BIRD WATCHING
As you would expect of Southern Spain, we have some Excellent birding available right on our doorstep! (You neednīt leave the house!)
Magnificent Raptors, Warblers of many varieties, native species and those just passing through...... whilst a short trip to nearby lakes and wetlands will increase your sightings to include; waders, flamingo, spoonbill,stork and hen harrier to name but a few!
"EARLY BIRD" BIRDWATCHING OPPORTUNITES IN 2018!! Book Finca Manolo in April or May for a ten or 14 night stay and qualify for reduced rates, 2 weeks from only 650 pounds and ten nights from 475 pounds depending on when you travel (prices based on 2-4 persons) Please refer to the villa page...... (one week for two from only 325 pounds in March) We also have details of a local Birding expert who speaks English and offers half and full day excursions .. so why not........................... Come and enjoy a fly-by at our beautiful Finca! 
Whilst we are very far from being experts, we are constantly running indoors for the binoculars! And, with the use of a well thumbed index book, we have managed to identify, at the very least, the following:
Alpine Swift
Hoopoe
Bee Eater
Partridge
Quail
Cuckoo
Woodpecker
Shrike
Red and Grey Wagtail
Crested Lark
Golden Oriel
Roller
Short Toed Eagle
Honey Buzzard
Bonellis Eagle
Scops owl 
EAGLE OWL - We think we have a pair nesting in the cliffside at Casa Valentin, although we have only ever heard them call 2015 Guests George and Ali, took this amusing video of a red rumped swallow admiring himself in the mirror under the terrace at Finca Manolo! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3oD0qUcN2U&feature=youtu.be
Naturally, the more experienced enthusiast will easily multiply this list considerably! Not to forget the other wildlife such as bats. frogs and toads, an amazing array of dragon fly, lizzards, wild boar - and the list goes on and on.............................. SIGHTINGS 27TH APRIL TO 8TH MAY 2015 - FINCA MANOLO: Short toed Eagle, European honey Buzzard, booted Eagle, common Kestrel, Turtle Dove, Collared Dove, Cuckoo, Alpine Swift, Common Swift, Hoopoe, European Bee Eater, Crested Lark, House Martin, Red rumped Swallow (as video link above!) Barm Swallo, Nightingale, Sardinian Warbler, Willow Warbler, Spotted Flycatcher, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Woodchat Shrike, Golden Oriole, Common Starling, House Sparrow, Serin, Linnet, Goldfinch, Greenfinch.....
GUESTS DIARY EXTRACT 7th MAY 2015: "Went for a walk yesterday downstream from the dam in the valley, saw at least 8 hoopoes and numerous bee eaters which are nesting in the numerous sandy banks. Very hot down there, a hat and plenty of sunscreen essential! Back at the house, some interesting insect life, in particular the Swallowtail and Scarce Swallowtail butterfly and the Violet Carpenter bee......This is the ultimate retreat, (emphasis on Treat) hubby has been like a kid in a sweetshop photographing birds and butterflies! After 10 days in this little Paradise, far from the madding crowd, we are going home feeling utterly refreshed and empowered to pursue our goals, taking with us many happy memories which will sustain us and make us smile. It has been truly unique!" 
All photos taken at Finca Manolo and reproduced by kind permission of 2015 guest G Ewart.. Stunning.. thank you!! |
