NORTH MALLORCA

Birding in 

NORTH 

MALLORCA 

DISCOVER the 

island's rich 

history, culture 

and amazing 

landscapes 

INSIDE: 

BRILLIANT BIRDING 

HOTSPOTS IN 

LOCATIONS ALL 

THE FAMILY WILL 

ENJOY! 

Panu Ruangjan / Alamy 

FEATURING: Albufera Son Real S’Albufereta Tramuntana 

MUST SEE BIRDS & WHERE TO FIND THEM 

8Cirl Bunting Blue Rock Thrush Eleonora’s Falcon 

Hoopoe Black Vulture Black-winged Stilt 

Balearic Warbler Stone-curlew

BIRDING IN 



WELCOME 

FOR A BIRDER with a family, 

North Mallorca has it all – great 

birds, including near-endemics, 

rare raptors, colourful resident birds, 

and passage migrants. Plus, there’s 

affordable accommodation, cheap 

flights plus great beaches and 

glorious weather! 

10 MUSTS WHEN VISITING 

NORTH MALLORCA 

SAMPLE THE LOCAL WINE The reserve at Mortitx is set amid 

1 vineyards – take a tour of one to refresh yourself after birding 

TRY THE LOCAL CUISINE Mallorca’s great restaurants include 

2 El Jardin, in Alcudia – it’s very popular, though, so book early 

VISIT LLUC MONASTERY The most important pilgrimage 

3 site on Mallorca, in the Tramuntana – also great for birds 

RIDE THE FERROCARRIL DE SOLLER This narrow-gauge 

4 railway runs from Palma to Soller, near the north-west coast 

SEE A BLACK VULTURE Mallorca has the only European 

5 island population of this immense raptor 

SEE ALCUDIA’S OLD TOWN This, Mallorca’s historic capital, 

6 contains Roman and medieval remains, markets and shops 

VISIT AN ISLAND Dragonera and Cabrera are great for 

7 migrants passing through – take a closer look 

FIND A WOODCHAT SHRIKE The badius subspecies of this 

8 smart little predator is found around orchards and parkland 

TAKE A BOAT TRIP This is the best way to see Eleonora’s 

9 Falcon colonies, on Dragonera, Cabrera, or at Cap de Formentor 

VISIT DEIA This pretty, unspoiled village was once the home 

10 of the writer Robert Graves, and boasts great views 

Albufera nature trail 

Son Real ancient ruins 

S’Albufereta nature reserve 

BRILLIANT 

Golden Oriole 

BIRDING 

Sightings of the Balearic Warbler and other great birds could reward a visit to this reserve 

SON REAL 

This might be Mallorca’s ‘rising star’ where 

reserves are concerned, a mixture of arable 

farmland, heather and rosemary heath, woodland, 

and undeveloped coastline that has already 

recorded great birds, but also has the potential for 

many more to be discovered, as more and more 

birders use it. 

Situated south of C’an Picafort, just off the road 

to Arta, it is well-known as a site for warblers, 

with Sardinian and Dartford Warblers, both to be 

found in the scrubby areas close to the coast. 

Their close relative, the Balearic Warbler, is the 

real prize, though, and although they can be very 

shy and skulking, especially as the summer wears 

on, good numbers are present, with the area 

around the viewing tower particularly productive. 

Getting familiar with their song and calls is a 

must to give yourself the best chance of finding 

them, and they’ve been known to respond well to 

‘pishing’. Audouin’s Gull is another target here, 

along the shore, where small numbers of Kentish 

Plovers can also be found in spring and summer. 

The resident species include Stone-curlew, 

Thekla Lark and Hoopoe in the arable land, 

supplemented by Woodchat Shrike, Spotted 

Flycatcher, Wheatears, pipits (including Tawny) 

and a variety of passage migrants in spring, while 

in winter finch flocks arrive (and keep an eye out 

for Hawfinches), along with Song Thrushes. 

Above all, this is a rewarding but easy site to 

birdwatch at, close to the resort of C’an Picafort. 

The paths are accessible and over easy terrain, 

and you can get satisfyingly close to the target 

species. An early start is a good idea, as the beach 

in particular can get busy later in the day. 

WORDS: ANDY SIMPSON 

on your doorstep 

GETTING THERE 

The 445/446 bus services run past the reserve, but 

it is also within easy walking or cycling reach of 

C’an Picafort itself. There is a car park on site, at 

the visitor centre and toilets. 

