Mallorca day 4 - Cap de Formentor and the Boquer Valley
This morning we decided to head to the Cap de Formentor, a peninsula in the north-east corner of the island. We decided to have the assistance of a bird guide, Marina, who was a massive help finding birds and navigating the area. We began by driving to the lighthouse at the tip of the lighthouse, where we saw two new species - Blue Rock Thrush and Crag Martin - as well as a Peregrine and a Serin. Next, we drove slowly back along the road, listening and watching for birds.
At the first stop we heard a Whinchat, which would have been a new species, however we didn't manage to spot it. There was also a Balearic Warbler singing from the scrub, which we also didn't manage to spot unfortunately.
At the next stop we saw another Blue Rock Thrush, two Ravens and several Crag Martins. At the third stop we tried to see Crossbills, but they didn't show - however we did hear a few, as well as many Firecrests.
From here we drove to the Boquer Valley, just north of Puerto Pollenca. We had our lunch at the start of the valley before heading up towards the sea. It was very windy, meaning most birds had hunkered down, however we still spotted a Stonechat, two Blue Rock Thrushes, lots of Sardinian Warblers and several Serins. Two Ravens flew overhead. At the end of the valley there were a handful of Crag Martins feeding over the scrub, and we managed brief views of a stunning Balearic Warbler! Another new bird, the 30th 'lifer' of the trip, and a great one to see.
On the way back we saw more of the same, as well as two Kestrels and a Raven flying very close.
From here we headed back to the hotel, with a quick stop at La Gola where we saw a Little Egret and a large number of Swifts. Overall a fab day out, with three new species and lovely scenery.
We found our guide through Mallorca Natural Tours, but our guide Marina has a separate job working on Bonelli's Eagles.
