Desertas Islands habitat is mostly arid, with steep cliffs and scrubland. The archipelago is constituted by Chão islet, Bugio and also Deserta Grande and Deserta Pequena. Desertas host important populations of breeding seabirds like Cory’s Shearwater, Little Shearwater, Bulwer’s Petrel, Band-rumped Strom Petrel and Yellow-legged Seagull, and also the Bugio endemism, Desertas Petrel Pterodroma deserta. Resident species include Common Buzzard, Common Kestrel, Barn Owl, Island Canary, and the Madeiran and regional endemisms Berthelot’s Pipit and Plain Swift. Another local highlight is the possibility of spotting Mediterranean Monk Seal. There is no regular transportation to the archipelago. Being a Natural Reserve, there are restrictions to visitation, and it is not allowed to go ashore without proper permission from Madeira Natural Parks service. A good way to explore the area is by going on an organized pelagic trip. IBA: learn more |
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Hotspots
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