The plains of Trujillo and Cáceres - Steppe Birdwatching Tour
The plains of Trujillo and Cáceres represent one of the finest steppe birdwatching areas in Europe. This vast open landscape offers exceptional opportunities to observe emblematic species such as Great and Little Bustards, Pin-tailed and Black-bellied Sandgrouse, and Stone Curlew, all in their natural habitat. Other characteristic species of these open plains include Little Owl, Great Spotted Cuckoo, and the colourful European Roller.
The area also hosts remarkably rich communities of small passerines. Calandra, Thekla and Crested Larks are especially abundant, along with Iberian Grey Shrike, and Corn Bunting. These plains are the ideal habitat for Red-legged Partridge and, seasonally, Quail.
Cereal fields provide breeding grounds for colonies of Montagu’s Harrier, often accompanied by Marsh Harrier. Traditional country houses and farm buildings are key nesting sites for European Rollers and Lesser Kestrels, both of which readily use the hundreds of nest boxes installed on electricity poles throughout the region, offering excellent viewing opportunities.
During winter, the plains gain further importance with the arrival of migratory species from northern Europe. Large flocks of Common Crane, Golden Plover, and Northern Lapwing can be seen, together with Hen Harrier, Merlin, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, and White Wagtail.
Birds of prey can be observed year-round, including Spanish Imperial Eagle, Bonelli’s Eagle, Golden Eagle, and Red Kite, often represented by young or sub-adult individuals. In spring and summer, Booted Eagle and Short-toed Eagle become particularly common, making this an excellent destination in any season.
The town of Trujillo, one of only a few urban centres that have been declared a SPA (Special Protection Area) due to its large colonies of Lesser Kestrel with more than 130 breeding pairs and the breeding population of Pallid Swift is also worth mentioning, which shares the habitat with the Common Swift.
Practical Information
Recommended period: All year round
Schedule: On request; timetables vary with season and weather conditions
Meeting point: Trujillo (Parking next to the Bullring)
Minimum participants: 2 people (groups may be completed with other bookings)
Duration: 8 hours
Price: €95 per person
Recommended period: All year round
Schedule: On request; timetables vary with season and weather conditions
Meeting point: Trujillo (Parking next to the Bullring)
Minimum participants: 2 people (groups may be completed with other bookings)
Duration: 8 hours
Price: €95 per person
.
