Birding Axarquia

Rio Velez with Golden Plovers and Bluethroat

2012-02-08T16:30:00.000+01:00

Stonechat Tarabilla Saxicola torqatus

Still blowing a gale up on the mountain top but as the wind was coming off the mountains to the north I decided that the local river bed might be a little calmer. So, well dressed up against the bitingly-cold wind, I ventured forth this morning. What a surprise; not the decreasing water level but the warm and almost blinding sunshine in my eyes and the cold breeze from behind. As usual, I was greeted by the resident Rock Doves at the road bridge plus a half-dozen Mallards and a good supply of Moorhen. No sooner had I started off down the track towards the pumping station and I had many sightings of both Grey and White Wagtails. As before, there were also numerous Chiffchaffs busy feeding in the low vegetation.

Sanderling Correlimos Tridactilo Calidris alba before taking flight

With flying Hoopoes as I approaching the widening water, in addition to the Moorhens and a single Little Egret there was a handful of Mediterranean Gulls and a similar number of Sanderling. However, once on the beach and looking back up the Rio Velez there were numerous resting gulls. Numbers seemed to be equally divided between Mediterranean, Black-headed and Yellow-legged with just a few Lesser Black-backed Gulls. Again, more Moorhens plus a dozen Sanderling and a single Little Ringed Plover. Overhead, the lone Cormorant seemed unable to settled as he wandered up and down the river.

Bluethroat Ruisenor Pechiazul Luscinia svecica

Having to put my glasses back on, not so much for the bright sunshine but to try and keep the strong breeze out of my eyes, I made my way towards the eastern growing fields. No sooner arrived than I had my first Bluethroat, still feeding in the same area close to the ditch alongside the new road. Soon the bird was joined by a couple of Meadow Pipits and a passing Crested Lark. Having watched a large flock of Spotless Starling take to the air and return, I then realised that the additional birds were very light under the wing and realised that the two dozen Golden Plover had not departed but were back to feed on their favourite area. Lovely birds that settle and seem quite content to let you count, watch and photograph them. Indeed, whilst also checking the feeding Spotless Starlings, sure enough I found a Common Starling in their midst.

Departing Spotless Starlings EstorninoNegro Sturnus unicolor

Arriving and settled Golden Plover Chorlito Dorado Europeo Pluvialis apricaria

Onwards then to complete the circuit back to the river noting first a number of Black Redstarts, more Crested Larks and a very large, over an hundred, mixed flock of mainly Goldfinches and Serins with few Meadow Pipits feeding in a flooded corner of the neighbouring field. A good number of Stonechats were regularly seen on their sentinel posts plus many feeding House Sparrows. Not to be outdone, even a handful of Greenfinches put in an appearance.

Goldfinches Jilguero Carduelis carduelis by the hundred

Greenfinch Verderon Comun Carduelis chloris

Serin Verdecillo Serinus serinus

Back alongside the river, I was able to revisit the Grey and White Wagtails, Chiffchaffs and pick up the occasional Robin. Over the water a good number of Crag Martins were busy feeding whilst some of the restless gulls drifted up and down much to the consternation of the Mallards.

Grey Wagtail Lavandera Cascadena Motacilla cinerea

Returning home via Trapiche, not only were the Collared Doves on the wires but the flooded field on the back road held at least a dozen Lapwing, albeit on this occasion no Cattle Egrets.

Amazing, given the very unfavourable weather, that I actually managed to record over 30 species yet with lots of the more common birds not seen. Such is the fun and pleasure of birding; always the unexpected!

Birds seen:

Mallard, Cormorant, Little Egret, Moorhen, Little Ringed Plover, Golden Plover, Lapwing, Sanderling, Mediterranean Gull, Black-headed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Hoopoe, Crested Lark, Crag Martin, Meadow Pipit, Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, Bluethroat, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Chiffchaff, Common Starling, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Serin, Greenfinch and Goldfinch.


Meadow Pipit Bisbita Pratense Anthus pratensis

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Dave & Gilly back from their Morocco visit with 156 species

2012-02-08T13:58:00.061+01:00

Lovely to receive the final update from Dave and Gill this morning informing all that their final species list totalled 156. It just goes to show what a three-week holiday from their Almerian home can produce - and they missed the worst of the cold weather and the very strong winds. However, now that they are back in Arboles no doubt the Caba de Gata will be calling soon! I even noted the "lifers" that Dave managed to add to his list.

Now before you all get too excited, remember that I saw the list first and keen to get across the water to partake of the same. Anyone fancy a similar trip this time next year? Not sure how Dave planned and organised their visit but I, for one, will be making enquiries.

Here, then, is Dave and Gilly's wonder list set out by individual day:

Day 1 Around Tanger

Desert Sparrow Passer simplex

Audouin's Gull Yellow Legged Gull

Shag Thekla Lark

House Sparrow Barn Swallow

Kestrel Cattle Egret

Southern Grey Shrike House Martin

Chiffchaff Spotless Starling

Black Headed Gull Little Egret

Stonechat Lesser Black Backed Gull

Jackdaw

Day 2 Tanger to Rabat

Robin Barbary Partridge

Black Redstart Collared Dove

Mallard White Stork

Cormorant Teal

Shoveler Caspian Tern

Wigeon Greater Flamingo

Marsh Harrier White Wagtail

Moussier's Redstart Phoenicurus moussieri

Corn Bunting Black Shouldered Kite

Black Winged Stilt Water Pipit

Gull Billed Tern Yellow Wagtail

Crested Lark Magpie

Zitting Cistacola Grey Heron

Booted Eagle Coot

Red Crested Pochard Lapwing

Sparrowhawk Red Knobbed Coot

Snipe Bluethroat

Little Stint Jack Snipe

Moorhen Purple Gallinule

Great White Egret Redshank

Meadow Pipit Sand Martin

Green Sandpiper Chaffinch

Little Owl Serin

Greenfinch Common Buzzard

Great Crested Grebe Blue Tit

Black Necked Grebe Squacco Heron

Cetti's Warbler MARSH OWL(Lifer)

Day 3 Rabat to El Jadida

Golden Plover Wood Pigeon

Common Pochard Little Grebe

Linnet Ringed Plover

Kentish Plover Whimbrel

Eurasian Curlew Grey Plover

Dunlin Turnstone

Curlew Sandpiper Greenshank

Mediterranean Gull Common Bulbul

Turtle Dove Sardinian Warbler

Day 4 El Jadida to Agadir

Western Reef Egret Garceta Dimorfa Egretta gularis

WESTERN REEF EGRET ( Lifer) Glossy Ibis

Sanderling Spoonbill

Great Tit Brown Throated Martin

Little Ringed Plover Kingfisher

Redstart Moussier's Redstart

Long Legged Buzzard Blackcap

Day 5 Agadir to Marrakech

Tawny Owl (heard) Raven

Woodchat Shrike House Bunting

Hobby

Day 6 Marrakech & Oukaimeden

Horned Lark Alondra Cornuda Eremophila alpestris

Crossbill Coal Tit

Blue Rock Thrush Black Wheatear

Mistle Thrush Horned Lark

Crimson Winged Finch Red Billed Chough

Alpine Chough Rock Sparrow

Crag Martin Grey Wagtail

Rock Dove

Day 7 Marrakech to Ouarzazate

Jay Lesser Kestrel

White Crowned Wheatear Desert Lark

Spectacled Warbler Ruddy Shelduck

Lanner Falcon Osprey

Trumpeter Finch

Day 8 Ouarzazate to Erfoud

Hoopoe Laughing Dove

Red Rumped Wheatear Temmink's Lark

Lesser Short Toed Lark Scrub Warbler

Day 9 Erfoud & amp; desert

White-crowned Black Wheatear Oenanthe leucopyga

Hoopoe Lark Crowned Sandgrouse

Desert Wheatear Brown Necked Raven

Desert Warbler Desert Sparrow

Mourning Wheatear

Day 10 Rissani & amp; Tiz Valley

Bar Tailed Lark Fulvous Babbler

Day 11 Erfoud to Ouarzazate

Barbary Falcon Marbled Duck

Day 12 Ouarzazate to Imlil

Great Spotted Woodpecker

Days 13 & 14 Imlil

Goldcrest Short Toed Treecreeper

Levailllent's Green Woodpecker

Days 15,16 Imlil & Marrakech Nothing added

Day 17 Marrakech to Casablanca

Common Swift

Day 18 Casablanca to Tanger

Northern Starling Common Crane

Great Spotted Cuckoo Montagu's Harrier

Day 19 Tanger

Gannet

Crowned Sandgrouse Pterocles coronatus

All photographs by Dave Elliott-Binns

Total 156 species. And as Dave says, photos will follow once he has sorted through the 575 selection!!

