Nuthatches and Crossbills

Nuthatch  Trepador Azul  (Sitta europaea)

Too late up to join Andy at the Guadalhorce so I took a short trip up to the El Alcazar picnic site just above neighbouring Alcaucin.  And what a good job I did for there were Chaffinches and Nuthatches everywhere plus a few extra bonuses.  As I left Alcaucin to take the mountain track up the side of the valley, there were plenty of Barn Swallows and House Martins, plus the expected Collared Doves and House Sparrows, on the edge of the village.  However, once amongst the trees there were Chaffinches to be seen and heard just about everywhere.

Spot the Short-toed Treecreeper Agateador Comun (Certhia brachydactyla)

So, onwards and upwards to the El Alcazar picnic area where I had high hopes that there might be some Crossbills and even smaller birds about.  I was certainly not to be disappointed.  Parking the car in the shade, I had first Goldfinch quickly followed by both Greenfinch and Chaffinch.  A few steps to the nearby trees and the movement that attracted me was the arrival of the first of a pair of Short-toed Treecreepers.  Very difficult to get a good photograph as the birds were both in amongst the thin branches and in the shade but I did manage to also locate a Rock Bunting.  What was he doing perched in a tree?  Whilst a couple of Blackbirds gave forth behind me, I spied the first Crossbill sitting quite happily at the top of the usual Eucalyptist tree with both a Goldfinch and a rather splendid male Serin for company.


Walking to the top car park I could hear, what seemed, no end of Nuthatches calling in the trees around me and then locked on to the first of many.  Indeed, later individuals were so close I had to radically adjust the lens to even get them into focus!  Perhaps, unwittingly, I was standing close to their nesting site as certainly the male was both, it seemed, singing and calling at the same time.

Crossbill  Piquituerto Comun  (Loxia curvirostra)

At about the same time, I was paid a visit by first one then another Firecrest who busied themselves feeding in the tree in front of me.  No sooner had I had chance to try and get a closer look than a Green Woodpecker dashed across in front of me keeping very low to the ground.  But I could not find the bird when I climbed up to look over the edge.

The return journey delivered a Great Tit and then more Barn Swallows and House Martins as I made my way back towards Lake Vinuela.  Climbing up to Los Romanes, more of the same plus a few Red-rumped Swallows and Spotless Starlings to be followed by Thekla Lark and Stonechat on the track to Casa Collado.

Serin Verdecillo (Serinus serinus)

Birds seen;

Green Woodpecker, Collared Dove, Thekla Lark, Barn Swallow, Red-rumped Swallow, House Martin, Stonechat, Blackbird, Great Tit, Firecrest, Nuthatch, Short-toed Tree-creeper, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Chaffinch, Serin, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Crossbill and Rock Bunting.











Two more views of the very vocal Nuthatches Trepador Azul  (Sitta europaea)

Fuente de Piedra and surrounds with Eric and Pat Lyon

Sunday 27 March

Having recovered from their recent trip to India where at least 104 species were recorded, Eric and Pat had sufficiently recovered to start on some more local birding.  Judging by the results, they had a good day at "Flamingoland" despite the hordes of visitors; perhaps I should have gone there on Saturday afternoon, my original intention, rather than the drive over to Olvera.  On the other hand, we will all be there next Tuesday as we set off for our three-night stay in the Coto Donana at El Rocio.

Getting bored with being around the house for a whole week we have just had a trip out to Laguna de Fuente de Piedra and Lagunas Dulce and Herrera.  Beautiful day with at least 61 species.  Still a lot of water in all three sites so not a lot of waders and not many small birds around the centre as there were 3 coach loads of schoolkids so no Chiffchaff/Willow Warblers but Fuente got off to a good start with 8+ Lesser Kestrel, a Temminck's Stint, Ruff, Redshank, Common, Green and Wood Sandpipers, Grey and 5 Purple Heron, Gull-billed Terns, Woodchat Shrikes and Yellow Wagtails everywhere; also a pair of Reed Bunting, and a single Little Bustard (seen from the small hide behand the visitor centre).  But for me the star was a male Garganey in breeding plumage.

Laguna Dulce had much the same as the main lagoon but with many more Black-necked Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, a few White-headed Duck and Tufted Duck plus the usual Sooty Terns at the back. Our only eagle was a pale phase Booted; the same as flew over the house on our return.

Again too much water at Herrera but the Flamingo didn't seem to mind.  The main sightings here were a Black-eared Wheatear and male Hen Harrier.

Interesting to read about the "Yellow Wagtales everywhere" - I wonder if they were all the Spanish Blue-headed (Motacilla.flava iberiae) or, as is often the case at this time of the year, a mixture including the Central European sub-species (M.flava flava), the British "Yellow Wagtail" (M.f.flavissima) or, indeed, perhaps even a Scandinavian bird (M.f.thunbergi) or a wandering Citrine Wagtail (M.citreola).  And just for good measure, you could always throw in a "common" White Wagtail and a Grey Wagtail, especially a first year female of the latter which will certainly test the identification process!

Campillos Lakes and Olvera with the Andalucia Bird Society

Saturday 26 March

Griffon Vulture Buitre Leonado (Gyps fulvus)

With much improved weather and turning quite warm, what better way to spend a day's birding with friends from the Andalucia Bird Society.  Not too sure who travelled the furthest with participants from the Cartegena area to the north and San Pedro and Cadiz to the south; makes my hour plus journey from Lake Vinuela seem as if I was on the proverbial door step!  Anyway, by the time we were all gathered the Society was well-represented with sixteen present under the day's leadership of Frank Hair from Olvera.

The first hour or so was spent at the Leguna Dulce to the east of Campillos where we had a very good range of water birds plus overflying Marsh Harrier and many feeding Barn Swallows, House Martins and a few Sand Martins.  My journey towards the lake had passed a couple of flooded fields just before Santa Ana where numerous Little Egrets, Flamingos and Lesser Black-backed Gulls were noted.

