Yes its true, we were out with 3 Spanish Highs clients in the high Sierra Nevada and climbing a peak called Cerro de Caballo (3009m). Circling above us and the mountain were around 16 BIG birds, first thoughts were Golden Eagles but as we got higher and nearer to them, no for sure they were Vultures. As Richard had the camera I took the clients to the summit and told Richard to go round the side lower down as he was sure to get some closer pictures, and yep there were 9 of them perched on a rocky pillar. I can not tell you what a fantastic sight it was of these rare enormous (wing span of 7-8ft) birds circling and landing near by. In fact I got so excited I shouted to Richard that they were vultures and low and behold they all flew away!! Must remember my wildlife etiquette of silence.
Poor Ian from Birdwatch Alpujarras was not with us and is extremley jealous and as excited about them as we were.
For a full trip report go to Sierra Nevada News
Ive attached a couple of photos and a short video below.
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Between the Sierras & the Sea, Lanjarón, gateway to Las Alpujarras. Living in the spa town of Lanjaron in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, follow the adventures of life in this part of Andalucia.
Hi,
what an excellent sighting. My “patch” when I’m over in Spain is towards the eastern end of the Alpujarras and Sierra Nevada, and I’ve never seen Griffons in that area.
The furthest south I’ve seen them so far is the Hoya de Baza, so with any luck they will spread south!
All the best,
Des.
The Road to Valor
[...] When watching them glide through the sky you get an idea of size, but its not until you are lucky enough to see them on the ground that you can appreciate their size. I have been lucky to see them close up as written in a previous post. [...]