Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
A birdwatching outing in Tenerife is a guided excursion to find and identify species in their habitats, with a special focus on endemics: birds found only in the Canary Islands, in Macaronesia or, in the case of the Tenerife blue chaffinch, only in Tenerife. It usually covers several habitats in one day: pine forest, laurel forest, high mountain and coast.
This page helps you know which species are sought, in which areas, and what to ask the guide.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Guided outing to observe and identify birds |
| Star species | Tenerife blue chaffinch, laurel pigeon, Bolle’s pigeon, Atlantic canary, Berthelot’s pipit |
| Habitats | Corona Forestal pine forest, laurel forest, high mountain, arid areas and coast |
| Duration | Half day or full day |
| Group | Small or private |
| Equipment | Binoculars; some guides provide a spotting scope |
| Best time | Early morning |
| Price | Depends on the provider, the duration and transport |
Which species are sought
According to Turismo de Tenerife and the ornithological literature, Tenerife is home to:
| Species | Why it is special | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Tenerife blue chaffinch (pinzón azul del Teide) | Lives only in Tenerife | Corona Forestal pine forest |
| Laurel pigeon (paloma rabiche) | Endemic to the Canary Islands | Ravines and monteverde woodland in the north |
| Bolle’s pigeon (paloma turqué) | Endemic to the Canary Islands | Laurel forest |
| Atlantic canary, Berthelot’s pipit, plain swift | Endemic to Macaronesia | Various habitats |
| Blue tit, common chaffinch and great spotted woodpecker | With their own Canary Islands subspecies | Pine forest, woodland and parks |
The laurel forest pigeons are generally considered among the hardest species to see. The male blue chaffinch shows its blue plumage in the breeding season.
Protected areas for birds
Tenerife has Special Protection Areas for Birds (ZEPA) in Teno, Anaga and Tigaiga, because of the endemic pigeons, seabirds and birds of prey. Some viewpoints in the north are accessible places to try to see the laurel pigeon.
What happens
- Early start, when the birds are most active.
- Route through several habitats, with observation stops.
- Identification with the guide’s help: plumage, song, behaviour.
- Log of the species seen.
- Return, usually at midday or in the afternoon.
Formats
| Format | Suits you if… |
|---|---|
| Half day | You want to see the main endemics |
| Full day | You want to cover several habitats without rushing |
| Private | Photographers or birders with target species |
| Seabirds | See the marine wildlife expedition with a biologist |
Who it suits
- Birders who want to add endemics to their list.
- Nature photographers.
- Travellers interested in the islands’ biodiversity.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone who does not want an early start: the first hours of the day are the best.
- Anyone expecting guarantees: birds cannot be guaranteed, especially the laurel forest pigeons.
How to choose well
- Which target species and which habitats does it visit?
- Is the guide an ornithologist or bird specialist?
- Does the guide provide a spotting scope or binoculars?
- Group size?
- Is transport included?
- Is it suitable for photographers?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist guide | Included | Experience |
| Transport | Common | Pick-up area |
| Optics | In some offers | Binoculars or spotting scope |
| Species list | Common | — |
Good practice
- Do not use recorded calls in the breeding season or approach nests.
- Do not feed the birds.
- Keep quiet and keep your distance.
- Do not leave the paths in protected areas.
Time of year
- Spring: breeding activity and song; male blue chaffinches in blue plumage.
- Migration: some wetlands receive passage migrants and rarities.
- All year round: resident endemics can be sought at any time of year.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Duration.
- Transport.
- Group or private.
What to bring
- Binoculars.
- Clothing in muted colours, in layers.
- Comfortable shoes.
- Water and a snack.
- A camera with a telephoto lens, if you take photos.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Seabirds and cetaceans | Marine wildlife expedition with a biologist |
| Nature interpretation in general | Ecotourism route |
| Hiking in the laurel forest | Guided hiking in Anaga |
| Hiking in Teno | Guided hiking in Teno |
Frequently asked questions
Which bird lives only in Tenerife?
The Tenerife blue chaffinch, which lives in the Corona Forestal pine forest.
Where can you see the laurel and Bolle’s pigeons?
In the laurel forest and the ravines of the north, in areas such as Anaga or Teno. They are hard to see.
What is the best time of year?
All year round for the resident endemics; spring is especially active.
Do I need binoculars?
Yes, highly recommended. Some guides provide equipment.
Can it be done in half a day?
Yes, for the main endemics.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, if they are patient with silence and waiting.
