Our Journey through the Cork Oaks

In September 2023, we made a journey to discover the Cork Oak savannas of Portugal and Spain, known locally as Montado and Dehesa respectively. This short book contains a catalogue of the paintings, photographs and memories we made along an epic 30 day and 4000 mile journey in our trusty van, Myfanwy! These genuine savanna habitats are a rare habitat for Europe and show as much biological richness as African savannas. We found subject matter in abundance, wonderful arid colours and stunning landscapes to enjoy and inspire us. Vultures and eagles soared overhead. We saw our first Spanish Imperial Eagle descend from the heavens to capture its prey on the plain. The regular spacing of the oak trees allows these big birds to land, take off and find the safe roost and nest sites that they need. We watched deer and wild boar forage for the rich harvest of forbs and acorns on the ground, and we found signs of the endangered Iberian Lynx where they hunt among the trees.