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Tourism has been increasing in the Azores, and looking at the impact that tourism growth has made in other destinations, there is a growing concern in regards to uncontrolled tourism growth and the possible damage on the Azores' people and environment. Azores.com and Melo Travel aim to keep nature and its beauty unspoiled, as well as sharing it with all those interested in the ecological well being of these mystic islands. Azores.com and Melo Travel specialize in trekking, hiking, biking and other general nature programs, as well as island hopping trips for individual travelers and small groups. Azores.com and Melo Travel provide an exciting range of tours, accommodation, activities and transfers in the 9 islands of the Azores archipelago, ans we are committed to the conservation of the Azorean natural environment. Part of our profit is being funneled to aid selected conservation and preservation projects in the Azores such as the life Priolo conservation program in the island of S. Miguel. We encourage everyone to embrace the cause of responsible tourism in the Azores, making environmentally friendly, sustainable, ethical and respectful choices when traveling. Responsible Tourism aims "To create better places for people to live in, and better places for people to visit".
LIFE PRIOLO PROJECT
We support the LIFE PRIOLO project sending 1,00€ to the Priôlo's Environmental Center for each tourist that visits us and each Azorean that travels with us. The bird's common name in Portuguese is Priôlo and in English Azores Bullfinch.
DESCRIPTION
Priôlos measure between 15 and 17 cm from the tip of the beak to the end of the tail and weigh about 30g. Black cap, facial area,and tip of tail and wings. Brown back, upper tail and mid upper wing. Both sexes are otherwise identical. Pairs nest in Laurel forest between June and September.
DISTRIBUTION
The species is endemic to Sao Miguel Island in the Azores, more specifically to the mountain complex of Serra da Tronqueira situated to the east of this island, (shown in green on the following map). It is estimated population is approximately 400 birds, limited to only a few fragments of remaining native vegetation. It is the most threatened passerine bird in all of Europe, and it is listed with a "critically endangered" status.
DIET
The Priôlo's diet is based on different types of vegetation and changes monthly as the flowers and fruits develop. Seven types of foods are consumed through the year: herbaceous seeds, shrub and tree seeds, invertebrates, fern sporangia and fronds, moss and finally flower buds.