VITAL INFORMATION 

Opening times are: April-September, 10am-7pm; 

October-March: 10am-5pm; reception is open from 

10am-4pm; exhibitions open from 10am-5pm 

Tel: +34 971 185 363 

websites: enjoymallorca.com/alcudia 

mallorcabirdwatching.com/sonreal 

email: sonreal@balears-sostenible.com 

é MED SPECIALIST 

Audouin’s Gull is a beautiful bird, 

largely restricted to the 

Mediterranean and especially 

its islands 

ê GREAT VIEWS 

You’ll be able to spot many 

beautiful birds from the 

viewing platform 

Alamy 

WHY NOT 

ALSO TRY 

Son Real has a preserved 

traditional Mallorcan farmhouse, 

containing exhibitions on the 

history and culture of the island 

– make sure you make a visit 

while you’re there 

2 Birding in North Mallorca

BIRDING IN 



S’ALBUFERETA 

Extending either side of the coast road, this 

reserve includes a beach area, on which both 

Kentish and Little Ringed Plovers breed, and 

a much larger area of lagoons (both fresh and 

saltwater), plus scrub and pine woodland. 

Black-winged Stilts are among the breeding 

birds on the lagoons, along with Purple Gallinule, 

while the hirundines and swifts that are 

numerous here attract the attentions of Eleonora’s 

Falcons, particularly early in the day. Cetti’s 

Warblers breed, and the saline lakes have even 

recorded Greater Flamingo. 

It’s a particularly good site to search during 

migration periods, with a wide range of passerines 

possible, including those Blue-headed Wagtails 

(Yellow Wagtails of the flava race) again, other 

Yellow Wagtails, Redstarts, both Spotted and Pied 

Flycatchers, Nightingales and both Moustached 

and Subalpine Warblers. 

Honey Buzzards and Montagu’s Harriers 

pass through on migration, and Redfooted 

Falcon has also been recorded 

here. The fields and orchards, and any 

overhead power or telephone lines, are 

worth checking for the likes of 

Bee-eater, Serin, Woodchat Shrike, 

Crossbill, Corn Bunting, Hoopoe, 

Golden Oriole and Whinchat. 

GETTING THERE 

From Puerto Pollensa or Alcudia, catch 

one of the TIB buses (352/353 ) which run 

frequently between Puerto Pollensa and 

Can Piquafort. The stop is a short walk from 

the reserve, outside the kite and surf shop. 


Access is available at all times, but be careful to 

respect private property, as the reserve includes 

a number of farms and other buildings. 

ê ALBUFERA 

This viewing screen allows 

to get as close as 

possible to the birds 

WHY NOT 

ALSO TRY 

Birdwatching the reserve by 

bike can bring great results – 

although smaller than Albufera, 

it’s still large enough, so it’s a 

great way of getting around 

quickly without 

disturbing birds 

WHY NOT 

ALSO TRY 

Albufera can get very 

busy, with a consequent 

disturbance to the birds, so try 

to visit as early or late in the 

day as possible 

éé WOODCHAT 

Mallorca’s Woodchat Shrike are of 

the Balearic subspecies, badius 

é WARM WELCOME 

The visitors’ centre offers much for 

the birdwatcher, including trails 

ê SQUACCO HERON 

Arguably Europe’s most beautiful 

heron, the Squacco is a delight 

ALBUFERA 

Let’s start with the one Mallorcan reserve 

that you’ve probably already heard of – Parc 

Natural s’Albufera, to give it its full name. 

Situated just south of Alcudia, it’s the 

island’s largest wetland reserve, and 

probably the largest on any Mediterranean 

island. There’s a visitor centre with toilets, 

marked trails for birders, cyclists and 

walkers, and several hides, making it 

particularly user-friendly for birdwatchers 

with families in tow, or anyone dropping in for 

a day’s birding as part of a more general holiday. 

The habitats include saltmarsh, reedbeds, 

freshwater lagoons and pools, plus conifer 

woodland and tamarisk groves, and these bring 

the corresponding variety of species that you’d 

expect. 

In spring and autumn, a wide range of waders 

pass through, and it’s also a good place to look for 

herons, with Purple, Night and Squacco all 

present. Woodchat Shrikes (of the western 

Mediterranean badius race) perch atop bushes and 

scrub on the lookout for prey, while common 

warblers include Moustached and Cetti’s. 

Nightingales should also be heard in spring and 

summer, and check every Yellow Wagtail you see 

– the Blue-headed (flava) race is regular here. 

GETTING THERE 

If you’re staying in Puerto Pollensa or Alcudia, 

you can use the TIB buses (352/353) that run 

frequently between Puerto Pollensa and Can 

Piquafort. These stop at Playa Muro, just outside 

the reserve’s entrance. If you’re driving, there is a 

very small car park, but also parking in front of 

the supermarket across the road. 


Opening times are: 1 October – 31 March, from 

9am to 5pm; 1st April – 30th September, 9am-6pm. 

Tel: +34 971 892250 / 

Website: enjoymallorca.com/portdepollenca 

Email: parc.albufera@wanadoo.es 

Entrance: Free, but pick up a permit at the 

reception area. 

8 

BIRDS TO FIND 

in Mallorca 

Emberiza cirlus 

LENGTH: 6.25ins (16cm) 

WINGSPAN: 8.75-10.25ins (22-26cm) 

FOOD: Various seeds, almost all taken from the ground. 

Grasshoppers can be important in summer. 

