S’ALBUFERETA

Extending either side of the coast road, this reserve includes a beach area, on which both Kentish and Little Ringed Plovers breed, and a much larger area of lagoons (both fresh and saltwater), plus scrub and pine woodland. Black-winged Stilts are among the breeding birds on the lagoons, along with Purple Gallinule, while the hirundines and swifts that are numerous here attract the attentions of Eleonora’s Falcons, particularly early in the day. Cetti’s Warblers breed, and the saline lakes have even recorded Greater Flamingo. It’s a particularly good site to search during migration periods, with a wide range of passerines possible, including those Blue-headed Wagtails (Yellow Wagtails of the flava race) again, other Yellow Wagtails, Redstarts, both Spotted and Pied Flycatchers, Nightingales and both Moustached and Subalpine Warblers. Honey Buzzards and Montagu’s Harriers pass through on migration, and Redfooted Falcon has also been recorded here. The fields and orchards, and any overhead power or telephone lines, are worth checking for the likes of Bee-eater, Serin, Woodchat Shrike, Crossbill, Corn Bunting, Hoopoe, Golden Oriole and Whinchat.

GETTING THERE From Puerto Pollensa or Alcudia, catch one of the TIB buses (352/353 ) which run frequently between Puerto Pollensa and Can Piquafort. The stop is a short walk from the reserve, outside the kite and surf shop.

VITAL INFORMATION Access is available at all times, but be careful to respect private property, as the reserve includes a number of farms and other buildings. This viewing screen allows to get as close as possible to the birds Birdwatching the reserve by bike can bring great results – although smaller than Albufera, it’s still large enough, so it’s a great way of getting around quickly without disturbing birds