Meanwhile, back on the water at the Laguna Dulce, all three grebes, Little, Black-necked and Great Crested were noted, with the last undertaking some lovely courtship displays.  A good number of Flamingo were present at the rear and side of the water and, of course, there were numerous Coot - but no sign of the over-wintering Red-nobbed Coot.  Duck were mainly Common Pochard with the odd Red-crested Pochard plus a good number of White-headed Duck and Shoveler.  Similarly, before long we had also found a handful of Gadwall plus a small spread of Moorhen.  However, a single Tufted Duck was a most welcome bonus and surprise.  The only gulls noted were of the Black-headed variety whilst, on the neighbouring flooded fields we were also able to record both Mallard, Shoveler and a couple of Kentish Plover.  A few Corn Bunting were also busy feeding on the nearby vegetation.  Overhead, at the back of the fields, a Kestrel was hovering. Meanwhile, in the fields at the back of the laguna, a single Little Bustard was spotted and remained within scoping distance for the next fifteen minutes or more and a pair of Greenfinches witnessed our departure.

Next it was on the some of the neighbouring pools, three in total.  All produced good numbers of Flamingo, plus they were present on many of the flooded fields, and at the first we had 3 Avocet quickly followed by a number of Black-winged Stilts.  Then, on a bar towards the back of the large pool, at least a handful of Gull-billed Terns.

The second pool contained mainly Coot plus a quickly departing Blackbird and a small party of House Sparrows.  However, the third and final pool, just over the railway line, did produce some choice birds, starting with a good number of Red-crested Pochard to add to even more Common Pochard, Mallard, Gadwall and Shoveler.  On the "beach" to the right a single Lapwing was feeding plus yet another pair of  Kentish Plovers.  In front of us te singing and occasional movement had us all trying to confirm the little warbler.  A couple of Chiffchaff located and, then, final confirmation of the first Sedge Warbler of the year.
It was as we were about to leave the water for the short return journey to the Laguna Dulce that another unexpected bonus turned up on the doorstep; six raptor species.  A magnificent Short-toed Eagle drifted across in front and then a Red Kite put in an appearance.  Not to be outdone, a single Sparrowhawk was spotted high overhead and quickly followed by the discovery of up to a dozen Lesser Kestrels hunting over the edge of the nearby woods in front.  Seeing the Red Kite and Lesser Kestrels directed the eyes towards the accompanying Booted Eagle.  As if that was not enough, a lone Marsh Harrier drifted across to see what all the fuss was about!

Having reached the starting point, before changing back to our own cars for the drive over to Olvera we took a short detour along the rutted track to the back of the laguna to try and find the Little Bustard - but without success.  We did find a good number of Corn Buntings plus both Crested and Thekla Larks and, almost back at the road having passed more Black-winged Stilts, a quickly departing solitary Green Sandpiper from one of the small flooded areas followed by a single Linnet.

Eventually, eleven of us travelled on to Olvera for lunch and a successful chance to see, at closer quarters, both Lesser Kestrel and Griffon Vulture.  Also, before reaching the town, in addition to the Goldfinches seen by myself, a few lucky members also saw both Hoopoe and very early Bee-eaters sitting on electricty wires.

Moulting Griffon Vullter  Buitre Leonado  (Gyps fulvus)

Following lunch and seeing the most ragged Griffon Vulture, looking as if it had had a very bad "night on the tiles" and thinking what excuse he could give to "'er indoors" when he eventually worked out where home was (me thinks that you are in for one hell of a beakful when you get there!), I set off on the return journey via Teba to Malaga to collect my lady wife from th airport.  Meanwhile a number of the group moved on further west to check out the very large Griffon Vulture colony.  With what success I have no idea; no doubt reports will gradually filter through.  The return journey produced Collared Doves as I left Olvera and then, very shortly afterwards, both a Southern Grey Shrike and Stonechat.  Nearing Teba a small party of 3 Hoopoes and, finally, a couple of Cormorant as I approached the airport in Malaga.

By the time I had reached home, in the dark, I had recorded over 50 species and, I am sure, that others had seen more including at least one Sky Lark and a Little Ringed Plover.  Altogther, a great day with many thanks to Franky Hair for undertaking the organisation and the pleasant company of all those present.

Zafarraya and beond with Stephen & Elena Powell

Friday 25 March

Looks like Stephen and Elena Powell had a good visit to Zafarraya and then the pantaneta at Alhambra de Granada followed by a walk through the gorge to the town itself and back.  The report received from Stephen informed me that they recorded over 40 species during the day as well as enjoying the fabulous scenery to be found along and through the gorge.


We had a very enjoyable day today, the first time I have recorded over 40 species.  Started with a quick stop at Zafarraya where we had close up views of two very fine Rock Buntings, plus the usual Choughs, Black Wheatears, Black Redstarts and Blue rock Thrush, a single male Stonechat and what might have been an Alpine Accentor but I´m not certain, could have been a female Linnet again. (There were plenty of) Crag Martins up there. We didn´t hang around long as it was very cold.

On to the magpie-less woods, just a Mistle Thrush, then the muck heap but only Crested Larks, so on to Alhama de Granada where we walked the gorge and back.  Excellent for "LBJs": A fine cock Linnet with full rose coloured chest and brow, a pair of Blackcaps (female being brown-capped), a single Long-tailed Tit (unusual but it was definite), Tree Sparrows, Jackdaws, Chiffchaffs, Chaffinches, Goldfinches, Serins, Blackbirds et al but in the copse by the lake my first Short-toed Treecreeper.  The lake was disappointing; the usual Mallards and Coots, plus a few Pochard, a Little Grebe and one Cormorant.  Above the lake though we saw three different species of raptor which I am not good at. I am fairly sure there was a pair of Short-toed Eagles, pale undersides with brown & white tail bands and the clincher for me was some hovering.  The others I am not sure of; one dark brown eagle with very long, quite straight, fairly narrow splayed-end wings. Could have been the Golden Eagle you saw the other day but I just don´t know.  I also think we saw a Common Buzzard but, like I said, I´m just not good at identifying these last named birds.