Welcome home Dave and Gilly and, as you can see, we are all very green round the proverbial; gills!!!

My comments:

1. Presumably Dave's "Purple Gallinule" was our now re-named "Purple Swamphen"?

2. Looking at the list, unless I have missed it, there appears to be one glaring omission for which, if so, Dave and Gilly must be feeling really ***** off! (Clue: What comes soon after the birds of prey in the standard list?)

Birding in Central America

2012-02-06T18:40:00.000+01:00

A report on my recent cruise from Los Angeles to Miami calling in at Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and through the Panama Canal to Aruba before our final disembarkation at Fort Lauderdale can be found on my alternative blogsite at http://axarquiabirder.blogspot.com. CLICK HERE to be re-direted.

Once on the site, following the report there is a further link to more photographs.

Glossy Ibis (3) at Charca de Suarez

2012-02-03T22:20:00.000+01:00

Glossy Ibis Morito Comun Plegadis falcinellus

A lovely sunny afternoon with clear blue when I collected Stephen and Elena Powell to pay an early evening visit to the Charca de Suarez reserve on the eastern outskirts of Motril. But first a quick visit to the apartment to check all was OK which resulted in us arrival half an hour late for the two-hour opening session. Imagine our dismay, upset, anger, etc when we discovered the gates shut and securely fixed with chain and padlock. Was this to be another wasted visit? Deciding to take a closer look at the reserve's notice board to see, if by surprising chance, there might be any reason or excuse on display we discovered, much to our astonishment, that rather than thirty minutes late we were actually thirty minutes early; opening hours having been put back an hour at the start of February - yesterday! All that now remained was how to spend the waiting minutes with the sum already low in the sky and a very strong wing blowing making us wonder what, if anything, might be seen in such circumstances.

Walking the neighbouring track we saw the odd Chiffchaff and Black Redstart plus a low-flying Marsh Harrier to add to the Collared Doves and Blackbirds seen as we arrived but little else in the windy conditions. Overhead there were hundreds of small Gulls moving about, a mixture of both Black-headed and Mediterranean. So over the road to take a quit look at the beach where we found yet more resting gulls, this time mainly Yellow-legged but also a good number of Black-headed with the occasional Mediterranean Gull. Also present were at least two pairs of Crested Larks.

Bluethroat Ruisenor Pechiazul Luscinia svecica

Time for opening and relieved to see the arrival of Mano a few minutes later and the knowledge that our drive up to Granada Province had indeed not been in vain. Given the windy conditions and ever-lowering sun, we headed straight for the main hide overlooking the largest pool. Recording Robin on the way, we were soon looking at large numbers of water birds, mainly Mallard and Shoveler but with very good numbers of Coot and some Moorhens. A number of Little Grebes were busy feeding close by and once settled and studying the nearby island, we soon found the first of three Glossy Ibis seen during the evening. Where was the missing bird to make up the reported number previously seen? Meanwhile, standing sentinel at the back, a very tired looking Grey Heron in the company of a couple of Little Egrets and an ever-growing number of Cattle Egrets. At the very rear of the pool a juvenile Cormorant rested quietly and without a seeming care in the world. Eagle-eyed Elena soon spotted the now resident Snipe hiding in the grass and, not content with one find, then pointed out that there was a Bluethroat feeding immediately below us near the water's edge!

Snipe Agachadiza Comun Gallinago gallinago (Steve Powell)

So, all eyes on the Bluethroat and the numerous feeding Chiffchaffs. In addition, we had a pair of White Wagtails and a pair of Stonechats that spent most of the evening feeding on a short stick near the feeding Bluethroat. At this point I took a short walk to the neighbouring pool and hide whilst, in my absence, the Snipe flew across to join the feeding Bluethroat; almost too close for Stephen to get the bird in frame. As for me, not only did I find a male and two female Teal on the water but I passed a small flock of Serins at the turn and the my first Barn Swallow of the year flew across the track towards the main pool.

Eventually, with most of the light almost gone with the sun so low and ed in the sky, we made our way back to the gate taking the clockwise path so that we could call in, once again, at the neighboring pool. No Teal about but there were now three Blackwinged Stilts and at least a handful of Barn Swallows had descended to take their evening feed along with about a score of Crag Martins. Finally, a very brief visit to the small pool near the entrance gate revealed a pair of Gadwall and a late Kestrel made a very quick fly-past. So, homeward bound having recorded a total of 33 species.

Heron with Glossy Ibis, Little Egret and Mallards

Female Stonechat Tarabilla Comun Saxicola torquatus

Male Stonechat

Add caption

Inquisitive Common Coot Focha Comun Fulica atra

Resting Black-headed Gull Gaviota Reidora Larus ridibundus

Birds seen:

Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Heron, Glossy Ibis, Marsh Harrier, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Snipe, Black-headed Gull, Mediterranean Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Collared Dove, Crested Lark, White Wagtail, Crag Martin, Barn Swallow, Bluethroat, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Blue Tit, House Sparrow and Serin.

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Fuente de Piedra and Beyond

2012-02-01T13:08:00.000+01:00

Greater Flamingos Flamenco Comun Phoenicopterus roseus

Tuesday 31 January

The last day of the month and the pleasure of taking Thomas and Benedicte Skjodt and their friends Per and Vera over to Fuente de Piedra to find both the flamingos and cranes and then on the Laguna Dulce for the ducks and grebes. With time running out, we had to forgo a visit to El Chorro to see the other target birds, vultures, so returned via El Torcal in the hope that there might still be a few later wanderers to be seen. Having rented a villa just below us, Lake Vinuela was an obvious meeting place with the sun was shining in clear blue skies as we set off. I just hoped that I could find all the hoped for birds to give this lovely Danish quartet a great day's birding - and, hopefully, in lovely Spanish weather and a chance to see some of the lovely countryside in this area.

Juvenile Greater Flamingo

A little cloud as we passed Antequera but the sun was out in a clear blue sky when we arrived at Fuente de Piedra at about 10 o'clock. White Wagtails on the roads, Coots, Shovelers and Black-winged Stilts on the flooded field to the left with a number of Lapwing at the rear as we approached the car park, not to mention Blackbids and Spotless Starlings, so it looked as if we might be in for a successful morning. Right from the start we had regular numerous sightings of Stonechats and Chiffchaffs seemed to be everywhere.

So off to the path for a walk around the water's edges and on to the rear laguna. Whilst their were thousands of Greater Flamingos on the main water, there were only a couple of juveniles on the shall pond to the right. Also here, we had our first Teal of the day plus the usual Moorhens, a pair of Mallards and more Black-winged Stilts. However, the short walk from the car park had already produced the first Reed Bunting of the day, more Stonechats and a rather lovely Bluethroat skulking low in a bush along with a nearby male Blackcap. In addition to the thousands of Flamingos on the main water, there was a rather large flock of roosting Lesser Black-backed Gulls, probably in excess of 500. (By the end of the visit, I estimated that there must already have been at least 5000 Flamingos present on the laguna.) During a brief stop we just managed to see a low-passing Marsh Harrier disappear to the right. The ground area and bushes in front of us contained large numbers of House Sparrows and very many Black Redstarts, including some absolutely gorgeous males rapidly approaching full breeding plumage.

