If you go down to the woods today ..........

Black Redstart  Colirrojo Tizon  (Phoenicurus ochruros)

Well I did go down to the woods, or rather I went up to El Robledal in the hope of finding some tits, woodpeckers, jays and others.  I need not have bothered to go in disguise; never mind the "Teddy Bears Picnic" there was far too much disturbance from the on-going tree-felling.  However, as well as a Blackbird and a Robin plus a three Thekla Larks as I drove down the access road and a beautiful Grey Wagtail as I turned off the parking area, I also had a good number of Jays.  Apart from that there was very little to be seen; a couple of Black Redstarts and a small number of Chaffinches.  However, the speciality more than made up for the lack of numbers as I also had my first, talk about leaving it late, Hawfinch for the year.  A rather splendid large finch that appeared out of nowhere, rested a few seconds in a berry-laden tree before making an early departure.  I did get a rather splendid picture of an empty tree!

But back to the beginning.  On the way to El Robledal, I stopped off at the old railway track at Ventas de Zafarraya, having already recorded Serin, White Wagtail and Collared Dove, to see what was about.  Immediately on arrival I had a pair of Stonechat and a couple of Rock Buntings.  During my brief stay I also saw at least 8 Black Wheatear but no Blue Rock Thrush and the Choughs were conspicuous by their absence.  A short walk along the trackbed also produced Great Tit and an all too few sighting of a  Dartford Warbler.  Needless to say there were also Spotless Starlings and House Sparrows in the neighbourhood and a rather delightful little charm of Goldfinch.  An added bonus was a close view of a Southern Grey Shrike as I made my way towards El Robledal and another pair were observed on the back track  between the latter and Alhama de Granada.  This track also produced a small mixed flock of Chaffinch and Linnet.

Great Cormorant  Cormoran Grande  (Phalacrocorax carbo)

There was more activity on the pantaneta at Alhama de Granada than on my last visit with at least 40 Pochard, about the same number of Coot, a drake Shoveler with two ducks and single Teal.  In addition, half a dozen Cormorants had taken up residence for my visit.  The picnic area on the other side of the water was, itself, under water and to help matters along the recent bad weather had brought down a large tree which very conveniently blocked the track.  However, I am made of sterner stuff and obstacles are created for diversions.  A paddle in the area produced more Chaffinches and a couple of Great Tits plus a very nice male Great Spotted Woodpecker.  Another Robin and a Chiffchaff were also recorded in the small spinney near the venta.  Departing Alhama de Granada, I had my first raptors of the day with 2 Kestrels as I headed towards Zafarraya.

Common Crossbill  Piquituerto Comun  (Loxia curvirostra)

Having seen relatively little in the woods of El Robledal, I decided to return via the scenic mountain track through the woods above Alcaucin.  Always worth a stop at the higher picnic area and today was no exception.  There, in its usual tree just waiting to be spotted and photographed, my first Crossbill of the day.  Before leaving about forty minutes later I had seen at least another handful.  Walking along the bottom slopes I came across a Crested Tit feeding on the ground (away before I could bring my camera up) and closely followed by more Chaffinches, Great Tits and another Grey Wagtail.  To complete the picture, I then had a pair of "low level" Coal Tits and 2 Short-toed Treecreepers.  The final bonus was the sudden appearance of a Firecrest immediately in front of me to bring the day's total up 36 plus the feeding Crag Martins as I made my way home along the mountain ridge on the Ruta de La Atalaya.  And the sun shone and a cup of coffee was awaiting me as I walked into the house - leaving mud on the floor according to Jenny!

Birds seen:

Little Grebe, Cormorant, Teal, Shoveler, Pochard, Kestrel, Coot, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Thekla Lark, Crag Martin, Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Black Wheatear, Blackbird, Dartford Warbler, Chiffchaff, Firecrest, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Crested Tit, Short-toed Treecreeper, Southern Grey Shrike, Chaffinch, Serin, Goldfinch, Hawfinch, Linnet, Crossbill, House Sparrow, Rock Bunting, Spotless Starling and Jay.

Up the mountain with Eric and Pat Lyon

More Boxing day Fun and Games

Some of us slept off the extra food and booze but not Eric and Pat.  Ever the fit and adventurous sort, rather than sit around the house they decided to walk off the excess and, as a result, also had some great birding.  Eric's account of their elevated walk is as follows:

After a stiff walk up the side of Maroma above Canillas de Aceituno we spotted the usual; White and Grey Wagtail, Crag Martin, Mistle Thrush, Coal Tit, Crested Tit, Firecrest, Short-toed Treecreeper, Chaffinch, Serin, Greenfinch and Goldfinch.  Above the clouds at 4500 feet we had several brief sightings of Dartford Warbler, which has been an elusive bird for me this year.  We also had close views of Ibex at the top near Los Charcones and Moufflon lower down.

