 Day 1 Wednesday 16th March Weather: Warm, dry and sunny
The group met with the leader Paul at Malaga airport, having arrived from the UK by plane and train. We made our way from the arrivals hall to the multi-storey car park, where our minibus was waiting. Leaving the airport, we drove west and then north towards Alhaurin de la Torre, and onto the A357 towards Campillos. As we drove, House Martins and Swallows were much in evidence. Near the village of Teba, we turned south onto the A367 towards Ronda, stopping briefly for refreshments before continuing on to the Finca la Guzmana, our base for the next seven nights. Here we were met by Peter, our host. After freshening up, we met in the lounge for sherry and nibbles, before heading off for dinner at a local Venta la Codorniz.
Day 2 Thursday 17th March 2011
Weather: Misty at first, becoming dry, warm and sunny
After a splendid breakfast, we set off on the Seville road to the village of Grazalema. As we left the main road, west of Ronda, we saw Corn Bunting singing from an overhead line. Parking in the main village car park, we made our way to the Grazalema Visitor Centre to buy maps and to collect our Natural Park permits. Saxifraga granulata (Meadow Saxifrage) was noted covering a wall, Urtica urens (Annual Nettle) and Veronica cymbalaria (White Speedwell) were also recorded, and a few Serin and Goldfinch were seen.
We now made our way some 14 km to the Gargante Verde, the location of our first walk. This site is renowned as the largest nesting colony of Griffon Vultures in Europe. A good number of these majestic birds were seen in the air, some with nesting material. However, we did not manage to locate any nests. This was compensated by a group of Spanish Ibex, seen sunning themselves on a rocky outcrop and a very large flock of Red-billed Chough. Plants seen here included Ophrys fusca (Sombre Bee Orchid), Ophrys tenthredinifera (Sawfly Orchid), Chamaerops humilis (Dwarf Fan Palm) and Clematis cirrhosa (Maiden’s Bower). Black Redstarts were also fairly numerous, and Sardinian Warbler was heard. We also saw Spanish Festoon and Wall Brown Butterflies.
After returning to the vehicle, we made the short hop to a Mirador (viewpoint) over-looking the Gargante Verde, for our picnic. In the surrounding vegetation, we found Romulea bulbocodium (Sand Crocus), Astragalus lusitanicus and Fritillaria lusitanica (Portugese Fritillary). A Red Admiral was also spotted.
We now drove the short distance from the Garganta Verde to the car park at the start of our afternoon walk at the Sierra del Pinar. We set off up the path towards a ridge, and just after leaving the car park, we found Ophrys fusca (Sombre Bee Orchid), Putoria calabrica (Putoria) and the young leaves of Ptilostemon hispanicus (a Thistle). The path rose through Pinus pinaster (Maritime Pine) forest, mixed with Quercus species (Oaks) and Juniperus species (Juniper). After about a kilometre and a half, we emerged from the forest onto an open saddle, with splendid views in all directions. Exploration of an area of broken limestone boulders, adjacent to the path, revealed Narcissus assoanus (Daffodil) in bud and the diminutive, yellow Violet, Viola demetria. Looking along the northern side of the ridge, towards the Cerro de San Cristobel, we were able to see one of only two relic remnants of Abies pinsapo (Spanish Fir) forest. On our descent, we stopped to look at a small pool which contained Newt tadpoles, and we also found several spikes of Orchis olbiensis (an Early Purple Orchid). Rejoining our vehicle, we set off back towards Ronda in time for dinner.
Day 3 Friday 18th March
Weather: Warm, dry and sunny
Today we travelled towards the village of El Burgo, stopping on the ‘Puerto del Viento’, where we paused briefly to check to see if Paeonia broteroi (Peony) was in flower. Sadly, it was only in tight bud, so moved a little further on where we made a second stop. Here Iris planifolia was flowering in small numbers. We also found Hornungia petraea (Hutchinsia) and Ceterach officinarum (Rusty-back Fern) and we had a second chance to enjoy Viola demetria (a Pansy). Overhead Chough and Griffon Vultures were on the move. As we were preparing to leave, Ann spotted a male Black Wheatear, and Paul found a pair of Whinchats, but the best show was from a single male Black-eared Wheatear, which showed very well.
 Our third stop was at the Mirador Guarda Forestal. By now the sun was out and the day was warming up. This brought out the Butterflies and other insects. Large Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral and a female Brimstone, Hummingbird Hawkmoth and Carpenter Bee were all evident. Hyacinthoides hispanica (Spanish Bluebell), Aristolochia baetica (Birthwort) and Ornithogalum orthophyllum subsp. baeticum (a Star of Bethlehem) were all present. From this vantage point, we were able to get good view of Blue Rock Thrush and a hunting female Peregrine Falcon.
We now drove on through El Burgo and took the road to Ardales, from where we followed the road which took us along the eastern shore of the Embalse del Conde de Guadalhorce Lake. Our objective was the ‘Mirador’ where three lakes meet, we parked, and immediately took our picnic. Following lunch, an exploration of the Pinus halepensis (Aleppo Pine) woodland revealed Orchis italica (Naked Man Orchid), Muscari neglectum (Grape Hyacinth), Phlomis lychnitis (a Jerusalem Sage), Ophrys speculum (Mirror Orchid), Anemone palmata (a Yellow Anemone) and Fritillaria lusitanica (Portuguese Fritillary). Birds seen included Crested Tit and Crossbill.
