Ponte Messa

The wide stony river Marecchia flows past the small village of Ponte Messa. Most of the time and in especially in summer not much water flows through the river. But because the river holds water all year round and the the river is surrounded by many trees (especially poplar) and a green, hilly landscape full of high trees, the area attracts dozens of Oropéndola Europea. From May to August they seem to be everywhere. Best month to see most of them is July when they fly around with their young. Best time of the day is between 07.00 and 09.00. When you arrive later it is much more difficult to see them and sometimes you don't see them at all the rest of the day.

The circular walk indicated on the map brings you along the river and to the hilly pastures and wooded areas behind the river. Because of the height differences along this route, you are sometimes at eye level of the tree tops. This is perfect to observe Oropéndola Europea. The walk is also good for seeing Tórtola Europea and Abubilla común. Among the other birds you can encounter are Alcaudón Dorsirrojo, Curruca Capirotada, Pito Real, Mito Común, Colirrojo Tizón, Andarríos Chico, Lavandera Cascadeña and Trepador Azul. Abejaruco Europeo nests in the banks of the river Marecchia and can be spotted easily most of the time in summer until the beginning of August. Avión Roquero nests under the bridge (see the map).

An unexpected guest we saw several times was Cormorán Pigmeo. In the deeper pools in the river bed it was hunting for fish.