Just discovered this site Ian, found it nice and informative. We shall be holidaying in Jimera de Libar, in the station area, for the first two weeks in June. I would really appreciate it if you could give me some pointers as to the best areas around there for birdwatching and what I might expect to find. As my wife is disabled we are a little retricted as the the areas we can reach. Look forward to your help. Mike Russell

Hi Mike,

Here is some advice for you about bird watching in the area.
Jimera de Libar is located next to the Guadiaro river about 10k from Ronda. Here the valley narrows and is surrounded by mountains, although on the valley bottom there are lots of fruit orchards. As a result there are less woodland birds around.

You are not clear whether you have transport or not so I will give you some pointers for both.

If you have no transport - in the first 2 weeks of June you should see:
Vultures, eagles and bee eaters which are common flying over head. There are a multitude of other species: shrikes, warblers etc., which are too numerous to mention, that are present most of the time.

Near the river you should see, (in addition to the above) golden auriol and nightingales.

If you have transport – its worth visiting the following locations:

1 – Garganta de Pulgar – drive from Jimera de Libar to Cortes de la Frontera and continue through on the Ubrique road. Approximately 5 km from Cortes de la Frontera you will se a sign for Garganta de Pulgar on the left and a side road to El Colemenar Forestal. You can drive slowly down this road. The route takes you through the cork oak forest which is also a conduit through the mountains for many birds - vultures, raptors of all kinds, woodland species in general.

2 – Garganta Verde – Grazalema (half day drive)
From Jimera de Libar head for Ronda via Benaojan. At the T junction (approx 10km – yes there really no other junctions before this!!) turn left toward Montejaque. On entering the village take a sharp right turn signed Sevilla. This will take you through the Montejaque Gorge. Continue on this road to the T junction (main Sevilla/Ronda road). Turn left, then first left again, just up the road by half a mile (signed for Grazalema. After 2km the road bends right then left. At the left turn take the road straight ahead. Continue on up to the T junction, turn left. This road takes you along the shore of Zahara Lake. At the end of the lake take the left turn signed Zahara. Continue on this road to Grazalema village. (caution – mountain road past Garganta Verde on right with tight zigzag bends to the top.) Stop at the top at 5000ft for a panorama and birds eye view of vultures flying below and far reaching views.

Thanks
Ian Antonio