Green Energy At The Strait Of Gibraltar

Discover the pros and cons of green energy by visiting a wind farm that could negatively affect the lives of migrating birds if not for careful planning. Your immersion into the local wildlife will begin at La Barca de Vejer, a sandstone cliff where endangered bald ibises nest. Nearby, you will see how the Montagu’s harrier, a migrating raptor, is being re-introduced to the area, as it too became endangered. A conservationist from the nature preservation group Birding Tarifa will describe some of the threats to the birds, which include the turning blades of wind turbines. A close-up look at a wind farm will shed light on how birds and wind turbines can co-exist. For instance, birds can better see and avoid the turning blades if one blade is painted black. You will hear both sides of the argument before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant and then heading to the Janda wetlands to see the countless white storks and other birds that flock to the habitat.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See how endangered species of birds are being protected around the Strait of Gibraltar.
• Hear how wind turbines for green energy can negatively impact migrating bird populations.
• Visit a wind farm to see how birds and wind turbines can co-exist more efficiently.
• View a wetlands area that is teeming with white storks and migratory birds.