Eric then posed the question you have all been asking since my reference to the first Barn Swallow of the year at the Guadalhorce on the same day.  My reply to Eric was as follows:

A good question re the coming or the going.  Are we suggesting some sort of retarded Swallow that thought it would be a good idea, as a result of everyone harping on about climate change and rising temperatures, to over-winter in northern Europe?   Perhaps the bird finally got the message that it was bloomin' cold and with everywhere covered in the white stuff maybe he ought, after all, to be heading south for some warmer weather.  On the other hand, perhaps our little hirrundine friend was either a brave or stupid Swallow (or both!) down Africa way and had been watching too much "Hancock" repeats on the local television and took on the bet when his mate suggested, "Last one in the Reichstag's a sissy!" and pushed off early to win the race?  As they say, you pays your money and you takes your choice!

Roll on the New Year.

Boxing Day and more Christmas Birding plus a very big surprise!

The weather promised fine and sunny and fine and sunny it was as I met up with Andy Paterson at 9.30 for a very pleasant morning's birding, meeting many old birding friends (less of the "old" I hear you say!) during the next couple of hours or so.  What a delightful to way to end the Christmas break; well, for those who have to work that is!

Booted Eagle  Aguililla Calzada  (Hieraaetus pennatus)

Walking up the river bank from our parked cars we had a handful of Monk Parakeets go screaming over then good sightings of both male and female Black Redstart quickly followed by Stonechat, Zitting Cisticola and a couple of Chifffchaff.  The walk along the embankment also provided a small number of both Serin and Goldfinch, not to mention the local House Sparrows.  Apart from the resident Rock Doves under the motorway bridge, the river was very quiet but we did see our first raptors with a pair of Booted Eagles soaring over the local church.

First port of call was the Laguna Grande, given that we would have to restrict our vist due to time constraints.  More White Wagtails as we approached and a passing Blackbird whilst, in the adjoining old river, were our first White-headed Duck and the inevitable Coot.  Indeed, calculations suggest that there are presently at least 20 of the former at the site.  The main pool contained more of both plus at least 20 Pochard, probably in excess of 50 present including all pools, a good number of Little Grebe and a solitory Black-necked Grebe.  There was a single Little Egret immediately below the main hide, a fair number of Grey Heron and a small number of Mallard at the back of the pool.  However, the centre of attraction was the raptors and Cormorants.  With regard to the latter, almost 100 were counted resting in the trees giving a, probable, total for the site well in excess of 150 birds.  Of the raptors, we had 3 resting Booted Eagles (including one individual wearing a yellow wingtag), a pair of Marsh Harriers and a Buzzard.  Just to complete the picture, a Kestrel passed overhead as we made our way to the Laguna Escondida.  Finally, as we were about to move on, two pairs of Shoveler dropped onto the water.

The Laguna Escondida really turned up trumps. Not so much the Little Grebe, Pochard, White-headed Ducks and a single Moorhen on the water, rather the twenty or so Crag Martins that were feeding overhead.  It was whilst watching these hirundines, not another Booted Eagle moving eastwards above the motorway, that I noticed a very clean, indeed white-looking, "Martin" out of the corner of my eye when Andy, in Spanish of course, drew everybody's attention to what was actually being seen.  Our very own first Barn Swallow of the new year.  Thereby hangs the problem; how do you see the first Swallow of the year before the year has even started?  What a great sight for us all!

Meadow Pipit  Bisbita Pratense  (Anthus pratensis)

But, all good things must come to an end so Andy and I pushed on to check out the remaining hides overlooking the Laguna Casilla and the Wader Pool.  With so much water about there was never going to be a chance to record any waders and both pools simply turned up more, in smaller numbers, of what had already been seen including Heron, Little Grebe, Mallard, Pochard and White-headed Duck.  On the other hand, we did have two pairs of Gadwall at the back of the Wader Pool.

Leaving the last hide to start our walk back to the cards we had a pair of fast-flying Jackdaws go past overhead and then a couple of Meadow Pipits and a pair of Stonechats on a muddy side track as we approached the footbridge.  A single Cattle Egret flying over the motorway as I set out for Casa Collado brought the morning's total up to 33 species.

Birds seen:

Little Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Heron, Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Booted Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Buzzard, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Rock Dove, Monk Parakeet, Crag Martin, Barn Swallow, Meadow Pipit, White Wagtail, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Zitting Cisticola, Chiffchaff, Serin, Goldfinch, House Sparrow, Spotless Starling and Jackdaw.


Before setting out for our afternoon visits to friends I entered a selection of our birds on the "Malaga Sightings" site.  Imagine my surprise upon returning this evening to have received an email from Barbara and Jerry Laycock informing me of what they had seen at the Guadalhorce earlier today.

In adddition to most of our birds, Jerry and Barabara also recorded a Squacco Heron, at least 10 Tern, Shelduck and a Kingfisher.  Presumably, the birds were either waiting for us to leave or the day to warm up a little more - OR both!

Christmas Day Birding

Whilst Eric was at home watching a circling Bonelli's Eagle above the house (make sure you keep both the cat and the turkey indoors - but not necessarily in the same room!) I took Jenny down to Torre del Mar to attend the Christmas morning service whilst I paid a visit to the Rio Velez.  The weather was fine and surprisingly warm after the previous few days with only a gentle breeze and the cloud clearing rapidly.

