After our very nice trip in 2020, we were sure to travel Portugal again at some point. However, we didn't think it would happen that soon... but several reasons led to it.
Since we are traveling with our baby for the first time, we wanted it to be a short and direct flight. The season was a bit too early for most other European countries and it's good that we already know the area relatively well. Besides, the Algarve is simply beautiful and always worth a trip!
During our first trip to Portugal we saw two Horseshoe Whip Snakes, but both disappeared quickly in stone walls (no pictures).
Therefore I was very happy about our first snake sighting on this trip:
As usual our program consisted of a mix of beach and family time as well as hiking and herping. In the dunes and hills near the coast we were able to find some cool reptiles. For example three species we missed last time: Iberian Worm Lizard, Iberian Skink and a cute Iberian False Smooth Snake.
When clouds, heavy wind and rain had spoiled our beach day, my chance had come to look for amphibians. At this point I have to thank Samira once again, who patiently waited in the car and watched over our sleeping baby, while I rushed through wetlands in pouring rain.
I found several Western Spadefoots, a Natterjack Toad and a huge Iberian Ribbed Newt.
When it was sunny and a bit warmer we took the opportunity to look for Lizards. Of course we made a small detour on the way north to stop at the Antlantic coast.
We observed a badass white stork on a rock in the rough sea and enjoyed the impressive landscape.
My main goal was to find Iberian Emerald Lizards. Unfortunately it was still relatively cool and windy. The area we were searching was promising and I was almost sure that the Iberian Emerald Lizards should be found here. After a while I spotted the first specimens in the bushes near the water. These pretty lizards were quite hidden and shy, but with a little patience I was able to get close to them.
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