At last; Guadalhorce almost back to normal!

23 Curlew Sandpipers present

Up at the crack of dawn, if not before, and down to the Guadalhorce ponds where I met Andy Paterson at the nearby church and we were on the banks of the western arm of the river before 7.30.  The idea was to be "done" before 10 and, so, miss the worst of the coming heat.  In the end, the day started with not an inconsiderable amount of cloud and, whilst a little on the damp if not humid side, made our birding very comfortable until well after 9.30.  Had we not had the pleasure of meeting Ted Lord, Pat, Birgit Kremer and Eduardo at the Laguna Casillas hide on our way back we might have got away with it.  Instead, our surprise pleasure ensured that not only were we late back at the cars (fortunately Jenny had gone shopping but not sure whether or not Andy survived a tongue lashing) but that by approaching 11 o'clock  it was now very hot and sticky.  But, at least, we did have  great morning's birding with very many birds to be seen, both in number and species, and a final total of well over 50; more if you include the Thekla Lark, Stonechat and Woodchat Shrike seen as I drove up the mountain track to home.

Dunlin

Approaching the river, not surprisingly the first birds seen were those early risers the Blackbird, quickly followed by large numbers of House Martins.  Not to be outdone, a handful of Monk Parakeets were squawking in the trees along with the local House Sparrows.  Approaching the footbridge two pairs of Cattle Egrets made their way over the river whilst a very bedraggled-looking Grey Heron rested on a low branch over the water's edge.  With the light improving all the time, next up were a few Common Swift and a small flock of Greenfinches.  We could hear, and then saw, a small number of Bee-eaters and as we approached the eastern arm to make the Laguna Casillas our first stop, a solitary Greenshank flew over and almost linked up with 5 Redshank moving in a similar direction.

Black Winged Stilt

Whilst at first the Casillas seemed relatively quiet, we soon picked out a couple of Black-winged Stilt and a lone Pochard.  A Mallard family was under the far bank and a handful of young White-headed Duck below us.  A few Coot made themselves known and the nearby trees held small numbers of, mainly juvenile, Goldfinch.  A couple of Moorhen put in an appearance and then a true family of Little Grebe, Mum and Dad plus five youngsters.

Juvenile Little Ringed Plover

Moving on to the Wader Pool proved most exciting.  The water levels have gone from virtually empty to full and now that they are once more rapidly receding it was pleasing to see the return of some waders.  A count produced a dozen Black-winged Stilts of varying ages, adult and young, 3 Dunlin and 23 Curlew Sandpiper.  As we watched and photographed a single Little Stint appeared before us to join the handful of Ringed Plover with many Little Ringed Plovers, mainly youngsters, in the background and a lone White Wagtail.  Ted having joined us, we did not see his Kingfisher disappear down the rear channel but we did have a number of Collared Doves; not really the sort of swap you would wish to seek!  The far "Osprey" tree produced a resting Hoopoe and a pair of Kestrel and then we were on our way towards the Sea Watch.

Flamingos heading north

Whimbrel

No sooner started than we had a Zitting Cisticola on the path in front of us and, we were pleased to see, a couple of dog-walkers with their pets on a tight leash; well done them.  As we approached the Rio Viejo, a party of 5 Flamingo were heading east and approaching the sea to, presumably, follow the coastline north.  The banks of the old river were alive with plovers and, we calculated, that there must have been well in excess of 40; mainly Kentish Plover but both Little Ringed Plover and Ringed Plover were also recorded.  Thank goodness for Andy's scope as we were able to locate a single, resting Whimbrel.  Strange to say, whilst there were more Black-winged Stilts there were no gulls.  However, a look in the opposite direction towards the river confirmed that the birds were about.  A small party of mainly immature Yellow-legged and Audouin's Gulls were on a gravel bank whilst in the sky above the Laguna Grande could be seen very large numbers of gulls; these would have to await our arrival at the last hide for the day.

With nothing to be seen over the sea and the water quite rough, we started on the return journey and the hope, with the increasing light, that we might get some better photos of the Curlew Sandpipers, etc.  We were not to be disappointed.  Time was pressing and we had yet to once more reach the Laguna Casillas where, suddenly, old acquaintances were renewed and a much longer than anticipated stop was made.  However, it did give the opportunity to watch a pair of Reed Warblers foraging in the reeds below the hide.

Whiskered Tern

The walk to the Laguna Escondida produced both Pallid Swift and Crested Lark and the water, on arrival, was full of Little Grebe plus White-headed Duck and Coot.  So to the Laguna Grande which was awash with gulls and all sorts.  In addition to more Black-headed Gulls there were also good numbers of Mediterranean Gulls and a few, mainly immature, Lesser Black-backed Gulls.  Having sorted out a juvenile Sandwich Tern, it was quickly joined by 7 Whiskered Terns and the, at the far end, the sight of 8, unringed, Spoonbill.  Around the perimeter, scores of Little Egret and the arrival of a small number of Spotless Starlings.  The muddy banks immediately in front and to the right of the hide were playing host to a number of waders, mainly Redshank and Little Ringed Plovers.  However, first given away by its size when "seeing off" one of the former, a single Spotted Redshank.  Yet more Common Sandpipers and it really was time to make our departure.

Chameleon

Now you see me, now you don't!

Reading Andy's blog of our joint visit reminded me that I had forgotten to mention the eight inch (20 cm) Chameleon (Chamaeleo chameleon) the we past at the edge of the track on the way back to the footbridge.  What a tremendous master of disguise this creature is.  Indeed, if it had not been for the fact that three of us were watching him as he walked into the dried grass, as each of us looked away we would never have found him again save for one or both of the others keeping an eye on his slow meanderings.  Forget green for grass or trees, this little brown job was as well camouflaged as a Bittern in a reed bed.

