Bird watching in Gibraltar
Gibraltar lies on one of the world’s great migratory routes, serving as a vital stopover for birds crossing between Europe and Africa. Each spring and autumn, thousands of raptors, swallows, and songbirds fill the skies.
As the Strait of Gibraltar are the narrowest crossing point for birds migrating to and from Europe to Africa the Rock offers unrivalled bird watching opportunities. Gibraltar also has its permanent residents such as the Barbary Partridge, which originally was only to be found in North Africa.
Griffon Vultures
Several of the few colonies in Southern Europe of these birds are found in the nearby Campo de Gibraltar area of Spain. Storks can also be seen and these too have their nests just across the border with a large number of them nesting on electricity pylons at Estacion de San Roque railway container yard.
The spectacle of soaring Griffon Vultures, often joined by eagles and storks riding the thermals over the Rock, is a highlight for bird enthusiasts from around the world.