The journey down from casa Collado had already produced Black Redstart, Stonechat, Goldfinch and Crag Martin (all bar the Stonechat and Crag Martin also recorded at the river) plus Collared Doves passing through El Trapiche, so it promised to be a good morning.  On arrival, the river was still rushing down and, below the bridge, stretching from bank to bank.  Plenty of Moorhens in sight plus the resident Rock Doves and the first of many White Wagtails.  The sheltered "islands" in the river seemed to house mainly Mallards and then a sand bank with a dozen or more Moorhen and 10 Black-winged Stilts.

At the beach, the river was now a raging, thirty metre wide torrent flowing through the sandbank.  Very little on the lagoon other than a single Little Egret with 3 Cormorants resting on the seaward side.  At sea, a score or more Black-headed Gulls with a single Yellow-legged Gull resting on the beach.  Overhead, 3 not-so-noisy Monk Parakeets were making their way back towards the town centre.

A circular walk back to the pump house via the growing fields produced Goldfinch and Serin plus a small flock of Linnets.  No sooner had I looked at the dozen or less House Sparrow and it became obvious that their number included a pair of Tree Sparrows.  A large flock of Spotless Starlings were busty feeding and then the first Crested Lark quickly followed by a single male Black Redstart.  Also present were a small number of Chiffchaff and a single Zitting Cisticola.  Walking back to the car, a couple of single Cattle Egrets were busy feeding amongst the cabbages.  Finally, as I drove away, a single Grey Wagtail presented itself a couple of metres in front of the car and remained whilst I drove past - without a camera!

However, ten minutes earlier I had received a phone call from Jenny to say that there was no morning service and that she had walked down to the front and was now ready to return home.  So, no further birding and the hour or so had produced 30 species including the Great Crested Grebe on Lake Vinuela and the Tekla Larks on the way back up the mountain.

MerryChristmas everyone and, as I finish this blog, I have even manage to get the turkey cooked, vegetables done and time to think about our meal; no doubt followed by a lengthy siesta!

Birds seen:

Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Mallard, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Yellow-legged Gull, Black-headed Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Monk Parakeet, Crested Lark, Thekla Lark, Crag Martin, Meadow Pipit, White Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Zitting Cisticola, Chiffchaff, Serin, Goldfinch, Linnet, House Sparrow, Tree Sparrow and Spotless Starling.

Axaquia Bird Group visit to Fuente de Piedra

Little Owl  Mochuelo Comun  (Athene noctua)

Ill for a week, continuous heavy rain for a week so, with somewhat trepidation, Jenny and I joined up with Eric and Pat to travel over to Fuente de Piedra for this month's Axarquia Bird Group field visit.  We knew that many were away in Britain or elsewhere, the forecast was "mainly" dry but windy and it was still raining on our mountain top at 8.15!  Just how many would/might turn up and take a chance that the weather would improve?  In the event, there were eight of us, it was dry and becoming more and more sunny by the minute so a very good day was had, I hope, by all.  On the other hand, warm as it might have been in the car or shelter, the forecast was right; it was cold and very, very windy!  So, well wrapped up, we four along with David and Janet Fisher from Antequera and Gerry and Barbara Laycock from Fuengerola set off via the Information Centre to the rear hide.

Stopping to admire the view through the new observation window at the Centre, it was obvious that the water was very rough and that most of the birds were trying to find what shelter they could.  Immediately in front we had a good-sized flock of Coot plus very many Shoveler along with Moorhen, Mallard and about 20 Black-winged Stilt.  To the far left, at least 100 Greater Flamingo were doing their best to both feed and keep out of the strong wind.  Overhead, the occasional flypast of the resident Black-headed Gulls.

The small pool at the rear held a reasonable number of duck, mainly Teal but also including Mallard, Shoveler and some Gadwall. The odd Little Grebe could be seen along with Coot and Moorhen whilst around the edges we had distant Spotless Starlings and, closer to the hide posing Stonechats, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, House Sparrow, Zitting Cisticola and Black Redstarts along with very many White Wagtails.  However, the sight of the morning was a splendid and most handsome Little Owl which remained with us, perched on a low shrub, the whole time we were present, so giving excellent photographic and study opportunities for all.  Then the door opened and in walked Antonio Perez Ortigueria from Malaga and three friends, including Quirri from Velez Malaga, to give a real Spanish flavour to the morning.

Stone Curlew  Alcaravan Comun  (Burhinus oedicnemus)

Working our way back to the car park via the main pool edge and a deviation across the long wooden footbridge in the (unsuccessful) hope of finding the resident Stone Curlews, we also recorded a large flock of Serin plus a small number of Linnets.  On the flooded fields were a fair number of Meadow Pipits and at least a dozen or more Chiffchaff.  Also in attendance during the morning were regular sightings of charms of Goldfinches.  Finally, as we left, a lone Raven drifted over and away to the south.

