Urdaibai Reserve No.3 - Urdaibai Nature Magazine

URDAIBAI

Reserve URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Digital Magazine

Nยบ3

Nesting waterbirds

A walk to the hides The migration of the red-backed shrike 3rd Quarter 2017

Urdaibai Reserve Digital magazine Gautegiz Arteaga (Bizkaia) N.3, 3rd quarter 2017 ISSN: in process EDITING Urdaibai Bird Center, Aranzadi Society of Sciences

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ADDRESS Orueta 7, 48314 Gautegiz Arteaga (Bizkaia)

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TELEPHONE NUMBER 94 625 11 57 EMAIL birdcenter@birdcenter.org WEBPAGE www.birdcenter.org

TEXTS Urdaibai Bird Center

Sponsors:

PHOTOGRAPHS Urdaibai Bird Center, except pag. 102 (Luis Silva), pag. 134 (Archivo Asociaciรณn vasco-saharaui de la evoluciรณn cultural), pag. 114 (Archivo General de Gipuzkoa.

Indalecio Ojanguren) COVER Urdaibai Bird Center. (Little Grebe)

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DESIGN Urdaibai Bird Center

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Urdaibai Reserve Digital magazine Gautegiz Arteaga (Bizkaia) N.3, 3rd quarter 2017 ISSN: in process EDITING Urdaibai Bird Center, Aranzadi Society of Sciences

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ADDRESS Orueta 7, 48314 Gautegiz Arteaga (Bizkaia)

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TELEPHONE NUMBER 94 625 11 57 EMAIL birdcenter@birdcenter.org WEBPAGE www.birdcenter.org

TEXTS Urdaibai Bird Center

Sponsors:

PHOTOGRAPHS Urdaibai Bird Center, except pag. 102 (Luis Silva), pag. 134 (Archivo Asociaciรณn vasco-saharaui de la evoluciรณn cultural), pag. 114 (Archivo General de Gipuzkoa.

Indalecio Ojanguren) COVER Urdaibai Bird Center. (Little Grebe)

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DESIGN Urdaibai Bird Center

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Summary 06. URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER 08. Conservation | 10. Discover the breeding birds in Urdaibai.

28. Tourism | 30. A walk to the hides. | 48. BirdFlyway: Liminka Bay. 54. Environmental Education | 56. The osprey and its migration, a route to meaningful learning.

64. THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

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66. Summer update| 68. Nesting waterbirds.

82. Discover the biodiversity | 83. The grass snake.

88. Did you know ….?

94. A special place in Urdaibai | 95. Ogoño Headland.

100. The Reserve in pictures.

114. LOOKING BACK 116. Sukarrieta.

120. INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS 122. The incredible migration of the red-backed shrike.

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SUMMARY

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Summary 06. URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER 08. Conservation | 10. Discover the breeding birds in Urdaibai.

28. Tourism | 30. A walk to the hides. | 48. BirdFlyway: Liminka Bay. 54. Environmental Education | 56. The osprey and its migration, a route to meaningful learning.

64. THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

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30

68

94

100

120

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66. Summer update| 68. Nesting waterbirds.

82. Discover the biodiversity | 83. The grass snake.

88. Did you know ….?

94. A special place in Urdaibai | 95. Ogoño Headland.

100. The Reserve in pictures.

114. LOOKING BACK 116. Sukarrieta.

120. INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS 122. The incredible migration of the red-backed shrike.

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SUMMARY

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Urdaibai Bird Center

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

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Urdaibai Bird Center

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

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Conservation

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Conservation

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Discover the breeding birds in Urdaibai

E.M.A.N: Monitoring Stations for Nesting Birds Programme.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Discover the breeding birds in Urdaibai

E.M.A.N: Monitoring Stations for Nesting Birds Programme.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Every spring thousands of birds of many different species begin the breeding period. They rear their young in the diverse range of ecosystems which Urdaibai offers.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

By monitoring these breeding birds, The Urdaibai Bird Center aims to form an in depth understanding of the makeup of the population, survival rate and physical condition of the different species. This information can then be used to develop strategies for the conservation of the environment.

Conservation

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Every spring thousands of birds of many different species begin the breeding period. They rear their young in the diverse range of ecosystems which Urdaibai offers.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

By monitoring these breeding birds, The Urdaibai Bird Center aims to form an in depth understanding of the makeup of the population, survival rate and physical condition of the different species. This information can then be used to develop strategies for the conservation of the environment.

