Current view: Text account
Site description (2002 baseline):
Site location and context
This coastal IBA includes the area between the coastline and cobble beaches and the top of the seacliffs. The cliffs are often covered by macaronesean woodland. The site includes the small islet Ilhéu da Baleia, and the lighthouse of Ponta da Barca is located in the top of the cliffs.
Important for breeding petrels. Both 'cold-period' and 'hot-period' Madeiran Storm Petrels breed in this site.
Pressure/threats to key biodiversity
Feral terrestrial mammals (dogs, cats, rats and weasels) affect most of the seabirds, especially those who nest in holes and burrows. Invasive plant species like the cane reduces the available nesting habitat for seabirds. Seabird colonies are disturbed by illegal recreation activities. The strong lights of the lighthouse is a threat for the breeding seabirds.
National noneInternational none
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Important Bird Area factsheet: Ilhéu da Baleia e Ponta da Barca (Portugal). Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/ilhéu-da-baleia-e-ponta-da-barca-iba-portugal on 23/11/2024.
