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21. Birdwatching in Porto

Porto is one of the finest mountain birdwatching destinations in north-western Iberia. The entire municipality lies within the Sanabria Lake and Surroundings Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA ES4190009), a protected area of exceptional value for birdlife.

The Calva, Segundera and Cabrera mountain ranges, together with glacial lakes, peat bogs, heathlands, rocky outcrops and extensive upland grasslands, create a remarkable variety of habitats that support birds throughout the year.

Among the most iconic species are the Golden Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Eurasian Eagle-Owl, Red Kite, Cinereous Vulture and Short-toed Eagle. Porto’s mountains provide excellent opportunities to watch large birds of prey soaring on thermal currents above the valleys and peaks.

The open uplands are also home to species of particular interest such as the Bluethroat, Grey Partridge, Dartford Warbler, Ortolan Bunting, Red-billed Chough and the scarce Eurasian Dotterel.

Birdwatching is also a different way to discover the landscape. Walking slowly, listening, observing and understanding the connection between wildlife and the environment offers a deeper and more rewarding experience of nature.