local police are likely to ask you to move on or hand out a hefty fine.
Access – turn south off the N-340 at 87 km Note – if the new centre (a large white building on a hill next to the road) is open approach from Algeciras. If the ‘temporary’ site across the road is in use access from Tarifa (you can use the turning for Tarifa to turn round).
Why visit? – Usually staffed by ‘Migres’ staff & hence well watched; Ruppell’s Vulture daily in the autumn and sometimes has a Long-legged Buzzard.
The classic, and well watched, raptor watching point where huge flocks of Black Kites, Honey Buzzards, Griffon Vultures and White Stork can be seen plus a good sprinkling of various eagles and falcons (inc. Eleonora’s if lucky). North African Long-legged Buzzards (cirtensis) are often reported (but be beware of local hybrids (aka 'Gibraltar Buzzards'). Ruppell’s Vulture seen daily in the autumn – as much reflecting 24/7 coverage. Many of the 'Migres' employees have now been made redundant due to the economic crisis, but there's often good numbers of watchers here.
After years of prevarication and doubt, a proper access road has now been built off the N-340 to the purpose built information centre to the north of the road (i.e. westbound from the direction of Algecias). The improved access seems to have increased the volume of visitors and parking can sometimes be difficult. The 'temporary' watchpoint on the opposite side of the road now seems to be redundant and rarely used (although more easily accessed from the direction of Tarifa) but I strongly advise visitors to use the access road from the westbound carriageway to the purpose built centre . If you park on the hard shoulder here the local police are likely to ask you to move on or hand out a hefty fine.
Access – turn south off the N-340 at 87 km Note – if the new centre (a large white building on a hill next to the road) is open approach from Algeciras. If the ‘temporary’ site across the road is in use access from Tarifa (you can use the turning for Tarifa to turn round).
where Migres
i) - Trafico (access from direction of Tarifa at 85 km post)
Why visit? – Whilst not as convenient for estimating numbers, migrating raptors often tend to come lower and closer at this site.
This raptor watching site is 2 km nearer Tarifa and on the opposite side of the road from Cazella hence it is a good option when driving from Tarifa as you do not need to drive several km along the N-340 to reverse direction. It is also accessible on foot from Tarifa along a fine coastal footpath. Personally, this is my favourite site – it appears to be much better for getting really close views of raptors. All the species as noted elsewhere can be seen here. Until recently the main watchpoint was off a track near a large white villa (a). However, since the military left the area it's possible to drive down to the coast where there is now not only a raptor watchpoint but also a new study/education centre run La Fundación Migres (http://www.fundacionmigres.org/). A small wooded valley (b) just outside the old military base is a perfect “migrant trap" - in spring it can be alive with flycatchers, warblers, Wryneck, etc. The coastal path (d - e) immediately to the south (accessed via Tarifa town) alleviates access problems along this coast although some stretches are rather open with little shade. The Isla de las Palomas (f) is excellent for seawatching but can only be accessed by permit.
Access – turn off the N-340 south towards the sea at 85 km- ignore signs warning that this is military land since you are permitted to use the road. Continue down the twisting track over a bridge and uphill until you reach the brow of the hill where you park by a large white villa (c 1.25 km from the main road) for the original watchpoint or continue along the track to the coast.
j) - Playa de los Lances
Why visit? – Combine raptor migration with wader watching; a classic site for Lesser Crested Tern
This nature reserve is certainly the most frustrating and irritating site to visit in the area as wind surfers, horse riders, dog walkers, etc regularly ignore the signs not to disturb the area. However, as a good site for waders (when not disturbed), a regular site for Lesser Crested Tern and migants it cannot be ignored. Try to get there as early as possible to avoid problems.
Access - Two entry points - from Tarifa the western end of Tarifa along a boardwalk or from nearby a petrol station a few km north of the Tarifa turning. take great care here as the road can get very busy.
k) - Santuario de la Luz
Why visit? – Raptor & general migration – plus a chance of ‘extras’ such as Ruppell’s Vulture & Rufous Bushchat.
If you approach from the south (i.e. off the N340 Vejer-Tarifa road) scan the fields along the first part of the route carefully as Little Bustard have been reported here. Check all larks carefully as both Crested and Thekla occur. The ‘hedgerow’ here is also reputed to hold, or rather conceal, Rufous Bushchat. The rocky slopes in the distance to the west behind Tarifa hold the area’s few remaining Black Wheatear. The hills can be explored via the tracks off this road, but I’ve yet to do so ….. The santuario (a small shrine a few km along this road) itself often has migrants (e.g. Golden Oriole, Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, etc), but can be busy with picnickers at weekends (the advantage of this being a stall selling drinks & ice cream – worth the detour in hot weather!). The scrub here is also another location for Rufous Bushchat although in my experience you’re more likely to see little more than Woodchat Shrike. During migration periods raptors often funnel along this valley so watching from the shade of the santuario, although it limits your view, can be good. Vultures often seen spiralling on the thermals - I caught up with my first Ruppell’s here so I like the place!) Continue along for the the Ojen valley road.