Not surprising, the resident Rock Doves were below the motorway bridge and more Barn Swallows about but the last bird recorded, flying low across the river, was a Red-rumped Swallow.  Finally, back at the car, farewells taken and home to face to proverbial music - but a great morning's birding in super company.

Curlew Sandpiper

Little Stint

A mix of Curlew sandpipers and Dunlin

Birds seen:

Little Grebe, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Heron, Spoonbill, Flamingo, Mallard, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Little Ringed Plover, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Whimbrel, Common Sandpiper, Greenshank, Spotted Redshank, Redshank, Dunlin, Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint, Yellow-legged Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Audouin's Gull, Mediterranean Gull, Black-headed Gull, Whiskered Tern, Sandwich Tern, Bee-eater, Hoopoe, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Monk Parakeet, Pallid Swift, Common Swift, Crested Lark, Barn Swallow, Red-rumped Swallow, House Martin, White Wagtail, Blackbird, Zitting Cisticola, Reed Warbler, Serin, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, House Sparrow and Spotless Starling.

Rio Velez, Torre del Mar

Zitting Cisticola (Fan-tailed warbler)

To the bathroom at 6 so decided to get up and make an early morning visit to the Rio Velez at Torre del Mar rather than return to bed.  Quick wash and brush-up, drink and cereal and down at the mouth of the river just after 7 o'clock.  Much in shade rather than dark but in time to catch the early morning departure of 13 Cattle Egrets.  It looks as if the autumn roost for these birds, which can often be counted in hundreds, is gradually returning.  However, the first sight was a flock in excess of 150 House Martins which, I suspect, had been roosting in the tall reeds/bamboo just behind the beach.  There might have been more to see had not three fishermen already staked out their place on the beach immediately in front of the lagoon.  On the water itself, a small group of immature Yellow-legged Gulls accompanied by an even smaller collection of mixed-aged Black-headed Gulls along with feeding Moorhens.

On the western side of the river where I started, a couple of early Blackbirds and the first of a few Crested Lark plus, as you might well imagine, the local House Sparrows.  A walk back along the track produced both Cetti's and Reed Warbler and a small party of 5 Mallard resting under the opposite bank.  Also apparent were the large numbers of Greenfinches to be seen.

Cattle Egret

Little Ringed Plover

Returning to the car I then retraced my route and parked near the road bridge on the eastern side of the river so that I could walk the track down to the pumping station and beach.  The usual resident Rock Doves were present along with yet more Greenfinches.  In the river a couple of Common Sandpiper and 3 Dunlin.  Close by a Little Ringed Plover "moved on" a single Kentish Plover whilst Barn Swallows fed overhead.  Finally, wader wise, a pair of Black-winged Stilts had taken up residence and from who-knows-where a pair of Pochard had dropped in for the morning.

Tree Sparrow

A walk around the growing fields, which are quite barren at the moment, produced the first pair of Zitting Cisticola for the morning followed by the first party of Goldfinches and large numbers of Serin.  However, the odd one out was the lovely, if somewhat abraded, Tree Sparrow that had joined his close relatives.  To complete the gathering, at least 50 Spotless Starlings chasing around like a "bunch of yobs!"

And that was just about it.  A Yellow Wagtail (Iberian) flew upstream as I took a quick look at the river above the bridge.  It very much looks as if the Hoopoe chick has now fledged but, as well as a feeding White Wagtail, there were at least 3 Spotted Flycatchers to be seen along with yet more Greenfinches and Serin.

Birds seen:

Cattle Egret, Mallard, Pochard, Moorhen, Black-winged Stilt, Little Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Common Sandpiper, Dunlin, Yellow-legged Gull, Black-headed Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Crested Lark, Barn Swallow, House Martin, White Wagtail, Blue-headed Wagtail, Blackbird, Cetti's Warbler, Reed Warbler, Zitting Cisticola, Spotted Flycatcher, Serin, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, House Sparrow, Tree Sparrow and Spotless Starling.

Spain v England: Armchair Update!

You know how it is as kids when yours was always bigger?  My house is bigger than your house; my toy is better than your toy; I can run faster than you, etc, etc.  Well, following my little missive yesterday about "Armchair Birding" I had a cracking email from Northampton, England this morning from my very good friend, Tony - and it is much along those very same lines!

I am sure Tony must get fed up with hearing/reading about all the great birds we see out here but he really got his own back today with the following sightings in his back garden; and no doubt he was also relaxing on the sun lounger.  And I quote:

Back garden birding has been interesting, especially yesterday. In the space of half an hour we had a Red Kite, four Buzzards, Green Woodpecker, Sparrowhawk and a flock of about 50 Goldfinches all over the garden or in the trees, in addition to the more general birds. Three weeks ago we had a fox walking down towards the house at 8.00am in the morning and then it went through a hole into next door. When at Moreton-in-the-Marsh we had a day at Slimbridge and saw a variety of birds, we've also been to Top Lodge in the caravan, obviously Red Kite hunting amongst others - Marsh Tits and Coal Tits and I've got some cracking photos of a Great Spotted Woodpecker   flying between peanut feeders. Finally at about 8.30pm in the middle leylandii (spelling wrong) tree a Song Thrush was belting out from the top and I got some of the best photos ever. It was a beautiful sunny evening and ideal for taking pictures.

Makes you sick, doesn't it?  All I have to shout about this sunny morning is a singing Turtle Dove on the electricity wire below and a few distant Common Swifts.  That's it, I'm definitely down to either one of the rivers or Fuente de Piedra tomorrow!

Armchair birding!