Common Cranes Grulla Comun Grus grus at Fuente de Piedra

The small laguna at the rear of the Visitors' Centre contained mainly Shovelers but there were some Teal, Pochard and Mallard plus a couple of Little Grebes. Just before entering the main hide we had a single House Martin overhead, my first of the year, and a rather large charm of delightful Goldfinches. More excitement immediately in front of the hide as we not only had Stonechats and Sardinian Warblers but a very close Dartford Warbler that posed long enough for all to get a good view. Also, rather surprisingly, there were also a small number of Willow Warblers feeding immediately in front of us; how lovely to see these delightful and bright warblers back again. Lots of Spotless Starlings about plus a small number of Jackdaws as we made our way to the neighbouring small hide where we were able to record a rather lovely Grey Wagtail along with Great Tit and Blackbird, not to mention numerous rabbits. However, a single Cattle Egret feeding close by did come as a little surprise.

Common Crane

A stop to scan the relatively near Greater Flamingos on the main water proved very successful as we managed to find one of the Lesser Flamingos that have been present for the past few weeks. It meant that we also saw the low-flying Grey Heron in addition to many Black-headed Gulls. Meanwhile, in front of us, we had more Black Redstarts and a rather lovely Robin. Finally, a walk over the wooden footbridge to the neighbouring fields provided our first Zitting Cisticola of the day quickly followed by a Green Sandpiper.

Then it was off on the anti-clockwise circuit of the laguna recording both Little Egret and Common Sandpiper almost immediately before stopping at the Mirador de Cantarranas. Here we were able to scope the 220+ Common Cranes that were feeding in the opposite field. What a lovely sight! However, during the brief stop by the bridge to look at the above birds, we also had a very anxious Raven pass over, obviously missing his/her better half judging by the constant calling, and the first of at least three Buzzards taking a rest on top of a convenient pylon. In addition, from now onwards we were regularly seeing both hovering and resting Kestrels. Whilst look over the water from the mirador, we found another dozen Cranes and a single Purple Swamphen skulking around in the reed edge.

Marsh Harrier AguiluchoLagunero Circus aeruginosus

Corn Bunting Triguero Emberiza calandra

The circuit completed and lunch taken back in Fuente, we made our way direct to the Laguna Dulce on the Campillos road. What a mass of white everywhere; there must have been thousands of Black-headed Gulls in residence! However, after a while and with perseverence, we did manage to find the rest of the bird life with good numbers of Little Grebes and then Black-necked Grebes who would insist on feeding in the middle of the gulls. Nearer to us on the left there were a few Teal, Shoveler and Lapwings, not to mention the odd Moorhen, before we started scoping the distant edges. About a score of Flamingos at the back and a very long black raft which probably numbered about and hundred Coots. But two pleasant sightings were to follow. A small group of Pochards on the far left included three Red-crested Pochards and the pool to the far right held about a dozen feeding Black-tailed Godwits. Mind you, when the quartering female Marsh Harrier wandered their way there was a sudden irruption of all concerned! Finally, in front of the hide, we had a good number of feeding Corn Buntings on the ground along with the, to be expected, high number of Chiffchaffs plus a well-concealed Snipe. The last birds recorded were a pair of Gadwall that suddenly appeared form who knows where they had been hiding

Red-crested Pochard Pato Colorado Netta rufina

Too late to visit El Chorro so a rather mad dash back to take in a visit to the incredible scenery that makes up El Torcal. My word it was rather cold when we arrived but spectacular views were to be seen from the mirador - if very few birds. Returning towards the car, however, we had first a Rock Bunting and then both Great and Blue Tits on the path in front of the Visitors' Centre. Benedicte found the first of, probably, at least a handful of Ibis on the rock tops and it was Per who, finally and with much joy and relief to all of us, saw the specks in the sky above the rocks that we could all confirm as our much sought after Griffon Vultures. Usually two present at any one time and probably about five individuals in all.

Griffon Vultures Buitre Leonado Gyps fulvusover El Torcal

What a happy band of pilgrims made their way back to the Axarquia; mission accomplished but it would have been nice to have seen a Hoopoe! Still, a total of 54 species, very pleasant company, lovely weather so what more could you ask for to complete a great birding day?

Birds seen:

Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Red-crested Pochard, Pochard, Little Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Heron, Greater Flamingo, Lesser Flamingo, Griffon Vulture, Marsh Harrier, Buzzard, Kestrel, Moorhen, Purple Swamphen, Coot, Crane, Black-winged Stilt, Lapwing, Black-tailed Godwit, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Snipe, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, House Martin, Grey Wagtail, White wagtail, Bluethroat, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Zitting Cisticola, Dartford Warbler, Sardinian Warbler, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Southern Grey Shrike, Jackdaw, Raven, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Goldfinch, Rock Bunting, Reed Bunting and Corn Bunting.

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Rio Velez, Torre del Mar

2012-01-30T15:58:00.002+01:00

Golden Plovers Chorlito Dorado Europeo Pluvialis apricaria

A beautiful sunny day and, down besides the river, away from the strong mountain breeze. So meeting up with Steve Powell we had a rather pleasant birding experience as we walked both the river track and beach. Even more so when, on the far side of the eastern growing fields, a masked and hooded motor-cyclist pulled up, lifted his visor and revealed himself as Eric Lyon. So, why carry on when we could retrace our steps ans how Eric the flock of a dozen Golden Plovers feeding nearby, not to mention the charm of Goldfinches totalling at least an hundred individuals.

Back to the beginning where Steve and I were welcomed by the usual resident Rock Doves and Moorhens plus a small number of Mallard. A Grey Wagtail took off across the nearby field and Cetti's Warblers blasted out from the nearby bushes and reeds. A Common Sandpiper fed in the river and a couple of Little Egret's arrived and perched in the top of the opposite trees. No sooner had I got the sandpiper in view through the binoculars than a Kingfisher flashed by upstream.

Departing Little Egret Garceta Comun Egretta garzetta

Moving down the track there was no shortage of birds to be seen along the shingle river banks. Plenty of White Wagtails and more Grey Wagtails to give a flash of colour. With scores of feeding Chiffchaffs all around we then had our first Green Sandpiper quickly followed by a single Water Pipit, a Black Redstart and a few Goldfinches and Serins. Next came a flock of twenty Sanderlings with a pair of Dunlin to keep them company. A Robin pottered about in front of us and ere long we had also recorded Blackbird, Meadow Pipit and Hoopoe. Overhead, a pair of noisy Monk Parakeets and then the ever-present Stonechats and a reasonably-sized flock of Spotless Starlings. As a Snipe took off up river, we had yet another Ringed Plover and then the first Kentish Plover.

Sanderlings Calidris alba feeding on dead fish

The beach was deserted save for a pair of fishermen and the river had, once again, broken through to the sea. Whilst we did not see the Guillemot that had recorded earlier in the day, we did have a flock of Black-headed Gulls! Moving to the eastern growing fields, first House Sparrows then more Serins and the flock of a dozen Golden Plovers. Huge flocks of Goldfinches (as above) were recorded along with a few Linnets. At this point a dozen or so Cattle Egrets passed over heading westwards whilst we carried on to the "new" road, recording more Meadow Pipits and Crested Larks until we met up with Eric.

More Monk Parakeets Cotorra Argentina Myiopsitta monachus

Returning towards the beach and back along the track to our cars we, once again, recorded most of the birds seen on the outward leg of the walk plus another Sardinian Warbler. However, we did manage to also add Cormorant, Crag Martin and Little Ringed Plover. Steve then departed whilst Eric and I walked upstream beyond the first bridge in the hope that yesterday's Jack Snipe was still to be seen (as recorded by local Velez Malaga birder, Kiree) nut no such luck. On the other hand, we did see another couple of Water Pipits and yet another Hoopoe.

The morning ended with a final total of 37 species but then I also managed to record Chaffinch and Thekla Lark as I drove up the rack to Casa Collado and a Kestrel was hovering over the house, so giving me a round total of 40 for the day.

All photographs by Stephen Powell

Birds seen:

Mallard, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Cormorant, Kestrel, Moorhen, Golden Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Sanderling, Dunlin, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Snipe, Black-headed Gull, Rock Dove, Monk Parakeet, Kingfisher, Hoopoe, Crested Lark, Thekla Lark, Crag Martin, Water Pipit, Meadow Pipit, White Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Sardinian Warbler, Chiffchaff, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Chaffinch, Serin, Golfinch and Linnet.

