Since its inception in 2021, the festival has grown significantly, incorporating new activities each year and attracting birdwatching enthusiasts, families, and visitors interested in the natural richness of the area. The main objective is twofold: to bring knowledge about birds and their habitats to all audiences, and to position Soto del Real as an attractive destination for ornithological tourism, taking advantage of the unique conditions of its environment.
The festival's program, running from May 1st to 3rd, includes a variety of free educational, informative, and outdoor leisure activities. Friday, May 1st, will kick off with a family bird banding workshop, organized by the ÁLULA association, allowing participants to learn firsthand about scientific work and the importance of species monitoring.
On Saturday, May 2nd, guided tours will take place in the Dehesa Boyal, focusing on the black starling, led by the research team from the National Museum of Natural Sciences (CSIC), directed by Diego Gil. Additionally, Parque del Río will host two family storytelling sessions, bringing nature closer to the youngest attendees.
For Sunday, May 3rd, a nature photography workshop with photographer Carlos López is scheduled. Nest boxes for insectivorous birds will also be installed in Parque del Río, previously made by children from Soto del Real in a workshop at the Casa de la Infancia, in collaboration with ANAPRI. The day will conclude with informative talks at the Cultural Center, where experts will discuss topics such as bird reproduction, the use of plants in black starling nests, and the role of nest boxes in promoting biodiversity.
“"Sotogüeña is an opportunity to highlight the natural environment of Soto del Real and bring ornithology closer to all audiences. This festival helps us consolidate ourselves as an attractive destination for nature tourism, while promoting respect and knowledge of our environmental heritage."
Registration for free activities is mandatory and can be done online starting Monday, April 13th. The festival will also feature two exhibitions: “Entre dos aguas” (Between Two Waters), at the Cultural Center from April 27th to May 8th, showcasing 22 photographs of migratory birds from the Pedrezuela and Santillana reservoirs; and “Nuestras aves” (Our Birds), installed from May 1st to 3rd outside the Art and Tourism Center (CAT), presenting 40 local species with explanatory panels and interactive resources.
