Around 1,500 people took part in the Sagres Birdwatching Festival which celebrated its 10th anniversary between October 10 and 13 in the Western Algarvian town.
For four days, nature lovers took part in several events from birdwatching walks to boat trips to see dolphins.
A total of 217 bird species were observed during the event, including some uncommon ones such as the Richard’s pipit (Anthus richardi) or some rare ones such as the Yellow-browed warbler and the Long-tailed jaeger.
A particularly special moment occurred during the first day of the festival when 100 booted eagles were spotted simultaneously.
Art was also a central focus this year, with several activities like drawing and photography.
One of the highlights was the launch of a new guide entitled ‘1º Guia de Aves do Concelho de Vila do Bispo e Promontório de Sagres’ (1st Guide of Birds of the Municipality of Vila do Bispo and Sagres Promontory), described as a “valuable tool” for anyone who wants to know more about the birds that can be spotted in the area – namely Bonelli’s eagles, short-toed eagles, Egyptian vultures and storks.
The event is organised by Vila do Bispo council, the Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (SPEA) and Almargem Association.
michael.bruxo@algarveresident.com
