The numbers of European birdwatchers
that visit the Madeiran archipelago have increased dramatically
in recent years. The reasons for this are many and varied. The
main reason to visit Madeira has always been the endemic bird
species and races. The second reason, and probably the most
interesting one, is the excellent opportunity for watching seabirds
and cetaceans from the mainland or boat crossings between the
nearby islands. The hot spot Porto Moniz, which is the number
one site for sea watching, is certainly a good reason for many
birders to visit Madeira. Add to this a nocturnal trip to Pico
do Areeiro, listening for the endemic Zino's Petrel under a
starry sky and your visit will stay in your memory for a long
time afterwards. And remember, Madeira offers easy birding and
is a perfect destination for a combined holiday with your partner
or family. Every birding site or boat trip has something for
everyone!
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Madeira
Bird News 2009
»
Four bird photos – 15 October
» Recent
sightings (external link)
» One trip report
added – 27 September
» Birding sites photos
– 21 September
» Resources –
17 September
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544
photos of 138 bird species!
15th October: Four new photos by Peter Vercruijsse, Ian
Merrill and Lützen Portengen have been added to the photo
gallery, of which Bar-tailed Godwit and Green Sandpiper was
new. |
Brown
Booby – the first record for Madeira
15th September: On 1st September 2009 the Dutch birder
Max Berlijn spotted an immature Brown Booby Sula leucogaster
from the boat Ventura do Mar halfway to Desertas! The bird was
rediscovered close to Deserta Grande foraging for 15 minutes.
This was the first record for Madeira. Check
Max's video stills here» |
Kumliens
Gull –
the first record for Madeira
27th August: On 20th February 2009 the British birder
Alan Burkin photographed an adult Kumliens Gull Larus glaucoides
kumlieni at Funchal harbour. You'll find the story
and photos here» (PDF 175 KB). |
Elenora's
Falcon – 3rd record
On 14th August 2009 the dutch birder Vincent van der Spek saw
an adult Elenora's Falcon of pale morph at Ribeira da Janela.
Please view Vincent's photos
of the bird here» |
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