BREEDING: Lays 3-4 eggs in a nest well hidden low in a 

bush or creeper. 

Orchards and vineyards are good places to look 

for this attractive bunting in its strongholds 

around the Mediterranean – it is particularly fond 

of sunlit slopes. It can crop up in urban and 

suburban areas, though, as long as its main 

habitat requirement – open country with some 

dense cover – is met. Its song, a short, metallic 

trill, lacks the longer end note of a 

Yellowhammer’s song, while the flight call is a 

short, high, soft ‘ssip’, often frustratingly 

difficult to place. 

IN MALLORCA, LOOK FOR AT… 

The Albufera Reserve is a great place to find 

them, but the species is resident and widespread 

in the right habitat. The Arta Peninsula is a 

hotspot for them, mainly in arable fields, while 

the Cuber Reservoir is another good spot to find 

them. Finally, the Boquer Valley offers great 

opportunities – scan the tops of bushes and 

shrubs – they will often be perched on these 

(Stonechats are the other species that typically 

does this, here). 

WHERE ELSE CAN I SEE IT? 

Mainly a bird of southern Europe, although it 

breeds in northern France right up to the Channel 

coast. In the UK, coastal hedges and fields in 

south Devon (and a few Cornish sites) are the only 

place you’ll find it – numbers are low, although 

the RSPB has a project aimed at boosting them. 

Eight target species to discover in this birding paradise 

WORDS: MATT MERRITT 

MALLORCA OFFERS opportunities 

to see near-endemic species, to 

get great views of birds hard to 

find elsewhere, and to get close 

up to some more familiar 

species. Here are eight species 

to look for on the island, 

elsewhere in the Mediterranean, 

and even closer to home… 

CIRL BUNTING 

DID YOU 

KNOW… 

It was first identified by the 

ornithologist George Montagu (of 

harrier fame) near the Devon town of 

Kingsbridge – still the bird’s UK 

stronghold, its range having 

expanded into southern 

England, before the recent 

range contraction 

Cavall Bernat 

ID POINTERS 

Male has distinctive black eyestripe and bib, 

yellow cheeks and green breast 

Female is less strongly marked, with flat crown, 

and striped face 

Males have olive rump (compare with 

Yellowhammer’s rusty rump), females duller 

Males have distinctive rusty brown area on 

wings and tertials 

Female has chestnut area on shoulders 

Larger-billed but shorter-tailed than 

the Yellowhammer 

Male Cirl Bunting 

MORE INFO 

For many more bird sites 

and bird information in the 

area you can visit 

mallorcabirdwatching.com 

4 Birding in North Mallorca 

birdwatching.co.uk 5

BIRDING IN 



BLUE ROCK THRUSH 

Monticola solitarius 

LENGTH 8ins (20cm) 

WINGSPAN 14-15.5ins (35-40cm) 

FOOD: Insects and small lizards, plus a few berries. 

BREEDING: Lays 4-5 eggs in a nest made in a hole in a rock, 

wall, or building. 

If seen in silhouette, or at long distance, this gorgeous thrush 

can escape notice surprisingly easily. But check every thrush 

or Starling-sized bird in likely areas, because a closer look will 

reveal the beautiful blue tones that give it its name. 

Its song, sometimes delivered in a swooping songflight, but 

perhaps more often from a high, rocky perch, is similar to the 

Blackbird’s and the Mistle Thrush’s, but with simpler, and 

shorter, phrases. Calls include a high ‘peep’ and a harsher 

‘tchuk tchuk’. 

Male Blue Rock Thrush 

DID YOU 

KNOW… 

The Blue Rock Thrush is 

actually a chat, or 

Old World flycatcher, rather 

than a Turdus thrush. 

It is found across Europe and 

Asia, as far east as Japan and 

breeds in rock habitats 

ID POINTERS 

Male can appear black at distance – in good 

light, shows intense, smoky blue 

Female has bluish upperparts (fading to brown 

in autumn), but brown, barred underparts 

Long wings and tail, and strong, easy flight style 

Spends long periods stationary on sunlit 

boulders or cliff ledges 

Juveniles are similar to females in appearance 

Long, dark bill is distinctive 


This resident breeder lives in mountainous regions, so is best 

looked for at specific sites (if you want to avoid long walks or 

difficult climbs!). 

A few pairs can be found in the Boquer Valley, while the 

Formentor Peninsula is also a great place to look for them. The 

Parc Natural de Llevant, on the Arta Peninsula, is another likely 

spot for them. Nowhere are numbers high, but it is a relatively 

widespread bird, so check prominent rocky outcrops, cliffs and 

old buildings. 


In warm, rocky areas throughout southern Europe – its close 

relative, the Rock Thrush, is much more a bird of high meadows. 

Resident in many areas, while in others it disperses to warmer 

parts in winter. 

