27 Dec 2025 – Out early this morning, first around the orange groves in Los Montesinos, then the small tracks alongside the Laguna Salada de Torrevieja headed to La Mata. Blackcap, Stonechat, Black Redstart, Hoopoe, Greenfinch, Cattle Egret, Serin, Crag Martin, Crested Lark, Meadow Pipit, Monk Parakeet, Sardinian Warbler, Grey Heron and Magpie were early additions to the day list.
A very short stay was had at La Mata, too many people around at the weekend. I did though see Iberian Green Woodpecker, Red-legged Partridge and distant Greater Flamingos.
I was hoping to spend the afternoon in the mountains above Alicante, so I headed north on the N-332, stopping for half an hour at El Pinet. As usual there was plenty to see. Good numbers of Avocet, Shelduck, Dunlin, Slender-billed Gull and Black-winged Stilt were present. Also 5 Stone Curlew, 2 Little Stint and 2 Redshank. The Flamingos were showing pretty close and looking dapper in the nice morning light, so a few photos were had.
I then headed into the mountains, driving the narrow mountain road overlooking the Rio Monnegre and enjoying the spectacular scenery. Birdwise it seemed quiet. Thekla’s Lark, Iberian Grey Shrike, Hoopoe, Black Redstart, Mistle Thrush, Chaffinch, Kestrel, Dartford and Sardinian Warblers were all that was spotted. I continued through the village of Monnegre until I reached the Tibi-Xixona Road. From this junction you cannot miss the huge rock formation Penya Migjorn. It’s peak, just over 4000ft above sea level. From some pines behind me a Crested Tit called, but my attention was with the half a dozen Griffon Vultures giving fabulous views as they soared above. Then a Peregrine Falcon spotted perched on a high ridge – the sole new bird for the trip. It was 75mins drive back to Los Montesinos, so I enjoyed the Vultures for as long as possible and headed back before it was dark. Day 45 species. Trip list 126 species.
