Destinations
Sierra Morena
The star residents include the Spanish imperial eagle, golden eagle, and above all the Iberian lynx. This region, dotted with olive groves, cork oak plantations, and lush forests, provides a diverse habitat for a variety of animals, from large deer to the majestic Bonelli’s eagle.
The charming town of Adamuz, perched on a gentle hill overlooking the Sierra Morena, is your gateway to this remarkable reserve. The area experiences a hot, dry climate in summer, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C.
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Our hides have been recently modernized, enhancing the waiting experience for photographers. They feature state-of-the-art photographic glass for close-up shots of stars like the Bonelli’s eagle, golden eagle, and Iberian lynx.
Open year-round, each hide is specially designed to suit different environments and is regularly updated with new perches and settings to keep each visit unique.
Sierra Morena offers a rich variety of bird species, including raptors like the common kestrel, common buzzard, and goshawk. The region is a crucial stop on the migration route for many European species heading to Africa. Spring welcomes cuckoos, European bee-eaters, and Egyptian vultures, while summer brings azure-winged magpies, blue rock thrushes, and more to the watering holes.
Besides birds, this area is home to numerous mammals. Sierra Morena region is known for the haunting calls of stags during the mating season, which are easily photographed in the early morning or late evening. Observing red foxes and mongooses during the day and shyer species like badgers and beech martens at night is also possible. The reserve holds a special place for the Iberian lynx, a once-endangered species that has seen a resurgence due to conservation efforts. Visitors can witness these magnificent cats on walks through olive groves or from a special hide. Currently, the reserve features six photo hides, each with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and rewarding experience.
“The kingdom of the great birds of prey and the Iberian lynx.”
“In just one day you can photograph Little Owl, Bonelli’s Eagle and Golden Eagle from 4 different photo hides.”
Highlights & Key Facts
Geographic size
Abundant Birdlife
In Sierra Morena a wide variety of species is present, wether you like more diurnal birds of prey or passerines, you won’t be disappointed by the reserve, where you can also spot the elusive European Golden Oriole.
Diverse Mammals
Above all mammals in the area the Iberian Lynx dominates in importance; a critically endangered species that found in our reserve a reassuring breeding place. Many other species including the curious Egyptian Mongoose live in the area, but the Iberian Lynx keep the role of the symbol species of all the area.
Year Round Wonder
The reserve is accessible year-round, offering a range of possibilities; in this area you never stop the “close encounters of the third type” with some of the most peculiar and amazing species of the area, be ready to be “abducted”.
Accessible Locations
You can access this natural wonderland through nearby airports, including Malaga (1h,30min), Seville (2 h) and Madrid Barajas (3h,30min).
Habitats
Dehesa
The Dehesa in Sierra Morena is a magnificent open woodland of holm oaks and cork oaks, providing habitat for various species of wildlife. It's a timeless landscape and a haven for birdwatchers, offering glimpses of griffon vultures, Spanish imperial eagles, and woodpeckers.
Rocky Mediterranean Scrub
Sierra Morena's rocky Mediterranean scrub is a rugged, sun-soaked terrain filled with aromatic shrubs, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. This ecosystem is home to reptiles like the ocellated lizard and the beautiful Montpellier snake. Birdwatchers can spot the Sardinian warbler and the blue rock thrush among the rocks.
Maritime Pines Woodland
The maritime pines woodland, a tapestry of fragrant pine trees, offers a tranquil habitat in Sierra Morena. Here, elusive species like the Eurasian pygmy owl reside. The forest echoes with the enchanting calls of various birds, making it a must-visit spot for nature lovers.
Wildlife
Iberian Lynx
Sierra Morena provides a sanctuary for the critically endangered Iberian Lynx, among the rarest wild cat species in the world, where it prowls through the Mediterranean scrubland.
Spanish Imperial Eagle
Witness the majestic Spanish Imperial Eagle soaring above Sierra Morena's skies, a symbol of conservation success and ecological health.