We began our homeward journey with a short stop near El Chorro, where we admired Iberis sempervirens (Candytuft), Acanthus mollis (Bear's-breech), Convolvulus althaeoides (Mallow-leaved Bindweed) and Lavandula laciniata (Cut-leaved Lavender). After refreshments at the small cafe at El Chorro station, we made our way back to Ronda in time for dinner.
Day 4 Saturday 19th March
Weather: Fine, Hot and sunny
 Following a leisurely breakfast, we set off in the direction of Montejaque, to visit Cerro Tavisna, to explore an area of Phlomis, Lygos and Cistus scrub. Here we found Himantoglossum robertianum (Giant Orchid), Ophrys fusca (Sombre Bee Orchid) and Cynoglossum chierifolium (Hound’s-tongue). Bird watching was particularly rewarding, with good views of Corn Bunting, Stonechat and Sardinian Warbler.
From here, we moved on towards Grazelama, making a short stop to the south of the village to see Teucrium fruticans (Shrub Germander), Quercus faginea (Beech-leaved Oak) and Cistus ladanifer (Gum Cistus), before continuing on. We parked under the cliffs on the outskirts of the village. The cliffs held a number of special plants including Centaurea clementei (an endemic Knapweed), Hesperis laciniatus (Cut-leaved Dame's-violet) and Biscutella frutescens (Perennial Buckler-mustard). We continued on, exploring the boulder-strewn fields and wet roadside, finding Cerinthe major (Honeywort), Ophrys tenthredinifera (Sawfly Orchid), Ophrys bombyliflora (Bumblebee Orchid) and Narcissus paperaceus (Paper-white Daffodil). Birds included, Black Wheatear, Rock Bunting, Chough and Blue Rock Thrush.
Returning to our vehicle, we now drove on through Grazelama towards Zahara, stopping to take lunch below the Sierra del Pinar, before passing over the Puerto de las Palomas (the Pass of the Doves), and on down towards the village of Zahara, in order to explore the banks of the Embalse de Zahara-El-Gastor. Here we began to examine the ancient Olive groves. A fine pair of Thekla Larks, and Cormorants, was seen. Arisarum vulgare (Friar’s Cowl) and Ophrys lutea (Yellow Bee Orchid), Himantoglossum robertianum (Giant Orchid) and Solanum herculeum were also recorded. We completed the day by visiting Zahara for refreshments. Here, we also found Erodium tordylioides (a Stork's-bill), Linaria platycalyx and Rupicapnos africana, as well as seeing five Lesser Kestrels. It was now time to make our way back to Ronda to prepare for dinner, which tonight was taken in the Venta La Codorniz.
Day 5 Sunday 20th March
Weather: Fine, hot and sunny, with a breeze
Leaving the Finca de Guzmana, we took the road towards Campillos. Swallows and a good number of Corn Buntings were seen as we went. When we reached the small village of Teba, we turned east and stopped to explore a cutting and river gorge at Tajo del Molino. The roadside had a number of clumps of the white Antirrhinum graniticum (Snapdragon), and Erodium gruinum (Long-beaked Stork’s-bill). In the gorge we saw a skittish group of Rock Doves, Kestrel, Booted Eagle and several Alpine Swifts.
Moving on towards Antequera, via Campillos, we stopped by a lagoon. Here we spotted a large flock of Greater Flamingo, a small group of resting Gull-billed Terns, Cattle Egrets and Black-winged Stilts feeding. Passing through Antequera, we made our way up to the summit of El Torcal, the highest point in the El Torcal de Antequera Natural Park. As we approached the access point, it was apparent that there were restrictions on access, and we were prevented from proceeding any further. Driving back down the valley, we parked up below the Nacimiento recreation area and had our picnic. We made the return journey via Valle de Adbalajis and Alora.
We paused at a Venta for afternoon refreshments, before making a second stop east of Abdalajis to admire a rough field of Moraea sisyrinchium (Barbary Nut) and a few spikes of emerging Allium ampeloprasum (Wild Leek). We also had a chance to compare Crested Larks and Skylarks.
Continuing through Alora, we stopped to check out the River Guadalhorce at Pizarra, for birdlife. A pair of Little Ringed Plovers, as well as Green Sandpiper and Little Egret, were seen, and the explosive calls of Cetti's Warbler were much in evidence. Meanwhile, the botanists found Nicotiana glauca (Shrub Tobacco), Lathyrus clymenum, Lathyrus cicera, last year’s fruiting stems of Xanthium spinosum (Spiny Cocklebur) and Stellaria neglecta (a Chickweed). From here we drove back to Ronda for dinner.
Day 6 Monday 21st March
Weather: Dry, bright and sunny with a strong wind
After breakfast, we again left the hotel to a chorus of House and Spanish Sparrows with a little Serin for good measure. We set off out of Ronda on the Seville road, turning off towards Benaojan and Montejaque. Our objective was the famous Cueva de la Pileta. This cave is the only site where you can still see original wall paintings. All of the group visited the cave and marvelled at its subterranean splendour. As we left the cave we found Jasminum fruticans (Yellow Jasmine), Anogramma leptophylla (Jersey Fern) and Asphodelus albus (White Asphodel) growing by the path and Chough, Blackcap and Griffon Vulture were also seen.
