Madeira....3rd-10th February 2014.

A week's holiday on the Island of Madeira was a great one, my first visit to this Portuguese archipelago. The weather was very good with just one day of rain,  a welcome respite from the downpours of rain and grey days in the UK.
I had pre-booked a days Guided Birdwatching with http://www.madeirawindbirds.com/ and a most enjoyable day it turned out to be with some special bird sightings, magnificent scenery and good company!

The highlight bird species seen were: Berthelot's Pipit ( Breeds in Madeira and the Canary Islands) Trocaz Pigeon and Madeira Firecrest  are both  endemic to the island of Madeira and  Atlantic Canary ( is endemic to the Canary Islands, Azores and Madeira). Atlantic Canaries were to be seen and heard in many areas visited and were delightful to hear singing in the hotel gardens along with Blackcaps.
I was surprised to see Muscovy Ducks in good numbers in two areas visited, I have never come across them on mainland Portugal..

Madeiran Wall Lizards were abundant in rural and urban areas sunning themselves in hotspots! Numerous Monarch and a few Long-tailed Blue butterflies were a sheer delight to see!