DID YOU 

KNOW… 

Recent research has shown that 

Eleonora’s Falcons even hold live 

prey captive, by plucking out the tail 

and flight feathers of the unfortunate 

birds before wedging them in stone 

crevices – this keeps the prey 

fresh for a day or two 

ELEONORA’S FALCON 

longer 

Falco eleonorae 

LENGTH 14-16.5ins (36-42cm) 

WINGSPAN 34-41ins (87-104cm) 

FOOD: Outside the breeding season, insects of all sorts, caught on the wing, plus a few 

beetles and grasshoppers taken on the ground. In the breeding season, smaller birds of all 

sorts, caught on the wing, often over the sea as they migrate. 

BREEDING: A colonial breeder, in groups of 20-200 pairs. Two or three eggs are laid by 

each, on a cliff ledge, and the young fly after 35-40 days. 

Rocky coasts are the place to look for one of Europe’s rarest raptors. Here they 

time their own breeding season for late summer and early autumn, so that 

they can feed their young on the glut of prey provided by exhausted and often 

inexperienced small passerine migrants. Several can sometimes be seen 

hunting together (although not co-operatively, as such). 

They fly into the wind, looking for incoming prey, before making the kill 

with a sharp stoop. Dawn is a particularly good time to look for them, as they 

target night-flying migrants. 


Arriving late in April, and staying until early November, there are several 

hundred pairs breeding on Mallorca. Most are on the west coast, and there 

are large colonies on Cabrera, Dragonera, Cap Formentor and Cala Sant 

Vincenc – check these from August onwards. Prior to the breeding season, 

look for it hawking for insects at Albufera Reserve or over nearby open forest 

areas and at Son Bosc. Boat trips are available to help you get the best views 

of these sites, and could also bring the added bonus of a Balearic Shearwater. 

This superb raptor can also be seen in the Boquer Valley and at Cases Velles, 

while there are also opportunities to stop on the road between Puerto 

Pollensa and Cap Formentor. 


Outside the Balearics, not in many places at all! The Canary Islands, Sardinia 

and islands off Italy, islands in the Adriatic and Aegean, and on Cyprus. In 

late autumn, they migrate to the Red Sea, then Madagascar. 

Eleonora’s Falcon 

ID POINTERS 

Rakish, Hobby-like silhouette, but is considerably 

larger than the commoner raptor 

Adults have striking white neck patch and 

dark moustache 

Underparts are a rusty buff colour 

Longer-winged and tailed than Peregrine 

and Hobby 

Flight is acrobatic and dashing, and 

shows frequent changes of speed 

Dark-morph birds (all sooty brown 

and black) occur, too 

Dragonera 

KLAUS BJERRE/Nature Photographers Ltd 

Casa at Boquer 

MORE INFO 

To find places to eat and 

stay next to a beautiful cala 

visit enjoymallorca.com/ 

CalaSantVicenc 

MORE INFO 

Take a boat trip to see 

these falcons on the island 

of Cabrera. 

Visit enjoymallorca.com/ 

cabrera 

KLAUS BJERRE/Nature Photographers Ltd 



BIRDING IN 



Hoopoe 

Puig Nassi i Son Poc 

MORE INFO 

Visit the centre for bird 

tourism at La Gola 

EnjoyMallorca.com/ 

HOOPOE 

birdwatching from the 

north of Mallorca 

Upupa epops 

LENGTH 10.25-11ins (26-28cm) 

WINGSPAN 17.5-19ins (44-48cm) 

FOOD: Insects including beetles, caterpillars and grubs, 

small frogs and lizards. 

BREEDING: Nests in holes in trees and walls, laying 7-8 

eggs in May and June. 

Both the English and the scientific name of this 

species are onomatopoeic, imitating the soft, but 

resonant ‘poo poo poo’ call, often delivered from a 

bare branch in a tree, or from a rooftop or similar 

perch. For what is, on the face of it, a highly 

distinctive bird, they can be surprisingly difficult 

to spot on the ground, especially as they’re often 

seen under trees, in dappled sunlight. 

They’re fond of sunbathing (and also dust and 

sand baths), so once you have first seen them, 

there can be great opportunities to observe them 

at length. 


Hoopoes are resident breeders on the island, and 

are abundant in most parts, especially scrubby 

areas and parkland. In Puerto Pollensa it can be 

found in the farmland at the bottom of the Boquer 

Valley, and also at the side of the road next to the 

Pine Walk. 


Most of mainland Europe, except for the highest 

areas. In Britain, up to 100 birds turn up every 

year, usually during spring migration, and usually 

in the south, although it can be found in any 

suitable habitat – this can include gardens, 

especially, historically, vicars’ gardens! 

BLACK VULTURE 

Aegypius monachus 

LENGTH 39-43ins (100-110cm) 

WINGSPAN up to 9ft (2.8m) 

FOOD: Carrion of all sorts – at carcasses, they can even 

dominate Griffon Vultures and take the choice parts. 

BREEDING: Makes a bulky nest of sticks in a tree and 

(very rarely) on cliffs. A single egg is laid. 