From here we moved on to the small town of Montejaque, making our way up to the ‘Hidden Valley’ in the Sierra de Montalata, where we stopped briefly to admire a cliff with Ornithogalum reverchonii (A Star of Bethlehem) and Saxifraga bourgaeana (a Saxifrage) on it, before continuing on. Parking at the head of the valley, we had our picnic lunch among the karst limestone peaks, under the watchful eyes of the occasional passing Griffon Vulture. Small Copper and a good number of Goldfinches were also seen.
After lunch we set off for a walk into the valley. Linaria tristis (Toadflax), Narcissus cuatrecasasii (Rock Jonquil), Orchis olbiensis (an Early Purple Orchid), Romulea bulbocodium (Sand Crocus), and Gagea foliosus (a Yellow Star of Bethlehem), were all seen, as well as the emerging buds of Paeonia coriacea (Peony) and Saxifraga bourgaeana. We also saw Spanish Festoon and Large Tortoiseshell butterflies. Christina and David were particularly excited by the amazing array of Lichens on the trees, identifying quite a few. Returning to the vehicle, we began to make our way out of the valley, but stopped to record Black Wheatear, Black-eared Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush, Ring Ouzel, Rock Bunting, Linnet and Woodchat Shrike.
Leaving the Hidden Valley, we went off north from the village of Montejaque, stopping at Cerro Tavizna, overlooking the site of a failed dam project. Here we saw a large flock of Chough and a pair of Short-toed Eagles, and on roadside rocks we found Linaria aeruginea and Linaria platycalyx (a pair of Toadflaxes). We then began our journey back to Ronda.
Day 7 Tuesday 22nd March
Weather: Cloudy and damp early on with a strong wind. Sunny later
After breakfast, we headed off in a south easterly direction and into the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park. Our objective was the Los Quejigales recreation area, situated some seven kilometres from the road. The park road took us, initially, through Quercus woodland with shrubby scrub below, then on up though a mixture of Pinus halepensis and Pinus pinaster woodland, before emerging above the tree line into an open limestone area. It was in this latter habitat that we made our first stop to check out a small colony of Narcissus assoanus with Orchis olbiensis (an Early Purple Orchid), Orchis conica and Prunus prostratus (Prostrate Plum). Greenfinches and Sardinian Warbler were also evident.
Our second stop was in a wet, open scrub habitat with Berberis hispanica (Spanish Barberry), Olea europaea (Wild Olive), Daphne laureola (Spurge Laurel) and Lonicera arborea (Tree Honeysuckle) close to Los Quejigales. Here, scattered though the scrub was a fine colony of Narcissus bugei (Long-spathed Daffodil). After a final short stop to see the endemic Jonopsidium prolongoi, we made our way back to the main road, passing a number of plants of Paeonia coriacea (Peony) as we went.
We returned to the Finca and enjoyed our picnic lunch on the courtyard patio, before setting off to spend the afternoon in the Moorish influenced town of Ronda. Walking along the cliff edge walk we saw Swifts, Serins and many Choughs. Lamarckia aurea (Lamarck’s Golden Grass), Iris germanica (Bearded Iris) and Ailanthus altissima (Tree of Heaven) were seen clinging to the cliff edge. After a little shopping, we made our way back to base for dinner.
Day 8 Wednesday 23rd March
After an early breakfast, we said out farewells to Peter and thanked him for a wonderful stay in this beautiful area. We arrived in Malaga in good time for our various flights back to the UK
Report written by Tour Leader Paul Harmes
Species List
PTERIDOPHYTES Ferns and Allies
Selaginellaceae-Lesser Clubmoss Family
Selaginella denticulata-Mediterranean Clubmoss-Near El Chorro
Adiantaceae-Maidenhair Ferns
Adiantum capillus-veneris-Maidenhair Fern-El Chorro
Anogramma leptophylla-Jersey Fern-Cueva de la Pileta
Cheilanthus pteridioides-Resurrection Fern-Near El Chorro
Cheilanthus vellea--Hidden Valley
Aspleniaceae-Spleenwort Family
