


We had better luck with some of our other target species however, spotting both Black-Bellied and Pin-Tailed Sand Grouse. These are quite difficult birds to get close to so I just have a record shot of the Pin Tailed Sandgrouse, not evidence of a new lifetime species for me as I have seen them before in Extremadura. Unfortunately I was unable to get a recognizable photo of the Black-bellied variety on this occasion.



The river valley above Hecho known as the Boca del Infierno (Mouth of Hell) has spectacular scenery, particularly in Autumn with the deciduous leaves turning red and gold. The narrow entrance was once a well known location for spotting Wallcreepers, our most elusive and almost mythical target bird. These days they are seldom seen here any more and although we tried hard we did not strike it lucky this time.

Despite our lack of wallcreeper success, watching Lammergeiers wheel around over the trees in such spectacular surroundings was memorable and well worth the trip on its own.