Off down to the local village to see Doc early this morning passing the usual House Sparrows, Thekla Larks and Serins; fight through the hoards of Common Swifts and then back up the track with a very close view of a resting Hoopoe and the odd Collared Dove.

Short-toed Eagle

Weather very warm and sunny so I settle back in the terrace lounger to watch and listen to the activity above and below.  As far as the latter is concerned, there are still many Turtle Doves about with their 1970s telephone jingle whilst, overhead, numerous Common Swifts and Barn Swallows were feeding as if it was their last day on the planet!  Keep watching and, err long, the birds were joined by a couple of families of Red-rumped Swallows and a few House Martins.  All I could do to go and fetch the binoculars but the "mewing" call from below soon got me off my backside and there was our majestic Short-toed Eagle heading for his favourite tree.  (I even had time to go and get the camera, fit the 1.4 teleconverter and still take a few shots at about 500 metre distance - same level as me; best of photos will be added later.)

Meanwhile, more screaming from above so I then concentrated on the feeding Bee-eaters - about time they turned up in numbers again so that they can have a go at the wasp numbers.  It seemed an opportunity not to be missed to have a closer look at the swifts and, sure enough, a small number of Pallid Swifts were also present. A few years ago I would have been over the moon to see the local male Stonechat sat on the fence above me but, now, the birds seem to be a s common as House Sparrows back in 1960s Blighty!

What to do, what to do?  Let the world take care of itself whilst I relaxed in the padded chair and continued with my latest novel.  The only really important decision to be taken was at what point I would actually jump/fall into the pool.  Maybe, like yesterday, I can actually sit in the water on the pool steps and watch the swallows skimming over the water right in front of my face for their liquid refreshment.  Now that's what I call "Armchair Birding!"

How to combine the wedding anniversary and birding; and get away with it!

What a way to celebrate your wedding anniversary! Booked in at the local office of the Spanish Dracular representative first thing this morning to give up some of the red stuff and then a previously arranged hair-cut (by wife not self) in the late afternoon. The compromise was a suggestion that we go over to Alhama de Granada after I had made my bloody sacrifice and enjoy a meal before retuning for a touch of the Samson and Delilah treatment. So far so good and all going according to plan. (You have to be a little on the devious side to get on in life!)

How on earth could you go past Zafarraya to Alhama without making a brief stop at the pass? No Choughs but we did have a female Black Redstart as soon as we got out of the car quickly followed by a Black Wheatear. In addition, the fact that Jenny saw an eagle of some description being "moved on" by a pair of smaller raptors as I turned into the parking area put er in a very good frame of mind for the rest of the day. By the way, before I could get a chance to look out of the window all three raptors had drifted behind the mountain, never to be seen again. The walk to to the old tunnel and just beyond also revealed first House Martin and Crag Martin quickly followed by both an adult pair and a recently fledged Rock Sparrow. Again, no sign of any of the presumed breeding Alpine Swifts but we did have a couple of Common Swifts pass over very high and a lone Barn Swallow. To be expected, no shortage of Stonechats and more Black Wheatear sightings. Returning to the car and the nearby bar for a coffee, one has to make these exceptions to keep the team happy, numerous House Sparrows and a somewhat forlorn Collared Dove were encountered.

Then it was on via the "growing fields" and woods to Alhama de Granada. Serins along the road plus the first of a few Thekla Larks but the "muck heap" site is once again fenced off. However, the track was open to the "Brambling field" but nothing to be seen from in front of the small quarry. Returning to the road we were surprised by the sight of 3 Jays and then the first of a handful of Azure-winged Magpies. The corn had recently been cut and sitting on a straw bale a lovely view of a Red-legged Partridge whilst, overhead, a magnificent male Kestrel drifted past.

Wood Pigeon

Approaching the pantaneta at Alhama, we turned off to visit the picnic site before heading round to the lake and the open-sided hide. Wood Pigeons above and Blackbirds below but the leafy tress were also playing host to a small family party of Long-tailed Tits and a couple of Blue Tits. Chaffinches everywhere once you started looking and listening and then that lovely fluted call of the Golden Oriole. Judging by the directions, I calculate that there were at least three calling birds in this small wooded area. So round to the lake, passing a resting Turtle Dove on the wire above to see a somewhat disappointing representation of a handful of Pochard and no more than 20 Coot, including youngsters. Finally, as we made our way back to the car to head off for the town itself, a young Grey Wagtail and 4 White Wagtails on the dam plus a small party of Goldfinches moving through the surrounding trees.

In Alhama de Granada itself, there seemed to be fewer Rock Doves on the walls of the gorge but we did, at least, have a small family party of Red-rumped Swallows to keep us entertained. Then, having eaten our full accompanied by some liquid refreshment, we made our way back to Lake Vinuela and Los Romanes. Almost there and a phone call to say that the electricity had been "cut off" so need to turn up and, as a result, I still have my curly locks - for the time being! Blue Rock Thrushes as we drove up the track and then more Thekla Larks plus Sardinian Warblers with, finally, some beautiful Bee-eaters to welcome us home and the reviving qualities of a dip in the pool.

So, lovely day in gorgeous weather, over 30 birds seen, Jenny happy to have finished her book and be in charge of the remote. What more could you ask for on the special day? Not an argument in sight - but, there again, I am up here once more on the computer and the time has come to go down and face the proverbial music!

Birds seen:
Pochard, Kestrel, Coot, Red-legged Partridge, Bee-eater, Rock Dove, Wood Pigeon, Turtle Dove, Collared Dove, Swift, Thekla Lark, Crag Martin, Barn Swallow, Red-rumped Swallow, House Martin, Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Black Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush, Blackbird, Sardinian Warbler, Long-tailed Tit, Blue Tit, Chaffinch, Serin, Goldfinch, House Sparrow, Rock Sparrow, Golden Oriole, Azure-winged Magpie and Jay.

