This year, the weather has been quite extreme, with several storms affecting mainland Portugal and the Azores. Fortunately, Madeira has remained relatively safe from these conditions. We are hopeful that migratory birds will take note and find refuge here during their journey.
8th of February 2026 at Porto Moniz
Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros - female
6th of February 2026 at Funchal harbour - observed with scope by Nicholas (UK)
Mew Gull Larus canus - (late) first-winter bird
5th of February 2026 at Funchal harbour - reported by Nicholas (UK)
2 Mediterranean Gull Ichthyaetus melanocephalus - "one with a yellow leg ring but too distant to read"
2 Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres
Sanderling Calidris alba
2 Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii - although this is a breeding species, in the last 4 years they have been quite scarce around Madeira...
3rd of February 2026 at Palheiro reservoir - sightings by Nicholas (UK)
Little Egret Egretta garzetta
Grey Heron Ardea cinerea
1st of February 2026 at Santo da Serra reservoir - observation by Michel (NED)
Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia
Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia - immature
At Machico
Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia - immature, possibly the same bird as in Santo da Serra
Little Egret Egretta garzetta
Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos