In search of Morocco’s Bald Ibis

Stop tearing your hair out searching for some warmth, sunshine and excellent birding and head to Morocco’s Souss-Massa NP, the country’s finest birdwatching location and host to endangered Northern Bald Ibis. Naturetrek’s relaxing, 5-day Bald Ibis break, based at an exclusive beach retreat, departs 5th March 2009.

From autumn to spring, Morocco’s 33,800-hectare Souss Valley - stretching from the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains to the spectacular Atlantic coast, attracts numerous migrating waders, gulls and terns, and encompasses the estuaries of the Oued Souss (the northern limit of the park) and the Oued Massa. Guests are based at the traditionally built hotel, nestled between golden dunes with spectacular panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Along with a traditional Hammam (Turkish bath/massage room) and fine cuisine (salads and grilled fish and meat being a particular speciality), some of the best local birding is available from the hotel terrace. The Souss-Massa National Park holds a wealth of birds, and the diversity of habitats within it will ensure a wide variety of species. However, the park is most important from its protection of three of the four Moroccan breeding colonies of the Northern Bald Ibis, one of the Western Palearctic’s most enigmatic and endangered birds.

Located on nearby coastal cliffs a population now totalling 75 breeding pairs has established a lofty redoubt. Here, Barbary Falcons can regularly be seen, whilst the beach often supports a flock of Audouin’s Gulls in a variety of plumages. Other avian highlights may include Greater Flamingo, Glossy Ibis, Osprey, Marsh Harrier, Zitting Cisticola and Moustached Warbler amongst many others.

The 5-day break costs £895 including flights from London, 4-nights hotel accommodation at Ksar Massa, all meals, transport and expert guiding.

For more information, log on to Naturetrek.co.uk.