Birdwatching & Nature Walks Around Citrus Tree House, Fontão

Welcome to the Citrus Tree House Blog -  where we share a little of the magic that happens in and around our rural escape in Fontão, Portugal. 

Surrounded by countryside, forest, rivers, and our own citrus garden, the property is a haven for birdwatchers, walkers, and anyone looking to connect with nature.

Recently, we welcomed Ricardo Borges from Athene Trail Tours, who will be leading our new guided nature walks in the Aveiro region. 

Together, we’ll explore trails that wind through fields, forests, rivers, and streams - blending local culture and natural beauty into unforgettable guest experiences.

Paul and Ricardo completed a nearby walking circuit to showcase the surroundings and soak in the peaceful, winter air of Fontão village. The sun was shining, the crisp winter colours were just starting to emerge, and the mild December temperature made it a perfect day to enjoy a nice cup of tea on the porch before setting out.

From the garden itself at Citrus Tree House, you can often spot house sparrows (Passer domesticus) and other small passerines flitting among the hedges and lemon trees. In the distance, a pair of common buzzards (Buteo buteo) soared over the slopes of the nearby hills.

We then visited the Ti Miguel’s Watermills, a 19th-century complex that still stands today. Despite the scars left by recent summer wildfires, nature is recovering and thriving again - oak trees are holding strong, painting the area in warm autumn tones.

Along the way, two carrion crows (Corvus corone) made loud, noisy calls which alerted us to an adult male goshawk (Astur gentilis) flying away - a rare and breathtaking sight.In the nearby forest, we could still just barely hear the well-known calls of chiffchaffs (Phylloscopus collybita), winter visitors to Portugal, and caught the occasional glimpse of the elusive short-toed treecreeper (Certhia brachydactyla). Near the vegetable gardens, stood a male black redstart (Phoenicuros ochruros), proud and striking in its stance, which then caught the eye of a pair of collared doves (Streptopelia decaocto) that seemed to be courting. 

We ended the walk with a handful of fresh oranges and lemons from the garden, just as Paul shared that he had heard of a tawny owl (Strix aluco) he’d heard calling the night before - one to track and watch for on future evenings.

Amid birdsong greeting and farewells, scenic views, and great company, it was the perfect reminder of how much there is to discover here in Fontão - here at Citrus Tree House.

For more Birdwatching tips and information, you can check out the list of birds observed during our walk at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S204708178 

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply love the idea of spotting wildlife between lazy mornings and local adventures, Citrus Tree House is the perfect base to explore it all.

From the garden to the surrounding hills, there’s always something worth pausing for - and a story to take home.