Given their mid-migratory route location and rich biodiversity preserved thanks to many protected areas, the Balearic Islands make an ideal breeding spot and home for extraordinary species of bird, including a large number of endemic species. Diverse landscapes such as wetlands, mountains, coasts and dunes provide a stunning backdrop for visitors to enjoy while spotting birds.
Here are some of the best birdwatching spots in the Balearics:
Menorca
Menorca’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve title, in addition to many individual protected nature areas, shields the island’s many endemic species. The extensive 70 hectare lagoon in the north of the island, s’Albufera des Grau Natural Park, is a popular settling place for water birds such as the Fisher Eagle. Moustached Warblers, Purple Gallinules and Crested Coots can also be watched from the park’s observation points.
Ibiza
Ibiza is home to a rich flora and fauna, as well as many different species of bird. Birdwatching enthusiasts are sure to want to spot the endemic Balearic Warbler, which can be found in Ibiza and Formentera’s exceptional Ses Salines Natural Park. Spanning nearly 2000 hectares of salt flats, beaches, wetlands, dunes and forests and home to 210 species of birds such as Flamingos and Black-necked storks, the park is a bird spotting haven.
Formentera
Formentera is most popular for its beautiful beaches, often compared to those of the Caribbean. However, the rockier, most easterly point of this beautiful island, La Mola, is a Special Protection Area and tranquil birdwatching spot which offers visitors the chance to see local endemic species such as the Balearic Spotted Flycatcher, as well as La Mola’s iconic lighthouse. There are also 30 picturesque green routes around the island for bird lovers to explore by foot or bicycle.
Mallorca
The Cabrera Archipelago National Park, made up of uninhabited islets south of the main island of Mallorca, is full of coastal cliffs with allow migratory birds and birds of prey such as osprey to build their huge nests. Thanks to the rich biodiversity and protected marine life of the surrounding waters, the park is also an excellent place from which to spot seabirds such as the Balearic Shearwater, the most endangered in Europe.
