El Hondo: North gate, common cranes and greater spotted eagles
Greater spotted eagles have long seen been a fixture at El Hondo- this is the only wintering place in Spain where they can be found, and possibly in Europe as well. This is a globally rare and endangered bird, and seeing it here is an immense privilege. I have been observing greater spotted eagles for 3 years now- in 2021, 2022 and 2024, with isolated observations in 2023 as well. By far the best area for them is El Hondo's North Gate, which can only be visited by prior appointment, although the eagles range widely and can be seen from the southern hides as well. However, for a truly remarkable sighting, only the North Gate can truly produce. My first visit was on the 14/12/24. After cycling through the darkness and some cold fog, I saw a greater spotted eagle fly over the entrance. Had I acted at this moment rather than simply watch, it would have saved me from a huge fiasco later. I slowly proceeded down the road, and, indeed, a greater spotted eagle was roosting in one of...