Lanzarote Relocation

Recently, Alan came across some stunning large birds whilst out and about on the Island. Upon further research, we found out that these are called Houbara Bustards.

These are about 50 – 60 centimeters long, and have a great wingspan of about 1.5 metres. Brown and speckled mainly, the bustards have distinct black and white markings on their wings. The female is slightly greyer in colouring.

These shy birds are found in Africa, Asia and of course here in the Canary Islands, where they are the largest species here. They are fairly quiet and timid birds… who generally only make their presence felt with a ruffling of their feathers (unofficially likened to a turkey on a bicycle). They have been hunted mercilessly by Arab hunters, who see the meat as an aphrodisiac – which has severly affected the numbers.

As the numbers of these birds have been dwindling, we were very pleased to hear that an organisation has been set up to help preserve the species. Since 2003, SEO/Birdlife has been working tirelessly to help prolong the species – including the setting up of a reserve in Fuerteventura.

If you do come across these beautiful birds, please leave the area quickly and quietly… taking care not to tread on any eggs or chicks – as the bustards lay their nests on the ground. Please do not touch any of the eggs or chicks – as the parents will return to them once you have left.

To see some photographs, please visit the fabulous surfbirds.com – here’s a link: http://www.surfbirds.com/community-blogs/birdinglanzarote/2011/04/15/the-houbara%C2%B4s-display/

Elle xx

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