Axaquia Bird Group visit to Guadalhorce

2012-01-27T10:44:00.001+01:00

Chiffchaff Mosquitero Comun Phylloscopus collybita

Perhaps because of the rather late date for this month's meeting, a select handful found themselves at the Guadalhorce yesterday (Thursday) to discover the birds present on the reserve. As Andy, Gerry, Louise Ian and I walked up the embankment we said goodbye tot he pair of Crested Larks and House Sparrows on the school playing field and hello to the first of very many Robins and Black Redstarts that were to be seen during the course of the morning. A cold start with a chilling breeze even though there was little cloud and the sun was doing its best to get its hat on. Definite a case of coats on! On the other hand, we did have the usual raucous company of the wandering Monk Parakeet gangs.

Departing Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo

From the river's edge we could see what appeared top be a rather quiet reserve with a pair of Mallards and the odd coot on the water itself and signs of Cormorants and Herons moving about overhead. The resident Rock Doves were in smaller numbers as we crossed the footbridge but yet more Robins and the occasional Stonechat. The walk down to the far bank and its trio of observation posts produced Sardinian Warbler and Zitting Cisticola plus evidence of much needed management to the site itself. Lots of scrub clearing and removing of rubbish and, with the young workers already busy on their day's work, we took the opportunity for a brief stop to warm our hands over one of the small bonfires before entering the first hide to check out the Laguna Casillas. (As with the neighbouring Wader Pool, bird life was somewhat restricted giving the temporary local disturbance.) A few Coots and White-headed Ducks on the water but little else so on tot the Wader Pool where we found Black-winged Stilts, 8 Teal and a small number of Ringed and Little Ringed Plovers. A single White Wagtail on a sandbank and then the sight of our first Booted Eagle as the bird rose from the trees beyond the water.

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus

Moving on down the track we had a few more birds on the Rio Viejo on the right. First Black-winged Stilts and then a pair of Dunlin along with a pair of Common Sandpipers. A single Redshank and three Snipe were observed on the far side of the river. Kestrels hovering overhead and at least a pair of Booted Eagles resting in the trees to the rear with a small number of Spotless Starlings and Cormorants occupying the spare branches. On the newly-cleared ground in front of the river a couple of Meadow Pipits and a good number of foraging Chiffchaffs and Stonechats plus the occasional Goldfinch and Serin. Then, at last, a few Kentish Plovers located with their cousins on the near bank of the river.

The walk on down to the Sea Watch revealed the great progress achieved at improving the breeding area for the Kentish Plovers. With all the debris cleared away we can all expect to see the benefit in a few months time and, perhaps, lots more[pipits and wagtails, etc. Looking at the area revealed another pair of Crested Larks and a small flock of about five Sky Larks. From the far end of the track and Sea Watch we could see a reasonable number of Lesser Black-backed Gulls on the sea but no terns. Then, just off the beach, a group of three feeding Black-necked Grebes which remained in the area the whole time that we were present. The bank of the eastern arm of the Guadalhorce held a dozen Sanderling and at least four Turnstones plus, surprise surprise, another Black-necked Grebe.

Black-necked Grebes Podiceps nigricollis

The walk along the beach gave us an opportunity to further appreciate the recent management work to the area and also good sightings of the soaring Booted Eagle. Just to add tot the fun, we also had a magnificent view of a male Marsh Harrier displaying itself in all its handsome glory. Over the area a score of Crag Martins were busy feeding and a solitary Hoopoe flew eastwards along the edge of the reserve.

And so to the Laguna Grande where most of the bird life was congregated - probably as a result of the work currently under progress on the eastern bank. Lots of Shoveler and White-headed Ducks, a few Pochards plus five juvenile Flamingos and a good number of Black-winged Stilts. The occasional Coots put in an appearance along with a single Moorhen and there was no shortage of Little Grebes plus a small number of Black-necked Grebes. In front of the hide we had a couple of feeding White Wagtails and a Little Ringed Plover with yet more Chiffchaffs. Needless to say, there were scores of Cormorants present, a lone Little Egret and a small number of Herons.

Finally, the Laguna Escondida produced very little other than a small number of White-headed Ducks so we made our way out of the reserve to the accompaniment of Robins and Black Restarts with the sun beating down and the temperature rapidly rising. A wonderful way to end the morning with a final tally of 44 species.

Kestrel Cernicalo Vulgar Falco tinnunculus

Stonechat Tarabilla Comun Saxicola torquatus

Sleeping juvenile Greater Flamingos Flamenco Comun Phoenicopterus roseus

Birds seen:

Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Little Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Cormorant, Little Egret, Heron, Flamingo, Marsh Harrier, Booted Eagle, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Little Ringed Plover, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Turnstone, Dunlin, Redshank, Snipe, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Rock Dove, Monk Parakeet, Hoopoe, Crested Lark, Sky Lark, Crag Martin, Meadow Pipit, White Wagtail, Robin, Black Restart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Zitting Cisticola, Sardinian Warbler, Chiffchaff, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Serin and Goldfinch.

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Back to Birding!

2012-01-25T16:20:00.000+01:00

Having been conspicuous by my absence for almost four weeks as we cruised aboard the Queen Victoria (but only two weeks on ship!), we arrived home at Casa Collado tired but safely on Monday night. So, one day to recover and download the many photos, etc then it was certainly time to get back to the serious occupation known as "Birding" - or "Bird Watching" or whatever. Dry and calm this morning so up the local mountain circuit to take in the old railway track above Venta de Zafarraya, the "Muck Heap" and "Magpie Woods" on the road to Alhama de Granada, a quick trip round the back on a new circuit and then home via the mountain track down to Alcaucin, calling in at both the top and lower picnic areas. And I even found time to stop off and buy some water! By the time I returned I had managed to record a reasonable total of 32 species.

Female Black Wheatear Collalba Negra Oenanthe hispanica

The old railway track produced birds as soon as I arrived and continued to do so; lots of variety but in small and steady numbers. Both Rock and Collared Dove along with Blackbird were soon on the list along with a good-sized flock of Spotless Starlings on the overhead wires and then a steady stream of all the more common passerines including Stonechat, Linnet (there were scores about all along the track as far as the tunnel), Rock Bunting, Blue Rock Thrush, a pair of Blue Tits for a pleasant change, Black Redstart and Sardinian Warbler. All the time I was accompanied by the mournful cry of a few Choughs and, once through the tunnel, was also able to add Serin, House Sparrow, Black Wheatear and Great Tit.

Walking along the track I could not help but notice the number of small, wild irises (Broad-leaf Iris?) that gave a touch of lovely colour to the otherwise dull-coloured soil. And, as if on cue, along came the sandy coloured Crag Martins to keep me company. The small copse just before the ruined railway cottage produced a male Blackcap and both Thekla Lark and a female Greenfinch were recorded on the return walk back to the car. However, the first surprise of the day was to see a Meadow Pipit ferreting around in its usual mouse-like walk; could this be an early returnee preparing for the coming breeding season? Possibly, given that I also had a couple of Black Redstarts later on which were carrying food.

The "Muck Heap" site was looking really bare and only managed to produce the first Mistle Thrush of the morning along with a score or so of House Sparrows. Approaching the start of the "Magpie Wood" as I drove up the small hill I had the pleasure of a half-dozen Azure-winged Magpies cross the road and, making a short stop, also recorded more Mistle Thrushes and a lone Robin. Continuing through the woods and then off to the left to tour the "new" circuit, I son had a number of (Common) Magpies plus White Wagtail and, finally, the first Corn Bunting of the day.

Golden Eagle Aguila Real Aguila chrysaetos

It would be untrue to say that the final trip of the day down the mountain track was a disappointment in that only a couple of Chaffinches were seen at the top picnic site and the lower site, at first, also seemed to be devoid of birds. But, parking the car, there was a solitary Crossbill atop the usual Eucalyptus tree. Then, happening to look up as I turned round, I was in time to see a magnificent Golden Eagle soaring and drifting over the mountain top with, as the sun broke through once more, that lovely golden reflection that makes the birds look so impressive. No Nuthatches to be seen but more Chaffinches and Crossbills, a few Goldfinches and, completely out of the blue, a rather lovely Song Thrush. What a lovely way to finish the morning and head off home for a late lunch.

