If you are travelling through the Costa del Sol and looking for a prime location for bird photography, Parque de la Paloma in Benalmádena is a must-visit.
While the park is a beautiful green space in its own right, it is perhaps best known among wildlife enthusiasts for its thriving population of Monk Parakeets (also known as Quaker Parrots).
A Non-Native Resident
It is immediately striking to see these bright green birds flying free in Spain. Monk Parakeets are not native to Spain; they originate from South America.
According to the Spanish Ornithological Society (SEO/BirdLife), the population boom is a result of the pet trade during the late 20th century. Many birds either escaped or were released, adapting quickly to the Spanish climate. Today, they are a common sight (and sound) in Benalmádena, where they have naturalised successfully.
Photography Opportunities
For a photographer, this park offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these charismatic birds. Unlike more elusive wildlife, the parakeets here are relatively habituated to human presence, allowing for a diverse range of compositions.
Nesting Behaviours
The park is filled with palm trees, which the parakeets favour for their communal nests. These massive stick structures are fascinating to photograph. You can capture excellent shots of the birds maintaining their homes or interacting with one another at the nest entrance.
In-Flight and Portraits
Because the population is so dense, you don’t have to wait long for action shots.
- Flight Shots: The open spaces between the palms make tracking birds in flight manageable.
- Isolated Portraits: With patience, you can catch them perched on low branches, allowing for beautiful, isolated portraits with a creamy bokeh background.
More Than Just Parakeets
While the parrots are the main attraction for me, the park is teeming with other life. It is effectively a cage-free zoo in areas.
- Ground Wildlife: You will likely encounter rabbits and chickens running freely, along with peacocks roaming the paths.
- The Lake: The large central lake attracts various waterfowl, including mallards, geese, and swans.
Whether you are looking to build your portfolio of exotic birds or simply want a relaxing walk with your camera, Parque de la Paloma is one of my favourite spots in Spain for reliable, high-quality Monk Parakeets photography.