Conservation

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To gain this information the scientific ringing of birds is an essential tool.

“Ringing consists of placing a small metal band around a bird´s leg. On the band there is a code which serves the same purpose as an identification card. In this way, not only the bird can be identified in one specific place, but its movements can also be followed.”

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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To gain this information the scientific ringing of birds is an essential tool.

“Ringing consists of placing a small metal band around a bird´s leg. On the band there is a code which serves the same purpose as an identification card. In this way, not only the bird can be identified in one specific place, but its movements can also be followed.”

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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The E.M.A.N programme plays a very important role in the field of bird ringing. It is carried out in Constant Effort Ringing Stations. Every fortnight, from May to August, ringing is carried out in the chosen habitats. The method ensures the reproduction process is monitored in a continual and standardized manner.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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The E.M.A.N programme plays a very important role in the field of bird ringing. It is carried out in Constant Effort Ringing Stations. Every fortnight, from May to August, ringing is carried out in the chosen habitats. The method ensures the reproduction process is monitored in a continual and standardized manner.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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In the case of Urdaibai, the EMAN ringing station is located in a reed bed in the upper marsh. The place is situated in a former bend in the river. The course of the water was altered in the early 20th Century and the river was canalized. Nowadays the habitat is made up of partially flooded reed beds

During recent years, ringing information has shown that the most common birds here are those that rely on the marsh for their biological cycles, in particular reproduction.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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In the case of Urdaibai, the EMAN ringing station is located in a reed bed in the upper marsh. The place is situated in a former bend in the river. The course of the water was altered in the early 20th Century and the river was canalized. Nowadays the habitat is made up of partially flooded reed beds

During recent years, ringing information has shown that the most common birds here are those that rely on the marsh for their biological cycles, in particular reproduction.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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The reed warbler This bird is the star of this ringing station, where it can be found in high numbers. By the first fortnight in April, it has come back from its wintering quarters in Africa. It breeds in the reed beds, weaving intricate nests around the stems of the plants.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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The reed warbler This bird is the star of this ringing station, where it can be found in high numbers. By the first fortnight in April, it has come back from its wintering quarters in Africa. It breeds in the reed beds, weaving intricate nests around the stems of the plants.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Cetti´s Warbler Although this warbler lives here during the whole annual cycle, it is very difficult to observe. However, its presence can be noted by its characteristic, loud song. It uses the reed beds and the edges of the marshes and creeks for breeding.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Cetti´s Warbler Although this warbler lives here during the whole annual cycle, it is very difficult to observe. However, its presence can be noted by its characteristic, loud song. It uses the reed beds and the edges of the marshes and creeks for breeding.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Blue throat As its name suggests, the male of this species has a beautiful blue chest. To date we do not know whether it nests in Urdaibai. However, during the period of migration it is common in the reed bed

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Blue throat As its name suggests, the male of this species has a beautiful blue chest. To date we do not know whether it nests in Urdaibai. However, during the period of migration it is common in the reed bed

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Training and Volunteers Training and volunteers are another important part of the ringing stations. Every year students and individuals interested in ornithology participate in the ringing work. In order to carry out the monitoring programme, their efforts are essential.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Training and Volunteers Training and volunteers are another important part of the ringing stations. Every year students and individuals interested in ornithology participate in the ringing work. In order to carry out the monitoring programme, their efforts are essential.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Conservation

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Tourism

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Tourism

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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A walk to the hides OZOLLO ARTEAGA CASTLE

GAUTEGIZ ARTEAGA WETLAND

ORUETA

URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

GAUTEGIZ ARTEAGA

Not only can you enjoy watching the waterbirds from the beautiful window over the marsh in the Bird Center. Why not continue your visit outside? There is a route which provides a pleasant walk to the hides, from which you will have great views of the wetland and its inhabitants.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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A walk to the hides OZOLLO ARTEAGA CASTLE

GAUTEGIZ ARTEAGA WETLAND

ORUETA

URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

GAUTEGIZ ARTEAGA

Not only can you enjoy watching the waterbirds from the beautiful window over the marsh in the Bird Center. Why not continue your visit outside? There is a route which provides a pleasant walk to the hides, from which you will have great views of the wetland and its inhabitants.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Very close to the Urdaibai Bird Center is the Orueta Hide

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Very close to the Urdaibai Bird Center is the Orueta Hide

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Orueta hide 34

URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Orueta hide 34

URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Observing waterbirds from the Orueta Hide

A majestic grey heron is fascinating to watch.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Observing waterbirds from the Orueta Hide

A majestic grey heron is fascinating to watch.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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On the walk to the second hide, Ozollo, you will pass the picturesque castle in Arteaga.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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On the walk to the second hide, Ozollo, you will pass the picturesque castle in Arteaga.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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On this route you will have the chance to observe the small birds which inhabit the Atlantic Countryside.

