A day off and back to Doñana . . . . . of course

Finally saw the yellow legs on a Yellow-legged Gull here, as we were driven to the Government managed area of Doñana which covers some 25,000 hectares.

Starting at El Rocio we boarded expedition-style vehicles which could cope with the deep sand of the area.    Mastic Bushes Pistachio lentiscus were the main new vegetation species I noticed.   

These aromatic bushes provide excellent cover for female lynx when they give birth and protect the young from any wandering male lynx with the natural smell of the bush covering up the scent of the animals.

Lynx Country

The lynx population has been sorely punished with Myxomatosis killing rabbits which are their main prey.   Adding the loss of habitat and incursion of roads into their territory  (two lynx were killed in the last year or so by vehicles) it is hard to see how they will recover their numbers.   However work is going on with a captive breeding programme and individuals from the mountain population north of Malaga are being introduced to strengthen the genetic composition.   In addition artificial 'rabbit houses 'are being constructed to encourage them back to the area.

Rabbit hotel from old Cork trees

Cork palm, mastic bush and rockrose are all part of the 'primary forest' here - the oldest vegetation species listed in the area.   This area has been under threat with no significant rain for the last three years, and El Niño waging its affect worldwide.

Still, along with many other species we had seen before, the best spot of the day was a group of seven Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, firstly on the ground, and then as the vehicle moved, they took to the air giving us great views.   

El Rocio

At El Rocio the crowds were gathering as it is only five weeks to Pentecost and their most important festival of the year.    Long queues of people waited to pay homage to the Virgin Mary in the town Cathedral.   Horses are the main form of transport here, and there were many on horseback and being driven around in horse-drawn carts.   Everyone was dressed in the sunday best - a little at odds with us in our creased practical gear!