Unlike most Old World vultures, which breed in colonies, Black Vultures 

do so only in looser groups, and are also less likely to be sociable away 

from the nest. Although in some areas they occur alongside the Griffon 

Vulture, with which they can be confused at distance, they are far less of 

a bird of the mountains than the commoner species. 

They are the dominant raptors throughout their range, even bullying 

other large vultures and eagles at kills, and on rare occasions may even 

take live prey. 


Mallorca’s most important and sought-after breeding bird is only found in 

the Serra de Tramuntana. Nearly extinct on the island in the early 1980s, a 

conservation project was started in 1983, with the help of the regional 

government of the Balearic Islands. The first breeding success was in 

1986, and there are now more than 130 birds, after a record breeding year 

in 2014. They nest in the north of the Tramuntana Mountains, but also 

feed in places around the Boquer Valley. The best sites to look for them 

are at Mortitx, the monastery at Lluc (where there’s a visitor centre for the 

Tramuntana), the Cuber Reservoir, and Castell Del Rei, on the Ternelles 

estate, near Pollença. 


Small numbers in the Balkans and Asia 

Minor, and also found in the 

Extremadura region of mainland 

Spain, but otherwise you would be 

best to travel to central Asia. 

ID POINTERS 

Always appears dark – even the wings show only 

very subtle contrasts 

Largest of its family in Europe, although some 

overlap with larger individual Griffon Vultures 

Found mainly in hilly, wooded or partiallywooded 

areas 

Soars in wide circles on flat wings 

(Griffon Vultures soar on raised wings) 

Perches more horizontally and less upright than 

Griffon Vultures 

Almost silent, but display flights include pairs 

tumbling with feet interlocked 

Black Vulture 

Boquer 

WILDLIFE GmbH / Alamy 

MORE INFO 

Learn more at 

enjoymallorca.com/ 

theserrade 

tramuntanamountains 

ID POINTERS 

Mistle Thrush sized, with a large crest 

Orange-red head and breast and black-and-white wings unlike any other species 

Crest raised when excited, in flight (on occasion), and immediately after bird lands 

Flight is erratic, bounding, and almost butterfly-like 

Bill long, slightly downcurved 

Spends a lot of time on ground, shuffling along after prey 

DID YOU 

KNOW… 

Hoopoes have particularly 

strong head muscles, which 

allow them to open their bill 

while they’re probing into the earth 

– this adaptation is particularly 

valuable given they live in 

fairly dry areas 

DID YOU 

KNOW… 

Black Vultures are also known 

as Monk Vultures (a reference 

to their bald head and ruff of 

neck feathers), or Cinereous 

Vultures, often to avoid confusion 

with the North American 

Black Vulture 

PAUL STERRY/Nature Photographers 



BIRDING IN 



MORE INFO 

Learn more about where 

to visit and what to see 

in Alcudia by visiting 

enjoymallorca.com/alcudia 

DID YOU 

KNOW… 

The Balearic Warbler is closely 

related to Marmora’s Warbler, 

another island species found mainly 

in Corsica and Sardinia 

Son Real hide 

Son Real 

Son Real 

Black-winged Stilt 

BLACK-WINGED STILT 

Himantopus himantopus 

LENGTH 14-15.5ins (35-40cm) 

WINGSPAN 27.5ins (70cm) 

FOOD: Small aquatic invertebrates, taken from both salt and fresh water. 

BREEDING: Nests in a scrape on mud next to water – typically raises four chicks, which 

fly at 30 days. 

It’s pretty hard to confuse a Black-winged Stilt with anything else, even at 

long range. If the pied plumage isn’t enough of a giveaway, then the 

extraordinarily long legs, in relation to its overall size, will clinch the 

identification. It’s generally found in coastal habitats, although it will use 

freshwater lagoons just inland as well as saltwater and brackish pools. 

Calls include a ‘kek’ that sounds rather like a Coot, and harsher, more 

varied calls, not unlike terns’ calls. 

Most migrate south to Africa in the winter, but a few remain close to their 

Mediterranean breeding grounds. 


The saltpans at Albufera are undoubtedly the best 

spot for good, extended views of this 

extraordinary bird, but, as is the case for many 

waders, it depends on food availability and 

weather conditions. 


Widespread but relatively thinly scattered in 

southern Europe and parts of western and 

northern France. Small numbers turn up in 

Britain each year, with several recent 

successful nesting attempts in Kent and 

Sussex, perhaps heralding a colonisation. 

DID YOU 

KNOW… 

There are up to seven 

subspecies of Black-winged Stilt, 

including the Hawaiian Stilt, the 

archipelago’s only breeding wader. 

Some authorities recognise some 

of these subspecies as up to five 

distinct full species 

ID POINTERS 

Long straight bill, unlike Avocet’s upturned bill 

Some black on head in summer, whiter in winter 

Black (actually green-black) wings, white elsewhere, 

with long white V up back 

Slender, elegant build 

Often wades belly-deep in search of food 

Very long, bright red-pink legs 

Albufera Salt Marsh 

Ian Butler Bird / Alamy 

BALEARIC WARBLER 

Sylvia balearica 

LENGTH 5-5.5ins (13-14cm) 

WINGSPAN 9.25-11.75ins (25-30cm) 

FOOD: Small insects and spiders, taken from foliage close 

to the ground. 