Little Bustard  Sison Comun  (Tetrax tetrax)

Next it was round to the Mirador de Cantarranas to check out the far side of the laguna.  Very cold and windy but we did pass a flock of at least 60 Common Crane on the way.  Over the nearby reed-bed a pair of Marsh Harrier were bust quartering the area, much to the annoyance of the Coots sheltering below.  Again, more Black Redstarts, Goldfinches and a Blackbird.  However, as we were about to drive away, on the fields on the opposite side of the road we had another very large, probably in excess of 150, Common Crane and a t least an 100 Lapwing in the company of a large flock of Spotless Starlings.  But wait, there was one more bird sitting silhouetted on the far edge of the grassy field.  That's a Little Bustard!  No sooner seen that flushed, along with his until then unseen, mates by a passing Marsh Harrier.  Not to worry, Jenny saw them land and we able to confirm that there were 11 individuals in the small group.  Indeed, at one point we had Little Bustards, Cranes, Lapwing and Spotless Starlings all in the same image as we scoped and looked at the group with our binoculars.

Common Crane  Grulla Comun  (Grus grus)

Next it was the relatively short drive round to the Laguna Dulce.  Not so much scores of birds on the water, rather waves breaking creating the mass of white seen from the distance as we approached.  Already present were our Spanish quartet so birding was put on hold for a minutes (or more!) as we celebrated Quirri's birthday and Christmas by helping Antonio deplete the large quantity of Malaga wine on offer.

Back to the water - eventually!  Only 8 White-headed Ducks counted plus a good number of Mallard and Pochard.  A couple of Little Grebe and a single Black-headed Grebe.  Over the water, very many Crag Martins were doing their best to both feed and stay out of the wet stuff in the blowing gale.  (Thank goodness for the drink to help keep us warm!)

Time to make our departure as, by now, we were all beginning to feel a little on the "peckish" side and we had promised ourselves "Christmas Lunch" by way of a Menu del Dia back in Fuente.  The road back alongside the laguna proved very rewarding.  Fist the occasional and then a combined flock in excess of 300 Stone Curlews led to a further delay.  On the opposite side we had the occasional Thekla Lark and then a small flock of about 20 Calandra Larks.

Lunch was eventually taken and enjoyed, by which time it was very sunny and we had need to draw the curtains, and then came our departures.  No sooner had we passed Antequera and as the motorways converged, a solitary Griffon Vulture drifted over above us quickly followed by both Kestrel and feeding Cattle Egrets.  All in all then, a most rewarding day, especially given the weather conditions of the previous week, and a total of 42 species recorded - until someone updates with a missing bird!  Merry Christmas!

Photos of more Cranes and Little Owl:

Birds seen:

Little Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Cattle Egret, Flamingo, Gadwall, Mallard, Teal, Shoveler, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Griffon Vulture, Marsh Harrier, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Little Bustard, Crane, Stone Curlew, Black-winged Stilt, Lapwing, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Black-headed Gull, Little Owl, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Calandra Lark, Thekla Lark, Crag Martin, Meadow Pipit, White Wagtail, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Mistle Thrush, Zitting Cisticola, Chiffchaff, Serin, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Linnet, House Sparrow, Spotless Starling and Raven.

Rio Velez, Torre del Mar

Just received news of Eric's latest visit to the Rio Velez mouth at Torre del mar on what, up here on my mountain  top, has been a lovely sunny day.  Needed something to cheer me up, Eric's report and weather that is, to help me get over my stinking cold which really seems to have got its grip into me.  As far as I can recall, the first such "downturn" in the eight years we have been her. Not to worry though, I have every confidence of being fighting fit by The time Thursday's visit to Fuente de Piedra comes along.  If not, then I shall obviously be either fighting or having a fit!

Anyway, back to Eric and his visit to the Rio Velez this morning.  As you might imagine, following the recent very heavy weather there is certainly no lack of water with the river reaching both banks for most of its final journey from the last road bridge to the sea in the upper and middle sections.  As Eric says, not really any room for waders here but he did manage to spot a Snipe.  Opposite the Power House he had good views of a Hoopoe and Kingfisher.

However, with the upper river bed flooded there was much to be seen on the neighbouring fields and lower reaches and by the time he had finished Eric had certainly seen a good selection of waders and must have been really pleased to pick up both Grey Plover and Golden Plover not to mention a juvenile Crane.  All the usual small birds were present including Sardinan Warbler, Cetti's Warbler and Chiffchaff, both Grey wagtail and White Wagtail and, as the song goes, "don't forget the Robin".

I make it 38 species but, no doubt, by the time Eric's report is published he will remember the missing bird!  No doubt, all this wet weather has driven the Crag martins back up the mountain as, in normal circumstances, there would be plenty feeding over the river at this time of the year.A great morning's birding which makes me feel even more envious; I shall have to try and get down myself tomorrow - weather and cold permitting.