Asplenium trichomanes-Maidenhair Spleenwort-Sierra de las Nieves
Ceterach officinarum-Rusty-back-Gargante Verde
Polypodiaceae-Polypody Family
Polypodium cambricum-Southern Polypody-Grazalema
PINOPSIDA-Conifers & Allies
Cupressaceae-Juniper Family
Cupressus macrocarpa-Monterey Cypress-Planted
Cupressus sempervirens-Italian Cypress-Probably Planted
Juniperus communis-Juniper-West of El Burgo
Juniperus phoenicea-Phoenician Juniper-Gargante Verde
Pinaceae-Pine Family
Abies pinsapo-Spanish Fir-Sierra de las Nieves
Cedrus deodar-Deodar Cedar-Planted
Pinus halepensis-Aleppo Pine-Sierra del Pinar
Pinus pinea-Stone or Umbrella Pine-Near Ronda
Pinus pinaster-Maritime Pine-Sierra del Pinar
MAGNOLIOPSIDA-Flowering Plants
Magnoliidae (Dicotyledons)
Acanthaceae-Bear's-breech Family
Acanthus mollis-Bear's-breech-El Chorro
Anacardiaceae-Sumach Family
Pistacia lentiscus-Mastic Tree-Gargante Verde
Apiaceae-Carrot Family
Bupleurum fruticosum-Shrubby Hare's-ear-Near El Chorro
Bupleurum spinosum--Sierra del Pinar
Eryngium campestre-Land Sea Holly-Near Campillos
Ferula communis-Giant Fennel-Gargante Verde
Foeniculum vulgare-Fennel-Roadsides
Scandix pecten-veneris-Shepherd's Needle-Near El Chorro
Smyrnium olusatrum-Alexanders-Common
Thapsia garganica (leaves only)-Thapsia-Near El Chorro
Apocynaceae-Periwinkle Family
Nerium oleander-Oleander-Roadsides
Vinca difformis-Periwinkle-Common
Aristolochiaceae-Birthwort Family
Aristolochia baetica-dutchman's Pipe-Near El Chorro
Asteraceae-Daisy Family
Andryala integrifolia-Andryala-El Chorro
Bellis perennis-Daisy-Below Grazalema
Bellis sylvatica-Southern Daisy-Gargante Verde
Calendula arvensis-Wild Marigold-Gargante Verde
Carduus pycnocephalus-Plymouth Thistle-Gargante Verde
Carlina corymbosa (in fruit)-Flat-topped Carline Thistle-Near El Chorro
Centaurea clementei-Clemente's Knapweed-Grazalema
Centaurea pullata-Southern Knapweed-Gargante Verde
Cynara cardunculus-Cardoon-Embalse de Zahara-El-Gastor
Galactites tomentosa-Galactites-Common
Glebionis coronarium-Crown Daisy-Near Malaga
Glebionis coronarium var. discolor-Crown Daisy-Near Malaga
Hyoseris radiata--Gargante Verde
Phagnalon saxatile--El Chorro
Ptilostemon hispanica*-Spanish Thistle-Sierra del Pinar
Reichardia tingitana--Tajo del Molino
Senecio nevadensis-a Ragwort-Near El Burgo
Senecio vulgare-Groundsel-Gargante Verde
Silybum marianum-Milk Thistle-Common
Sonchus asper-Prickly Sow-thistle-Pizarra
Sonchus oleraceus-Smooth Sow-thistle-Ronda
Urospermum picroides--Tajo del Molino
Xanthium spinosum-Spiny Cocklebur-Pizarra
Berberidaceae-Barberry Family
Berberis hispanica-Spanish Barberry-Sierra de las Nieves
Bignoniaceae-Bignonia Family
Catalpa bignonioides-Indian Bean Tree-Planted
Boraginaceae-Forget-me-not Family
Borago officinalis-Borage-Pizarra
Cerinthe major-Honeywort-Below Grazalema
Cynoglossum cheirifolium--Near El Burgo
Echium boissieri (in fruit)-Boissier's Viper's Bugloss-Cerro Tavizna
Echium plantagineum-Purple Viper's Bugloss-El Chorro
Brassicaceae-Cabbage Family
Biscutella baetica*-Andaluz Buckler Mustard-Sierra de las Nieves
Biscutella frutescens*--Below Grazalema
Capsella bursa-pastoris-Shepherd’s Purse-Finca la Guzmana
Cardamine hirsuta-Hairy Bitter-cress-Sierra del Pinar
Clypeola jonthlaspi-Clypeola-Tajo del Molino
Draba hispanica (leaves)--Sierra del Pinar
Eruca sativa-Eruca-Common
Erysimum cheiri-Wallflower-Ronda
Hesperis laciniatus-Cut-leaved Dame’s Violet-Below Grazalema
Hirschfeldia incana-Hoary Mustard-Pizarra
Hornungia petraea-Hutchinsia-Sierra del Pinar
Jonopsidium prolongoi*-False Candytuft-Sierra de las Nieves
Lobularia maritima-Sweet Alison-Near El Burgo
Moricandia moricandioides-Purple Cabbage-Antequera
Sinapis alba-White Mustard-Zahara
Sinapis arvensis-Charlock-Finca la Guzmana
Cactaceae-Cactus Family
Opuntia ficus-indica-Barbary Fig or Prickly Pear-Naturalised
Campanulaceae-Bellflower Family
Campanula mollis--Zahara
Caryophyllaceae-Pink Family
Arenaria montana subsp. intricata--Embalse de Zahara-El-Gastor
Cerastium glomeratum-Sticky Mouse-ear-Embalse de Zahara-El-Gastor