Guadalhorce, Malaga

Up early with the intention of visiting the Rio Velez in Torre del mar to find the Black-rumped Waxbills that were seen last week. But, as I drove the mountain, I realised that I was going to be too early but I could be at the Guadalhorce ponds in Malaga by about day-break. So, quick change of plan and 6.45 saw me walking over the footbridge into the Guadalhorce reserve. Still very poor light but just managed to catch a glimpse of a low flying owl as it crossed the river and disappeared behind me towards the church. What was it? No idea but certainly not a Barn owl, the poor light suggesting light and streaky breast but unable to get the binoculars focused before the bird was gone.

The initial disappointment was more than made up for when, passing through the "bamboo avenue" on the way the far side and the Laguna Casillas, I managed to disturb Red-necked Nightjar which took off from right under my nose. Continuing on, the early risers were the large numbers of Common Swifts flying low for their early morning breakfast. These birds were later joined by Barn Swallows, but not so many, and finally the local House Martins put in an appearance. The first hide was reached in silence where the resident ducks were mainly resting rather than feeding including a few Pochard, a number of Mallard of varying range and sex plus a couple of Juvenile White-headed Ducks. Two Coots, a Little Grebe and 3 resting Black-winged Stilts. However, the odd one out was the single Greylag Goose that I suspect has been hanging around this particular pond for at least a couple of weeks.

By the time I was ready to move on the "Wader Pond" the light had rapidly improved and my passage was accompanied by constant harrying from the breeding Black-winged Stilts. Judging by the very few juveniles on the water, what little there was after much evaporation, the stilts presumably think I am an overgrown gull come for my breakfast. (Good job I had sandwiches in my pocket or I might have been tempted!) Just before reaching the second hide I did notice a pair of Spoonbill at the back of the island but gone by the time I had taken my seat. (I did eventually catch up with all 3 of these "resident" individuals when I finally reached the Laguna Grande.) With so little water in this pool it was surprising that there was anything to see other than the dozen or so Black-winged Stilts, including some very well grown youngsters. A total of 3 Little Ringed Plover and then the appearance of a pair of early Ringed Plovers plus a single Kentish Plover. Finally, a lone Common Sandpiper dropped in to feed in front of me but was gone within the minute.

The walk to the Sea watch proved very barren with nothing on the east river side and only a handful of Black-headed Gulls on the right. However, there were a half-dozen Kentish Plovers, 5 Little Egret and a couple of adult Grey Heron in addition to more Black-winged Stilts. A single juvenile White Wagtail made a short visit but nothing to see at sea. Not helped, I suppose, by the early morning fisherman who was working his way along the beach (both sides of the track) and the noisy pair of cyclist who passed me and arrive at the Sea watch before 7.30.

returning to the two hides before moving back into the reserve proper the first sight of a small family party of Goldfinch and a few juvenile House Sparrows resting in the nearby bushes and shrubs. Not only warm enough now for the House Martins to join in the feeding frenzy but also light enough to pick out a few Pallid Swifts feeding with the darker and bigger cousins. A couple of Serin were seen in the bamboos opposite the second hide and then a pair of Sardinian Warblers quickly followed by at least 4 individual Zitting Cisticolas.

Approaching the Laguna Escondida, it was apparent that there were still many Bee-eaters about on the reserve, including many juveniles. Watching from the hide, you could always count at least 20 individuals in the neighbouring trees and bushes and then realise that they were accompanied, at one point, by 3 Monk Parakeets and a dozen Spotless Starlings. On the water, lots of Little Grebes, including juveniles, and a certain amount of squabbling. White-headed Duck and Mallard were present also along with a small number of Coot and a couple of Moorhen.

In addition to the 3 Spoonbill, the Laguna Grande was playing host to about an hundred Gulls, mainly Black-headed but also a small number of Mediterranean. The local Rock Doves were also present and later joined by at least half a dozen Collared Doves. A family of 5 Little Ringed Plover posed below the hide and the Black-winged Stilts kept up a constant barrage of attacks on the gulls. With the sun getting brighter and the temperature rapidly soaring, I decided to call it a day by 10 o'clock and made my way back to the car, disturbing a single Crested Lark on the final path just before a female Blackbird crossed further into the reserve. The last swathe of trees near the river before reaching the footbridge contained a mixture of at least a dozen Monk Parakeets, 20 Bee-eaters and as many as 70 or more House Sparrows.

Whilst only a disappointing36 species recorded, I did at least get to see a Red-necked Nightjar and was back home before the temperature really went through the proverbial roof. Bad enough seeing an indication of "29" at the church roundabout without thinking about what it might have reached if I had stayed another hour!

Birds seen: Little Grebe, Little Egret, Heron, Spoonbill, Greylag Goose, Mallard, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Little Ringed Plover, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Common Sandpiper, Yellow-legged Gull, Mediterranean Gull, Black-headed Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Monk Parakeet, Red-necked Nightjar, Pallid Swift, Swift, Bee-eater, Crested Lark, Barn Swallow, House Martin, White Wagtail, Blackbird, Zitting Cisiticola, Sardinian Warbler, Serin, Goldfinch, House Sparrow and Spotless Starling.

Almeria to Alicante: Axarquia meets Arboleas

Tuesday 13 July

The day, Tuesday, finally arrived when Jenny and I travelled up to Arboleas near Albox in distant Almeria to meet up with Dave and Gilly Elliott-Binns. The object of the exercise was to explore the El Fondo reserve in nearby Elche just inland from Alicante. However, with only two opening days a week for a set time (in at the opening and locked in till the end) it would mean an early start; if only because the set opening hours are from 8.15 to 11.15 on Wednesdays and Saturdays. This would, therefore, require us to be "on the road" by 5.30 am at the latest if we were to meet our deadline. So, all cleared up at home, Jenny and I set out just after 9 am with stops at the rubbish bins, friends in nearby Los Romanes to drop off bits and pieces, Halifax in Torrox to sort out the bank account and finally, the motorway to Almeria.

