Bird-watching tourism in Sierra Morena

Ornithological trips, whether to the Sierra Norte de Sevilla or beyond, where birds are passing through on their migratory routes, are huge attractions in current ecological tourism. Unsurprisingly, the concept of bird-watching tourism has been gaining strength recently with an increasing number of people interested in seeking out natural spaces, locating their binoculars and stopping time for a while. All for the simple pleasure of sighting flying beings: species that, at times, you can feel closer to. We share the sky with them, after all.

The natural surroundings

Although human beings have taken control of a large part of Sierra Morena territory in the north of the Province of Seville, nature's domains continue to be stunning. Meadows, mountainous areas and unique agricultural landscapes, such as the orchards at San Pedro stream -which resemble an uninhabited planet - boast priceless charm. These types of Mediterranean forests, with mild winters and intense summers, are home to abundant holm oaks and cork oaks.

Biosphere Reserve

These Seville lands are also home to Dehesas de Sierra Morena Biosphere Reserve, which holds the title of Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA), an essential place in the issue at hand: bird-watching tourism with a growing number of enthusiasts. These individuals share prior knowledge and a love of nature and the life that ecosystems generate.

What species can you see?

An outing to Sierra Norte, in the heart of the Sierra Morena, for bird-watching involves an appointment with birds with the charisma of the imperial eagle (aquila adalberti), for example. How about that! We would like to remind you that this sensational Iberian bird of prey is endangered, and that the pleasure of watching its majestic flight and the evolution of its plumage is only available to experts. It is unsurprising that bird-watching excursions hook people. The black vulture (aegypius monachus) is another of these species that will impress when it takes flight. The black stork (ciconia nigra) is another regular at these places. A migratory bird, it is also one of the most lively.

Ornithology for beginners

Ornithology involves tourism that combines, to a certain degree, active tourist practices and ecotourism. Ecotono Birding Sevilla (Bird Watching and Adventures in Nature in the Province of Seville) is a project of Prodetur (a promotional body of the Government of Seville) focused on designing comprehensive, interesting tours throughout the province. These tours are highly recommended for beginners to bird watching who wish to discover Seville's paradise for birds.

During the excursion, which takes place over three days in Seville's Sierra Norte and Doñana, bird watching is accompanied by walks that represent a real discovery for visitors: Pintado Reservoir, where you can see water birds such as the white-throated dipper and the common kingfisher, is one of these magnificent natural settings. But it's not the only one. The tour covers fascinating places, like Cerro del Hierro, a natural karst monument, as well as Cascadas del Martinete… Before finishing in Cazalla de la Sierra. Make sure you keep your gaze fixed on the sky.