After lunch we went down to the hot springs where there were two very nice Grey Wagtails and I think I saw a Firecrest.  It was very tiny but I didn´t get a long enough look to be sure. Anyway, with all the other common varieties, Barn Swallows, White Wagtails, Kestrels, Blackbirds, Collared and Rock Doves,
etc we made 40 for sure.



Sounds like a great day Stephen and Elena with an impressive list.  Certainly, it would have been Crag Martins up on the old railway track with the birds nesting in the old tunnel and nearby caves.  As far as the eagles are concerned, a Golden Eagle is very large and, if an immature, I think you would have picked out the white on both the wings and tails.  An alternative, if not a massive bird, might be a Booted Eagle, a species often seen in this area.  A quick check for Common Buzzard might be the "short" wedge-shaped tail.

Many thanks for the report.                     Bob Wright

Rio Velez, Torre del Mar

Kentish Plover Chorlitejo Patinegro (Charadrius alexandrinus)
PHOTO:  Stephen Powell

Stephen and Elena were down at the Rio Velez in Torre del Mar yesterday and obviously had more luck than me when I popped down this morning between hanging out the washing and doing the shopping in readiness for Jenny's return from the UK tomorrow evening.

Whilst all I had for my pains were the resident Rock Doves and Moorhens plus 4 drake Mallards on the river, a calling Cetti's Warbler, hovering Kestrel and the first of three Hoopoes, Stephen and Elena at least managed to find both Green and Common Sandpiper plus a Little Ringed Plover and a mixture of Kentish Plovers and Sanderlings on the shore of the main lagoon at the river's mouth.  Both of us noted the Barn Swallows flying around and into the pump house; prospects of a good nesting site or two there.

Black-winged Stilts Ciguenuela Comun (Himantopos himantopos)

However, we both saw the large flock of Black-winged Stilts; I counted at least fifty and Stephen had a specific figure of 52.  "My" flock did eventually settled but they had been put up by a walker arriving at the beach just before me.  For some unknown reason, the chap proceeded to take his shoes and socks off and then wash both lower legs and trousers in the lagoon!  No wonder the stilts kepy flying around.

Away from the main river there was very little about.  I had Crested Lark and a couple of pairs of Goldfinches whereas Stephen and Elena actually managed a small flock of Linnets and a group of Yellow Wagtails, presumably of the Iberian race as I, too, had a sighting this morning.  Also near the river on the return journey, I had  a few Serin, Spotless Starlings and a single Cattle Egret before coming across a pair of resting Mediterranean Gulls.

Mediterranean Gull Gaviota Cabecinegra (Larus melanocephalus)

On the other hand, a walk under the road bridge to the site of last year's Hoopoe nest saw Stephen and Elena finding a Little Owl.  Observing the bird for over ten minutes, the owl finally gave up and moved away after the constant mobbing from a pair of Blackbirds.


Meanwhile, Stephen reports that they have had a pair of Short-toed Eagles hunting around the Rio Seco below Frigiliana and frequently seen from their house.  Indeed, a few days ago friends of Stephen and Elena witnessed the bird carrying a fair-sized snake in its talons.

More views of the flock of 52 Black-winged Stilts

Birds seen over the past two days at the Rio Velez:

Mallard, Cattle Egret, Kestrel, Moorhen. Black-winged Stilt, Little Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Sanderling, Mediterranean Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Hoopoe, Little Owl, Crested Lark, Crested Lark, Barn Swallow, Yellow Wagtail, Blackbird, Cetti's Warbler, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Serin, Goldfinch, Linnet.

Guadalhorce, Malaga

Up early again and off to Nerja to collect Robin and Karen Hodgson for the second half of their holiday birding; a long morning at the Guadalhorce ponds in Malaga.  The weather was somewhat strange with a mixture of cloud and clear blue skies to start followed by much cloud and quite overcast.  But never cold and the sea from the Sea watch was quite choppy to say the least.

Arriving at the school to park up we had Collared Doves and Blackbirds immediately and having crossed the road to the riverside track towards the footbridge entry to the site, first a Zitting Cisticola and a Robin on the shore side with a small number of resting Mallards on the river plus a departing Cormorant.  Cormorant numbers were well down with barely thirty present the whole morning.  Barn Swallows and House Martins overhead as we crossed the bridge and a Moorhen, 3 Little Egrets and the resident Rock Doves near the motorway bridge.  The walk to the eastern branch of the river produce Goldfinches and the first of very many Greenfinches; the latter seemed to be everywhere on the reserve.

Booted Eagle Aguililla Calzada (Hieraaetus pennatus)

As expected, the Laguna Casillas was full of ducks; a good number of Pochard and at least a handful of White-headed Ducks.  A few pairs of Mallards and the occasional Coot made up the numbers.  A Cetti's Warbler was busy singing out its little heart as we found a pair of Gadwall at the back of the water.  No shortage of either Spotless Starlings or House Sparrows as we made our way to the Wader Pool but in the distant trees the first on many Kestrels whilst overhead we had a lovely view of a light morph Booted Eagle.

The Wader Pool contained a bout a dozen Black-winged Stilts plus a few more Pochard and White-headed Ducks plus a number of Moorhen.  On the left a pair of Little Ringed Plovers rested as if frozen to the spot.  No sooner had we settled and noted the Barn Swallows than the Common Swifts, at least 20 plus, descended to lower levels to give a good view.  At the back of the area a single immature Marsh Harrier was quartering the site.