BREEDING: Makes a nest of moss and grass, deep in a 

small bush – typically lays five eggs. 

This is the Balearic Islands’ only endemic full 

species, a close relative of the Marmora’s Warbler 

and the Dartford Warbler, which has actually 

supplanted it on the smaller island of Menorca. 

Mallorca, then, is the best place to find this 

attractive little bird. As with most members of this 

family, sound can be the key to finding it. Its song 

is a rather grating warble, while its call is a nasal, 

slightly wheezy ‘tsrek’. 

Coastal scrub is a preferred habitat for this bird, 

but they can also be found in sparsely vegetated 

rocky, scrubby areas. Wherever you hope to find 

them, though, you need to be on the lookout for an 

all-grey version of the slightly more familiar 

Dartford Warbler. 


A resident breeding species, it can be abundant in 

the right habitat. Hotspots where you’re likely to 

see them include Son Real, just south of C’an 

Picafort on the Alcudia to Arta road. The Arta 

Peninsula is also worth checking out thoroughly 

– wherever you look, you need patience. 


Found only in the Balearic Islands, and in Menorca 

it has been ousted by the Dartford Warbler. 

MORE INFO 

Learn about and 

experience the culture of 

Mallorca and its many 

museums and churches 

at enjoymallorca.com 

ID POINTERS 

Pale grey underneath, and darker, blue-grey above 

Male has pale throat patch, often conspicuous 

Orange bill, orange-brown legs, and red eye ring 

Long tail and relatively slight build 

Peaked crown, like most Sylvia warblers 

Very skulking habits – usually hides deep in bushes 

and scrub 

Balearic Warbler 

age fotostock / Alamy 



BIRDING IN 



Stone-curlew 

ROGER TIDMAN/Nature Photographers Ltd 

MORE INFO 

You can see some some of 

the spectacular scenery this 

lovely island has to offer at 

enjoymallorca.com/ 

stunningviews 

STONE-CURLEW 

Burhinus oedicnemus 

LENGTH 15-17ins (40-44cm) 

WINGSPAN 31-33ins (77-85cm) 

FOOD: Large insects, picked from the ground, plus a few 

small invertebrates, reptiles and amphibians. 

BREEDING: Nests in a shallow scoop in the soil; two 

chicks fly when 36-42 days old. 

DID YOU 

KNOW… 

The name thick-knee 

comes from an 18th Century 

name for the bird – Thick-kneed 

Bustard. In southern Africa, 

stone-curlew species were 

also known by another 

name, dikkops 

Found on dry farmland, heaths and grassland, this strange-looking, stocky 

wader is a member of the thick-knee family, which all share its goggle-eyed 

appearance. In daylight, it will often crouch or stand under trees or other 

cover, becoming more active around dawn and dusk. Its wailing, whistling 

calls can resemble those of the Curlew and the Oystercatcher, and it is often 

heard before it’s seen. 


Son Real, a nature reserve with a visitor centre and bird hide just south of 

Alcudia – this site is also great for a variety of warblers, plus Crossbills and 

Cirl Buntings. A resident breeding species, it is relatively common in dry 

arable areas on the island, but can also be found at wetland sites such as 

Albufera and s’Albufereta Natural Park. Keep an eye out in any areas of dry 

arable land – scan fields carefully as Stone-curlews can be astonishingly well 

camouflaged against the earth. 


Mainly a bird of southern Europe and the Near East, with birds from further 

north wintering near the Mediterranean and in Africa. In Britain, small 

numbers (350 pairs) 

breed in East Anglia 

(especially the ID POINTERS 

Breckland), and on 

Salisbury Plain. 

Large yellow eye and yellow on bill visible even at fairly long range 

Conservation efforts have 

resulted in a small 

White belly, streaked upperparts 

increase in the 

population, but it remains Broad white stripe from forehead, passes under eye 

rare. It is a summer 

visitor in the UK, from White band across closed wing 

March to October. Head 

for Weeting Heath in In flight, long wings with black trailing edge, and white spots near tip 

Norfolk where the 

Norfolk Wildlife Trust Steady, regular walk, but tilts forward when running 

has viewing facilities. 

Son Real 

s’Albufereta Natural Park 

s’Albufereta Natural Park 

SERRA DE 

TRAMUNTANA 

AND THE NORTH COAST 

The north coast of Mallorca offers some of the best birding you will enjoy on the island 

THE TRAMUNTANA STRETCHES along 

the north coast of Mallorca, a range of 

limestone mountains reaching 4,700 

feet (1,432m) at their highest point. 

