We enjoyed a weeks break to Madeira in early December, especially as I found my three lifer targets, Trocaz Pigeon, Maderian Firecrest and Rock Sparrow.
Maderian Firecrest were fairly common around the island on various Levada walks while the endemic Trocaz Pigeon was easily seen at Palheiro Gardens near Funchal. We visited as soon as the gardens opened and made our way to the Tea Room area. Pigeons were seen on both the lawns and in adjacent trees. Firecrest and Maderian Chaffinch were also common.
Rock Sparrows were seen with Canarys and Goldfinch at the end of our long walk out to Ponta De Sao Laurenco. They were seen on the hillside above the visitor centre with the palms.
Interestingly we came across a flock of Common Waxbills on the promonade just east of Camara De Lobos. Other notable sightings were Whimbrel, Berthelot’s Pipit, Spanish Sparrow and the occasional Plain Swift. 33 species in total.
Maderian Firecrest were fairly common around the island on various Levada walks while the endemic Trocaz Pigeon was easily seen at Palheiro Gardens near Funchal. We visited as soon as the gardens opened and made our way to the Tea Room area. Pigeons were seen on both the lawns and in adjacent trees. Firecrest and Maderian Chaffinch were also common.
Rock Sparrows were seen with Canarys and Goldfinch at the end of our long walk out to Ponta De Sao Laurenco. They were seen on the hillside above the visitor centre with the palms.
Interestingly we came across a flock of Common Waxbills on the promonade just east of Camara De Lobos. Other notable sightings were Whimbrel, Berthelot’s Pipit, Spanish Sparrow and the occasional Plain Swift. 33 species in total.