Southern Grey Shrike Alcaudon Real (Lanius meridionalis)

The walk along the track to the Sea Watch produced a useful range of species.  A Cattle Egret was put up by a man and his unteathered dog walking alongside the river and it (the bird) flew away upstream.  On the Rio Viejo  at least ten Little Egrets plus as many as 20 Black-winged Stilts.  On the far side a pair of Little Grebe were busy feeding and courting.  A small flock of about a dozen Yellow Wagtails (Blue-headed Iberian race) made a brief landing on the track in front of us and Crested Larks were to be found on both sides.  At least 7 Kentish Plover with a single Sanderling were located on the westward side of the track and then a single Black-eared Wheatear.  Meanwhile, on the return journey, a single Northern Wheatear was found on the eastwards side of the track.  Scanning what remains of the fence to the plover breeding area located a very fine Southern Grey Shrike.  Above the sea we had already seen Yellow-legged Gulls and there were a few Black-headed Gulls on the water plus one, identified, Mediterranean Gull.  During this period a very large cruise liner docked in the port and, whilst checking that the ship had actually berthed, a single Sandwich Tern flew through the lens of the scope.  The tern then made its way towards us but very actively engaged in his fishing activities.

Whilst all this was happening we heard yet another Cetti's Warbler plus a very vocal Hoopoe.  There were more Zitting Cisticolas and we saw the umpteenth Sardinian Warbler.  The return walk towards towards the Laguna Escondida also brought more swifts into view as the birds flew ever lower in search of their food.  We had a very good view of an Alpine Swift and then confirmation that there were still many Pallid Swifts about.

White-headed Duck Malvasia Cabeciblanca (Oxyura leucocephala)

The Escondida pool was something of a surprise.  At first, other than the numerous terrapins, the water looked empty save for a pair of White-headed Duck.  Then a "dull smudge" just inside the reeds at the back of the pool was more closely studied and, when the bird finally stretched up its snake-like neck, we were able to identify a Purple Heron.  Just before reaching the pool we had seen our only Grey Heron of the morning as it flapped over us toward the main pool.  Only about two metres to the left of the Purple Heron, a pair of Garganey were tucked up in the reed fringes and remaining very still.

Finally, the walk to the Laguna Grande produced the first of two Woodchat Shrikes and the a group of four Linnets.  There seemed to be nothing new on the water, simply more Moorhens and Coots plus a number of Cormorants, until we spotted the pair of Shoveler resting on the far side.  So it was time to work our way back to the car with yet another Woodchat Shrike and more Blackbirds and Sardinian Warblers and a final Robin.  Job done and a total of 49 species recorded during the time.

Birds seen:

Gadwall, Mallard, Garganey, Shoveler, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Grey Heron, Purple Heron, Booted Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot,Black-winged Stilt, Little Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Sanderling, Mediterranean Gull, Black-headed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Sandwich Tern, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Monk Parakeet, Alpine Swift, Common Swift, Pallid Swift, Hoopoe, Crested Lark, Barn Swallow, House Martin, Yellow Wagtail (Iberian race), Robin, Northern Wheatear, Black-eared Wheatear, Blackbird, Cetti's Warbler, Zitting Cisticola, Sardinian Warbler, Southern Grey Shrike, Woodchat Shrike, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Greenfinch, Goldfinch and Linnet.

Per usual: No camera so some great birds including Alpine Accentor and Golden Eagle

Up early and off to Nerja to collect Robin and Karen Hodgson who had just arrived from Cumbria for a week's holiday and then a quick about turn to head up the mountain towards Venta de Zafarraya and Alhama de Granada.  When I left home there was not a cloud in the sky but by the time I had arrive almost back at my starting point and climbed the mountain we were confronted by low cloud, no sun and a bitterly cold, strong off-shore breeze.  Before we had left Nerja a Hoopoe had passed overhead within the town and then, no sooner on the motorway, we had the first of three pairs of Red-legged Partridge at the side of the road.  Trapiche presented us with a handful of feeding Cattle Egrets and, as we started to climb up from Puente don Manuel we had the usual Collared Doves, Barn Swallows and House Martins.

Alpine Accentor Acentor Alpino (Prunella collaris)  PHOTO: Stephen Powell

However, our main excitement came as we neared the top and spotted the large soaring raptor, a magnificent Griffon Vulture.  No sooner we were out of the car and we surrounded by both calling and visible Choughs; at least a dozen or more.  Whilst both Robin and Karen were in what can only be described as mid-summer clothing, it was a good job that I had spare coats in the car to offer a little more protection against the elements!  No sooner had we gone fifty metres beyond the mirador fence towards the tunnel when Robin spotted my bird of the day.  Just a quick sight and then it reappeared on the grassy slope quite close to the track and proved, once and for all, that you can find Alpine Accentors at this site.  What a really cracking start to the morning.  From then on we were able to see most of the expected birds including at least had a dozen Black Wheatears, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blue Tit, Rock Bunting and a couple of Rock Sparrows.  In addition, both Kestrel and Linnets on the way back to the car.  No Blue Rock Thrush but there was always a chance that we might see one on the way home.

A quick stop for a coffee to warm ourselves and then on to the "Muckheap" where we recorded good numbers of House Sparrow plus many feeding Thekla Larks.  No magpies as we made our way through the "Magpie Woods" but we did find both Blackbird and Mistle Thrush.

Next a swing off to the left to check the arable fields and,in addition to the Spotless Starlings, we had a good sample of species.  First a Corn Bunting quickly followed by a Hoopoe and then a close view of a gorgeous immature Golden Eagle passing over our heads showing off its white under-wing feathers and white tail. It must have brought us good luck as we saw not only a lovely Crested Lark but then had very good views of a number of Calandra Larks.