They’re a world away from the beach 

resort image of Mallorca that you might have, and 

they form a vast, unspoiled area – the largest 

natural park on the island – in which you can 

make your own birdwatching discoveries, as well 

as exploring the island’s historical, cultural and 

scenic riches. Their height, steepness and relative 

remoteness makes them a refuge for some of 

Mallorca’s most internationally important and 

iconic species, including the Black Vulture. 

CAP DE 

FORMENTOR 

This is an easy spot to visit if you’re staying 

in Alcudia, Puerto Pollensa, or the old town 

of Pollença. Its rocky landscape makes it 

home to mountain birds such as Blue Rock 

Thrush, Balearic Warbler and Booted Eagle, 

and it’s also a great vantage point for 

seawatching, with Balearic and Cory’s 

Shearwaters passing by. 

From early summer onwards, though, 

the species that most birders want to see here 

WORDS: ANDY SIMPSON 

Life on white / Alamy 

is Eleonora’s Falcon. A large colony nests on the 

cliffs below the lighthouse in late summer, and 

while they can be seen from above, the most 

spectacular views can be had from a boat trip. The 

tower at Albercutx, a little further down the coast, 

is another fine viewpoint for these birds, as well as 

other raptors such as Honey Buzzards migrating 

through the island in spring and autumn. 

BOQUER VALLEY 

Right on the edge of Puerto Pollensa, the Boquer 

Valley is often a very good spot to find newlyarrived 

migrants. The car park is just off the 

roundabout on the road to Formentor, and to the 

left of the path leading from the car park are olive 

groves and an almond orchard frequently visited 

by Redstarts, flycatchers and a variety of warblers, 

especially during migration. Further on, near the 

pines on the left, look for Cirl Buntings and 

Wrynecks. Next are gates to a private estate 

– access is allowed, but do not linger on the 

private property. Beyond them, follow testing 

but not difficult mountain paths towards 

the sea, keeping an eye out for Booted 

Eagles, Black and Griffon Vultures, 

Peregrines and Ravens, while Blue Rock 

Thrushes use the many prominent 

ledges and boulders as perches. 

éé BIRDS 

Above: Booted Eagle, 

Below: Black Vulture 

é A WORLD APART 

The scenery of the north is quite 

different from the beach resort 

image many have of Mallorca 

ê FORMETNOR 

Viewing tower at the spectacular 

Cap de Formentor 

Juanvi Carrasco / Alamy 



BIRDING IN 



Eleonora’s Falcon is a possibility here, too, as well 

as the likes of Golden Oriole in summer. You can 

easily bird most of the valley in around three 

hours, walking at an easy pace. 

TERNELLES 

VALLEY 

On the road to Soller, just outside Pollença, this 

reserve is made up of a mountain pathway giving 

access to sea cliffs and the Castell Del Rei. 

It’s an excellent area to watch during migration 

periods, with Montagu’s Harrier, Hobby, Honey 

Buzzard and migrating birds including Montagu’s 

Harrier, Hobby and Honey Buzzard all passing 

through, while Pallid Swift, Crag Martin, Balearic 

Warbler and Sardinian Warbler should also be 

among your targets. 

In winter, Raven, Firecrest, Brambling and 

Hawfinch are all possible here. Access is by permit 

only, available from the tourist office in Pollença, 

and there are no facilities – the paths are also 

harder than some, so take appropriate clothing 

and plenty of water. 

MORTITX 

This reserve, south of Pollença, sits among 

vineyards – there’s a wide and easy public 

footpath to the reserve, through woodland, with 

good views of the mountains throughout, and a 

detailed map at the entrance to the reserve proper. 

All those Mallorca montane specials – Black 

Vulture, Griffon Vulture, Booted Eagle and Blue 

Rock Thrush – are present, and in summer, it’s 

a good site at which to find Wrynecks. 

The path leads to the Ses Basses viewpoint, 

looking out over steep sea cliffs, allowing you to 

do some seawatching, while at all times you 

should be on the lookout for the recently 

reintroduced Bonelli’s Eagle – please report any 

sightings of these. 

LLUC MONASTERY 

Heading along the road from Pollença to Soller, 

look for the sign to this historic site, which is the 

main centre for starting walking or birding tours 

of the mountains. There’s a bar, an excellent 

restaurant, and tourist accommodation available 

All those Mallorca montane specials, Black Vulture, 

in the former monks’ cells. 

Firecrests and Wrynecks are possibilities from 

the car park, plus Nightingales, while Black and 

Griffon Vultures and Booted Eagles should be 

easily found, soaring above. Buses run to the 

monastery from Port Alcudia once a day, leaving 

at 9am and returning at 5pm (but check the 

timetable for changes). There’s also a botanical 

garden (entrance free). 

CUBER RESERVOIR 

On the road from Pollença to Soller, this reservoir 

has ample car parking and well-marked footpaths 

(although no toilets), and the birding starts pretty 

much immediately that you’ve arrived. 