Access: Turn north off the N 340 at 78.5km by prominent white ‘gateposts’. Alternatively, if approaching from the Facinas – Ojen valley road turn south onto the road signposted for the Santuario. Santuario
l) - La Pena Area
Why visit? – Raptor migration – plus a chance of ‘extras’ such as Ruppell’s Vulture & Eagle Owl
The main interest here is a little nearer Tarifa where a minor road off the runs inland past the Colectivo Ornitológico Cigüeña Negra (“Cocn” - i on map) information centre along the eastern flanks of Sierra de Enmedio into the hills. The staff in the centre (when open) speak little English, but are very helpful. This valley is a good site for raptors which is augmented by a semi-official feeding station for vultures. About a kilometre along the road is a concrete raptor watchpoint (these structures are dotted along the coast at all official watchpoints (e.g. Puerto de Bolonia) which makes a good viewpoint. On the left just beyond this point are some crags where Eagle Owl have been seen in recent years. This was once a site for Rufous Bushchat , but staff at “Cocn” office tell me that they no longer do so. The Visitor’s Centre for the Parque del Estrecho - a good place for maps, leaflets, postcards - is inland just off the N 340 NW of the tower of La Pena (easiest approached from the south - see larger "i" on map).
Access – turn east off the N-340 at 76.5 km)
i) - Trafico (access from direction of Tarifa at 85 km post)
Why visit? – Whilst not as convenient for estimating numbers, migrating raptors often tend to come lower and closer at this site.
This raptor watching site is 2 km nearer Tarifa and on the opposite side of the road from Cazella hence it is a good option when driving from Tarifa as you do not need to drive several km along the N-340 to reverse direction. It is also accessible on foot from Tarifa along a fine coastal footpath. Personally, this is my favourite site – it appears to be much better for getting really close views of raptors. All the species as noted elsewhere can be seen here. Until recently the main watchpoint was off a track near a large white villa (a). However, since the military left the area it's possible to drive down to the coast where there is now not only a raptor watchpoint but also a new study/education centre run La Fundación Migres (http://www.fundacionmigres.org/). A small wooded valley (b) just outside the old military base is a perfect “migrant trap" - in spring it can be alive with flycatchers, warblers, Wryneck, etc. The coastal path (d - e) immediately to the south (accessed via Tarifa town) alleviates access problems along this coast although some stretches are rather open with little shade. The Isla de las Palomas (f) is excellent for seawatching but can only be accessed by permit.
Access – turn off the N-340 south towards the sea at 85 km- ignore signs warning that this is military land since you are permitted to use the road. Continue down the twisting track over a bridge and uphill until you reach the brow of the hill where you park by a large white villa (c 1.25 km from the main road) for the original watchpoint or continue along the track to the coast.
j) - Playa de los Lances
Why visit? – Combine raptor migration with wader watching; a classic site for Lesser Crested Tern
This nature reserve is certainly the most frustrating and irritating site to visit in the area as wind surfers, horse riders, dog walkers, etc regularly ignore the signs not to disturb the area. However, as a good site for waders (when not disturbed), a regular site for Lesser Crested Tern and migants it cannot be ignored. Try to get there as early as possible to avoid problems.
Access - Two entry points - from Tarifa the western end of Tarifa along a boardwalk or from nearby a petrol station a few km north of the Tarifa turning. take great care here as the road can get very busy.
k) - Santuario de la Luz
Why visit? – Raptor & general migration – plus a chance of ‘extras’ such as Ruppell’s Vulture & Rufous Bushchat.
If you approach from the south (i.e. off the N340 Vejer-Tarifa road) scan the fields along the first part of the route carefully as Little Bustard have been reported here. Check all larks carefully as both Crested and Thekla occur. The ‘hedgerow’ here is also reputed to hold, or rather conceal, Rufous Bushchat. The rocky slopes in the distance to the west behind Tarifa hold the area’s few remaining Black Wheatear. The hills can be explored via the tracks off this road, but I’ve yet to do so ….. The santuario (a small shrine a few km along this road) itself often has migrants (e.g. Golden Oriole, Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, etc), but can be busy with picnickers at weekends (the advantage of this being a stall selling drinks & ice cream – worth the detour in hot weather!). The scrub here is also another location for Rufous Bushchat although in my experience you’re more likely to see little more than Woodchat Shrike. During migration periods raptors often funnel along this valley so watching from the shade of the santuario, although it limits your view, can be good. Vultures often seen spiralling on the thermals - I caught up with my first Ruppell’s here so I like the place!) Continue along for the the Ojen valley road.
Access: Turn north off the N 340 at 78.5km by prominent white ‘gateposts’. Alternatively, if approaching from the Facinas – Ojen valley road turn south onto the road signposted for the Santuario. Santuario
l) - La Pena Area
Why visit? – Raptor migration – plus a chance of ‘extras’ such as Ruppell’s Vulture & Eagle Owl
The main interest here is a little nearer Tarifa where a minor road off the runs inland past the Colectivo Ornitológico Cigüeña Negra (“Cocn” - i on map) information centre along the eastern flanks of Sierra de Enmedio into the hills. The staff in the centre (when open) speak little English, but are very helpful. This valley is a good site for raptors which is augmented by a semi-official feeding station for vultures. About a kilometre along the road is a concrete raptor watchpoint (these structures are dotted along the coast at all official watchpoints (e.g. Puerto de Bolonia) which makes a good viewpoint. On the left just beyond this point are some crags where Eagle Owl have been seen in recent years. This was once a site for Rufous Bushchat , but staff at “Cocn” office tell me that they no longer do so. The Visitor’s Centre for the Parque del Estrecho - a good place for maps, leaflets, postcards - is inland just off the N 340 NW of the tower of La Pena (easiest approached from the south - see larger "i" on map).
Access – turn east off the N-340 at 76.5 km)