In this mammal-watching tour we will explore, over the course of five well-paced days, the rugged montane landscape of north-western Spain. We will be located in the isolated and beautiful Cantabrian Mountains.
For decades, the isolation and severe human emigration of this region have allowed wolves to survive when they were relentlessly pursued in Spain. In more recent years wolves have made a comeback in Spain despite continued legal and illegal hunting in most areas in North Spain.
During our stay in the wolves’ range, we will join local wolf-researchers and trackers who will maximise our chances of enjoying unparalleled encounters with these enigmatic apex predators. We will also use our Spanish guide’s extensive knowledge of the region to best advantage for encounters with another iconic predator – the wildcat. We’ll hope to see these mini-tigers hunting early in the morning and before nightfall in montane meadows.
There will also be a host of high altitude speciality birds to look for, including the dramatic Wallcreeper – a bird that’s almost an honorary butterfly! – in addition to, amongst others, Alpine Accentor, Alpine Chough, Rock Sparrow, Golden Eagle, and Snowfinch.
We’ll certainly see other mammals besides our main predatory targets – Southern Chamois should show well, and we can always hope for some surprises besides…