Paronychia capitata-Paronychia-Gargante Verde
Silene colorata--Finca la Guzmana
Silene vulgaris-Bladder Campion-Grazalema
Stellaria neglecta--Pizarra
Cistaceae-Rock-rose Family
Cistus albidus-Grey-leaved Cistus-Near El Chorro
Cistus crispus--Near Grazalema
Cistus ladanifer-Gum Cistus-Near Grazalema
Cistus monspeliensis-Narrow-leaved Cistus-Near Montejaque
Cistus salvifolius-Sage-leaved Cistus-Near El Chorro
Helianthemum nummularium-Common Rockrose-Near El Chorro
Helianthemum origanifolium-Marjoram-leaved Rock-rose-Near El Chorro
Convolvulaceae-Bindweed Family
Convolvulus althaeoides-Mallow-leaved Bindweed-El Chorro
Crassulaceae-Stonecrop Family
Aeonium arboreum-Tree Aeonium-Zahara
Mucizonia hispida-Mucizonia-Zahara
Sedum album-White Stonecrop-Grazalema
Sedum dasyphyllum-Fat-leaved Stonecrop-Sierra del Pinar
Sedum sediforme-Large Stonecrop-Common on Rocks
Umbilicus rupestris-Navelwort-Gargante Verde
Cucurbitaceae-White Bryony Family
Bryonia cretica-White Bryony-Near El Burgo
Ecballium elaterium-Squirting Cucumber-Pizarra
Euphorbiaceae-Spurge Family
Euphorbia characias subsp. characias-Large Mediterranean Spurge-Below Grazelema
Euphorbia helioscopia-Sun Spurge-Gargante Verde
Euphorbia nicaeensis--Roadsides
Euphorbia peplus-Petty Spurge-Near El Burgo
Mercurialis annua-Annual Mercury-El Chorro
Ricinus communis-Castor Oil Plant-El Chorro
Fabaceae-Pea Family
Anagyris foetida-Bean Trefoil-Below Grazalema
Anthyllis cystoides-Shrubby Kidney Vetch-El Chorro
Anthyllis tetraphylla-Bladder Vetch-Tajo del Molino
Anthyllis vulneraria subsp. praepropera-Mediterranean Kidney Vetch-Near El Chorro
Astragalus lusitanicus--Above Grazalema
Astragalus glaux--Gargante Verde
Bitumaria bituminosa-Pitch Trefoil-El Chorro
Calycotome villosa--Cueva del Pileta
Ceratonia siliqua-Carob-Sierra del Pinar
Genista umbellata--Ardales
Lathyrus cicera--Pizarra
Lathyrus clymenum--Pizarra
Lathyrus tingitanus--Verge in Ronda
Lygos monosperma-White broom-Sierra del Pinar
Lygos sphaerocephala-Lygos-Roadsides
Medicago arabica-Spotted Medick-Pizarra
Medicago polymorpha-Toothed Medick-Pizarra
Scorpiurus muricatus-Spiny Scorpion-vetch-Pizarra
Spartium junceum-Spanish Broom-Common on Roadsides
Tetragonolobus purpureus-Asparagus Pea-Below Grazalema
Ulex parviflorus-Small-flowered Gorse-Common
Vicia sativa subsp. sativa-Fodder Vetch-Pizarra
Fagaceae-Oak & Beech Family
Quercus coccifera-Kermes Oak-Sierra del Pinar
Quercus faginea--Near Grazalema
Quercus ilex-Holm Oak-Sierra del Pinar
Quercus suber-Cork Oak-Near Grazalema
Fumariaceae-Fumitory Family
Fumaria officinalis-Common Fumitory-Near Campillos
Platycapnos spicatum--Tajo del Molino
Rupicapnos africana--Near El Chorro
Geraniaceae-Geranium Family
Erodium cicutarium-Common Stork's-bill-El Chorro
Erodium gruinum-Long-beaked Stork's-bill-Tajo del Molino
Erodium malacoides-Mallow-leaved Stork's-bill-Near El Chorro
Erodium moschatum-Musk Stork's-bill-Finca la Guzmana
Erodium tordylioides--Zahara
Geranium molle-Dove’s-foot Crane’s-bill-Gargante Verde
Geranium lucidum-Shining Crane’s-bill-Gargante Verde
Geranium purpureum-Little Robin-Gargante Verde
Geranium rotundifolium-Round-leaved Crane’s-bill-Near El Burgo
Lamiaceae-Dead-nettle Family
Ballota pseudodictamus (leaves)-Garden Horehound-El Chorro
Lamium amplexicaule-Henbit Deadnettle-Near El Burgo
Lavandula laciniata-Cut-leaved Lavender-El Chorro
Lavandula lanata*-Woolly lavender-Sierra de las Nieves
Lavandula multifida-Cut-leaved Lavender-Pizarra
Phlomis purpurea (leaves)-Purple Phlomis-Gargante Verde
Rosmarinus officinalis-Rosemary-Near El Chorro
Salvia verbenaca-Wild Clary-Gargante Verde
Stachys arvensis-Field Woundwort-Grazalema
Teucrium fruticans-Shrubby Germander-Near Grazalema
Thymus capitatus-Capitate Thyme-Sierra del Pinar
Loranthaceae-Mistletoe Family
Viscum cruciatum-Red-berried Mistletoe-Hidden Valley
Malvaceae-Mallow Family
Malva sylvestris-Common Mallow-Gargante Verde
Moraceae-Fig Family
Ficus carica-Fig-Grazalema
Myrtaceae-Myrtle & Gum Family
Eucalyptus camaldulensis-River Red Gum-Planted
