LITTLE BUSTARD
Photographing the Little Bustard in Spain
A specialised bird photography trip in Spain.
Little Bustard - © Rafael Armada
The Little Bustard (Tetrax tetrax) is one of the most characteristic steppe birds of the Iberian Peninsula. Known for its cryptic plumage and spectacular spring displays, it is also one of the most threatened species of European farmlands. Every photographic opportunity with this bird is both exciting and meaningful.
A male Little Bustard performing its characteristic jump display during the breeding season.
© Rafael Armada
Why the Little Bustard?
The species is small compared to the Great Bustard, but its courtship is unique. Males perform sudden jumps accompanied by a sharp call, a behavior that, when captured on camera, results in striking and memorable images. Photographing these displays in the open steppe is a challenge: distances are long, light is harsh, and the bird is wary. That’s why local knowledge is essential.
Where and when?
Little Bustards can still be found in the steppe habitats of Spain. The best season is spring, when males are most active in their displays. Early mornings are key to catch the display.
A male Little Bustard calling in the open steppe during the breeding season.
© Rafael Armada
More than one highlight…
A trip for Little Bustard also brings encounters with other steppe species:
Pin-tailed and Black-bellied Sandgrouse in some areas
Montagu’s Harrier
Calandra and Thekla Larks
Great Bustard in some areas
This diversity ensures a wide range of opportunities, from flight shots to portraits and behavioral images.
Optional hides for Little Bustard photography
Most encounters with Little Bustards take place in the open steppe, but it is also possible to arrange specialised hides. We only use hides that have proven to offer real photographic value, always under strict ethical practices and in a responsible way. This ensures time in hides is meaningful and respectful, and can be combined with field sessions depending on the season and your goals.
Guided by photographers
Being in the right place is only part of it. The rest comes down to reading light, anticipating movement, and positioning for angles that work. This trip is led by guides who are photographers themselves, so the emphasis is always on turning encounters into usable images — not just ticking a species off a list.
A rare opportunity
A one day trip may seem short, but it can be extended to suit your plans (from 1 to 3 days), or combined with a longer tailor-made tour in Spain.
Prices and options
Depending on your needs, this experience can be arranged in different formats:
One-day trip from Barcelona
a full day in the field focused on Little Bustard photography.1 person: 390 €
2 people: 230 € per person
3 people: 180 € per person
*Prices shown include 21% VAT
Extended tours (2–6 days)
Depending on your preferences, tailored itineraries visiting several key sites, combining specialised photography hides with field sessions to photograph the species in different settings. Every departure is custom-made, so duration, locations, prices and balance between hides and fieldwork can be adjusted to your goals.Please write to us at warblertours@gmail.com or fill the form below to plan your trip.
What’s included
Professional bird photography guiding by Rafael Armada
Transfers to/from Barcelona airport (Pick-up from other airports available with a supplement)
Ground transport during all the trip duration
Meals during the itinerary
Accommodation (Only in extended tours 2-6 days)
Daily field sessions adapted for photography
What’s not included
Flights to/from Spain
Photography hides
Travel and cancellation insurance
Personal expenses and tips
Alcoholic drinks
Anything not specified
Interested in this tour?
This itinerary can be added to a longer tailor-made tour in Spain.
You can fill in the form, or simply write to us at warblertours@gmail.com to plan your trip.
Available From April to June
