The Algarve in Spring

[Mike Dunning]

Hi everyone,
Happy New Year!
Last September/October I spent 1 week in central Algarve, about 30 minutes north of Faro. During this time I did a lot of searching for reptiles and amphibians at some very promising sites, but alas I only found one or two water frog species and 1 specimen of a grass snake.  I guess that being late in the year was the main factor for not seeing many species, coupled with the dry, hot summer they had experienced?? Anyway, I have the chance to go back to re-visit the same area, probably February or March 2012, so my question is what IS the best month, would it be February or March?? 
Has anyone visited the Algarve in early spring? As I mentioned above, the areas did look very promising given the right conditions, although in Sept/Oct river beds and ponds had dried up, but I expect them to refill after winter rains.
Any advice on timing would be helpful,
Best wishes
Mike Dunning 

[Michal Szkudlarek]

Hi Mike.
I have no experience about Portugal herping, but look at these awesome reports- http://www.euroherp.com/browse_trips.html?c=PT -some of them are from September and October. However the presence of success depends of course on: which species are You looking for, how, where (height above sea level, habitats), when (which weather, daytime). As to Your question- again, it depends what You want to see, but March is generally better to choose. Take a look at this report- http://www.euroherp.com/Field/spain5.html- March/April and not far from Your destination.
I wish You successful herping.
Michał

[Jeroen Speybroeck]

I'd say that April might be best for reptiles, while amphibians are more readily found from December to February (in relation to humidity and temperature, of course).
Here our winter report from December 2010 - endless rain with great result.
http://www.hylawerkgroep.be/jeroen/index.php?id=55

[Mike Dunning]

Dear all,
Many thanks for the replies and the general interest in my questions, and for the record I've booked the eastern Algarve region from 1st to 8th March. Hopefully this time I'll be more successful.

Kind Regards
Mike

[Jeroen Speybroeck]

Look for non-permanent pools and explore them at night. Chances are, you will be amazed