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 2010
»
Recent
sightings (external link)
»
One trip report added – 17
April
» Ten bird photos
added – 18 April
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Colour
ringed Lesser Black-backed Gull
17 April: On 5th April the Finnish birder Ari Seppä
saw and photographed a colour ringed Lesser Black-backed Gull
in Funchal harbour. The bird was ringed in France 2005 and has
been resighted in Funchal five times since 2006. View
photo and data here» |
Seawatching
report from 2009
17 April: On 31 August to 9 September the Dutch birder
Michel de Lange visited Porto Moniz to indulge himself with
some good seawatching. The report only covers the (great) sea
watching at Porto Moniz. What about 5159 Great Shearwaters on
2 September! View
or download the report here» |
Brown
Booby – a first for Madeira
On 1st September 2009 the Dutch birder Max Berlijn spotted an
immature Brown Booby from the boat Ventura do Mar halfway to
Desertas! This was the first record for Madeira. Check
Max's video stills here» |
Kumliens
Gull –
a first for Madeira
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» |
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