The Hecho and Ansó Valleys -
Ansó Valley Itinerary

Starting point: the village of Hecho.
Time: most of a day

From the south of Hecho take the road to Ansó. Stop near the forest refuge, just before the road begins its descent, to check the Scots pinewood for Crested Tit, Crossbill and Black Woodpecker. Turn right at the junction and follow on past Ansó (Red Kite, Egyptian Vulture, Dipper) on to Zuriza at the head of the valley.

From here it is possible to follow the path that ascends the Barranco Petraficha to search for Marsh Tit, Ring Ouzel and Black Woodpecker in the forested areas. After crossing the stream there is a steep ascent to more open areas where the mountain specialities like Rock Thrush, Wallcreeper and even Snowfinch can be found. Be warned though that this long ascent of more than 700 metres is not suitable for the heavy-footed!

Another possibility is to drive on to the mountain refuge at the Barranco Petrechema (look out for Water Pipit, Tree Pipit, Ring Ouzel and Dipper on the way). Apart from enjoying refreshments at the refuge it is also worth knowing that the surrounding woodland is inhabited by the Black Woodpecker.

The road between Ansó and Berdún to the south offers good opportunities for birding, with species like Lammergeier, Peregrine Falcon, Golden Eagle, Eagle Owl, Alpine Swift, Blue Rock Thrush, Red-backed Shrike, Woodlark, Rock Bunting and Cirl Bunting. Many of these can be seen at the Biniés gorge.