Male stonechat

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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On this route you will have the chance to observe the small birds which inhabit the Atlantic Countryside.

Male stonechat

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Tourism

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Ozollo hide 42

URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Ozollo hide 42

URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Observing the waterbirds from the hide.

Watching the beautiful spoonbills feed in front of the hide is a pleasure.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Observing the waterbirds from the hide.

Watching the beautiful spoonbills feed in front of the hide is a pleasure.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Orueta hide

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Ozollo hide

Tourism

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Orueta hide

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Ozollo hide

Tourism

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Saint James´ Way in the World of Birds BirdFlyway is run by the Urdaibai Bird Center. It is a new type of ecotourism. By participating you will follow the birds on their migratory journey across Europe and visit the network of centers that make up the route. You will get to know the natural areas, culture and heritage of each place. As you complete each stage, your BirdFlyway Passport will be stamped. Let´s take a look at one of the destinations on the route.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Saint James´ Way in the World of Birds BirdFlyway is run by the Urdaibai Bird Center. It is a new type of ecotourism. By participating you will follow the birds on their migratory journey across Europe and visit the network of centers that make up the route. You will get to know the natural areas, culture and heritage of each place. As you complete each stage, your BirdFlyway Passport will be stamped. Let´s take a look at one of the destinations on the route.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Photo: Liminka Bay natural area

Liminka Bay Discover Finland in this incredible natural area 50

URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Photo: Liminka Bay natural area

Liminka Bay Discover Finland in this incredible natural area 50

URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Tourism

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Visitors to the area can enjoy the views and the birds from five observation towers which are strategically located. In addition to the towers, there is a stunning visitor center with excellent information and exhibitions which make the world of the birds in the Liminka Bay fascinating for all. There are facilities for conferences, a cafĂŠ and restaurant and accommodation with wonderful views. The visitor center and the Virkkula observation tower are 100% accessible.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Liminka Bay

Join us! Discover Liminka Bay

Tourism

Photo: Liminka Bay natural area

Liminka Bay is the northernmost stage of BirdFlyway. Located in the province of Oulu, the area occupies more than 12 000 hectares. It is included in the Nature 2000 Network and has been recognised as a Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar). It provides a habitat for more than 200 species of bird and over 160 of these nest in the area.

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Visitors to the area can enjoy the views and the birds from five observation towers which are strategically located. In addition to the towers, there is a stunning visitor center with excellent information and exhibitions which make the world of the birds in the Liminka Bay fascinating for all. There are facilities for conferences, a cafĂŠ and restaurant and accommodation with wonderful views. The visitor center and the Virkkula observation tower are 100% accessible.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Liminka Bay

Join us! Discover Liminka Bay

Tourism

Photo: Liminka Bay natural area

Liminka Bay is the northernmost stage of BirdFlyway. Located in the province of Oulu, the area occupies more than 12 000 hectares. It is included in the Nature 2000 Network and has been recognised as a Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar). It provides a habitat for more than 200 species of bird and over 160 of these nest in the area.

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Environmental Education

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Environmental Education

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Environmental Education

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Environmental Education

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The osprey and its migration a route to meaningful learning The osprey is not only a beautiful bird and powerful symbol, but it creates connections between people and places. By learning about the osprey and its migratory journey, students cover a wide range of curricular subjects such as biology, geography, ecology and mathematics. Downloadable materials are available on the webpage and the different schools which are involved in the project share their experiences of this engaging and motivating way of learning.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Environmental Education

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The osprey and its migration a route to meaningful learning The osprey is not only a beautiful bird and powerful symbol, but it creates connections between people and places. By learning about the osprey and its migratory journey, students cover a wide range of curricular subjects such as biology, geography, ecology and mathematics. Downloadable materials are available on the webpage and the different schools which are involved in the project share their experiences of this engaging and motivating way of learning.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Environmental Education