Birds seen:

Cormorant, Heron, Mallard, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Golden Plover, Grey Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Sanderling, Snipe, Yellow-legged Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Crane, Kingfisher, Hoopoe, Crested Lark, White Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Water Pipit, Meadow Pipit, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Cetti's Warbler, Sardinian Warbler, Chiffchaff, Great Tit, Serin, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, House Sparrow and Spotless Starling.

Chiffchaffs galore at Charca de Suarez

Wednesday 15 December

Chiffchaff  Mosquitero Comun (Phylloscopus collybita)

Jenny out for the day so I took myself up to Velez de Benaudalla to check on the apartment and then spent over 100 minutes at the Charca de Suarez reserve on the outskirts of Motril.  I had been led to believe that there was a resident Bluethroat to be seen immediately in front of the main hide but not today.  However, for the whole time I was present I did have a feeding Water Pipit right under my nose and scores of Chiffchaffs busy feeding.  Relatively few birds on the water upon arriving, mainly Coots and  some Mallard at the back of the main pool but, on closer inspection, there were also a few Shoveler and at least 3 eclipse-plum aged Teal and, of course, a dozen or so of the resident Moorhen.

Water Pipit  Bisbita Alpino (Anthus spinoletta)

Having already watched a Grey Wagtail on the banks of the Guadalfeo, I was not surprised to see a handful of White Wagtail in the reserve.  The outer paths also produced Blackbird, Robin and a couple of Black Redstarts.  Only a couple of Collared Doves in the neighbouring trees but, gradually, the number of Black-headed Gulls began to increase as the afternoon wore on.  Then, suddenly all the gulls were in the air.  What had alarmed the birds?  It very soon became obvious as an immature Marsh Harrier drifted over the pool.  Even the Water Pipit took cover for a few minutes but before long he/she was back busy feeding in front of me.

As some of the ducks moved closer it became obvious that there were3 busy dabbling Teal amongst their number.  So busy, I seemed to see more of their backsides than heads.  A couple of White Wagtails took up residence on one of the resting perches in the water and then the start of the evening "rush hour" as some of the winter residents began to reappear to start their nightly roost from the neighbouring feeding areas.  First a couple of Cormorant and then a handful of Cattle Egret.  More Cormorants and, in amongst the next flight of Cattle Egrets, a couple of Little Egrets.  Meanwhile, the small number of Little Grebes continued to feed - as did my Water Pipit.  On the main island, now depleted of its overgrowth, in front of the hide, a solitary Dunlin was busy making sure that it had sufficient food to last him through the coming night,.

Grey Wagtail  Lavandera Cascadena (Motacilla cinerea)

White Wagtail  Lavandera Blanca (Motacilla alba)

Rapidly approaching 6 pm and with the light beginning to fade, it was time to make my departure.  Joy of joys as I made my way back to exit gate and a lone Dunnock skipped across the track and perched low in the neighbouring shrub; and whilst I still had my binoculars round my neck so able to get a reasonable view.  A very pleasant and surprising  way to end my visit.

Birds seen:

Little Grebe, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Mallard, Teal, Shoveler, Marsh Harrier, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Dunlin, Collared Dove, Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, Water Pipit, Dunnock, Robin, Black Redstart, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, House Sparrow and Spotless Starling.







More of Chiffchaff about to perch illustrating wing pattern and Water Pipit

Europa Point, Gibraltar

The weather forecast seemed OK so I booked a place on the coach to accompany Jenny to Gibraltar for the day; not shopping, please!  No, for me it was to take the local bus out to Europa Point and see (no pun intended) what was passing by. What could be better?  Or so I thought!

Driving along the coast approaching the border it was very edifying to see a Sandwich Tern close in working the shallow waters of the incoming tide. Arriving at the lighthouse by 11 o'clock, I was greeted by extensive works to, presumably, create a new, very large, car park.  Not only was there no access to the area near the Observatory but the lower level path to the watch point east of the lighthouse was not in the best state of repair.  Even more disappointing, there were very few birds about.  A lone Black Redstart working the edges of the cliff and up to a score or so of Yellow-legged Gulls.  Then, not long after a solitory Cormorant had passed by in an easterly direction, a couple of strange looking brown birds.  No sooner had started diving in from on high and even carrying out more shallow dives, than it was obvious that I had a pair of immature Gannets putting on a display just for me.  As always on such occasions, no camera!

Taking the bus back towards town I stopped off at the Botanical Gardens in the hope of such rarities, for me, as Blue Tit and Robin.  No such luck!  Yes, I had Blackbirds and a good number of Chiffchaff, the occasional Collared Dove and then, just before setting off back to main attraction for expats in Spain, known locally as the Morrison Superstore, a House Sparrow followed by a male Backcap and female Chaffinch.  But, at least, the weather satayed dry and evnbecame quite warm. Not too sure whatI missed on the return journey as I was asleep before we reached the motorway.

Birds seen:

Cormorant, Gannet, Yellow-legged Gull, Sandwich Tern, Collared Dove, Black Redstart, Blackbird, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Chaffinch and House Sparrow.