Eucalyptus globosus-Tasmanian Blue Gum-Planted
Eucalyptus robusta-Iron Bark-Planted
Myrtis communis-Myrtle-Gargante Verde
Oleaceae-Olive Family
Fraxinus angustifolia-Narrow-leaved Ash-North of El Burgo
Jasminum fruticans-Jasmine-Cueva de la Pileta
Olea europaea-Olive-Common
Oxalidaceae-Wood-sorrel Family
Oxalis pes-caprae-Bermuda Buttercup-Very Common (Naturalised)
Papaveraceae-Poppy Family
Papaver rhoeas-Common Poppy-Roadsides
Paeoniaceae
Paeonia broteroi (leaves)-a Peony-Near El Burgo
Paeonia coriacea (leaves)-a Peony-Hidden Valley
Plantaginaceae-Plantain Family
Plantago arenaria-Branched Plantain-Pizarra
Plantago lagopus-Hare's-tail Plantain-El Chorro
Plantago lanceolata-Ribwort Plantain-Finca la Guzmana
Plantago serraria--Pizarra
Polygonaceae-Dock Family
Rumex scutatus-French Sorrel-Near El Burgo
Primulaceae-Primrose Family
Anagallis arvensis-Scarlet Pimpernel-Tajo del Molino
Ranunculaceae-Buttercup Family
Anemone palmata-Yellow Anemone-Near El Chorro
Clematis cirrhosa-Virgin's Bower-Gargante Verde
Helleborus foetidus-Stinking Hellebore-Sierra de las Nieves
Ranunculus ficaria subsp. ficariformis-Lesser Celandine-Sierra de las Nieves
Ranunculus spicatus subsp. blepharicarpos-a Buttercup-El Chorro
Resedaceae-Mignonette Family
Reseda alba-White Mignonette-Near El Burgo
Reseda suffruticosa-a Mignonette-Near El Chorro
Rhamnaceae-Buckthorn Family
Rhamnus alaternus-Mediterranean Buckthorn-Near El Burgo
Rosaceae-Rose Family
Crataegus monogyna-Hawthorn-Sierra de las Nieves
Prunus avium-Wild Cherry-Near Grazalema
Prunus dulcis-Almond-Near El Burgo
Prunus persica-Peach-Tajo del Molino
Prunus prostratus-Prostrate Plum-Sierra del Pinar
Prunus spinosa-Blackthorn-Roadsides
Sanguisorba minor subsp. minor-Salad Burnet-Cerro Tavizna
Rubiaceae-Bedstraw Family
Galium aparine-a Bedstraw-Common
Galium verrucosum--Near El Burgo
Putoria calabrica-Putoria-Sierra del Pinar
Rubia peregrina-Wild Madder-Near El Burgo
Sherardia arvensis-Field Madder-El Chorro
Rutaceae-Rue Family
Citrus limon-Lemon-Planted
Citrus sinensis-Orange-Planted
Citrus aurantium-Bitter Orange-Planted
Santalaceae-Sandalwood Family
Osyris alba-Osyris-Grazalema
Saxifragaceae-Saxifrage Family
Saxifraga bourgaeana--Hidden Valley
Saxifraga granulata-Meadow Saxifrage-Grazalema
Scrophulariaceae-Figwort Family
Antirrhinum barrelieri-a Snapdragon-Frequent
Antirrhinum graniticum-a Snapdragon-Tajo del Molino
Chaenorhinum villosum--Near El Chorro
Cymbalaria muralis-Ivy-leaved Toadfla-Ronda
Linaria aeruginea*-a Toadflax-Cerro Tavizna
Linaria platycalyx*-a Toadflax-Zahara
Linaria tristis-a Toadflax-Near El Burgo
Misopates orontium-Weasel-snout-Ronda
Scrophularia canina-Dog Figwort-Embalse de Zahara-El-Gastor
Scrophularia sambucifolia-Elder-leaved Figwort-Embalse de Zahara-El-Gastor
Veronica cymbalaria-White Speedwell-Gargante Verde
Simaroubaceae-Tree of Heaven Family
Ailanthus altissima-Tree of Heaven-Roadsides
Solanaceae-Nightshade Family
Hyoscyamus albus-White Henbane-Zahara
Nicotiana glauca-Shrub Tobacco-Ardales (Naturalised)
Solanum herculeum--Embalse de Zahara-El-Gastor
Tamaricaceae-Tamarisk Family
Tamarix gallica-Tamarisk-Pizarra
Thymelaeaceae-Daphne Family
Daphne gnidium (leaves)-Mediterranean Mezereon-Sierra del Pinar
Daphne laureola-Spurge Laurel-Sierra de las Nieves
Thymelaea hirsuta-Thymlea-Ronda
Ulmaceae-Elm Family
Ulmus minor agg-Small-leaved Elm-Roadsides
Urticacae-Nettle Family
Parietaria judaica-Pellitory-on-the-wall-Grazalema
Parietaria officinalis-Large Pellitory-of-the-wall-Grazalema
Urtica membranacea-Mediterranean Nettle-Gargante Verde
Urtica urens-Small Nettle-Grazalema
Valerianaceae-Valerian Family
Centranthus calcitrapa-Annual Valerian-Near El Burgo
Fedia cornucopiae-Fedia-Gargante Verde
Violaceae-Violet Family
Viola demetria--Sierra del Pinar
Liliidae (Monocotyledons)
Agavaceae-Century Plant Family
Agave americana-Century Plant-Planted
Araceae-Arum Family
Arisarum vulgare-Friar's Cowl-Embalse de Zahara-El-Gastor
Arum italicum-Italian Arum-Gargante Verde
Arecaceae-Palm Family
Chamærops humilis-Dwarf Fan Palm-Gargante Verde