Just when I thought we could think about some birding, ignoring the lovely Hoopoe that flew across the road in front of us as we made our way along the old N340 through Torrox and the ever-present Rock Dove and Swifts and Barn Swallows and House Martins above, it was time, so I was told, to take a coffee break. Too early for lunch but, nevertheless, we headed down to Almarimar for a coffee and then the Chinese "eat as much as you want (can?)" next door. By the time we eventually got to Las Norias the day was almost over so only time for about a thirty minute stop to explore the lake. But it was well worth the effort with Squacco Herons all over the place, not to mention Great Crested Grebe and then Night Heron.

Turning left at the plastic re-cycling plant we stopped to look at the small pools either side of the bridge. Coots and rapidly growing White-headed Duck then a pair of Red-crested Pochard quickly followed by Common Pochard. A constant movement of Squacco Herons across the road interspersed with both Little and Cattle Egret. A walk along the main lake path exposed more Little and Great Crested Grebes plus an over-flying adult Night Heron. Over the waters a couple of Common Tern and then a Whiskered Tern plus large numbers of Common Swift and Barn Swallows. In the reeds, the constant calling of Reed warblers and then the first sightings of a number of Black-winged Stilts.

Leaving Jenny to move the car up to the end gate, I walked along the road and then down the path at the side of the corner field to look at the other side of the main pool. Again, plenty of resting Cattle Egrets, a few Moorhen but, along this track, at least 15 Hoopoe. Including the others feeding on the field itself there must have been at least 20 in view. Keeping these gorgeous birds company was a small flock of Calandra Lark plus the odd Crested Lark. Finally, a very small group of Bee-eaters resting in a dead tree within the small pool as a Kestrel flew over.

Onward then to Cabo de Gata to see what might be at this beautiful site. To be expected, at least 300 Flamingo accompanied by well in excess of 200 Avocet and at least 50 Black-tailed Godwit. Little Terns were both feeding over the water and resting on the small island opposite the public hide. In front, a good number of Kentish Plover and large numbers of Black-headed Gulls. However, amongst the Black-tailed Godwits was one stranger looking distinctly pale by comparison. No sooner had it turned and exposed its "nose and a half" and there was no doubting that I had found at least one Curlew on site. On the far side, a small party of 3 Grey Heron.



No way we were going to be at Dave and Gilly's by late afternoon, especially as we were both hot and sticky and in desperate need for a swim to cool down. So, finally after about forty minutes we were once more back on the road and heading further north. Past the old boat as left Cabo (now resplendent with over 40 Rock Doves aboard) and up to the motorway. Finally, we were met by Dave just outside his village and continued on to our destination. But all was not done yet! Having arranged for us to take a cooling swim in a neighbour's pool, like the idiot that I am at times (well, probably most of the time) I jumped in with my hearing aids still in place. I'll no doubt find out the damage when I visit the specialist tomorrow morning for, having immediately replaced the batteries, it must be the first time I have seen rust on plastic!!!!

Birds seen on Tuesday: Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Squacco Heron, Night Heron, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Grey Heron, Flamingo, Mallard, Red-crested Pochard, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Avocet, Kentish Plover, Curlew, Black-tailed Godwit, Yellow-legged Gull, Black-headed Gull, Common Tern, Whiskered Tern, Little Tern, Bee-eater, Hoopoe, Rock Dove, Turtle Dove, Collared Dove, Swift, Calandra Lark, Crested Lark, Barn Swallow, House Martin, Reed Warbler, House Sparrow and Spotless Starling.


Wednesday 14 July

Up at the crack of dawn and a very light breakfast saw us both set off in separate cars for El Fondo near Elche. The most impressive part of the journey was passing through Lorca in the dark with its illuminated castle on the skyline above the old town. Very beautiful and romantic; a must come again experience. With the light up and the temperature rapidly increasing, we stopped for coffee and filled the car with diesel (why is fuel MUCH cheaper in Mercia?) and so on to El Fondo arriving in very good time at just after 8 o'clock. We had hardly got chance to get our breath back when the warden arrived over fifteen minutes early, told us we were to be the only visitors for the morning and opened up those proverbial "pearly gates" for entrance into a birding paradise.

Leaving the over-flying party of Jackdaws behind, we set off down the track towards the far end and the elevated hide. Moorhens to the left and the n a passing Purple Heron to the right. The little footbridge had a resting Grey Heron on top of the sign (probably stating "No Fishing") and soon we were parked at the bottom and carrying bins, scopes and cameras up the wooden steps. What a sight! To the right on the edge of the main pool many a Black-winged Stilt plus Mallard and both Cattle and Little Egret. To the left on the smaller section of water a pair of Moustached Warblers scrubbing about immediately below whilst Great Crested Grebe and White-headed Duck foraged away behind them. The second of at least 4 Marsh Harriers drifted across whilst a Green Sandpiper shot off down the channel.

Where yesterday had been all about Squacco Herons, we did see quite a few here as well, this morning's bird was the Little Bittern. No sooner had you seen one individual than another was either climbing up a reed in front or flying across the reeds in front of you. To add to the general feel to the place with its range of bird sounds were a good number of Reed warbler plus that noisy little chap, the Zitting Cisticola. Before setting out to walk to a range of hides along the track overlooking various sections of water, we also had the first of a few Night Herons pass over.