Birds seen:

Golden Eagle, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Thekla Lark, Crag Martin, White Wagtail, Meadow Pipit, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Black Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush, Blackbird, Mistle Thrush, Song Thrush, Blackcap, Sardinian Warbler, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Azure-winged Magpie, Magpie, Chough, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Chaffinch, Serin, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Linnet, Crossbill, Rock Bunting and Corn Bunting.

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

What's been happening these past two weeks?

2012-01-21T14:14:00.000+01:00

Welcome to 2012

I know there were no tears; too near to get the whole 3 metres in the frame!

Hello again now that I am back in England following our anti-clockwise cruise aboard the Queen Victoria from Los Angeles to Miami via the Panama Canal; Home to our mountain home in Spain on Monday. Whilst the cruise was wonderful, the same could not be said about the birds. Lots initially but then relatively few on our shore visits and, apart from the activity around the main locks, very little if anything to be seen whilst travelling the Canal. However, I must not shed "crocodile tears" and there was certainly no shortage of vultures, mainly Turkey Vultures but also good numbers of Black Vultures. Once back home I can sort out the bird pictures and then publish to seek some identification help from you all!

An immature White Stork rapidly moulting out into adult plumage.

The ever-present Turkey Vulture; from Mexico through Panama to Aruba and Florida

Meanwhile, all has not been quiet back in the Axarquia with both Eric and Pat Lyon and Stephen and Elena Powell out and about. Having recorded 71 species at Rutland Water at the end of last month, Eric and Pat were soon up in the local mountains to see what could be seen. The Salares/Sedella area produced lots of Griffon Vultures plus Crested Tit, Short-toed Treecrepers, Firecrests, Rock Buntings and the occasional Dartford Warbler. Then it was off to Zafarraya where, Eric reports, numbers were in short supply other than the Choughs but all the usuals, including Black Wheatear and Blue Rock Thrush, were recorded along with a single Alpine Accentor.

A different walking route at El Robledal produced a whole range of woodland birds amongst the on-going tree clearance programme. Great, Blue, Crested, Coal and Long-tailed Tit along with Firecrest, Nuthatch, Short-toed Treecreeper made a great start. Next came at least 6 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Mistle and Song Thrush plus Cirl and Rock Bunting. Just when a dozen Woodlarks seemed to be the proverbial "icing on the cake" up popped a lone Hawfinch. Great birding Eric and Pat; I just hope that you have left something behind for me!

Golden Plovers at the Rio Velez, Torre del Mar

As for Stephen and Elena, they were down at the Rio Velez near Torre del Mar as we were struggling back from across the "Pond" and, at last, finding all the missing waders. With, I am informed, no rain since November there must now be plenty of exposed mud which might explain the good numbers of both Ringed and Kentish Plovers not to mention Snipe, Common Sandpipers and Sanderlings. However, pride of place probably went to the flock of Golden Plovers in the adjacent fields. The bad news, from my point of view, is that I have been told to expect rain this coming Monday/Tuesday to welcome us home!

Departing Golden Plovers PHOTO: Stephen Powell

Ah well, best to get it out of the way before the next meeting of the Axarquia Bird Group, next Thursday, 26 January, at the Guadalhorce in Malaga.

Photographs include Stephen's Golden Plovers plus my untouched jpegs from the cruise.

Happy New Year readers!

2012-01-01T10:34:00.000+01:00

Stonechat (Saxicola torquaia) at the Rio Velez, Torre del Mar

That's it, the old year has passed away and welcome to 2012.

I hope that you have enjoyed the blogs and photos over the past twelve months and look forward to starting afresh as we move into the New Year. I thank you for following me on the blog and hope that you will wish to continue over the coming months. There should be lots of birding visits to familiar sites and, hopefully, the chance to find some new locations to report back to you, the readers.

I have been very fortunate to meet some lovely people over these past years and I hope that our paths will continue to cross. So, to you all, I wish you every happiness, health and good fortune for 2012 and may it bring a bumper crop of great birding.

My first report for 2012 should be from somewhere west, very west, as I head out tomorrow for Los Angeles and then sail along the Mexican coast, through the Panama Canal and back up to Miami. I've got the bins, camera and laptop with me. All I need now is access to the Internet to bring you my sightings!

My very best wishes to you all

Bob Wright

Rutland Reaquainted

2011-12-30T14:11:00.000+01:00

Female Smew

Thursday 29 December

A late arrival at East Midlands airport where we were met by our close friend, Tony Nobel and driven back to Stamford. Gone 2 am (3 o'clock Spanish time!) when we all got to bed but Tony and I up and out of the house by 9.30 to spend the morning at nearby Rutland Water. Typical British weather; cloudy, a hint of rain and blowing a gale that felt straight out of the Arctic. Still, nothing ventured nothing gained as we passed first Rooks then Crows on our way to the reserve. We even had a large flock of Fieldfares with more at the end of our visit.

To be expected there was the usual crowd of Jackdaws chasing around the car park and neighbouring treed and we even had mince pies offered as we paid our entry dues. With so much ground work having been taken in the feeding area, it was a wonder that there were any small birds about with all the surrounding bushes and undergrowth remove. The feeders only saw regular visits from a few Blue Tits, Great Tits and Chaffinches - but not in large numbers. No Robins, Dunnocks, Marsh Tits or Goldfinches. So, with everything sported and suitably wrapped against the cold wind, we set off towards lagoons 2, 4 and 3 respectively, passing Collared Doves, Wood Pigeons and Common Starlings on the way.

Pintail

Lagoon 2 provided the first indication that there would be many ducks about but few waders, other than the hundreds of Lapwing, even if there appeared to be many areas of low water. many Shovelers and Mallards, but not as many as I might have expected, plus good numbers of Wigeon. With minimum effort we also discovered the Teal and a few Shelduck. A Magpie wandered past and a Cormorant flew over before we found our first Moorhen of the morning. A pair of Mute Swans in front and another pair a little to our left as we made our way to the relatively new Lagoon 4. In the every exposed elements, we found a good number of Mute Swans plus more Wigeon and the occasional Mallard. A couple of Wigeon put in an appearance and there were also good numbers of both Black-headed and Lesser Black-backed Gulls.

Female Smew with Wigeon and Gadwalls

Lagoon 3, once again, was the water to be at to see both the range and quantity of birds. Masses of ducks, especially Gadwall, and quite a few Pintail. Within the mixed flocks we were also to see Wigeon, Pochard and Teal with a few Mallard. A small number of Great Crested Grebes were present plus a pair of Little Grebe. Cormorants flew in to join the feats and then we had the first of many Tufted Ducks plus a small number of Goldeneye. Best of all, we were able to find with our simple binoculars the three female Smew that had been present on the water for the past few days much to the chagrin of all those locals with their expensive telescopes; must be a moral there somewhere! Naturally, not to be outdone, we also had a few score Coot. Spanish memories were provided by the single Little Egret that "popped in" to feed immediately opposite the main hide.

Little Egret with Teal

Towards the back we could see scores of Mute Swans but the only Bewick Swans, a pair with two cygnets, were to be found on Lagoon 1 in front of the Visitors' Centre, the latter of which also held a couple of Herons. Mind you, the walk back to this area also produced a few smaller birds including more Fieldfares, a couple of Redwing, Pied Wagtail and Robin. Comparing birds that Tony and I had seen in our respective local habitats, I mentioned that it was almost impossible to see a Bullfinch, and especially on any sort of regular basis, whereupon I was treated to the delights that Tony had experienced when photographic the same in his back garden. hardly had we finished and there, right in front of us, appeared a true pair of Bullfinches - resulting in much pleasure and the proverbial ironic laughter!