Phœnix dactylifera-Date Palm-Planted
Phœnix canariensis-Canary Palm-Planted
Cyperaceae-Sedge Family
Carex caryophyllea-Spring Sedge-Near El Chorro
Iridaceae-Iris Family
Iris planifolia-Broad-leaved Iris-North of Ronda
Moraea sisyrinchium -Barbary Nut-East of Valle Abdalagis
Romulea bulbocodium-Romulea-Above Gargante Verde
Juncaceae-Rush Family
Scirpoides holoschoenus-Round-headed Clubrush-Gargante Verde
Liliaceae-Lily Family
Allium ampeloprasum-Wild Leek-Finca la Guzmana
Allium triquetrum-Three-cornered Leek-Below Grazalema
Asparagus acutifolius-Sharp-leaved Asparagus-Cueva de la Pileta
Asparagus albus-White-Stemmed Asparagus-Near El Chorro
Asphodelus aestivus-Common Asphodel-Embalse de Zahara-El-Gastor
Asphodelus albus-White Asphodel-Gargante Verde
Asphodelus fistulosus-Small Asphodel-Tajo del Molino
Dipcardi serotinum-Brown Bluebell-Near El Chorro
Fritillaria lusitanica-Portuguese Fritillary-Above Gargante Verde
Gagea foliosa-a Yellow Star of Bethlehem-Above Gargante Verde
Hyacinthoides hispanica-Spanish Bluebell-Near El Burgo
Muscari neglectum-Grape Hyacinth-Near El Burgo
Narcissus assoanus-Rush-leaved Jonquil-Sierra del Pinar
Narcissus bugei-A Daffodil-Sierra de las Nieves
Narcissus cantabricus (in fruit)-White Hooped-petticoat Daffodil-Near El Chorro
Narcissus cuatrecasasii-Rock Jonquil-Hidden Valley
Narcissus paperaceus-Paper White Daffodil-Below Grazalema
O. orthophyllum subsp. baeticum-Star of Bethlehem-Near El Burgo
Ornithogalum reverchonii*-Star of Bethlehem-Hidden Valley
Ruscus aculeatus-Butcher's Broom-Near El Burgo
Smilax aspera-Common Smilax-Gargante Verde
Urginea maritima (leaves)-Sea Squill-Gargante Verde
Orchidaceae-Orchid Family
Himantoglossum robertianum-Giant Orchid-Cerro Tavizna
Ophrys bombyliflora-Bumble Bee Orchid-Below Grazalema
Ophrys fusca-Sombre Bee Orchid-Gargante Verde
Ophrys lutea-Yellow Bee Orchid-Embalse de Zahara-El-Gastor
Ophrys speculum-Mirror Orchid-Near El Chorro
Ophrys tenthredinifera-Sawfly Orchid-Gargante Verde
Orchis anthropophora-Man Orchid-Near El Chorro
Orchis champagneuxii-Champagne Orchid-Near El Chorro
Orchis collina-Fan-lipped orchid-Near El Chorro
Orchis conica--Sierra de las Nieves
Orchis italica-Naked Man Orchid-El Chorro
Orchis olbiensis-an Early Purple Orchid-Common in mountains
Orchis papilionacea-Pink Butterfly Orchid-Near El Chorro
Poaceae-Grass Family
Anisantha diandra-Great Brome-Venta Gaspacho
Anisantha sterilis-Barren Brome-Zahara
Arundo donax-Giant Reed-Common (Naturalised)
Avena barbata-Bristle Oat-Tajo del Molino
Avena sterilis-Winter Wild Oat-Finca la Guzmana
Bromus rubens-Red Brome-El Chorro
Dactylis glomerata-Cock's-foot-Zahara
Hyparrhenia hirta --Tajo del Molino
Lagurus ovatus-Hare's-tail Grass-Near El Chorro
Lamarckia aurea-Lamarck's Golden Grass-El Chorro
Phragmites australis-Common Reed-Pizarra
Poa annua-Annual Meadow Grass-Finca la Guzmana
Stipa tenacissima--Near El Burgo
Typhaceae-Reedmace Family
Typha latifolia-Bulrush-Pizarra
Lichens
Usnea subfloridana-Beard Lichen-Hidden Valley
Evernia prunastri--East of Grazalema
Squamarina cartilaginae--Near El Chorro
Parmelina quercina--Hidden Valley
Rhizocarpon oederi--Below Grazalema
Rhizocarpon umbilicatum--North of Ronda
Collema sp.--Gargante Verde
Cladonia portentosa--East of Grazalema
Cladonia sp.--Gargante Verde
Ramalina fastigata--East of Grazalema
Caloplaca aurantia--Near El Chorro
Xanthoria parietina--Cerro Tavizna
Physconia c.f. distorta--Hidden Valley
Liverworts
Targionia hypophylla-Orobus-seed Liverwort-East of Grazalema
Lunularia cruciata-Crescent-cup Liverwort-East of Grazalema
Mosses
Tortella tortuosa-Frizzled Crisp-moss-North of Ronda
Bryum pallens-Pale Thread-moss-North of Ronda
Cryphaea heteromalla-Lateral Cryphaea-Hidden Valley
Brachythecium populeum-Matted Feather-moss-Cerro Tavizna
Fungi
Geopora arenicola or Sepultaria sp-Earth Cup-Near El Chorro
Algae
Nostoc sp.--Cerva de la Pileta
NB. Thanks go to Christina Hart-Davies for identifying the lower plants
BIRDS
Red-legged Partridge-Alectoris rufa
Mallard-Anus platyrhynchos