Seven Raptors and all three (common) Grebes

Saturday 11 December

The monthly field visit of the Andalucia Bird Society (ABS) this month was to the Guadalhorce in Malaga with 17 members present in very pleasant and sunny conditions; even a calm day.  Setting off from the beach area just after 9.30 to walk via the embankment to the entrance footbridge then via the far (eastern) arm of the river to the Sea Watch, back to the secret pool (Laguna Escondida) and finally the main hide on the Laguna Grande, as a group we totalled over 50 species for the morning.  My personal tally was only 48 not having seen the Buzzard (just about everybody else seemed to have managed this sighting!), Slender-billed Gull, Kingfisher and Robin ( a real "bogey" bird on mine out here in southern Spain).

Booted Eagle  Aguililla (Hieraaetus pennatus)

Within minutes of setting off we had recorded a single Greenshank, Sanderling, Black-headed Gulls and White Wagtails, not to mention the ever-present Monk Parakeets.  Plenty of Black Redstarts about on or near the elevated track and then a solitary Zitting Cisticola on the school fence that remained long enough for all to see before we picked up the first raptor of the day, a resting Booted Eagle in a riverside tree.  By now, as we entered the reserve proper, there were plenty of Coots about and a steady movement of the many, probably in excess of 100, Cormorants that had taken up winter residency.

Shelduck  Tarro Blanco (Tadorna tadoma)

Before reaching the far, eastern, side we had had our first sight of the Osprey and then it was a case of checking duck species on both the Laguna Casillas and Wader Pool.  Numbers were rather disappointing but we did have Mallard, Pochard and Shelduck before eventually recording Little Grebe, Cattle Egret and Little Egret.  A lone Heron was at the back of the latter and from the hide we were able to, first, pick out a resting Peregrine in the "Osprey tree" before having good views of the circling Booted Eagle.  A couple of female Marsh Harriers put in their first of many appearances quickly followed by our next raptor, a rather lovely male Kestrel.

Marsh Harrier  Aguilucho Lagunero (Circus aeruginosus)

The walk towards the Sea Watch produced a lovely assortment drinking and bathing in a clear puddle near the river's edge; first a small group of House Sparrows, then Greenfinch quickly followed by Serin, Goldfinch and a Tree Sparrow -but no Crested Lark.  Finally, a lovely male Blackcap revealed itself in the adjoining bush.  All the while there was a constant supply of Chiffchaff.  The first to arrive at the beach had the opportunity of seeing a single Slender-billed Gull amongst the mainly Black-headed and Lesser Black-backed Gulls whilst, I think, we all managed to get a look at the resting Great Skua and most saw the disappearing 5 Balearic Shearwaters.

Osprey  Aguila Pescadora (Pandion haliaetus)

Leaving the Sea Watch, a few took the beach towards the main pool whilst the majority retraced their steps past the hides and so on round to the Laguna Escondida hide.  Approaching, we had lovely views of the Osprey above us, which was just as well as save for a couple of Little Grebes the Escondida seemed pretty deserted!  However, the Laguna Grande more than made up in terms of both numbers and species.  First a Black-necked Grebe on the approaching water and another, closer, bird on the main pool.  Towards the back a single Flamingo and 2 Spoonbill at the far side.  Apart from Little Grebe, Moorhen and many Coot,  we also had a handful of White-headed Duck, Shoveler, a Pintail and, finally, a single female Teal.

Cormarent  Cormoran Grande (Phalacrocorax carbo) at meal!

But still we not finished.  In the walk back along the elevated bank towards the beach and our cars (plenty more Black Redstarts and Stonechats), first a pair of Great Crested Grebes on the river quickly followed by a "hovering" Kingfisher.  In addition, as a reminder that we all needed to get some food inside us, one of the Cormorants managed to catch a "ginormous" fish which he then proceeded to try and swallow in one go!  The lagoon at the end produced a Common Sandpiper and then it was time for us all to make our various ways home with some taking the opportunity of tapas and drinks in nearby San Julian.   A very pleasant morning in good company.

More photos:

Pintail Anada Rabudo (Anas acuta)

Black-necked Grebe  Zampullin Cuellinegro (Podiceps nigricollis)

Little Egret  Garceta Comun (Egretta garzetta)

No, you can't come up here.  It's my post so go look elsewhere!

Birds seen:

Shelduck, Mallard, Pintail, Shoveler, Teal, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Black-necked Grebe, Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Balearic Shearwater, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Heron, Spoonbill, Flamingo, Osprey, Booted Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Peregrine, Moorhen, Coot, Sanderling, Common Sandpiper, Greenshank, Great Skua, Black-headed Gull, Slender-billed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Kingfisher, White Wagtail, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Blackcap, Sardinian Warbler, Zitting Cisticola, Cetti's Warbler,  Chiffchaff, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Tree Sparrow, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Serin and Monk Parakeet.