Black and Griffon Vultures can be seen 

overhead, plus Booted Eagles and Eleonora’s 

Falcons, and Ospreys are always a possibility too. 

Cirl Buntings and Blue Rock Thrushes are 

widespread here, and it’s a good place to look for 

the cryptically patterned Wryneck, foraging for 

ants. Spectacled and Subalpine Warblers are also 

present, and migrants such as Redstarts, 

Wheatears and wagtails of all sorts pass through 

on migration. 

éé SA GUBIA 

There are many great places to 

explore in north Mallorca 

é BARRANC DE BINIARAIX 

One of the most spectacular 

walking routes in the Mallorcan 

mountains 

ê SELVA 

An attractive village set against the 

backdrop of the Serra de 

Tramuntana range 

êê S’ESTACA 

VALLDEMOSSA 

Another hidden gem, be it bird 

or village, is always just around 

the corner 

êêê CHILL OUT 

Enjoy the view, enjoy the birds, and 

relax in style in the lovely 

Mediterranean sunshine 

Griffon Vulture Booted Eagle and Blue Rock Thrush are present... and look for Wrynecks 

FACTFILE 

WHERE TO STAY 

Puerto Pollensa: La Gola reserve is right in the 

town of Puerto Pollensa – you can easily walk 

around its woodland, scrub and lake each day in 

search of birds, including a variety of herons. 

Pollença: A few miles west, has a more 

traditional feel, and is small enough to walk 

around in a morning. Hotels include the 

five-star Son Brull, one of Mallorca’s best. 

Soller: Just inland from the north-west coast. 

Visit the Jardin Botanic and the Museu Balear 

de Ciencies, a natural science museum, and the 

striking Esglesia de Sant Bartomeu. 

Alcudia: Retains its medieval walls, narrow, 

cobbled streets, many historic buildings. 

GETTING AROUND 

Public transport is very cheap. The Airport Bus 

runs to Palma every 15 minutes. If you are not 

staying in the city or the port, get off the bus at 

the Plaza d’Espanya, go down the steps past 

the train departures to the bus station, used by 

the red and yellow TIB buses. The 340 bus to 

Puerto Pollensa takes just over an hour and 

costs only €6. It usually leaves from bay 14. 

OTHER THINGS TO TRY 

Visit Deia: This idyllic village was the home of 

Robert Graves, poet and author of I Claudius. 

The views are wonderful, and you can walk 

down to Cala Deia, a small shingle beach in an 

attractive cove. It boasts two restaurants (open 

only in the summer season), with fresh fish as 

their speciality. There are plenty of walking trails 

in the hills above the village. 

Walking: Spring and autumn are ideal times for 

walkers, although summer walks include some 

along the Boquer Valley. There’s a good walk 

over the mountains to Cala Vincent, with 

fantastic views of Cala Carbo – you’ll find a 

couple of lovely bars by the water’s edge 

serving food. 

Another great walk starts just off the 

Formentor Road at Casa Velles. Park on the left 

and walk through the woods on the opposite 

side to Cala Murta, a lovely quiet cove. Close 

by, walk from the Formentor road to the tower 

of Albercutx. 

Park at the first mirador, and the road to the 

tower is opposite on the right. There are 

spectacular views of Puerto Pollensa and 

Alcudia in the distance. 

Watersports: Scuba diving is popular around 

Puerto Pollensa. Also very popular in the 

harbour is kiteboarding. There is a kite and surf 

school halfway between Puerto Pollensa and 

Alcudia which has a large range of equipment 

and is located directly opposite the beach 

where most of these sports takes place. 

At the harbour, as well as jet skis, there 

are yachts and catamarans, all of 

which can be hired and 

enjoyed. 

Cycling: Mallorca 

is a favourite 

destination for both 

leisure and 

professional cyclists, 

but you can just as easily, simply use a bike as a 

means to explore the island. 

More ambitious cyclists go to Cap Formentor, 

a very demanding route. There is a small café at 

the first mirador, frequently used for its 

spectacular views. 

There are numerous rental shops in the ports, 

but prices vary, so shop around. 

Eat and drink local: North Mallorca has 

excellent restaurants, bars and vineyards, so 

make sure you take the chance to sample the 

local cuisine, which not surprisingly features 

seafood heavily. Restaurant Jardin, in Alcudia, 

has an international reputation, and chef-owner 

Macarena De Castro is the proud possessor of 

a Michelin star, so it is certainly worth a visit! 

Website: enjoymallorca.com/destinations 

BOCQUER CAP DU 

PORT DE SA 

FORMENTOR 

POLLENÇA 

CALOBRA 

VINYES MORTITX 

ALCUDIA 

TRAMUNTANA 

SOLLER 

DEIA 

VALLDEMOSSA 

PALMA 

LLUC 



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Phone +34 660 812 693 / +44 7482990595 

www.enjoymallorca.com/properties 

http://dangelophotography.es/ 

infomallorca.net 

the official tourist 

information website 

of Mallorca 

e Tramuntana 

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