From here we pressed on to the pantaneta above Alhama de Granada where, not only had the water levels dropped but, to my amazement and the first time for me, the sandy bottom was revealed.  Resting on these "shores" were a dozen Cormorant and a pair of White Wagtails.  Closer inspection also revealed a Redshank and Little Ringed Plover.  The entrance to this small hamlet had produced a pair of jackdaws and, on stopping beside the hide, we also had a pair of Chaffinches on the ground.  In front of us were singing a Blackcap and a Cetti's Warbler.  Meanwhile, on the water, a good number of Pochard, a few Coots and a single Little Grebe on the far side plus a small number of Crag Martins feeding above.

Making our way to the little spinney at the back of the water, we were able to see the arrival of a trio of Green Sandpipers and then, acting more like a tree-creeper, a rather splendid Firecrest.  As we left the spinney we had our only, single, Goldfinch of the day and the, looking up over the trees, a lonely Sparrowhawk with its recognisable flat, flap, glide; flap, flap, glide as it passed over.  The drive round the other side and a very wet picnic area produced both a Great Tit and very verbal Green Woodpecker.  Our last bird at this site, moving slowly in our direction before easing up for a quick hover, was a rather splendid Short-toed Eagle.

Thus began the return journey to Nerja.  We had hardly entered the Magpie Woods when, on reaching the brow of the first hill, we had movement in the trees, close to the road, on our left.  Stopping the car we first saw the departing pair of Jays and then a dozen or more Azure-winged Magpies.  They seemed to be everywhere and made sure that during our stop they gave us ample opportunity to observe their colours and behaviour.  Lovely!

So, all the target birds but one had been recorded.  A second stop on the old railway track at Ventas de Zafarraya, just before the tunnel, turned up our wanted Blue Rock Thrush as soon as we got out of the car.  So, mission accomplished and off to Nerja.  Or so I thought!  Wanting to show Robin and Karen the old aquaduct at Maro, we stopped so that both could take photographs, even if the structure is presently covered by scaffolding and, would you believe it, whilst looking at the new "tower" in mid-point Robin had a Red-rumped Swallow pass through the lens.  What a lovely way top finish the morning with 49 species recorded and the promise of more to come when we visit the Guadalhorce on Wednesday.

Birds seen:

Short-toed Eagle, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel,Pochard, Red-legged Partridge, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Griffon Vulture, Golden Eagle, Coot, Little Ringed Plover, Redshank, Green Sandpiper, Collared Dove, Hoopoe, Green Woodpecker, Calandra Lark, Crested Lark, Thekla Lark, Crag Martin, Barn Swallow, Red-rumped Swallow, House Martin, White Wagtail, Alpine Accentor, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Black Wheatear, Blackbird, Blue Rock Thrush, Mistle Thrush, Cetti's Warbler, Blackcap, Firecrest, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Jay, Azure-winged Magpie, Chough, Jackdaw, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Rock Sparrow, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, Linnet, Rock Bunting and Corn Bunting.

Axarquia Bird Group Visit to the Guadalhorce, Malaga

A beautiful sunny day with hardly a cloud in the sky but with a very stiff, and cool at times, northerly breeze for our March field visit.  In the end we totalled six; Ian Kirk, Stephen and Elena Powell, David and Janet Fisher and myself.  However, despite the horrendous breeze at times, we had a very successful morning.

Greeted by a Blackbird as I arrived at the church, I turned to collect my bits and pieces and missed Ian's great sighting of a Kingfisher flashing past, more so as it managed to reflect the sun off its back.  Then it was on down to the track up towards the footbridge, passing a Little Egret departing from the nearby culvert.  There were a couple of Mallard and the first on many, but no more than about 30 in total, Cormorants and a couple of Coot put in an appearance.  Overhead we had Barn Swallows and House Martin followed by a handful of Red-rumped Swallows.  the first of many Kestrels did his best to hover overhead in his search for the morning desayuno.  As usual, there were Rock Doves below the motorway bridge, another pair of Coot and the first Sand Martin of the morning.

Booted Eagle Aguililla Calzada (Hieraaetus pennatus)

Approaching the Laguna Casillas and hoping for a little shelter we wondered whether or not we had arrived at the right place as there was a bird to be seen!  Soon, however, birds began to reveal themselves form where they were trying to seek some shelter fro the blustery weather.  First a Little Grebe, then a handful of White-headed Ducks followed by a small flock of Common Pochard.  A Cetti's Warbler put in a very brief appearance below us and was later heard singing its little heart out.  The Wader Pool seemed to hold more birds, mainly Mallard and Pochard but also a pair of Black-winged Stilts.  Overhead, a magnificent Booted Eagle drifted by plus a pair of Collared Doves but all around were scores of hirrundines, probably about the same number each of Barn Swallow and Sand Martin, with a few House Martins. At that moment a pair of Gadwall decided to grace us with their presence on the water and were later joined by another five.  Behind us, a couple of Goldfinch and a screaming flypast by the first pair of Monk Parakeets.

Just to please Stephen, as promised, we manage to find the first of about five Woodchat Shrikes.  These seemed to be the only smaller birds that were able to perch and cope with the blustery conditions but they did offer superb views.  Nearby a couple of Greenfinch and the first of two Sardinian Warbler sightings of the morning.  Next a Zitting Cisticola put in a very brief appearance and we were off to the Sea Watch.

Crested Lark on the scrub land to the east a at least two pairs of Kentish Plover in their breeding ground to the west of the track.  Mind you, the best sight was that of a solitary Whiskered Tern hunting over the very end of the Rio Viejo; often very low and below the vegetation but making sufficient upturns for, I thin, all to get some good views.  However, it was the beach itself that turned up trumps with gulls and small birds taking shelter on or near the rubbish strewn sand and canes.  On the water, mainly Black-headed Gulls with a few Yellow-legged Gulls but then a single Audouin's Gull moved out of the water to feed on the , what appeared, dead seaweed.  Not the only "dead" as close by, partly covered by the canes, was a freshly dead wild boar/pig.  A good size too and a couple of jamons and palletas waiting for offers!  Strange, as yet, no sign of any vermin below of carrion feeders above.  On the beach and seaweed itself, first a single, limping Sanderling (how long is he going to last?) closely followed by a Ringed Plover and then a pair of Turnstones.  Not just House Sparrows and a White Wagtail but also a Yellow (Blue-headed) Wagtail of the Iberian race.  Finally, a good look westwards provided a pair of Whimbrels resting on the edge of the beach until they were disturbed by a passing walker.

