Abicada + Alvor Dunes

We start the day by a tidal lagoon. Many waders can be seen on the mudflats: Oystercatchers, Whimbrels, Ringed and Grey Plovers, Dunlins, Redshanks, Bar-tailed Godwits, Turnstones. The path goes on the dykes, along this lagoon and a marsh. Coots are usually seen on the lagoon, sometimes with Flamingos and Spoonbills. On the marsh, depending on the water level, greater or fewer numbers of birds are present. Black-winged Stilts can be quite abundant. After walking on the dyke, we cross a farmland area with some typical trees: Carob, Fig and Almond trees. It is a good place to see Woodchat Shrikes and Red-legged Partridges. This path will lead us to the roman ruins of Abicada. Unfortunately, there is not much to see as the vegetation has invaded the ruins. From there, we also have a nice view of a small marsh. Marsh Harrier, Spoonbills and Black-winged Stilts are usually present. It is possible to see Little Ringed Plover, Ruff, Purple Heron and Avocet in Spring. Then, we come back to the car on the same track. The afternoon is spent exploring the Alvor dunes from a boardwalk. A few passerines can be found in the vegetation: Crested Lark, Zitting Cisticola, Sardinian Warbler, Goldfinch, and Greenfinch. If the tide is low, we can see the mudflats in the Ria de Alvor estuary and all the waders present: Oystercatchers, Sanderlings, Grey Plovers, Dunlins, Whimbrels. In spring, a few species use the dunes to breed, like Short-toed Larks, Kentish Plovers and Little Terns. We may see Kentish Plovers families or displaying Little Terns. The walk back to the car will be on the beach, and it is always possible to stop for a swim. Then, we will walk along the Ria de Alvor marsh, looking for more waders or Bluethroats in winter. We finish the day with a drink or an ice cream near the sea. What is included The guide, a checklist, the use of field guides, a drink at the end or middle of the day and all the driving are included in the price.