Page 42 - Complete Birds of Britain and Europe (DK - RSPB)

INTRODUCTION

SOUTHERN MOUNTAINS AND CRAGS

he highest, harshest, snowiest peaks of southern European
Tmountains are little different from their counterparts in the
north, but many others are snow-free and characterized by big, bare
crags, dizzying cliffs, and deep gorges with rushing rivers. Forests of
beech, oak, and pine climb high on the mountain slopes, creating
conditions that attract woodland species more characteristic of
northern Europe.The southern influence, however, remains strong,
with the presence of birds of prey hunting overhead, and, in the
valleys, many other species that are not found farther north.
HABITAT MIXTURE
With their peaks, high pastures, and valleys, mountainous
areas bring together a variety of habitats within a small
area. From one spot it is possible to see riverside birds,
woodland birds, and those characteristic of grassy pastures
and hedgerows, as well as species that prefer cliffs and COASTAL CLIFFS
crags. Slightly further up the hillside, alpine species can be Several mountain birds also
heard or seen flying across the valleys or over the highest breed on crags by the sea that
peaks. Superimposed upon this natural diversity there are offer safe nesting sites.
regional differences. For example, some species, including
various eagles and other birds of prey,are more easterly BLACK WHEATEAR
and so are found in the Balkans but not within Iberia.Birds Warmer, south-facing stony
slopes and crags in Iberia attract
of prey have also been wiped out of some areas due to this eyecatching wheatear, as
centuries of persecution,although they remain numerous well as Black-eared Wheatears
in Spain.Some species – such as eagles,vultures,buzzards, and Stonechats.
and falcons – occupy different “niches”,exploiting
particular foods and nest sites.This may allow them to
live close together without competing against each other.
Alternatively,it may mean that species remain apart,each CLIFFTOP THRUSH
inhabiting an area that meets its particular requirements. Limestone crags are the
favoured haunt of the
Blackbird-sized Blue Rock
Thrush, which ventures
anywhere from sea level
to high in the mountains.

STUNNING PEAKS
High mountain peaks with deep gorges and
shady valleys have a great range of birds of prey,
many of which nest lower down but move up
each day to hunt over high ground. Cliff faces
have their own unique birds – some move out
to feed on high-altitude grassy meadows.

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