Cantabria

Northern Spain is a great place for observing birds because of its high density of different ecosystems and habitats. During our birding trips and guided tours in Asturias and Northern Spain, you get the chance to discover new high mountain range or coastal species.

Two of Asturias’ most iconic species are the Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) and the Bearded Vulture (Gypaetus barbatus). The number of Western Capercaillies rapidly declined in recent years. Resultantly, they are strongly protected. Access to their last breeding grounds is therefore restricted. The reintroduction of the Bearded Vulture in the Picos de Europa National Park, however, is successful. You can now observe this impressive raptor in several places.

Do you want to spot the Bearded Vulture? See some of Northern Spain´s other majestic raptors such as the Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus) or Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)? Or are you more interested in discovering typical alpine birds like the Wall Creeper (Tichodroma muraria)? Or perhaps you want to discover migratory birds along the Cantabrian seashore in spring or autumn?

Our birding trips and guided tours in Asturias and Northern Spain allow you to discover new species in the beautiful Northern Spanish nature! Below, we give some examples of our guided tours and trips. Looking for something specific? Or do you want to receive a customized proposal? Do not hesitate to send us a message!

Join our guided wildlife tours and observe the unique wildlife of Asturias!

‘Unique species, unbeatable scenery and unforgettable experiences’. That’s how Asturias is promoted as ecotourism destination. And no wonder. Although this ‘Natural Paradise’ only represents 2% of Spain’s surface, it is home to 75% of mammals and birds species to be found in Spain. The most iconic are Cantabrian brown bears (Ursus arctos arctos), Iberian wolves (Canis lupus), Bearded Vultures (Gypaetus barbatus), Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) and Wallcreepers (Tichodroma muraria,).

Protected areas in Asturias

Over a third of Asturias’ surface is protected. Asturias has 1 National Park (Picos de Europa), 7 Biosphere Reserves (Las Ubiñas-La Mesa, Muniellos, Picos de Europa, Redes, Ponga, Somiedo and Oscos-Eo), 5 natural parks (Fuentes del Narcea, Degaña e Ibias, Las Ubiñas-La Mesa, Ponga, Redes and Somiedo), 1 full nature reserve (Muniellos), 6 partial nature reserves, 2 protected landscapes and 39 natural monuments. Furthermore, Asturias also houses the first declared marine reserve in Spain (El Cachucho).

Wildlife of Asturias

Resultantly, Asturias is one of the best places to observe Iberian wildlife. The brown bear is undoubtedly the emblematic animal of Asturias. You can also see wolves, hoofed animals (deer, roe deer, fallow deer, and ibex), and other mammals such as wild cats, genets, and otters. Furthermore, you can find over 400 bird species in Asturias. Bearded Vulture, Griffon Vulture, Golden Eagle, and Wall Creeper are only some examples. Also, over 140 butterfly species live in Asturias. Finally,  you can spot up to 25 species of cetaceans, both resident and migratory, in the Cantabrian Sea bordering Asturias.

Our guided wildlife tours

We offer various Wildlife Tours to encounter the rich wildlife of Asturias. Certified and experienced guides who respect the local environment lead all our tours.

Even though Asturias has abundant wildlife, there is no guarantee that you see all the animals you want during your stay. However, participating in our guided wildlife tours greatly increases your chances of encountering them. We also design customized tours for a unique and personalized wildlife experience.

Visit and dive into Asturias’ wildlife with us!

These are other trips.