Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain chain in mainland Portugal, and therefore some of its specialities are mountain birds. The lower level is mostly occupied with chestnut and pine woods, agricultural fields and some villages. In an intermediate sector, the pine plantations remain, but also with open areas of scrubland vegetation, and in the highest parts of the mountain chain, the landscape is barren and rocky with some Juniperus sp. bushes.
Regarding birds, the lower level holds some variety, and birds like Pallid Swift, Red-rumped Swallow or Black Redstart are present. At mid-level, more characteristically woodland species appear, like Bonelli´s Wrabler, Melodious Warbler, Coal Tit or Firecrest. The open areas and scrubland hold Dartfort Warbler, Dunnock, Rock and Ortolan Buntings. White-throated Dipper occurs in the streams. Above 1600, trees are scarce or non-existent. Bird diversity drops, and species like Crag Martin, Skylark, Tawny Pipit, Dunnock or Black Redstart dominate. Rock Thrush is also present in the rocky terrain. In the winter, extreme cold and regular snowfall makes most of the birds leave the highlands, and only species like Ring Ouzel, Alpine Accentor or Snow bunting are regular. In the town of Seia, there is an environmental centre – CISE. Municipalities: Seia, Manteigas, Gouveia, Guarda and Covilhã IBA: learn more |
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Hotspots
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