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A project from Urdaibai for the whole of the Basque Country This environmental education project was developed by the Urdaibai Bird Center in collaboration with Ekoetxe from the Txingudi Wetlands, the Garaio and Landa Provincial Parks and the Mendixur Ornithological Park. It was financed by the Basque Government and the Regional Council of Biscay. It was supported by the Regional Council of Alava and coordinated by Ingurugela.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Environmental Education

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A project from Urdaibai for the whole of the Basque Country This environmental education project was developed by the Urdaibai Bird Center in collaboration with Ekoetxe from the Txingudi Wetlands, the Garaio and Landa Provincial Parks and the Mendixur Ornithological Park. It was financed by the Basque Government and the Regional Council of Biscay. It was supported by the Regional Council of Alava and coordinated by Ingurugela.

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Environmental Education

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ยกOs esperamos!

In October 2017 school parties can visit the Urdaibai Bird Center, Txingudi Marshes and the Garaio, Landa and Mendixur Parks to learn about the osprey. As part of the environmental education programme these visits are free of charge. In Urdaibai there are also visits for adults to observe ospreys in the marshes. These take place in August and September.

Come and join us!

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Environmental Education

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ยกOs esperamos!

In October 2017 school parties can visit the Urdaibai Bird Center, Txingudi Marshes and the Garaio, Landa and Mendixur Parks to learn about the osprey. As part of the environmental education programme these visits are free of charge. In Urdaibai there are also visits for adults to observe ospreys in the marshes. These take place in August and September.

Come and join us!

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URDAIBAI BIRD CENTER

Environmental Education

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Are you a company?

ALLIANCE PROGRAMME URDAIBAI RESERVE Be part of the green view Consult our programme here: www.birdcenter.org

Collaborators: 62

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Are you a company?

ALLIANCE PROGRAMME URDAIBAI RESERVE Be part of the green view Consult our programme here: www.birdcenter.org

Collaborators: 62

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The Urdaibai Reserve

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

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The Urdaibai Reserve

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

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Summer Update

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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Summer Update

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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Nesting waterbirds In comparison with the number of waterbirds that winter in the Urdaibai wetlands, there are only a few which spend the summer and breed here.

However, those that do are very interesting. Let´s take a look at them.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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Nesting waterbirds In comparison with the number of waterbirds that winter in the Urdaibai wetlands, there are only a few which spend the summer and breed here.

However, those that do are very interesting. Let´s take a look at them.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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The Little Grebe

A little grebe incubating its eggs on its floating nest.

It might look like a teddy bear, but the little grebe is an excellent diver. It catches invertebrates which live in the water, as well as small fish and amphibians.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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The Little Grebe

A little grebe incubating its eggs on its floating nest.

It might look like a teddy bear, but the little grebe is an excellent diver. It catches invertebrates which live in the water, as well as small fish and amphibians.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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The Common Coot Adult feeding its chick

The beautiful common coot is also a diving bird but its diet consists almost solely of vegetable matter that it collects from underwater.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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The Common Coot Adult feeding its chick

The beautiful common coot is also a diving bird but its diet consists almost solely of vegetable matter that it collects from underwater.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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The common moorhen

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Despite being a relative of the coot, the moorhen is not a diver. It looks for its food in the vegetation at the edges of the water. It eats all kinds of small aquatic animals.

Summer Update

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The common moorhen

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Despite being a relative of the coot, the moorhen is not a diver. It looks for its food in the vegetation at the edges of the water. It eats all kinds of small aquatic animals.

Summer Update

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The majority of the ducks we can see in Urdaibai put their heads under the water to find food. The Common Pochard, however, is a diver. Most interestingly, the pochard has bred in Urdaibai for two years in a row now.

The Common Pochard

Male Pochard

Beautiful female with her six ducklings

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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The majority of the ducks we can see in Urdaibai put their heads under the water to find food. The Common Pochard, however, is a diver. Most interestingly, the pochard has bred in Urdaibai for two years in a row now.

The Common Pochard

Male Pochard

Beautiful female with her six ducklings

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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The Stilt

These beautiful, fragile looking waders have spent a numbers of summers with us now. However, they don´t always manage to breed. There were four pairs this summer but not all of them raised chicks.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

A female incubating her eggs in her nest.

