Extremadura

Extremadura in the southwest of Spain has always had a magical allure for nature photographers. Nowhere else in Europe can you find a higher diversity of plant species and, especially, birds. Many species of raptors soar in the thermals above the mountain ranges and plains, which are covered with evergreen stone and cork oaks, reminiscent of the African savanna, especially in summer. Over 80,000 cranes spend the winter in the expansive Dehesa, sharing the acorns with the black Iberian pigs. Great and little bustards, painted and sandgrouse, stone curlews, and marsh harriers have found refuge in the vast cultural steppes. In spring, you can find enormous carpets of blue viper's bugloss, violet lavender, bright yellow wildflowers, and red poppies, with the enchanting scent of rock roses hanging in the air. The two authors and Spain experts describe the various habitats of Extremadura in their book and reveal the best areas for photography.