Finally, a walk back to the Laguna Grande, missing out Escondida as it was occupied by a rather large group of teenagers on a school trip, where we also recorded many Cormorants, a sole Grey Heron, more White-headed Duck, a handful of Shoveler and the inevitable Coots.  Overhead, in addition to the Barn Swallows, Sand and House Martins, were a few Pallid Swifts but also, during the morning, the occasional Common Swift.
All in all, a very enjoyable morning that, despite the blustery conditions, eventually produced a tally of 44 species.

Birds seen:

Mallard, Gadwall, Shoveler, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Heron, Booted Eagle, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Sanderling, Kingfisher, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Monk Parakeet, Common Swift, Pallid Swift, Crested Lark, Sand Martin, Barn Swallow, Red-rumped Swallow, House Martin, White wagtail, Yellow (Blue-headed) Wagtail, Blackbird, Cetti's Warbler, Zitting Cisticola, Sardinian Warbler, Chiffchaff, Woodchat Shrike, House Sparrow, Greenfinch and Goldfinch. Turnstone, Whimbrel, Black-headed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Audouin's Gull, Whiskered Tern,

Hirundines galore at Charca de Suarez

Sand Martins (Riparia riparia) with Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)

Wednesday

The final day of my three-day birding expedition but first two return trips to try and sort out housing problems re the apartment in Velez de Benaudalla; but on the way back the chance to see Cormorants, Barn Swallows and Crag Martins in and over the, now very full, Embalsa de Rules.  Then it was a call on Gerry Collins in Salobrena to see how he was fairing following his recent operation before heading over towards Motril and the Charca de Suarez reserve.  But not before a very quick call in at the Velez de Benaudalla picnic site where I discovered that the "Wryneck Tree" had fallen during the winter but, nevertheless, a lovely sighting of a Grey Wagtail.

No sooner had I entered the track than I had Collared Doves and a "fluffy" female Kestrel awaiting me.  Both outside and inside the perimeter fence were Black Redstarts and then, on to the first pool, a few Coot, Mallard and Chiffchaff but also a White Wagtail.
 

Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) with Cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo)

The main pool was alive with birds.  Loads of Coot, Moorhen and Mallards with both Mallard and Moorhen proudly presenting their new families, in both cases the chicks probably less than a week old.  A handful of Shoveler was also present plus the usual Little Grebes.  Indeed, on the hidden pool was a single male White-headed Duck giving much pleasure to the Warden, Manolo.  But where was Mrs White-headed Duck?  Me thinks this drake will soon be off to pasture, or waters, new!  In addition to the above, there were about 20 Cormorant resting  around and in the water plus a couple of Cattle Egrets.

Grey Wagtail  Lavandera Cascadena (Motacilla cinerea)

Apart from the Chiffchaff, there were a number of Yellow wagtails feeding on the edges including the fallen reeds immediately on front of the large hide.  All close enough to confirm a mixture of male and female Blue-headed of the Iberian (flava iberiae) race.  However, the main activity was over the water where swarms of hirrundines were busy putting on fat and, I suspect, yet to complete their incoming migratory journey.  Mainly Barn Swallows but also very good numbers of both Sand and House Martins.  Needless to say, a few Yellow-legged Gulls put in an appearance and then the pleasure of an immature Marsh Harrier wandering across the water in front of the hide.  Leaving to make my way back to Frigiliana, a pair of Serins presented themselves in the tree next to the main entrance.

A stay of barely an hour at the reserve produced 24 species, so making a final total of 79 for the past three days.  And some very good birds, too, including Dotterel, Red-crested Pochard, Squacco Heron, Short-toed Eagle and many more.

Shoveler  Cuchara Comun  (Anas clypeata)

Birds seen:

Mallard, Shoveler, White-headed Duck, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Marsh Harrier, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Yellow-legged Gull, Collared Dove, Sand Martin, Crag Martin, Barn Swallow, House Martin, Yellow Wagtail (Blue-headed), White Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Black Redstart, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Woodchat Shrike and Serin.

Both Shrikes then a Kingfisher and Dipper to end the day

Overnight rain and wind so even more lakes and puddles; it is getting more like Malaga Providence every day!  Nevertheless, I was up and away after breakfast to check out all the Cabo de Gata hides and lighthouse site before returning to the hotel to check out and work my way round to the river and the travel back to Granada Province in the reverse order.

The first hide, on the bend as you approach the village, set the seal for the morning with an opportunity to see most of the local birds.  Plenty of Flamingos and Avocets, in total more than a hundred of each on the total water, with good numbers of both Yellow-legged and Black-headed Gulls.  However, the best was seeing flock of at least 40 Slender-billed Gulls.  To my right a feeding Black-tailed Godwit and the first of many Dunlin; again, probably at least thirty of the latter.  A trio of Grey Plover were nearby and then we amongst the ducks; a few Mallard but more Shelduck.   To the far side, a handful of Lesser Black-backed Gulls, the odd Little Egret and a single Common Sandpiper.  A Greenfinch bade farewell as I headed for the net hide.

