The Manchegan Steppe

The Kingdom of the Great Bustards

The great steppe region of the volcanic zone of Campo de Calatrava in La Mancha, designated a National Natural Monument of Spain, is a geological masterpiece of nature itself, vast amongst gently rolling hills, it offers fantastic birding opportunities for viewing the noble Great Bustard, Little Bustard, Stone Curlew, Golden Plover, Calandra Larks and both Black Bellied and Pin-tailed Grouse. Amongst its many raptors such as the emblematic Spanish Imperial Eagle, we have Golden Eagles, Red and Black-shouldered Kites, Buzzards, and Common and Lesser Kestrels. Birdwatching the steppes of la Mancha is a must during your visit.

Target Species depending on time of year

Griffon, Egyptian and Black Vulture; Spanish Imperial, Golden, Booted, Short-toed and Bonelli’s Eagle; Little Owl; Red, Black and Black-shouldered Kite; Northern, Montagu´s and Marsh Harrier; Buzzard; Sparrowhawk; Nightjar; Common and Lesser Kestrel; Merlin; Legged Partridge; White Stork; Common Crane; Eurasian Hoopoe; Black-eared Wheatear; Greater Spotted Cuckoo; Great and Little Bustard; Stone Curlew; Pin-tailed and Black-bellied Sandgrouse; Golden Plover; European Bee-eater; European Roller;  Calandra, Thekla, Crested and the elusive Dupont´s Lark.

Great Bustards on the Steppe
Great Bustards

Stone Curlew
Stone Curlew

Pin-tailed Sandgrouse
Pin-tailed Sandgrouse

Little Bustard
Little Bustard

Montagu's Harrier
Montagu’s Harrier
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