Summer Update

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The Stilt

These beautiful, fragile looking waders have spent a numbers of summers with us now. However, they don´t always manage to breed. There were four pairs this summer but not all of them raised chicks.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

A female incubating her eggs in her nest.

Summer Update

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The Mallard Female looking after her ducklings

This is the most common duck you can observe in the marshes throughout the year. It is interesting to note the incredible difference in the plumage of the male and female.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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The Mallard Female looking after her ducklings

This is the most common duck you can observe in the marshes throughout the year. It is interesting to note the incredible difference in the plumage of the male and female.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Summer Update

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Discover the biodiversity

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The beautiful grass snake

Discover the biodiversity

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Discover the biodiversity

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The beautiful grass snake

Discover the biodiversity

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The grass snake is also known as the water snake. It lives in different wet environments such as well conserved rivers with abundant vegetation, small pools of water and their surroundings and even in upper marshland areas where the tidal influence is not so strong. In Spanish these animals are called “necklace snakes�. This is due to the fact that the young have a pattern around their necks. They lose this as they get older and when they reach adulthood they are a uniform greenish blue colour.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Discover the biodiversity

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The grass snake is also known as the water snake. It lives in different wet environments such as well conserved rivers with abundant vegetation, small pools of water and their surroundings and even in upper marshland areas where the tidal influence is not so strong. In Spanish these animals are called “necklace snakes�. This is due to the fact that the young have a pattern around their necks. They lose this as they get older and when they reach adulthood they are a uniform greenish blue colour.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Discover the biodiversity

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Grass snakes can measure up to 1.5m.

Although they might look frightening, they are totally harmless for humans.

They don´t even have poison glands.

This type of snake is shy and is therefore difficult to spot.

It hunts a wide range of animals such as rats and mice, many kinds of amphibian and more. We should respect these creatures. They are part of our rich and essential biodiversity and there are very few left.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Discover the biodiversity

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Grass snakes can measure up to 1.5m.

Although they might look frightening, they are totally harmless for humans.

They don´t even have poison glands.

This type of snake is shy and is therefore difficult to spot.

It hunts a wide range of animals such as rats and mice, many kinds of amphibian and more. We should respect these creatures. They are part of our rich and essential biodiversity and there are very few left.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Discover the biodiversity

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Did you know.... ‌that there is a lot of folklore surrounding the swallow? Swallows bring good luck. If they choose your house in which to build their nest, you will surely be blessed with good fortune.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Did you know....?

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Did you know.... ‌that there is a lot of folklore surrounding the swallow? Swallows bring good luck. If they choose your house in which to build their nest, you will surely be blessed with good fortune.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Did you know....?

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‌For instance, one old saying goes that whoever stops a swallow from breeding in their house or disturbs them in any way will be cursed. The person´s bad fortune will last until the swallows breed again in that house.

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Did you know....?

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‌For instance, one old saying goes that whoever stops a swallow from breeding in their house or disturbs them in any way will be cursed. The person´s bad fortune will last until the swallows breed again in that house.

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Did you know....?

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In the village of San MartĂ­n de Unx in Navarra there is another belief. It is said that if swallows nest in your house, it will never be struck by lightning. (Aguirre 1997: 31)

The belief that swallows bring good fortune is actually true. Since long ago people have known that these beautiful birds keep the environment clean. They eat up the mosquitoes and flies which could well cause problems for our health and our crops.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Did you know....?

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In the village of San MartĂ­n de Unx in Navarra there is another belief. It is said that if swallows nest in your house, it will never be struck by lightning. (Aguirre 1997: 31)

The belief that swallows bring good fortune is actually true. Since long ago people have known that these beautiful birds keep the environment clean. They eat up the mosquitoes and flies which could well cause problems for our health and our crops.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

Did you know....?

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A special place

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Ogoño Headland

A special place

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A special place

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Ogoño Headland

A special place

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Near the village of Elantxobe is The OgoĂąo Headland. Its sheer limestone cliffs tower above the sea and provide a fantastic habitat for those birds which require a rocky habitat.

In addition to this, many marine birds nest and rear their young in the cracks and hollows on the cliff face. The European shag is of particular interest and the headland is home to the largest breeding colony on the Basque coast.

