BIRDING TRAIL
② Steppe - Panoramic view
This vantage point offers a panoramic view, mainly of open grassland, the preferred habitat of such steppe specialists as the impressively large Great Bustard Otis tarda (YR), one of the world’s heaviest flying birds, its smaller relative, the Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax (YR) and the cryptic Black-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles orientalis (YR), so often first detected by its unusual, rippling, flight call and whose European range is limited to the plains of the Iberian Peninsula. All require careful searching of the seemingly endless vistas that are also home to graceful Montagu’s Harriers Circus pygargus (SP/SU), melodious Calandra Larks Melanocorypha calandra (YR) and discreet Tawny Pipits Anthus campestris (SP/SU).
At this point, allow yourself to stop for a few moments. Eventually, try walking along the dirt track and observe, in silence, the bustle of the cereal fields. This cereal steppe, or pseudo-steppe, is home and hunting ground to countless bird species.
It is an agricultural system with many extensive livestock producers. The landscape is managed by different owners, with different objectives. To incentivise management practices that benefit biodiversity, it was created an agro-environmental scheme – Castro Verde Zonal Plan. LPN, an environmental NGO that works on the ground with farmers explains: “This is an Agro-environmental Scheme, drawn up specifically for the Campo Branco region (covering around 60.000 ha), whose philosophy is based on the payment of a service for the conservation of the landscape and threatened birdlife to farmers who practise a form of agriculture that is compatible with the conservation of the natural heritage. The commitments include a ban on agricultural work (ploughing and mowing) during the breeding season of birds and the sowing of leguminous crops for birds.”
There are some steppe birds, which nest on the ground, that are declining in population due to harvesting. This is the case with the Montagu’s Harrier (Circus pygargus), which saw a population decrease of more than 70%, over the last decade.
There is an ongoing conservation programme for this species, coordinated by ICNF – Parque Natural do Vale do Guadiana and LPN, to which the Portugal Wildscapes Conservation Fund is contributing.
Montagu’s Harrier, adult male in flight Circus pygargus
Which species can be seen?
Portugal Wildscapes Experiences
A Planície
Presenting itself as "Creative gastronomy", this restaurant in the heart of Castro Verde promises a journey through the traditional flavours, with an excellent innovative touch. It has options for vegetarians and is closed on Sundays.
Monte da Apariça
The “soul” of the Rural Tourism Monte da Apariça lies in the land (or, as so called, in the “Herdade”), where the scent of earth, flowers, grass and animals blend in the air. One only distracts from this scent when staring into the horizon that, from the top of the Monte, stretches out to the infinite Alentejo. Birdwatching is the heart of Apariça because, in this place, you can watch unique birds, many of which of protected species. In Monte da Apariça there is absolute peace! Anywhere in the Herdade, or simply under the porch, while having a typical lunch or just a break.
Hotel “A Esteva”
A three-star hotel that blends in with the plains and the white houses of the village of Castro Verde. A privileged location in the town with great accessibility, it offers a bright and cozy atmosphere.
4Bs – B&B, Birds & Bicycles – Apartment
The 4Bs is a family project in Castro Verde for nature and outdoor activities lovers. The name came up very naturally: "birds" for all the protected bird species that surround us in this region, "bicycles" for our special fellings towards this vehicle :), and of course "Bed & Breakfast" for the kind of accommodation we were offering.
They offer na apartment, a triple bedroom, a slot for a van and Glamping: This spacious tent has 1 double bed and 2 single beds. There is a shared outdoor kitchen fully equipped and free solar warmshower. The homestay also offers bike hire.