Golden Eagle
The regal Golden Eagle graces Sierra Morena's mountainous landscapes, dominating the skies as a formidable apex predator.
Bonelli's Eagle
Sierra Morena shelters the impressive Bonelli's Eagle, a powerful raptor that rules over its territory, symbolizing the area's avian diversity.
Buzzard
Sierra Morena's diverse habitats host the Buzzard, a common raptor known for its soaring flights and broad distribution.
Cinereous Vulture
Encounter the massive Cinereous Vulture in Sierra Morena, where it plays a vital role in the ecosystem as a formidable scavenger.
Griffon Vulture
Sierra Morena's soaring cliffs and thermal currents are home to the Griffon Vulture, an iconic symbol of the region's rugged beauty.
Eurasian Goshawk
Delight in the stealthy presence of the Eurasian Goshawk, a master of Sierra Morena's woodlands and forests.
Iberian Green Woodpecker
Among the ancient oaks and Mediterranean forests of Sierra Morena, the Iberian Green Woodpecker's distinct calls and vibrant plumage add a touch of charm.
Egyptian Mongoose
Explore Sierra Morena's wild corners, where the elusive Egyptian Mongoose lurks, showcasing the reserve's hidden treasures.
Climate & Seasons
Winter Season from -5°C to 15°C (23°F to 59°F)
Summer Season from 15°C to 35°C (59°F to 95°F)
Winter (December - March)
Iberian Lynx Hide: From June to December, a place where up to 15 different individuals have been observed in the last 4 years. A comfortable hide with bunk beds, chemical toilet and space for 4 people, lighted for night photo sessions.
Bonelli’s Eagle: Available all year round, our hide is place of unique beauty, where you can also photograph species such as the Rock Thrush, Eurasian Hoopoe, Woodchat Shrike, etc. The hide had a success rate of almost 90% in the last years.
Eurasian Eagle Owl: Winter and spring months offer you another exceptional opportunity; that of photographing this nocturnal bird of prey. Here you can take high-speed shots, double exposures, blurs and so on. All while having a very high rate of success.
Spring (March - June)
Bonelli’s Eagle: Available all year round, our hide is place of unique beauty, where you can also photograph species such as the Rock Thrush, Eurasian Hoopoe, Woodchat Shrike, etc. The hide had a success rate of almost 90% in the last years.
Spanish Imperial Eagle: From 15th March till 15th April, we have a photo hide overlooking the heart of Sierra Morena, in a pine forest area, where you can photograph species such as the Spanish Imperial Eagle, Golden Eagle, Northern Goshawk, foxes and scavenger birds.
Eurasian Eagle Owl: Winter and spring months offer you another exceptional opportunity; that of photographing this nocturnal bird of prey. Here you can take high-speed shots, double exposures, blurs and so on. All while having a very high rate of success.
Summer (June - September)
Iberian Lynx Hide: From June to December, a place where up to 15 different individuals have been observed in the last 4 years. A comfortable hide with bunk beds, chemical toilet and space for 4 people, lighted for night photo sessions.
Bonelli’s Eagle: Available all year round, our hide is place of unique beauty, where you can also photograph species such as the Rock Thrush, Eurasian Hoopoe, Woodchat Shrike, etc. The hide had a success rate of almost 90% in the last years.
Autumn (September - December)
Iberian Lynx Hide: From June to December, a place where up to 15 different individuals have been observed in the last 4 years. A comfortable hide with bunk beds, chemical toilet and space for 4 people, lighted for night photo sessions.
Bonelli’s Eagle: Available all year round, our hide is place of unique beauty, where you can also photograph species such as the Rock Thrush, Eurasian Hoopoe, Woodchat Shrike, etc. The hide had a success rate of almost 90% in the last years.
Deer Rutting Season: From September 15th to October 15th, as autumn approaches, large male deer begin their display. Thanks to special tours and mobile photo hides in the best locations you can take incredible photos.
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