Zafarray

A beautiful clear, warm and sunny morning; no breeze and not a cloud in the sky so what better than to take a drive up the mountain to Venta de Zafarray.  Shame about the roadworks driving up (a real pain in the proverbial and the end result looking and feeling worse than the original state of the road - nevermind the time it took with all the hold-ups, etc!)  Expecting it to be a little on the chilly side at the top I kept my "warmer" on but certainly regretted it by the time I got back to the car.  Phew, was it warm!

Blue Rock Thrush  Roquero Solitario (Monticola solitarius)

Although it seemed on the quiet side, there were the usual Stonechats about and a more than a handful of Crag Martins that had decided to remain in or near the large cave.  Blue Rock Thrushes, including some lovely males, were sunning themselves on top and there was a continual movement of Black Redstarts.  However, less than a handful of Black Wheatears.  Then the warning noise that lets you know that the Choughs are still about and into view a total of 31 individuals who proceeded to swan (or should that be "chough"?) about for the next ten minutes or so.  Smaller birds included Sardinian Warbler, Chiffchaff and House Sparrow.

A drive through the "Mapie Woods" stopping at the, now barred, entrance tot he "Brambling Fields" produced good numbers of Azure-winged magpies, a couple of Mistle Thrush and a Jay going about a very thorough bathing routine in a large puddle on the opposite track. Watching the Jay drew my attention to the Chaffinches in the tree above.  Beyond the woods and to the left to look at the recently ploughed fields produced a watching Kestrel, Thekla Larks and a small number of Calandra Larks plus very many White Wagtails.  Also noted were half a dozen Corn Buntings and a common Magpie whilst in the bushes behind a solitary male Blackcap was busy foraging for his midday snack.  Add on Goldfinches, Serins, a Blackbird, Robin, few Spotless Starlings and flock of Rock Doves and that just about sums up the morning's exercise.

Birds seen:

Kestrel, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Thekla Lark, Calandra Lark, White Wagtail, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Black Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush, Blackbird, Mistle Thrush, Blackcap, Sardinian Warbler, Chiffchaff, Chaffinch, Serin, Goldfinch, Corn Bunting, House Sparrow, Spotless String, Azure-winged magpie, Magpie, Chough and Jay.

Raptors and Cranes

Marsh Harrier Aguilucho Lagunero (Circus aeruginosus)

With the weather improving and the promise of some really horrible rain to come over the next three days, decided it was better to take Chris for some birding than mess about with the needed house painting.  So, off to the Laguna Herrerra near Antiquera to see if there was still any water about.  There most certainly was and we were greeted by a beautiful female Kestrel closely followed by a Hoopoe.  As everywhere, there were scores of White Wagtails to be seen here - as well as before and after!

Southern Grey Shrike Alcaudon Real (Lanius meridionalis)

Arriving at the water from the Cordoba road, at first it seemed that there were few birds about but we soon discovered why.  The fields on the opposite side of the track were also flooded, which explained all the "quacking" and hundreds of gulls moving about whilst only a solitary Black-headed Gull rested within sight.  However, the main water held a pair of Avocet and a couple of Snipe plus a handful of Kentish Plover and a few Ringed Plover.  It was also pleasing to note 5 Little Stint.  Meanwhile, we had a busy Southern Grey Shrike using the electricity cable above us as his view point in search of food and there were plenty of Serin, Linnet and Goldfinch to also be seen.

Standing, using the raised bank, on the opposite side of the road we were able to see into the flooded field.  Having counted in excess of 200 Mallard, we then made a start on the gulls.  The conclusion was a mixed flock of Lesser Black-backed and Yellow-legged totalling in excess of a thousand birds.  Also present were the 4 Black-winged Stilts that had "hopped" over from the main pool and a sole Pintail feeding amongst the Mallards.  On the other hand, the lone Shelduck did not like our company so immediately upped sticks and moved on.  Similarly, we also recorded a lone Heron at the back of the flooded filed.  Then the surprise.  Having identified the dark-looking Spotless Starling as it eventually left its post on top of an electricity pylon, the reason for its flight was the arrival of a dark Buzzard.  Not content with one, within minutes a second individual arrived at the same pylon, pushing off the first bird to rest on the bank below.

Working our way along the track back towards the motorway, we had good sights of Stonechat and then 4 Green Sandpipers in the wide drainage channel before encountering a small band of Cattle Egret busy feeding as they followed the ploughing tractor.

A selection of the 350+ Cranes  Grulla Comun (Grus grus)

Next stop the Laguna Dulce on the Camponillas road to check on the ducks and grebes.  Nevermind the hundreds of Coot everywhere, it looked as if every White-headed Duck within 100 kilometres had booked in for Christmas with a total in excess of 80 individuals!  In addition, there were a good number of Shoveler, a few Pochard and, later on, at least a dozen Gadwall.  Of grebes there were very few.  The first sighting, and only, was a Black-necked Grebe and, after much searching with the scope, we did find a single Great Crested Grebe.  Finally, we were only able to locate a mere handful of Little Grebe.

Marsh Harrier with Cranes in background.