Greater Flamingo-Phoenicopterus roseus
Western Cattle Egret-Bubulcus ibis
Grey Heron-Ardea cinerea
Great Egret-Ardea alba
Little Egret-Egretta garzetta
Great Cormorant-Phalacrocorax carbo
Griffon Vulture-Gyps fulvus
Short-toed Snake Eagle-Circaetus gallicus
Eurasian Sparrowhawk-Accipiter nisus
Bonelli's Eagle-Aquila fasciata
Booted Eagle-Hieraaetus pennatus
Lesser Kestrel-Falco naumanni
Common Kestrel-Falco tinnunculus
Peregrine Falcon-Falco peregrinus
Common Moorhen-Gallinula chloropus
Black-winged Stilt-Himantopus himantopus
Little Ringed Plover-Charadrius dubius
Common Redshank-Tringa totalis
Green Sandpiper-Tringa ochropus
Yellow-legged Gull-Larus michahellis
Gull-billed Tern-Gelochelidon nilotica
Common Pigeon-Columba livia ‘feral’
Rock Dove-Columba livia
Common Wood Pigeon-Columba palumbus
Eurasian Collared Dove-Streptopelia decaocto
Common Cuckoo-Cuculus canorus (H)
Tawny Owl-Strix aluco (H)
Alpine Swift-Tachymarptis melba
Common Swift-Apus apus
Eurasian Hoopoe-Upupa epops
European Green Woodpecker-Picus viridis (H)
Woodchat Shrike-Lanias senator
Eurasian Jay-Garrulus glandarius
Red-billed Chough-Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax
Northern Raven-Corvus corax
Coal Tit -Periparus ater
European Crested Tit-Lophophanes cristatus
Great Tit-Parus major
European Blue Tit-Cyanistes caeruleus
Crested Lark-Galerida cristata
Thekla Lark-Galerida thecklae
Woodlark-Lullula arborea (H)
Eurasian Skylark-Alauda arvensis
Barn Swallow-Hirundo rustica
Eurasian Crag Martin-Ptyonoprogne rupestris
Common House Martin-Delichon urbicum
Red-rumped Swallow-Cercropis daurica
Cetti's Warbler-Cettia cetti
Eurasian Blackcap-Sylvia atricapilla
Sardinian Warbler-Sylvia melanocephala
Eurasian Wren-Troglodytes troglodytes (H)
Spotless Starling-Sturnus unicolor
Ring Ouzel-Turdus torquatus
Common Blackbird-Turdus merula
Mistle Thrush-Turdus viscivorus
Black Redstart-Phoenicurus ochruros
Whinchat-Saxicola rubetra
European Stonechat-Saxicola rubicola
Black-eared Wheatear-Oenanthe hispanica
Black Wheatear-Oenanthe leucura
Blue Rock Thrush-Monticola solitarius
House Sparrow-Passer domesticus
White Wagtail-Motacilla alba
Common Chaffinch-Fringilla coelebs
European Serin-Serinus serinus
European Greenfinch-Carduelis chloris
European Goldfinch-Carduelis carduelis
Common Linnet-Carduelis cannabina
Red Crossbill-Loxia curvirostra
Corn Bunting-Emberiza calandra
Rock Bunting-Emberiza cia
NB. This species list follows the names, taxonomy and species order of the International Ornithological Congress (version 2.9 , July 2011)
(H) Heard Only
BUTTERFLIES
Papilionidae
Spanish Festoon-Zerynthia rumina
Southern Swallowtail-Iphiclides podalirius
Swallowtail-Papilo machaon
Pieridae
Large White-Pieris brassicae
Orange Tip-Anthocaris cardamines
Moroccan Orange Tip-Anthocaris belia
Clouded Yellow-Colias crocea
Cleopatra-Goneopteryx cleopatra
Brimstone-Gonepteryx rhamni
Lycaenidae
Provence Hairstreak-Tomares ballus
Small Copper-Lycaena phlaeas
Nymphalidae
Large Tortoiseshell-Nymphalis polychloris
Red Admiral-Vanessa atalanta
Painted Lady-Vanessa cardui
Satyrinae
Wall Brown-Lasiommata magera
Small Heath-Coenonympha pamphilus
MOTHS
Hummingbird Hawkmoth-Macroglossum stellartarum
Pine Processionary Moth-Thaumetopoea pityocampa (Nests seen in trees)
Other Invertebrates
Egyptian Grasshopper-Anacridum aegyptium
Empusid (Cone-head) Mantis-Empusa pennata
St. Mark’s Fly-Bibio marci
Carpenter Bee-Xylocopa sp.
Honey Bee-Apis millifera
Buff-tailed Bumblebee-Bombus terrestris
a Chafer-Oxythyrea funesta
7-Spot Ladybird-Coccinella 7-punctata
Ladybird-Epilachna chrysomelina
Oil Beetle-Meloe proscarabaeus
Harvestman-Opilones sp.
Mammals
a Pipestrelle Bat-Pipistrellus sp.
Spanish Ibex-Capra pyrenaica
Brown Hare-Lepus europaeus
Rabbit-Oryctolagus cuniculatus
Egyptian Mongoose-Herpestes ichneumon
Amphibians & Reptiles
Newt sp.-Salamandridae sp.(Tadpoles)
Iberian Wall Lizard-Podarcis hispanica
Our thanks go to Paul Harmes for compiling this Tour Report and the Species Lists.
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