The small canal parallel to the main track seemed to have been taken over by the Pochard family, made up of mother plus 10 ducklings. In the reeds and small scrub to the side an Iberian Chifchaff not to mention the first of two Southern Grey Shrikes seen on the reserve. Mallard seemed to be plentiful as were Black-headed Gulls and, to a lesser extent, Yellow-legged Gulls. Terns were represented by a not insignificant number of both Whiskered Tern and Little Tern. Overhead, a large number of Swifts including a not small number of Pallid Swifts accompanied by Barn Swallows but no other hirundines.

By the time we reached the far hide overlooking the main pool we had recorded Kestrel and a small party of Wood Pigeon plus more Little Bittern and Purple Heron. The last were quite possibly feeding on the plentiful supply of dead and dying Carp, most at least30 cm with a few even larger specimens. (Jenny says that she saw one fish at least a metre long; "fisherman's tale or possibly a Pike?) On consulting with the local warden she was of the certain opinion that death was due to the rapidly reducing water level, heat and and resulting loss of oxygen in the water; not some form of agricultural poisoning. (There will now be a very short break whilst I watch the family of 5 Red-rumped Swallows "squabbling" outside the door less than two metres away!) On the water itself, a single Black-necked Grebe.

The main water held at least, according to Gilly, 1500 Flamingo plus a further 200 or so Avocet. Accompanying the birds were the terns already referred to and a Shoveler plus a small number of Shelduck. In the reeds immediately in front a very close view of a juvenile Great Reed Warbler which was later followed by a good sighting of an adult of this species. As we made our way back to the cars and elevated hide we had Goldfinch and a good view of a Montagu's Harrier. Once back in the latter, both male and female Montagu's slowly flew over and a White Wagtail put in a belated appearance on the sandy island below. Meanwhile, a Little Grebe decided to entertain us right in front of the hide as the Moustached Warblers did their best to try and present themselves for a photographic opportunity. Sadly, I feel I let the birds down on this occasion being unable to rise to the challenge as the camera battery gradually lost power. Almost finished and a single Purple Swamphen appeared from the reed to join in the communal fun. So, with closing time quickly approaching and the sun getting ever hotter, we made our way back to the main gate for our "exit permit" and freedom. But not before the Southern Grey Shrike put in another appearance and then a Roller decided it would accompany me on the return journey. Stopping to rest in a bare tree I could not believe my luck but ten I should have remembered that the camera battery was on the blink and I had yet to do a swap. Isn't it always the way? So, apologies for the rather blurred image.

Having said our thanks and goodbyes to the lovely warden, we made our way round to the far side of the reserve to call in at the Information Centre. Again, all very quiet with we four being the only visitors at the time. Outside there were Barn Swallows feeding over the small pool and a lone Kentish Plover resting on the bank above. On the way down to the Information Centre a Red-rumped Swallow had swooped down to the parallel canal in search of food and on the way back to the road a couple of Crested Larks scavenged about in a neighbouring field.

So, with 50 birds recorded we made a final stop for refreshments a couple of kms away and then it was the long journey back home; Arboleas for Dave and Gilly and Velez de Benaudalla for Jenny and I so that we could try and sort out a couple of problems re electricity and Hacienda on the morrow. Nevertheless, a most enjoyable day and many thanks to Dave and Gilly for undertaking the organisation and being such very, very pleasant company. Me thinks this will not be my last visit to this wonderful site, albeit next time, I believe, early June might be a better time to make the long journey. Anyone interested in coming with me/us as I am sure that we could find inexpensive accommodation in Elche or nearby?

Finally, in case you are wondering, yes we did stop at Lorca on the way back to look at the town and castle and even had a pair of Black Wheatear below the rampart walls for our trouble!

Birds seen at El Fondo:
Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Squacco Heron, Night Heron, Little Bittern, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Purple Heron, Grey Heron, Flamingo, Shelduck, Shoveler, Mallard, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Marsh Harrier, Montagu's Harrier, Kestrel, Moorhen, Purple Gallinule, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Avocet, Kentish Plover, Green Sandpiper, Yellow-legged Gull, Black-headed Gull, Common Tern, Whiskered Tern, Little Tern, Roller, Rock Dove, Wood Pigeon, Pallid Swift, Common Swift, Crested Lark, Barn swallow, Red-rumped Swallow, White Wagtail, Black Wheatear, Blackbird, Zitting Cisticola, Reed Warbler, Great Reed Warbler, Moustached Warbler, Iberian Chiffchaff, Southern Grey Shrike, Goldfinch, House Sparrow, Spotless Starling and Jackdaw.

Rio Velez, Torre del Mar

Another day, another site to visit. Jenny needing to be at her Judo class before 9 it gave me to go down to the Rio Velez riverbed before the sun became too unbearably hot. (I could have also gone to the Judo class but that would have been silly!) Arriving a few minutes after 8 I had a lovely couple of hours with a good range of birds but, especially, the opportunity to see how the Hoopoe family were getting on. The youngster was still in the nest and, I suspect, the only chick as he refused to take his head away from the entrance hole for more than the occasional second or two. With all the food that was being supplied by both parents, this young chap is going to need to go on a strict diet to even get out through the present hole!

Parking the car below the road bridge, I was immediately confronted by the resident Rock Doves and a couple of Collared Doves plus three well-matured juvenile Coots on the far bank and a single Moorhen paddling away from me. Over the water a constant supply of both Barn Swallows and Common Swifts and then a Woodchat Shrike watching e from the electricity cable above. Walking down the track towards the pumping station, first a young Spotted Flycatcher closely followed by the first small party of Greenfinches. Likewise, plenty of Serins moving around and before long I was also seeing many Goldfinch. The fast-flowing river below rewarded me with the sight of 3 Common Sandpipers moving downstream as they passed a single Little Ringed Plover coming n the opposite direction which, very conveniently, settled immediately in front of me. Very nice.

