We invite you to join us on a fantastic full-day guided birdwatching excursion to discover the El Planerón Ornithological Reserve, near Belchite (Zaragoza), one of the most emblematic natural areas on the Iberian Peninsula for observing steppe birds. This extraordinary reserve, part of the Natura 2000 Network and designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA), is home to a remarkable diversity of species characteristic of the arid and open landscapes of the Ebro Valley.
During the morning, we will explore its vast steppe landscapes in search of some of the most fascinating and sought-after birds of the Iberian avifauna, including Dupont's Lark, Greater Short-toed Lark, Lesser Short-toed Lark, several species of wheatears, Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Eurasian Stone-curlew and the magnificent Golden Eagle, among many others. Without a doubt, this is an exceptional location for both birdwatching and bird photography, especially at this time of year, when steppe birds are particularly active.
In the afternoon, on our way back, we will head towards the extensive plains of Bujaraloz, another of Aragón's most important steppe habitats, where we will focus our efforts on finding the small groups of Great Bustards that still inhabit this area. This will be a wonderful opportunity to observe one of the most spectacular and threatened bird species of our agricultural and steppe landscapes.
An exciting day packed with birdwatching opportunities, dedicated to discovering some of the most fascinating and elusive birds of the Iberian Peninsula, at one of the best times of the year to enjoy them. Would you like to join us?
The meeting point will be at 7:00 a.m. at the free parking area of the Torrefarrera service station, located just off exit 462 of the A-2 motorway towards Lleida. You will easily recognise the location by the petrol station and the 24-hour roadside restaurant. The exact coordinates are 41.664532, 0.607407.
Once everyone has arrived, we will rejoin the A-2 motorway towards Zaragoza, continuing along the AP-2 motorway until we reach Belchite, where we will head to the El Planerón Ornithological Reserve.
Upon arrival, we will park our vehicles and explore different areas of the reserve on foot, observing the wide variety of birds that inhabit these remarkable steppe landscapes.
In the early afternoon, we will return to our vehicles and head towards Bujaraloz via the N-II road. From there, we will follow several tracks through the steppe landscapes to reach the areas where Great Bustards are most regularly observed.
By mid-afternoon, depending on how long it takes us to locate the bustards, we will begin our journey back towards Barcelona, where our birdwatching excursion will come to an end.
Icaro Birding Experience guide (Ferran López)
20–60x spotting scope
Personal travel insurance
Shared eBird checklists
To make the most of our time in the field, each participant should bring their own breakfast and packed lunch. It is also important to wear suitable clothing and footwear for walking along dirt tracks and trails. We will provide a spotting scope to enhance our birdwatching experience. Bringing a camera is highly recommended to capture the most memorable moments of the day.
Aparcament Torrefarrera 24h
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