Having enjoyed the aerial display of a splendid male Marsh Harrier, er were then entertained by a second individual at the rear of the water in what certainly appeared to be some form of bonding exchange.  If we could see Booted Eagles, Marsh Harriers and Kestrels perhaps there was one more special bird that we could locate.  And locate it we did in abundance.  On the fields to the far right we were able to count in excess of 350 Cranes.  With more noted later on, perhaps all the Fuente de Piedra population had gone to the Laguna Dulce for their very own Menu del dia!  Just how many Cranes are there at Puente this year?  All being well, and given good weather, I may find out when the Axarquia Bird Group visits "Flamingoland" at the end of the month.

Birds seen:

Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Cattle Egret, Heron, Shelduck, Gadwall, Mallard, Pintail, Shoveler, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Booted Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Buzzard, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Crane, Black-winged Stilt, Avocet, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Little Stint, Snipe, Yellow-legged Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Black-headed Gull, Hoopoe, White Wagtail, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Chiffchaff, Chaffinch, Serin, Goldfinch, Linnet, House Sparrow and Spotless Starling.

Grey & Golden Plovers at the Rio Velez

The sun shining, mostly blue skies and only the slightest breeze so down to the Rio Velez with brother-in-law Chris by 9.30 am.  Here we were welcomed by up to a dozen Moorhen, 6 Mallards just above the old bridge and a handful of White Wagtails, not to mention the usual gaggle of Rock Doves under and around the main road bridge.  In the dead tree opposite (complete with a long-dead dove suspended from the uppermost branches) a male Kestrel whilst all along the nearside bank the air reverberated to the sound of calling Cetti's Warblers and the sight of many Chiffchaff.

Robin  Petirrojo Europeo (Erithacus rubecula)

Walking towards the pump house produced more of the same then the first of very many Goldfinch seen during the morning.  A Robin was seen on the opposite bank and then the first sight of our single Little Egret.  A Snipe took to the air as we concentrated on yet more Moorhen in the company of half a dozen Teal, the latter in their eclipse plumage.  Next, a disturbed (!) Heron took to the skies.

By now the breeze had picked up so as soon as we reached the shore we had both sun and wind in our faces.  Very few gulls about and mostly Lesser Black-backed but the odd Mediterranean Gull was also recorded.  Not far out at sea a lone Gannet made its way westwards gliding just over the wave whilst, travelling in the opposite direction we had 3 Cormorants.  Unable to cross to the far bank as the water was quite deep and too wide to jump so a very obliging Grey Plover came to us and  quietly rested on the shore line less than twenty metres away.  On the lagoon itself, apart from our Little Egret resting at the edge of the nearby reeds, very little was to be seen but we did find 3 Coot sheltering at the side. However, to add a little colour, a solitary Kingfisher flashed across and rested for a good while on the outflow giving the opportunity for an extended view through the binoculars.

Tree Sparrow  Gorrion Molinero (Passer montanus)

So, a walk back along the beach and then via the growing fields to the east to the car.  On the stubble and barren fields were many Goldfinches and Serins plus the usual number of House Sparrows.  A single, male, Blackbird and then back towards the river where we recorded a single Hoopoe and many more Black Redstarts.  The grassy overgrow between track and river produced, as expected, a number of Stonechats and also a departing Snipe but we had to wait until we had driven to the other side and started exploring the western growing fields before seeing the biggest surprise of the morning.  Not the dozen or more Cattle Egret as left the main road, nor the numerous Goldfinches, Serins and White Wagtails.  Our real joy was to see our first Crested Lark of the day quickly followed by excellent, close views of 5 Golden Plover.  And very nice, too, they were.  Finally, we were rewarded with  pair of Tree Sparrows and a male Sardinian Warbler before starting the journey back to Casa Collado.

Including the Blue Rock Thrush seen on the way down from the mountain and a few Collared Doves as we approached Velez Malaga, our morning total tallied 34 with which we were quite pleased.

Birds seen:

Gannet, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Heron, Mallard, Teal, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Grey Plover, Golden Plover, Snipe, Mediterranean Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Kingfisher, Hoopoe, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Crested Lark, White Wagtail, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Cetti's Warbler, Sardinian Warbler, Chiffchaff, Serin, Goldfinch, House Sparrow, Tree Sparrow and Spotless Starling.

NOTE:

Coming soon, very soon, to the website (www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com) a dedicated page to the birds seen in Malaga Province and neighbouring areas.  The records will be by date and site with initials of observer.  So, email (rcnwright@gmail.com) or telephone  669 649 529 with your sightings and I will make sure that they are included.  The idea is to update at least twice a week, or as soon as I am informed, so that others may also enjoy your sightings.  So, give it a try and let me know what you are seeing, when and where - and don't be shy of reporting "lesser" birds.  This is not going to be a "rarities" site and your Robin is a rarity to me, especially in summer months.  Shrikes, raptors, ducks, waders, whatever; you decide what you would like to report.

Remember, most birders are not experts; we all have to start somewhere and every little bit helps.

Bob Wright