Extremadura, late May 2025 (1 Viewer)

[Shane3004]

Hello everyone.

We are currently looking at the possibility of a week in Extremadura in late May. This seems like it'll be a good area for birding for me, and a bit of cultural exploration in some of the towns to keep wifey happy. She is not a birder so I'm hoping some morning birding followed by afternoons in some of the towns is a good compromise. Unfortunately these dates are strict due to my boss and his fixed holidays. I'm hoping that is still a good time although I appreciate for some species this may not be the best time.

Just looking for a bit of advice/pointers, really good locations. Early research has us looking at flying into Madrid from the UK and hiring a car from there. Two areas we are considering staying are Caćeres and Mérida for 3 nights each and using these towns as bases to explore the areas around them. As a starting point are these good locations to work from?
I've just ordered Where to watch birds in Southern & Western Spain, Ernest Garcia. This is the 4th edition and should arrive tomorrow.

Birding wise, other than Black Redstarts, Sardinian Warbler, and Zitting Cisticola (all seen in A Coruña on a cruise stop last year), a lot of species will be new for me. Obviously there are some birds I'd love to add to the life list too, especially photographing them. Much googling and thumbing the Collins Guide has me adding more each day. Some of the Wheatears, Rollers, Bee eaters, many Warblers, Bustards, BOP, Azure Magpie, and almost certainly Bluethroat 🤞.

Anyway, sorry for all the waffling. Looking forward to any input or suggestions.

Thanks

 

[Merlin]

Hello everyone.

We are currently looking at the possibility of a week in Extremadura in late May. This seems like it'll be a good area for birding for me, and a bit of cultural exploration in some of the towns to keep wifey happy. She is not a birder so I'm hoping some morning birding followed by afternoons in some of the towns is a good compromise. Unfortunately these dates are strict due to my boss and his fixed holidays. I'm hoping that is still a good time although I appreciate for some species this may not be the best time.

Just looking for a bit of advice/pointers, really good locations. Early research has us looking at flying into Madrid from the UK and hiring a car from there. Two areas we are considering staying are Caćeres and Mérida for 3 nights each and using these towns as bases to explore the areas around them. As a starting point are these good locations to work from?
I've just ordered Where to watch birds in Southern & Western Spain, Ernest Garcia. This is the 4th edition and should arrive tomorrow.

Birding wise, other than Black Redstarts, Sardinian Warbler, and Zitting Cisticola (all seen in A Coruña on a cruise stop last year), a lot of species will be new for me. Obviously there are some birds I'd love to add to the life list too, especially photographing them. Much googling and thumbing the Collins Guide has me adding more each day. Some of the Wheatears, Rollers, Bee eaters, many Warblers, Bustards, BOP, Azure Magpie, and almost certainly Bluethroat 🤞.

Anyway, sorry for all the waffling. Looking forward to any input or suggestions.

Thanks

Shane

Extremadura anytime of the year is great and May can be amazing, there are lots of information about this area and if you read up and make notes you should have an superb trip. I have been many times and had some of my best 'birding' ever in this area. The towns and villages are beautiful and the locals are lovely.

(Sadly my health now prevents me from going there otherwise I would go tomorrow.)
regards
Merlin

 

[Shane3004]

Shane

Extremadura anytime of the year is great and May can be amazing, there are lots of information about this area and if you read up and make notes you should have an superb trip. I have been many times and had some of my best 'birding' ever in this area. The towns and villages are beautiful and the locals are lovely.

(Sadly my health now prevents me from going there otherwise I would go tomorrow.)
regards
Merlin

Thank you for the encouraging reply. It's good to know those towns are suitable bases.

Sorry to read that your health prevents you getting back there too.

Shane

 

[PeterBird]

I think these two towns will allow you to visit quite a few worthwhile birding spots where you are likely find some of your targets. Note that the town of Merida itself has quite an interesting birding area, which also includes a nice walk along the river and across the old Roman bridge: Roman Bridge in Merida | Birdingplaces Have a good time over there!

 

[John Cantelo]

If your interests extend beyond birds to other wildlife, you may also find the Crossbill Guide to Extremadura helpful (but note that I'm biased as I edit their guides)

 

[Jon Turner]

Trujillo is very much worth a visit. I've stayed there a few times and access to some of the best areas is relatively easy. The town is stunning!

 

[Shane3004]

If your interests extend beyond birds to other wildlife, you may also find the Crossbill Guide to Extremadura helpful (but note that I'm biased as I edit their guides)

Excellent. Thanks for the advice and recommendation. A copy of the Crossbill Guide is now on its way to me.

 

[Shane3004]

Trujillo is very much worth a visit. I've stayed there a few times and access to some of the best areas is relatively easy. The town is stunning!

That's not the first recommendation for Trujillo so that is now booked for three nights to use as a base for the northern and eastern areas of Extremadura. Thanks

 

[dragnil]

It's some years since I was there, but check the bullring in Trujillo for Lesser Kestrel. They bred there then and probably still do. You're sure to have a good time in the area.