Morocco is a North African destination for birds, animals, and all nature lovers. Since Morocco lies in the Mediterranean region, it is in the way of migratory routes of the European birds traveling to Africa. It is treated to sore eyes, especially in the winters. Due to its rich and diverse habitats, over 480 species of birds have been recorded in the region, with over 100 species of visitors every year. Some bird groups include water birds, wheatears, larks, raptors, warblers, and many more specific species of birds.
High-flying birds like eagles and falcons fly high in the semidesert sky. It is also a hub for all bird-watching tourists due to the vast diversity of birds in the area. People can also use this as a time for mid-migration site-seeing.
Regions for bird watching in Morocco
Some of the best regions for bird-watching in Morocco include:
The Merga Zerga is a region for attracting flamingoes, avocet, black-winged stilt, and many more.
Oued Massa is home to many species like pale crag martin, rare bald Ibis, crested coot, and many more.
The Island of Essaouria is a breeding land for Eleonora falcons.
Jebel Saghro, where you can find desert sparrows, brown-necked raven, larks, rat-rumped wheatear, and many more.
The anti-Atlas is the best destination for cream-colored courses, black weather, and long-legged buzzards.
The Western High Atlas is where you can find white-rumped swift woodpeckers.
Tips for bird watching morocco
Although bird-watching is relatively easy in Morocco, it is essential to follow some general tips and guidelines, to make the most of the situation. Here are some suggestions for bird watching:
It is best to wear light-colored or camouflaged clothes, to sync with the atmosphere.
Carry a binocular with a wide Field of View (FOV). This will also help in observing the birds from a far distance—the more comprehensive the lens view, the more precise the birds.
Remain silent, avoid making noise, and do not make sudden or jerky movements, which can scare off the birds.
Early mornings or dusk is the right time to go bird watching as they migrate or come out from their nest searching for food. Hence, the chances of viewing a bird are higher during this time.
It is best to carry a bird guide with you, a booklet with all the information related to birds in that region – like the food they eat, different sounds, colors, and their exact location.
If it’s a hobby and you’re a seasoned traveler, you can also list the types of birds you watched in Morocco.
Even though you can witness most birds during winter and the mild sunny months of May-July, it is recommended to be patient to maximize the utilization of the activity.