Adult Shag

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

A special place

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Near the village of Elantxobe is The OgoĂąo Headland. Its sheer limestone cliffs tower above the sea and provide a fantastic habitat for those birds which require a rocky habitat.

In addition to this, many marine birds nest and rear their young in the cracks and hollows on the cliff face. The European shag is of particular interest and the headland is home to the largest breeding colony on the Basque coast.

Adult Shag

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

A special place

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The stunning panoramic view from the highest point on the Ogoño Headland.

BERMEO

Ogoño

GAUTEGIZ ARTEAGA

GERNIKA

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

A special place

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The stunning panoramic view from the highest point on the Ogoño Headland.

BERMEO

Ogoño

GAUTEGIZ ARTEAGA

GERNIKA

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

A special place

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Lichen growing on a tree stump in a mixed Atlantic forest

The Reserve in pictures

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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Lichen growing on a tree stump in a mixed Atlantic forest

The Reserve in pictures

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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From the rocky coast of Antzora, this spectacular view shows Izaro Island in the calmest, blue sea. In the distance lies the Matxitxako Headland.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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From the rocky coast of Antzora, this spectacular view shows Izaro Island in the calmest, blue sea. In the distance lies the Matxitxako Headland.

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The Reserve in pictures

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The General Assembly and the Tree of Gernika.

For centuries the Lords of Bizkaia met here under an oak to discuss issues concerning the region. The tree is an important symbol of the Basques.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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The General Assembly and the Tree of Gernika.

For centuries the Lords of Bizkaia met here under an oak to discuss issues concerning the region. The tree is an important symbol of the Basques.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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The River Mape and the luxuriant vegetation on its banks. (Busturia)

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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The River Mape and the luxuriant vegetation on its banks. (Busturia)

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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During low tide, areas of dwarf eel grass (Zostera noltii) are revealed in the marsh. This plant is adapted to survive in conditions where the tidal influence is strong and the water has a high salt content. This beautiful species is catalogued as Vulnerable on the list of threatened species in the Basque Country.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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During low tide, areas of dwarf eel grass (Zostera noltii) are revealed in the marsh. This plant is adapted to survive in conditions where the tidal influence is strong and the water has a high salt content. This beautiful species is catalogued as Vulnerable on the list of threatened species in the Basque Country.

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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A stunning 22ยบ solar halo in front of the Urdaibai Bird Center. This interesting phenomenon occurs when sunlight interacts with ice crystals in high clouds known as Cirrostratus..

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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A stunning 22ยบ solar halo in front of the Urdaibai Bird Center. This interesting phenomenon occurs when sunlight interacts with ice crystals in high clouds known as Cirrostratus..

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THE URDAIBAI RESERVE

The Reserve in pictures

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Looking Back

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LOOKING BACK

Sukarrieta

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Looking Back

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LOOKING BACK

Sukarrieta

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Sukarrieta

1937

Taken from the bridge to Txatxarramendi Island, the photo shows a view of Sukarrieta at the beginning of the 1950´s. Construction of the railway track had been completed and the trains began running in 1955.

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LOOKING BACK

Sukarrieta

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Sukarrieta

1937

Taken from the bridge to Txatxarramendi Island, the photo shows a view of Sukarrieta at the beginning of the 1950´s. Construction of the railway track had been completed and the trains began running in 1955.

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LOOKING BACK

Sukarrieta

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Sukarrieta

2017

Sukarrieta from the Txatxarramendi Bridge as seen today.

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LOOKING BACK

Sukarrieta

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Sukarrieta

2017

Sukarrieta from the Txatxarramendi Bridge as seen today.

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LOOKING BACK

Sukarrieta

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Incredible journeys

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

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Incredible journeys

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

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The incredible migration of the red-backed shrike

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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The incredible migration of the red-backed shrike

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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Female red-backed shrike

Male red-backed shrike

Every year around mid May, a beautiful bird can be seen around the farmhouses that dot the Atlantic countryside.

This little bird is the red-backed shrike. No bigger than a sparrow, this interesting visitor has just flown in from Africa. Its incredible migratory journey is unlike any other that we know in our environment.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

125

Female red-backed shrike

Male red-backed shrike

Every year around mid May, a beautiful bird can be seen around the farmhouses that dot the Atlantic countryside.

This little bird is the red-backed shrike. No bigger than a sparrow, this interesting visitor has just flown in from Africa. Its incredible migratory journey is unlike any other that we know in our environment.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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Where it breeds?