The next hide is rarely visited and probably deserves its reputation.  All I had was a single Crested Lark and a few Linnets.  The third hide was a little better with a Corn Bunting, a small party of Sanderling near the island and a flock of Spotless Starlings and a dozen or so Rock Doves.  Finally, the public hide gave me a chance to not only see far more Avocets, they were everywhere, but check out the beaches of the small islands.  All that appeared to be about were small flocks of House Sparrows and a few Greenfinches.  Obviously, the strong wind was going to be against me as all the small birds, those notorious LBJs, decided that shelter was a far better option than sit on a fence or bush and be seen by me.  So, finally, it was of up the Sierra de Cabo de Gata to the lighthouse and, yes, that too was a waste of time with nothing to be seen. 

Great Crested Grebe Somormujo Lavanco  (Podiceps cristatus)

Back to the hotel to check out and then to find the track along the western shore that would take me to the truncated river.  Nothing on the way save a party of five Jackdaws moving westwards against the wind low over the upper beach but, having arrived at the water, I was surprised to see how rough the river was as the wind pushed the water upstream. Lots of Barn Swallows and House Martins struggling to feed over the water and a number of Coot and White-headed Duck trying to do likewise on the water.  A pair of Great Crested Grebe was busy trying to undertake their incredible courtship display against all the elements but I am not too sure whether the female developed a headache or the male just gave up in frustration!   Finally, as a left the river, another Moorhen and the sudden appearance of a solitary Green Sandpiper for a brief interlude. The last bird seen as I drove away from the exit from the Camping Site road was of a single Cattle Egret.

Would the Dotterel be still about as I stopped at the site on my back towards Retamar?  An emphatic no.  However, my search did reveal a large raptor which turned out to be a Short-toes Eagle with a Southern Grey Shrike nearer to me and a Woodchat Shrike to my right.  Even better, a good view of a pair of Northern Wheatears.

White-headed Duck Malvasia Cabeciblanca (Oxyura leucocephala)

Job done, I decided to start the journey home and make a return call at the large water in Las Norias. My word, it was even windier here.  I have decided that Red-crested Pochards must be the “Dads’ Army” of the duck world.  They certainly “do not like it up ‘em” and the wind and choppy water ensured that there was not a single specimen to be seen, unlike the four score or more that were on display yesterday.  However, there were plenty of other ducks on show including over a hundred White-headed Duck, Shoveler and Common Pochard.  Again, lots of Grebes with more Black-necked than either of the Little of Great Crested variety.  Hundreds of “swallows” overhead with mainly Barn Swallow but also including Sand Martin, Crag Martin and House Martin.  The Cormorants were still present and also a couple of Little Egrets.  A walk along the track to the south of the water revealed the White and Yellow Wagtails, the latter all of the Iberian (Blue-headed) race.  Leaving via the back road to avoid the centre of Las Norias, I eventually had a Kestrel and another, single, Pallid Swift.

Knowing that I would be going to the Charca de Suarez reserve tomorrow evening, I called at the site just to check that it would be open.  Good job I did, as starting last week-end the reserve will now only be open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5.30 to 6.30 pm until the end of the breeding season; you have been advised!  On the other hand, I did come across a Blackbird and a Kingfisher perched on a small branch overlooking the small stream that runs along the exterior side of the fence to the site.  

Off to Velez de Benaudalla for the evening and still some light so I stopped the river control weir below to see if the resident Common Sandpiper might put in an appearance.  He certainly was along with a couple of White Wagtails.  A walk over the weir obviously disturbed a Dipper who rushed down stream like a “black bullet out of hell,” barely a few centimetres above the water level.  A tree on the far side held a couple of Chaffinches and, looking up, the sky appeared black with hirrundines, like a plague of overgrown gnats.  Again, mainly Barn Swallows but also good numbers of House Martins.  Higher than the hirrundines, a good number of swifts, mainly Pallid but also a few Common Swifts, were present.  Just to put an even bigger cherry on the cake, a small number of Red-rumped Swallows suddenly appeared over the holding lagoon.

Only 55 species recorded for the day but, given the awful birding weather, nevertheless a very rewarding number for the day.

Birds seen:

Shelduck, Mallard, Shoveler, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Little Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Flamingo, Little Egret, Short-toed Eagle, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Avocet, Kentish Plover, Grey Plover, Dunlin, Sanderling, Black-tailed Godwit, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Black-headed Gull, Slender-billed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Common Swift, Pallid Swift, Kingfisher, Crested Lark, Thekla Lark, Sand Martin, Crag Martin, Barn Swallow, Red-rumped Swallow, House Martin,  Yellow Wagtail (Iberian race), White Wagtail, Dipper, Northern Wheatear, Blackbird, Southern Grey Shrike, Woodland Shrike, Jackdaw, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Linnet and Corn Bunting.

A dozen Dotterel for starters!

Dotterel  Chorlito Carambolo  (Charadrius morinellus)

Having spent the morning and early afternoon at Las Norias and the waters near Roquetas de Mar, I was on my way to Cabo de Gata when, at just on 3 pm, I decided that I would make a stop at the field the Andalucia Bird Society members were taken to in Februay in the,what proved to be unsuccessful, hope of finding some Dotterel.  Scope up and a good look round but all that could be found was a distant Southern Grey Shrike.  Needing a break, I decided to sit in the car and eat my cheese roll whilst reading another chapter of my latest thriller ("The Leopnard" by Jo Nesbo).  No sooner had I made a start than I was aware of not 2 but 3, 4, 5 and more brown birds running through the grass in front and to the right of me.  "Funny behaviour for larks," thinks I, "especially to see so many Theklas together!"  Then the proverbial penny dropped.  Not larks but a party of twelve Dotterel.  So for the next fifteen minutes or so I just sat and watched and, with the windown down, snapped away with the camera in the hope that I would get at least one decent shot.  Funny birds; they seemed to move in groups of two or three with a short walk/run, stand up straight, look around and then repeat the action.