The scrub area between the track and the river was, once more, excellent in producing something a little special. First a single Grey Heron flying downstream the a mass of House Martins. Within the scrub itself, a number of Reed Warblers seen (just as well as they seem to have now finished their singing season), A single Zitting Cisitcola and then a small flock of Linnets at the water's edge. Another Blackbird crossed the river which, at the same time, exposed the numerous parties of House Sparrows. A Yellow Wagtail (Iberian Blue-headed) worked its way past me and then, surprise surprise, a rather impressive, if diminutive, Wren at close quarters. Finally, before heading off for the beach, a juvenile Grey Wagtail.

The beach was very quiet in all manner of ways; very few walkers, no nudists, no waves, no extended canal to the sea (now a straight exit) and, also no birds - or very few. An odd Black-headed Gull over the river's end lagoon and the a solitary Bee-eater resting on a tall bamboo. Finally, a small group of Red-rumped Swallows moved across the area in front of some following Barn Swallows and a pair of Kentish Plovers made themselves known on the river's edge. As I moved away a rather large party of Spotless Starlings arrived on the scene and scared away a Crested Lark, whilst out at sea, a small number of Yellow-legged Gulls could be observed resting on the water.

The walk back to the car via the beach and "growing fields" not only produced an over-flying Mallard but also a pair of Sedge Warblers, one very close to the small path that I was on and very visible even thought he (the bird) thought he was well concealed at the bottom of the bush! Lastly, the raucous from above could mean only one thing; the Monk Parakeets had left the town for their beach visit and wanted the whole world to know. Very flashy birds but what a racket they make!

So, in the car and under the bridges to the Hoopoe's nest. Car suitably parked and windows lowered giving me a wonderful, and close, view of the nest as the youngster looked out and waited to be fed by both parents. Very strange to see the Hoopoe youngster watching me as closely as I was watching him (her?). Completely oblivious to all this action, no end of Greenfinches and Goldfinches continued on their family feeding activities without a care in the world. I could have stayed for another hour or more but with no food and water all gone, it was time to head for home and the swimming pool to cool off. 33 species so far but as soon as I left Los Romanes for the mountain track first a pair of Stonechats, quickly followed by a number of Thekla Larks, then a Kestrel and finally a pair of Sardinian Warblers as I reached the top. Not a bad morning and still cleaned up and in the pool before 11.15!
Next week Jenny and I are off to meet up with Dave and Gilly from Almeria Province so that we can explore the yet unknown (to us) site at El Fondo (El Hondo) near Elche, to the west of Alicante. We are hoping that the reserve will produce the tremendous range of birds seen by Dave and Gill on their last visit to the site. For a full report see Andy Paterson's blog or CLICK HERE when you have finished with this site.

Birds seen:
Grey Heron, Mallard, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Little Ringed Plover, Common Sandpiper, Yellow-legged Gull, Black-headed Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Monk Parakeet, Bee-eater, Hoopoe, Swift, Crested Lark, Thekla Lark, Barn Swallow, Red-rumped Swallow, House Martin, Grey Wagtail, Blue-headed Wagtail, Wren, Stonechat, Blackbird, Sedge Warbler, Zitting Cisticola, Reed Warbler, Sardinian Warbler, Woodchat Shrike, Spotted Flycatcher, Serin, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Linnet, House Sparrow and Spotless Starling.


Around, above and below

Sitting on on a sun lounger last evening, doing nothing and generally minding my own business, I was entertained by the Barn Swallow families that decided to take advantage of the open swimming pool to supplement their diet whilst feeding over the terrace. No sooner had the birds started drinking that all their cousins seemed to arrive to join in the party; first those Red-rumped hirundines closely followed by a very small number of House Martins. Meanwhile, the Common Swifts circled above and looked on with a sense of doubt and dismay. No sooner had the first Barn Swallow youngster made a real hash of taking on water, he looked wetter than me when I got out of the pool, than all the kids were up to their proverbials in the drink. The big question was should I laugh or simply throw them a ball or lilo with which to play?

We all know what happens when we get wet, we need to dry off. So there I sat with a line full of juvenile Swallows of both varieties not more than 2 to 3 metres from my head. A super opportunity to compare the different colourings of both juveniles. The birds, well most of them, even remained whilst I eventually got up and went into the house to get the camera!

juvenile Barn Swallow

juvenile Red-rumped Swallow

This morning was slightly different! Back from the above visit to the Rio Velez I was happily sorting photographs having finished the blog when the cry went up from "'er Indoors" who had just returned home. Commotion; well, yes, both above and below. I was more interested in the above where our friendly Short-toed Eagles had returned after many weeks. With the youngster sitting happily in the "family tree" the parent was circling overhead. Given the time the youngster remained, still in the tree now a couple of hours later as I add this extension to the blog, I can only assume that he is waiting to be fed or letting a very large meal be digested.

If the latter, then the visitor below might be safe. As Jenny came round the corner onto the terrace from the garage she noted a movement out of the corner of her eye. Yes, you've guessed right again, there outside the bedroom window was the most ginormous snake deciding that , perhaps, now was no the time to either explore upstairs where I was or try and venture into the house. No doubt a Grass Snake at approximately a metre plus and a girth the thickness of a child's wrist. Not a sound out of Jenny, just a look of surprise as the wriggly thing disappeared from sight over the bank. Now if had been a mouse, even the very smallest of mouse that you can imagine, you would have heard the screams as far away as Malaga if not Almeria, if not further!