A walk to the far side of lagoon 1 produced a trio of Curlew and a Pheasant on the homeward walk as we made our way back to the car, accompanied by the light rain which had eventually decided it was time to wash the coats. So back home, almost asleep, with a final morning's tally of 43 species. The big question, apart from how to try and sort photographs to accompany this missive, will be one of finality; is this to be my last birding expedition of 2011?

Bewick Swan

Birds seen:

Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Bewick Swan, Shelduck, Gadwall, Wigeon, Mallard, Teal, Shoveler, Pintail, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Smew, Goldeneye, Pheasant, Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Little Egret, Heron, Cormorant, Moorhen, Coot, Lapwing, Curlew, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Wood Pigeon, Collared Dove, Pied Wagtail, Robin, Blackbird, Fieldfare, Redwing, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Magpie, Jackdaw, Rook, Crow, Starling, House Sparrow, Chaffinch and Bullfinch.

Great Crested Grebe

Female Smew

Female Smew with female Tufted Duck (above) and gadwalls in background

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Crossbills Galore!

2011-12-27T16:12:00.000+01:00

Nuthatch Trepador Azul Sitta europaea

Taking the opportunity for a last birding expedition this year before I depart to the UK and onward adventures, I joined up with Steve and Elena Powell to explore the woods in the picnic area above Alcaucin. With Thekla Larks once more in evidence on the mountain and a Fox Vulpes vulpes across the track in front of the car as soon as I set off, it was birds all the way down to the meeting point and the start of our journey up the track to the afore-said picnic area.

A great start in the sunshine with wires full of Collared Doves then Spotless Starlings as we set off, quickly followed by Black Redstarts, Chaffinches, Goldfinches and White Wagtails so everything suggested that we were going to have a fabulous morning. We even had a very smart Sardinian Warbler as we left the outskirts of the village. But then we got out of the car and not only no birds insight or hearing range but bloomin' cold to go with it; in the shade and the sun hidden behind the mountain. No wonder the birds did not want to come out and play. So, it was a case of us searching out our illusive feathered friends.

Inquisitive Red Squirrel Ardilla Roja Sciurus vulgaris

First a trio of Crossbills in a tree top and, once found, we seemed to find more and more. However, no matter what ISO setting on the camera it was very shady and photos seemed more like silhouettes; on the other hand, a good check for the old bird recognition! Now we were in action and before long we had also added Great Tit and tree-top Robin before picking up a pair of Coal Tits. This led us to the first a handful of Nuthatches, such lovely birds as they worked their way down the trunks in search of sustenance. The occasional Chaffinch but not the numbers we had expected whilst, below us, a Green Woodpecker was busy "yaffling" (?) away but distinctly out of sight. On the other hand, we were entertained by a visiting Red Squirrel. Such a shame that there was so little natural light to do justice tot eh birds and animals. The only other bird identified was a pair of Greenfinches resting on top of a bare tree below the car park.

Crossbill Piquituerto Comun Loxia curvirostra

Rather than give up, we took the car up to the top of the track and completed the circuit back down the main road to Alcaucin via Venta de Zafarraya. Good job we did for very soon we had both Jays and and an Azure-winged Magpie cross the track in front of us. The top picnic site brought yet more Crossbills and this time, in the sun, we were not only able to get clearer views but also establish that most seemed to be males compared with the mainly females at the lower site. Must be something either to do with thermal underwear or durability! With this good-sized flock we also discovered both Blackbird and Mistle Thrush followed by a single Chiffchaff.

Continuing on we next encountered a small number of Rock Buntings and what Elena described as a "chicken on a tree top" - what could it be? Fortunately, Steve managed to get a quick look, but not photograph, before the bird disappeared down the slope and out of site; pretty sure it was a Sparrowhawk. All was not loss, though, for having heard the bird below we actually had a Green Woodpecker cross the track immediately in front of the car. More Goldfinches and House Sparrows and we were back on the main road and a Kestrel on the first wire.

A quick call in on the old railway track with its tunnel seemed to suggest that the site had been closed for Christmas and New Year and all the birds had taken to the coast for a holiday. Where were the birds; any birds? Finally, a Black Redstart and then a couple of Stonechats but we did, eventually, also locate both Blue Rock Thrush and Black Wheatear.

Nevertheless, an enjoyable morning with 27 species and a pleasant way to say "goodbye" to the mountain as we disappear to seek new birds.

Almost silhouetted Nuthatch (above) and Crossbill in the early morning shaded picnic area above Alcaucin.

Birds seen:

Kestrel, Green Woodpecker, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Thekla Lark, White Wagtail, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Black Wheatear, Blackbird, Blue Rock Thrush, Mistle Thrush, Chiffchaff, Sardinian Warbler, Coal Tit, Great Tit, Nuthatch, Azure-winged Magpie, Jay, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Crossbill and Rock Bunting.

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Christmas Day Birding

2011-12-26T11:31:00.000+01:00

What a wonderful joy, birding on Christmas Day with friends! The first bird of the day was an extremely close Turkey but, sad to say, it was without both head and feathers and looking very cold; I suspect it may have been something the bitter ate for it looked decidedly stuffed. What better cure that to lie in on a metal bed, wrap it up in a shiny silver blanket and apply an increasing heat in the hope that it would make a full recovery. Given that the recovery process could take as long as three hours, friend Steve Powell left the bird on its enclosed warming shelf and joined me at the Rio Velez in Torre del Mar for a couple of hours birding to see what other avian brothers were about; that is, those with still the ability to fly, stand, swim, eat, sing and all those other little activities that give us so much pleasure.

Grey Wagtail Lavandera Cascadena Motacilla cinerea

As usual, the resident Rock Doves awaited us below the road bridge and were joined by both Grey and White Wagtails along with the first of very many Moorhens. Indeed, we were also to see a good number of both wagtail species as we walked the track and neighbouring fields. Having already seen a Robin outside the kitchen window up at Casa Collado (how appropriate to be the first bird seen on Christmas day) the first of many more was seen on the track as we walked down to wards the pumping station. A Grey Heron and a Little Egret rested on the far bank whilst Cetti’s Warblers blasted forth from below us and Chiffchaffs (there seem to be thousands everywhere this year) darted in and out of the surrounding trees and bushes.

Nearing the above pump house, besides a pair of Mallards on the water itself, we had our first waders of the day. First a pair of Snipe quickly followed by three Ringed Plovers. The grassy area produced a first couple of Meadow Pipits and far more were to be seen later on. Whilst the Stonechat took some time in making an appearance there were a fair number of Black Redstarts about and then a large mixed flock of well over sixty Goldfinches and Serins, mainly the former. Blackbirds flew back and forth across the river. On the electricity cables above the pump house a goodly number of Spotless Starlings were gathered to await the start of their Christmas serenade but, what was this, a shiny Common Starling in their midst, obviously invited to take the solo part in the ensuing song!

Female Stonechat Tarabilla Comun Saxicola torquatus

Then on to the beach and a look up the river from the sea end. No Coots but more Moorhens and a very good selection of gulls. Of the smaller gulls, at least 60% were Mediterranean rather than Black-headed Gulls whereas the smaller number of larger gulls seemed equally split between Lesser Black-backed and Yellow-legged Gulls. In addition, there were also a couple of Audouin’s Gulls resting within the flock on the small islet. Out at sea, a few diving Gannets and a passing Cormorant simply added to the growing tally for the morning. The shallow edge in front of us held single Ringed and Kentish Plovers whilst, mainly on the beach chasing the water’s edge, a strong party of twenty Sanderlings.

Meadow Pipit Bisbita Pratense Anthus pratensis

As another Hoopoe moved away inland, it was time to explore the eastern growing fields as we completed our morning’s circuit. Whilst we did eventually find a Crested Lark, it was the small flock of ten Sky Larks that appeared first. Lots of House Sparrows about and more Meadow Pipits but then we found one of our target birds, a very lovely Bluethroat that patiently waited to have his photograph take. Such considerate fellows these lovely small birds. A lone male Sardinian Warbler flew past and we were soon back on the riverside track.