But back to the beginning.  The wife away so the hubby birder will play.  All packed up and off for a couple of days in Almeria Province.  Twelve birds noted before I hit the motorway at Torre del Mar and all seen at my destination other than the Black Redstart, Stonechat and Blackbird; three of the first five birds seen this morning.  Arriving at Las Norias, I was not so much greeted by the Collared Doves and House Sparrows in the trees opposite the plastic re-cycling factory as a magnificent male Woodchat Shrike, my first of the year. Indeed, a few minutes later I found a female on the fence not so very far away.  A large black bird flew through the scope's view and in the process of focussing on this Jackdaw I also noticed the resting Hoopoe not so far away.  There were a number of Chiffchaff flitting here, there and everywhere as I progressed along the path and in the adjacent farm fields first a Meadow Pipit and then good numbers of both White and Yellow Wagtails.  Most of the latter were of the Iberian race (Motacilla flava iberiae) but there were also at least half a dozen yellow-throated Western European race (Motacilla flava flava).  A female Greenfinch was waiting for me as I made my way back to the road.

Red-crested Pochard  Pato Colorado  (Netta rufino)

Meanwhile, we would appear to be not the only part of Andalucia to have received a bucket load of rain.  The water levels in the main pool very very high with also much flooding of some of the neighbouring fields towards the back where I usually find wagtails, pipits and Hoopoes.  On the other hand, plenty of water and certainly plenty of birds to be seen.  First off at least 20 Red-crested Pochard and then more as I surveyed the open water.  At least a hundred plus White-headed Ducks and very good numbers of Common Pochard plus more than a handful of Mallard.  Staying with the ducks, it soon became evident that there were scores of Shoveler on the main water and a good number of Gadwall.  To keep them company were a good number of Cormorant, Great Crested Grebes, Little Grebes and, most of all, Black-necked Grebes, the last in all sorts of plumage.

Squacco Heron Garcilla Cangrejera (Ardeola ralloides)

 Overhead the skies were alive with feeding hirundines, mainly Barn Swallows but also a smattering of both Sand and House Martins.  Then my first swift of the year, a single Pallid Swift.  A lone Avocet flew over and on the far bank I found a single Little Egret plus a small flock, about 25, of Cattle Egrets.  On the small pool to the east, a single Squacco Heron plus a few Moorhen. In the distance, a couple of Magpies flew over the trees at the back of the small pool.

With 36 species already recorded at Las Norias, I next made my way over to the pools west of Roquetas de Mar.  Starting on the track leading to the lighthouse, I had my first Flamingos of the day with at least 100 present on the water.  A solitary Redshank was put up whilst overhead a party of 6 Grey Herons moved eastwards.  On the end pool, a pair of Shelduck, more Avocet and the odd Little Egret as well as a good number of Coot.  However, hiding behind the many Shovelers, both species of Pochard and more Cormorants was a rather splendid Great White Egret; well worth the extra detour.  And immediately behind theat bird was a Purple Swamphen hiding in the fringes of the reed bed.  More Shelduck plus a pair of Slender-billed Gulls in the water giving themselves a good cleaning to try and remove some of the sand stains. A female Kestrel was on the overhead wires on returning to the car.

House Martins Avion Comun (Delichon urbicum)

Next the "hidden" pool along the track where the "naughty people" meet to unsuccessfully try (me not them!) and find a Red-knobbed Coot.  However, there were lots of Mallards and a few Shoveler.  Indeed, every sheet of water seemed to contain very good numbers of Shoveler and Coot with most also having Red-crested Pochard and White-headed Duck.  However, there was much activity in front of me with the local House Martins gathering up their building materials to amke a start on the required house building and/or repairs.

Black Wheatear Collalba Negra (Oenanthe leucura)

So on to Cabo de Gata with the initial stop as already described above.  Both Crested and Thekla Lark seen on the incoming journey and the first hide as you approach the village provided a range of waders.  First a single Redshank quickly followed by a Black-tailed Godwit.  A Ringed Plover was feeding on the shore line with a party of 20 Golden Plover immediately behind.  On to the public hide at the far end of the beach to confirm that were indeed very many Avocet present.  Another couple of Redshank plus a pair of Kentish Plovers and the a group of about 10 Little Stints.  Most of the gulls to date had either been Black-headed or Yellow-legged but there were at least a dozen Lesser Black-backed Gulls resting on one of the islands.

Next stop was up and over the Sierra de Cabo de Gata to the lighthouse.  A rather tame Black Wheatear sitting near the side of the road, and a lot more on the side road seen on the way back, but very little else until I stopped on the way back to try and identify the large raptor over the top of the Sierra.  Would have been all right but just at that moment a Peregrine Falcon drifted through the viewfinder and the raptor was lost, probably either a Buzard or Booted Eagle.  Behind me, a trio of Crag Martins were feeding in front of the cliff face.

Spoonbill  Espatula Comun  (Platalea leucorodia)

Finally, a quick look in at the last hide before returning to Cabo de Gata produced more Mallards and Flamingos in the rapidly fading light but then, also, half a dozen Spoonbill to complete the day with a final tally of 62 species.

The dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy - or should that be the Sugar Plum Flaming?  All legs and arms.



Greater Flamingo  Flamenco Comun (Phoenicopterus)

Birds seen:
Shelduck, Mallard, Gadwall, Shoveler, Pochard, Red-crested Pochard, White-headed Duck, Little Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Squacco Heron, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Great White Egret, Grey Heron, Flamingo, Spoonbill, Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, Moorhen, Coot, Purple Swamphen, Black-winged Stilt, Avocet, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Dotterel, Golden Plover, Little Stint, Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Black-headed Gull, Slender-billed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Pallid Swift, Hoopoe, Crested Lark, Thekla Lark, Sand Martin, Crag Martin, Barn Swallow, House Martin, Meadow Pipit, Yellow Wagtail (Iberian race), Yellow Wagtail (European race), White Wagtail, Black Redstart, Black Wheatear, Stonechat, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Southern Grey Shrike, Woodchat Shrike, Magpie, Jackdaw, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow and Greenfinch.