Guadalhorce, Malaga

Up early and down to the Guadalhorce to visit the ponds in the company of Andy Paterson and Frederico. Arriving at 7.45 I had an extra fifteen minutes to see what was about and realise that it was going to be another very hot day, so need for anything up top apart from shirt and hat. Given the heat, I had also taken the "old" camera (Panasonic FZ50 with the 1.7 extension) just in case anything came within range of the Lumix lens. My word it was not but that had not prevented the early birds including scores of feeding House Martins overhead, the first of very many Bee-eaters and the gathering hoard of Monk Parakeets. Walking from the church to the river, there were also many House Sparrows, Goldfinches, Blackbirds and Great Tits busy feeding in the nearby trees.

Walking along the bank to the footbridge, more House Martins and Barn Swallows plus a gorgeous Melodious Warbler just as Andy caught me up. (Frederico arrived a little later whilst we were on the far bank making our way from the "Wader" hide to the Sea Watch.) Crossing the bridge the breeding Red-rumped Swallows put in an appearance whilst overhead the first of the Common Swifts were seen feeding relatively high up. A male Kestrel watched our progress from a nearby treetop and, just after a small number of Rock Doves had made their way back to their favourite resting spot under the motorway bridge, a party of 4 Jackdaws were seen heading inland in search of their desayuno. Not to be outdone, a couple of Collared Doves also put in a brief appearance.

The river itself was rather quiet apart from a lone Moorhen and a departing Little Egret as we made our way to the eastern arm. A flash of bright yellow and, yet again, very good views of one of the resident Black-headed Weavers. This bird looks so much like a Black-headed Bunting and is quite different from the Yellow-crowned Bishop which also now seem s to have established itself in the wider area. More and more Bee-eaters heard and seen plus increasing numbers of Barn Swallows and then we were at the Laguna Casillas. Never mind the screaming Black-winged Stilts giving out their piercing alarm call as we made our way along the track, there were plenty of birds on both this pool and the neighbouring Wader Pool. Ducks consisted mainly of young White-headed Ducks plus at least 3 adult males, about a dozen Pochard and a good number of Mallard. A single Little Grebe made brief appearances between its underwater explorations whilst, in front of the hide, the occasional sight of a Cetti's Warbler dashing into the reeds and the calling of a Reed warbler.

On to the Wader Pool where at least 14 young Black-winged Stilts of varying ages were counted. A single Little Ringed Plover and a couple of Little Egrets and then on towards the sea with a close view of a Zitting Cisticola closely followed by a brief sight of an Orphean Warbler. In the same area, a passing Yellow Wagtail (Iberian race with blue head) and a Crested Lark before reaching the river shallows and the resting colony of gulls. Nothing to be seen from the beach apart from a couple of passing Sandwich Terns so more time to study the gulls, the moreso as Federico was the only one of us to bring a scope!

The gull flock seemed to contain in excess of 30 Audouin's Gulls (including at least one ringed bird with the sun brightly shining off its metal ring) in what were mainly Black-headed Gulls. However, there were at least 10 adult Mediterranean Gulls and then the discovery of the hiding terns; a pair of Sandwich Terns plus a well-developed juvenile and, as the flock regularly shifted, the sight of a young Common Tern. Immediately in front of the flock a couple of Kentish Plovers worked the shoreline whilst all was watched by the dozen Black-winged Stilts and their chicks on the far side. In the meantime, a small number of Yellow-legged Gulls were to be seen plus more Crested Larks, a small flock of Serin and another Cetti's Warbler.









Audouin's, Mediterranean and Black-headed Gulls, but can you spot the Sandwich Tern?

"I'm telling you, it went that way!"

The main area of attention as we made our way back to the Escondida Pool was the dark shape at the base of "Osprey Tree". Much discussion but, I am convinced, a juvenile Purple Heron. The bird did show some light areas beneath as it departed, seen by Andy, but the whole image was of a consistent dark bird with a pale throat and a "purplish" sheen, especially when the distant photos were enlarged.

More White-headed Ducks and Coots on the Escondida and scores of Bee-eaters flying over, accompanied by Barn Swallows, and the former regularly settling in the neighbouring bushes and trees. However, the special treat was the arrival of a Little Bittern in front of the hide which remained for the rest of our time at this pool. A "weak" black head stripe but no sign of streaking on the throat which, I think, suggests that the bird was a female rather than a juvenile.

So, finally, to the main pool and once more passing the very visible Black-headed Weaver and a number of Goldfinches, where the Black-winged Stilts and White-headed Ducks had been joined by a handful of Little Egrets and 3 Spoonbill. With the sun getting ever hotter and midday rapidly approaching, it was time to take our leave of the Guadalhorce for another day, but not before seeing a juvenile Greenfinch from the main track just after crossing the footbridge, and trudge wearily back to our cars, once more amongst House Martins and the Spotless Starlings, House Sparrows, Goldfinches and Great Tits feeding in the roadside trees. was it worth the effort? The morning may have been very hot but, according to my compilation, we had recorded 46 species. Of course it was worth the visit, birds or no, even if just for the pleasure of Andy and Federico's company.

Birds seen:
Little Grebe, Little Bittern, Little Egret, Purple Heron, Spoonbill, Mallard, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Little Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Redshank, Yellow-legged Gull, Audouin's Gull, Mediterranean Gull, Black-headed Gull, Sandwich Tern, Common Tern, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Monk Parakeet, Swift, Bee-eater, Crested Lark, Barn Swallow, Red-rumped Swallow, House Martin, Yellow Wagtail, Blackbird, Zitting Cisticola, Cetti's Warbler, Reed Warbler, Orphean Warbler, Melodious Warbler, Sardinian Warbler, Great Tit, Serin, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, House Sparrow, Spotless Starling and Jackdaw.