BTN News: As summer travel season peaks, Spanish roads become hotspots not only for travelers but also for an unexpected group of visitors—birds. These avian species, often seen by the side of highways, are attracted to the abundance of easy meals provided by the unfortunate casualties of traffic: small animals like mice, rabbits, lizards, and insects that meet their end under the wheels of speeding vehicles. From scavengers like the red kite and the black kite to majestic vultures and nimble magpies, these birds have adapted to life alongside human infrastructures, turning roadsides into their hunting grounds. As you drive through different regions of Spain, keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures that have learned to coexist with modern-day roads, transforming them into a lifeline during certain times of the year.
Among the most striking of these birds is the red kite, a medium-sized bird of prey with a wingspan of about 1.70 meters. This species, unfortunately, is classified as endangered, although conservation efforts have led to a slight recovery in its population. These birds are often seen gliding low over the roads, their reddish-brown plumage and distinct forked tail making them easy to identify. Unlike some of their more skilled hunting relatives, red kites tend to scavenge rather than hunt, feeding on small, sick animals and roadkill. They also frequent landfills and muladares (feeding stations for vultures) in search of leftovers. Their tendency to sleep in trees close to roads further increases their risk of being hit by vehicles as they patrol the asphalt in search of food.
Another common sight is the black kite, one of the most abundant raptors in Europe. Slightly smaller than the red kite, with a wingspan of 1.55 meters, the black kite is a highly adaptable bird. You can often see large groups of them around the roads of Cádiz, particularly as they prepare to cross the Strait of Gibraltar on their migratory journey to Africa. Unlike their red counterparts, black kites have straighter tails and a more uniformly brown coloration. Their opportunistic nature allows them to thrive in a variety of environments, feeding primarily on roadkill and other easily accessible food sources.
The buzzard, or “busardo ratonero” as it’s known locally, is another medium-sized bird of prey frequently spotted along Spain’s roads. With a wingspan of about 1.32 meters, this chunky, brownish bird is often seen perched on posts near highways, scanning the ground for small mammals, insects, and carrion. Buzzards are known for their adaptability, tolerating a wide range of habitats and climates. Unlike the kites, the buzzard’s tail is straight, lacking the distinctive forked shape, and they are more robust in build.
For those driving through the less-trafficked roads, particularly in regions like Extremadura, the small yet energetic crested lark might catch your eye. This bird, resembling a crested sparrow, can often be seen darting along the edges of highways, quickly grabbing insects knocked down by passing vehicles. The crested lark thrives in open, agricultural areas, and its presence along roadsides is a reminder of how wildlife adapts to human environments. However, despite its relative abundance, the crested lark’s population is declining due to the abandonment of farmlands and the consequent increase in shrublands, as well as the use of pesticides, which reduce its food sources.
No list of roadside birds would be complete without mentioning the imposing griffon vulture. Although not as commonly seen near roads as some of the other species, their massive 2.70-meter wingspan and rectangular silhouette make them unmistakable when they do appear. These vultures often gather in groups around carrion or can be seen gliding in formation near cliffs where they nest. Unfortunately, they sometimes venture onto roadsides to feed on large animals like wild boars or dogs, which can lead to tragic accidents as their large size makes it difficult for them to take off quickly when a car approaches.
Among the more intelligent and adaptable birds found near roads are magpies, part of the corvid family. These black-and-white birds are common across Spain, even venturing into urban areas. Magpies are known for their resourcefulness, building nests in trees close to roads where they can easily find food. They often share this roadside niche with other corvids like crows, both species taking advantage of the carrion left by traffic.
One of the more unexpected avian visitors to Spanish roads, especially in Madrid, is the gull. These seabirds have increasingly moved inland, drawn by the easy pickings available in the city’s landfills and along the river Manzanares, which flows parallel to the busy M-30 ring road. It’s not uncommon to see flocks of gulls perched on streetlights or information panels, seemingly unfazed by the city’s hustle and bustle. Species such as the lesser black-backed gull and the black-headed gull, which migrate from central and northern Europe, are now regular winter visitors to Madrid. More recently, yellow-legged gulls, typically associated with the Mediterranean and Cantabrian coasts, have also begun to settle in the capital. As night falls, these birds head to their roosts in reservoirs like Guadalix and Santillana in northern Madrid, having spent the day scavenging in the urban sprawl.
The relationship between birds and roads is complex, marked by both opportunity and danger. While these birds have found ways to exploit the new ecosystems created by human infrastructure, their presence on roadsides is a stark reminder of the impact we have on wildlife. Each species has adapted in its way, from the scavenging habits of kites and vultures to the insect-hunting tactics of the crested lark. However, their reliance on these habitats also puts them at risk, particularly from vehicle collisions. Conservation efforts and public awareness are crucial in ensuring that these magnificent birds can continue to thrive, even in the challenging environments we create.
As you travel through Spain this summer, take a moment to observe the skies and roadsides—you might just catch a glimpse of these incredible birds, each one a testament to nature’s resilience and adaptability.
