There are many species of birds that reside in or pass through Lanzarote each year. We are by no means avid birdwatchers but you can’t miss most of the birds featured below, they tend to be spread quite widely across the island.
Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)
You will see these birds in Lanzarote quite often, particularly whilst driving. They are small for a bird of prey but no less expert in hunting!
Hoopoe (Upupa epops)
A pretty and colourful bird most recognised by its distinctive crown of feathers. If you ever hear their call, you will understand their name immediately as it is a kind of hoo-hoo-hoo.
Berthelot’s pipit (Anthus berthelotii)
A small perching bird that breeds in the Canary Islands, you will see a number of these guys and if you are lucky and walking through the country side you may encounter a nest as they nest on the ground.
Southern Grey Shrike (Lanius meridionalis)
The English name «shrike» dates back to the old English word scríc meaning «shriek», and if you get the chance to hear their shrill call you will know it instantly. Interestingly, the word Lanius is Latin for ‘butcher’ and the Shrike family are well known for eating large insects, small birds and rodents.
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)
- Part of the Heron family these little guys are seen everywhere, amusingly they are regularly seen dicing with death and kind of surfing on the tops/sides of the rubbish collection trucks!
These are just a few of the birds that we have seen, if you have seen any other species of birds in Lanzarote and would like to share please feel free to comment below.