Checking the river as we walked upstream we had a party of three juvenile Little Ringed Plovers along with a single Dunlin, a Green Sandpiper beat a hasty retreat upstream and a Kestrel flew over the said track above us. Finally, a solitary Cattle Egret who had obviously had a late night, too much to drink and decided to stay at home on the field’s edge rather than join his mates on another feeding expedition. With a total of 41 species recorded in less than a couple of hours we thought we had had a very good morning so made our way back to the ladies, Elena and Jenny, in Frigiliana only to discover that they had spent the morning sitting out in the warm sunshine of the patio whilst watching a rather handsome Booted Eagle drift by!

First winter Little Ringed Plover Chorlitejo Chico Charadrius dubius

And one final piece of good news; the Turkey had made a remarkable recovery from his chilly start to the day. Now the bird was well-rested, had turned a lovely golden colour from his pale morning pale self – and tasted absolutely scrumptious! I hope that you, too, had a very enjoyable day.

Birds seen:

Mallard, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Heron, Gannet, Cormorant, Booted Eagle, Kestrel, Moorhen, Ringed Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Sanderling, Green Sandpiper, Dunlin, Snipe, Black-headed Gull, Mediterranean Gull, Audouin’s Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Hoopoe, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Crested Lark, Sky Lark, Meadow Pipit, Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, Robin, Bluethroat, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Cetti’s Warbler, Chiffchaff, Sardinian Warbler, Common Starling, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Serin and Goldfinch.

Bluethroat Ruisenor Pechiazul Luscinia svecica

Female Black Redstart ColirrojoTizon Phoenicurus ochruros

Dunlin Correlimos Comun Calidris alpina

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Venta de Zafarraya and its Hinterland

2011-12-21T17:47:00.001+01:00

A bright sunny morning with snow on the Sierras

Up to the Zafarraya Pass this morning where I (eventually) met up with Steve Powell not having seen his email of last night. What a glorious sunny morning - but that was as far as it went as it was cold and blowing a proverbial gale! What chance of any birds? I was through the tunnel on the old railway line before I saw my first, the first of a three or four Black Wheatear. Steve had picked up a couple of Rock Sparrows but all else was well and truly hunkered down to try and find some shelter. Then, over the high ridge, a slowly-moving Golden Eagle silhouetted against the sky as it fought is way northwards against the elements. Finally, a few Stonechats and that was all we were to see.

Golden Eagle Aguila Real Aquila chrysaetos

Moving inland we stopped at the "Muck Heap" where we recorded Crested Lark having passed Goldfinches during the journey. A stop at the entrance to the "Brambling Field" track then produced a few Mistle Thrushes and we were to see very more during the the next hour or so. A Chiffchaff was busy feeding in a nearby bush as we moved on through the wood (no sign of an Azure-winged Magpie this morning) and turned off to the left to search for some larks. No sooner had we turned than we had a rather handsome Southern Grey Shrike on the wires quickly followed by a Robin, Spotless Starlings and House Sparrows. 'Ere long we had another Crested Lark followed by Thekla Lark and then the first of a couple of Corn Buntings. The far fields along the road produced a handful of Sky Larks and then , as we turned left on the newly-resurfaced road to skirt the lower loop below the Sierra Loja, a party of 150+ Calandra larks.

Calandra Lark Calandria Comun Melanocorypha calandra

Continuing on this lovely arable loop we had another party of Calandra Larks, this time a smaller flock of about 60+, and then a rather lovely flock of Linnets and a small number of Chaffinches and yet more Black Redstarts. However, perhaps more surprising was to find a handful of Reed Buntings in with the Linnets.

By the time we had completed the loop and regained the main road to start our return journey towards Venta de Zafarraya, we were confronted by not one or two (Common) Magpies but a whole host of these corvids. First a trio, then a half dozen and finally at least a full dozen. Now, can you tell me the answer if "One is for sorrow, two for joy, etc;" what does a dozen bring? Meanwhile, also recorded was a Great Tit plus many more Chiffchaffs , a trio of Wood Pigeons and, finally, a solitary Hoopoe taking his leave of the Magpie hordes.

A rather bonny Mistle Thrush Xorzal Charlo Turdus viscivorus

The ever watchful sentinel, the Southern Grey Shrike Alcaudon Real Lanious meridionalis

Birds seen:

Golden Eagle, Kestrel, Hoopoe, Wood Pigeon, Collared Dove, Calandra Lark, Crested Lark, Thekla Lark, Sky Lark, White Wagtail, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Black Wheatear, Blackbird, Mistle Thrush, Chiffchaff, Great Tit, Southern Grey Shrike, Magpie, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Rock Sparrow, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, Linnet, Corn Bunting and Reed Bunting.

A cold Monday at the Guadalhorce, Malaga

2011-12-19T17:22:00.000+01:00

Booted Eagle Aguililla Calzada Hieraaetus pennatus

What better way to start the week than spend a morning down at the Guadalhorce in Malaga with friend, Andy Paterson. On the other hand, it might have been better if Andy had remembered to turn the sun on because it was bloomin' cold; enough to make me retrace my steps to the car and put on a coat! Not to worry, the company and birds more than made up for the chill in the air.

No sooner out of the car and we had our first Blackbird of the morning quickly followed by the first of scores of Black Redstarts; my word, the latter were all over the place including the beach. The same could also be said for the Chiffchaffs which seemed to be about like pre-Christmas shoppers in Oxford Street! There were dozens of Cormorants on the river, probably well over 60 individuals in total on the reserve, plus Mallards, a Little Egret and the odd Coot - and, as you know, some Coots can be very odd. Overhead, a Kestrel and a solitary Jackdaw headed eastwards and soon we were seeing more and more Stonechats. It certainly seemed that there had been a great coming together of many species, especially Black Redstarts, Stonechats, Blackbirds, Kestrels and Meadow Pipits (more later).

Little Grebe Zampullin Comun Tachybaptus ruficollis

A female Marsh Harrier was resting on the grassy expanse in front of the Escondida hide but straight over to the eastern arm and at Laguna Casillas we had mainly Pochard plus the odd White-headed Duck and an occasional Coot. At the rear of the pool, a Booted Eagle sat huddled in an old, gnarled tree looking for all the world as if he had been sat there for the last week or more. But then three Teal gave the water an extra dimension and so onto the Wader Pool. Here, more of the same but at least a dozen Teal and a few more Little Grebes. Similarly, a few more Gadwall to add to those seen on the first water. Looking to the back of the main pool we could see many resting Cormorants in the larger trees plus out "friendly" Osprey taking a breather on top of his (smaller) pole. We even had our first Moorhen of the day.

The walk down to the Sea Watch revealed a small flock of seven Sky Larks flying over whilst, on the Rio Viejo, a pair of Greenshanks were seen feeding at the near bank. On the beach we had yet another Black Redstart plus the first Robin of the morning. Not many gulls about other than a small number of Lesser Black-backs plus a pair of immature Mediterraneans. However, the Junta had managed to gather together a small workforce and there was much evidence of scrub clearing and resulting fires; at least it ought to very much improve this habitat in readiness for the return of our breeding Kentish Plovers. The return walk saw that the Greenshanks had move seawards to the Rio Viejo where they were joined by a single Redshank and a pair of very flighty Dunlin.

Meadow Pipit Bisbita Pratense Anthus pratensis

Before reaching the Laguna Escondida, we had our first sight of a small number of Meadow Pipits with more close to the track immediately before the lead track up to the hide itself. Looking back, we also had our only Crested Lark of the morning plus yet another Stonechat. Meanwhile, a couple of squawking Monk Parakeets flew over and then we were checking out the water itself. A couple of White-headed Ducks and Little Grebes plus a number of Shoveler with a constant fly-past of at at least four Kestrels. Finally, as we left to make our way to the main hide overlooking the Laguna Grande, a single Little Ringed Plover flew over on its way, presumably, to the far end of the pool.

JuvenileFlamingo Flamenco Comun Phoenicopterus roseus

Not so much life on the Laguna Grande as one might have expected but, certainly, the number of White-headed Ducks is starting to grow. In addition, there were scores of Cormorants and no shortage of Grey Herons, Shovelers and Coots. Even the wintering Black-necked Grebes out-numbered the Little Grebes by a considerable margin. A pair of juvenile Flamingos were spotted in the far corner and, being the considerate birds that they are, decided to come and join us immediately in front of the hide; much appreciated. Out of the trees at the back our Booted Eagle had obviously awoken and came to rest on the branch of the old tree on the distant island. At the same time, all around us the Chiffchaffs were busy feeding plus also a single White Wagtail looking for something tasty for lunch.