The red-backed shrike spends the summer here in the Atlantic Countryside. It enjoys meadows, hedges, crops and farmhouses.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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Where it breeds?

The red-backed shrike spends the summer here in the Atlantic Countryside. It enjoys meadows, hedges, crops and farmhouses.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

127

It can often be seen perched on cables, posts or brambles from where it can spy its prey. It catches insects, lizards and mice and has the interesting habit of storing them on thorny bushes or on the spikes of barbed wire.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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It can often be seen perched on cables, posts or brambles from where it can spy its prey. It catches insects, lizards and mice and has the interesting habit of storing them on thorny bushes or on the spikes of barbed wire.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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Tracking project

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The Urdaibai Bird Center carried out a study in collaboration with the University of Bulgaria. The aim of the research was to determine the migratory route of this interesting species.

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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Tracking project

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The Urdaibai Bird Center carried out a study in collaboration with the University of Bulgaria. The aim of the research was to determine the migratory route of this interesting species.

The migration of the red-backed shrike

131

Geolocation device

After the difficult process of locating their breeding grounds, 30 males were tagged with small devices which would register their positions during their migration and wintering period.

After breeding the individuals set off on their migratory journey. When they returned the following year, the geo locators were recovered. What incredible secrets would they reveal?

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

133

Geolocation device

After the difficult process of locating their breeding grounds, 30 males were tagged with small devices which would register their positions during their migration and wintering period.

After breeding the individuals set off on their migratory journey. When they returned the following year, the geo locators were recovered. What incredible secrets would they reveal?

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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URDAIBAI

GREECE TURKEY

SAHARA DESERT

EGYPT

The results were astounding!

MALAWI

The data revealed that instead of heading directly south like other birds, the red-backed shrikes travelled east and crossed the whole of Europe. Having flown over Italy and Greece, they crossed the Bosphorus and travelled on to Egypt, Sudan, Zimbabwe and even South Africa.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

ZIMBABWE

MOZAMBIQUE

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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URDAIBAI

GREECE TURKEY

SAHARA DESERT

EGYPT

The results were astounding!

MALAWI

The data revealed that instead of heading directly south like other birds, the red-backed shrikes travelled east and crossed the whole of Europe. Having flown over Italy and Greece, they crossed the Bosphorus and travelled on to Egypt, Sudan, Zimbabwe and even South Africa.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

ZIMBABWE

MOZAMBIQUE

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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But that wasn´t all!

URDAIBAI

SAHARA DESERT

GREECE

TURKEY

EGYPT

MALAWI The return journey takes the red-backed shrikes even further east as they pass over the Arábiga peninsula. The distance travelled by the shrikes on their incredible tour is about 20 000km, which makes it one of the longest journeys for such a small bird.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

ZIMBABWE

MOZAMBIQUE

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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But that wasn´t all!

URDAIBAI

SAHARA DESERT

GREECE

TURKEY

EGYPT

MALAWI The return journey takes the red-backed shrikes even further east as they pass over the Arábiga peninsula. The distance travelled by the shrikes on their incredible tour is about 20 000km, which makes it one of the longest journeys for such a small bird.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

ZIMBABWE

MOZAMBIQUE

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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Conservation

This valuable information helps us understand the problems faced by this species and to develop future strategies to aid its conservation.

Keep your eyes open for redbacked shrikes in the countryside.

They are fairly easy to spot around the farmhouses and they are fascinating to observe.

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INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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Conservation

This valuable information helps us understand the problems faced by this species and to develop future strategies to aid its conservation.

Keep your eyes open for redbacked shrikes in the countryside.

They are fairly easy to spot around the farmhouses and they are fascinating to observe.

138

INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS

The migration of the red-backed shrike

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Enjoy the views of Urdaibai from home

Live Webcam

www.birdcenter.org 140

LIVE URDAIBAI

Webcam: Marshes of Gautegiz Arteaga

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Enjoy the views of Urdaibai from home

Live Webcam

www.birdcenter.org 140

LIVE URDAIBAI

Webcam: Marshes of Gautegiz Arteaga

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Urdaibai Bird Center A special shop

Give Nature as a gift

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SHOP

Help the conservation of birds!

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Urdaibai Bird Center A special shop

Give Nature as a gift

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SHOP

Help the conservation of birds!

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