The most easterly of the Balearic Islands, Menorca is made up of two very different geological areas. Tramontana in the north and Migjorn in the south are separated by a fracture line that runs from the harbour town of Mahón. The Northern region is ancient; its rocks are fractured and folded, and are made up of mainly palaeozoic conglomerates, sandstones and clays. The South side is much newer, dating from the Miocene period, and is made up of mainly limestone. It forms an almost horizontal platform carved out with numerous gullies (Barrancos) which outflow into beautiful coves. Menorca is rich in wild flowers with over 1400 species of plants recorded. On the island the orchid family is represented by around 30 species, most of which flower in late March to early May. 25 different species of butterfly have also been recorded. In the spring many bird species can also be seen as the island lies on their migration route with a good number of passage migrants resting on the island as they travel enroute to more temperate climes. The Menorcan habitat is unique, hardly surprising then that the birdlife here is unique and abundant. Winters here are wet – so shallow wetlands dot the island – perfect habitats for wading birds and birds of prey. The island is circumvented by the Cami des Cavalls, (‘The Horse Road’), first built for defensive purposes by the British, but recently renovated and marked so one can walk, ride or bike the perimeter of the whole island in 20 stages. Our tour is designed with the focus on the wonderful spring nature of the island but, at the same time, offers some insight into the historical highlights too.Our Guide - Javier MéndezYour guide for this tour is a professional ornithologist and naturalist. Javier is a co-founder of Menorca Ornithologist Society and a member of Menorca Research Institute. He was born and bred in Menorca and knows the island intimately. He has been a keen birdwatcher and nature lover all his life and he has done many studies about Menorcan birds population and wildlife. Javier speaks good English and has a natural and infectious enthusiasm for birds and the unique wildlife of Menorca. He has been guiding groups of birdwatchers, walkers and nature enthusiasts on the island since 2001. Javier also has an excellent knowledge of the Menorcan wild flowers having also led many botanical tours.Click here for explanation of the footprint symbols