But all good things must come to an end and, despite there seeming to be a slight increase in temperature as the sun finally made a last minute bid for freedom from the clinging clouds, we headed back towards our cars. More Robins and Blackbirds on the track and even a Sardinian Warbler put in a late appearance. So, with a small flock of Spotless Starlings and Andy's Goldfinch, we eventually reached a pleasing 39 species for the morning but not a single Black-winged Stilt in sight.

White-headed Ducks Malvasia Cabeciblanca Oxyura leucocephala with Shoveler Chuchara Comun Anas clypeata

Birds seen:

Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Little Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Heron, Little Egret, Flamingo, Cormorant, Osprey, Marsh Harrier, Booted Eagle, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Little Ringed Plover, Redshank, Greenshank, Dunlin, Mediterranean Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Collared Dove, Monk Parakeet, Crested Lark, Sky Lark, Meadow Pipit, White Wagtail, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Sardinian Warbler, Jackdaw, Spotless Starling and Goldfinch.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly from the Birding World!

2011-12-17T13:31:00.000+01:00

Moving away from the Axarquia area I thought readers might be interested in the following three pieces of news received this week which reflect the good, the bad and the downright ugly. Only the gist is given here but with links to read the more detailed reports as I received them. Indeed, readers may want to subscribe (free) to also receive such birding news items in future.

Good News

Scotland's White-Tailed Eagles Soar to New Heights

White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla

2011 has proved another record breaking year for breeding pairs of Scotland’s largest bird of prey. White-tailed Eagles soared to new heights despite heavy storms throughout the 2011 breeding season. More details can be found by following the link: http://focusingonwildlife.com/banner/white-tailed-eagle1.jpg or read the full article on FocusingOn Wildlife.com

Bad News

You remember the morning after the night before? Or the story about the chap who got so drunk he left his car in the pub's car park and took the bus home? As he said, "Surprising really as it was the first time that I've ever driven a bus!" Well, it seems some of American Grebes have similar problems when flying at night as the following illustrates. Makes you think twice about late-night shopping!

The Black-necked Grebe (Zampullin Cuellinegro) Podiceps nigricollis is the most populous grebe in the World and known as the Eared Grebe in the United States.

15 December 2011 - Officials in Utah are estimating that about 1,500 Eared Grebes were killed late Monday night, possibly as a result of confusing a Wal-Mart parking lot in Cedar City with a body of water and landing on the asphalt during a storm. An additional 3,500 apparently dazed and confused grebes were rounded up through the night by hand by volunteers and staff of the Utah Department of Wildlife, and eventually released into a nearby lake.

Breeding plumage (Black-necked) Eared Grebe Podiceps nigricollis

It appears that a storm and associated cloud cover was a key factor in causing the birds’ confusion, as well as a glistening parking lot surface that may have looked like a water body in conditions of poor visibility.

According to American Bird Conservancy (ABC), the nation’s leading bird conservation organization, several traits of this bird likely played a role in this incident. Grebes are only able to land and take off from water so a shimmering parking lot on a stormy night may have looked like a natural landing area. The Eared Grebe carries out the latest fall migration of any bird species in North America, putting it in this storm at a time when other migrating birds likely have already arrived South. The Eared Grebe only migrates at night, which increases the risk of the bird getting confused by city lighting and cloud cover.

“Night-flying birds use dim light from the moon and stars and the earth’s magnetic field for navigation. Adverse conditions on Monday night may have caused the same kind of disorientation that can afflict pilots in fog – the birds may have flown directly into the ground, not realizing they were descending. Urban lights attract and confuse birds, so when you bring the storm into play, I think this is a serious possibility,” said Dr. Christine Sheppard, Bird Collision Program Director for ABC.

Non-breeding Eared Grebe Podiceps nigricollis

“However, we will probably never know for sure exactly what happened, so it may be very hard to know if it is something that can be mitigated. Large kills of night-migrating birds are unfortunately not unusual, and are generally related to man-made light sources—from spotlights to cell phone towers. Even light from office windows, street lights, and decorative lighting can attract birds to land in cities, where they are at high risk of colliding with glass on buildings as they try to feed the next day. Reducing unnecessary lighting can reduce this type of mortality, but in the case of the grebes, we simply don’t know if they took tarmac for a body of water or lost orientation,” Sheppard said.

Eared Grebes are the most abundant grebe in the world. They breed in shallow wetlands in western North America. The Eared Grebe occurs in greatest numbers on Mono Lake and the Great Salt Lake in fall, where it doubles its weight in preparation for a nonstop flight to its wintering grounds in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is a small waterbird – about 9-12 inches long – with a wingspan of about 23 inches. The bird’s diet consists of mostly aquatic insects and crustaceans, occasionally tadpoles, small frogs, and small fish.

This post was written by American Bird Conservancy (ABC), a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit membership organization whose mission is to conserve native birds and their habitats throughout the Americas. ABC acts by safeguarding the rarest species, conserving and restoring habitats, and reducing threats, while building capacity in the bird conservation movement.

Ugly News

Now for the really ugly news but, for we birders, with a happy ending. My weekly email from Bird Guides informed me of the following:

On Tuesday 13th December 2011 Matthew Gonshaw (49) of Cherrywood Close, Bow in East London had extended his infamy as Britain's most imprisoned egg collector. He has been sentenced to yet another jail term, for six months, following conviction for stealing and possessing wild birds' eggs, including those of some of the rarest and most threatened birds in the UK.

Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos

Gonshaw, who has already been jailed on three previous occasions for similar offences, pleaded guilty at Thames Magistrates Court earlier today to 10 charges. Gonshaw's home in East London was raided by officers from the Metropolitan Police and RSPB Investigations unit on 2nd June this year. Nearly 700 eggs were found at the premises.

Gonshaw faced 10 charges, including taking five Golden Eagle eggs and 12 Avocet eggs from the wild, and possessing eggs from specially protected species, including seven Golden Eagle eggs, eight Osprey eggs, 12 Avocet eggs, three Peregrine eggs, three Red Kite eggs, and 12 eggs of other specially protected species. The remaining wild birds' eggs were all illegally held but were from species not covered by Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

For the full report go to the Weekly News from Bird Guides (you can even take out a free subscription to receive these informative weekly emailings) at the following address: https://mail.google.com/mail/?tab=wm#inbox/13443889005dcb9f

NOTE: All photographs have been either downloaded from original articles or taken from "free" sources on the Internet.

A Pictorial Story from Charca de Suarez

2011-12-16T16:32:00.001+01:00

Following last Wednesday's visit to the Charca de Suarez Reserve on the outskirts of Motril, I thought, perhaps, that readers would like a pictorial representation of the close-up shots I got of the Booted Eagle (Aguililla Calzada) Hieraaetus pennatus, Bluethroat (Ruisenor Pechiazul) Luscinia svecica and Common Snipe (Agachadiza Comun) Gallinago gallinago. Sadly, but inevitably, the Booted Eagle pictures of the bird on the track with his prey had to be taken through the car's windscreen but, at least, the bird did remain in situ when I turned off the engine - but not when the lens was poked through the open window. If only the bird had been on my side of the car, or somebody told me what sort of allowance to make for the "through window" shots!

The Hungry Eagle:

No sooner do I grab myself a tasty Moorhen than that dratted Axarquia Birder turns up!

That's it; I'm off until Bob's gone.

Is he still there? Get a move on, my dinner's getting cold!

Almost gone, time to think again about that delicious Moorhen.

Yes, now we're gewtting some

Oh no, he's still on the track!

That's it; I'm off until Bob's well and truly inside the reserve checking out the rest of my potential meals.

Gorgeous Bluethroats

Nothing over there

Nothing down here!

But there's always the evening warmth and sunlight.

The Mrs Snipe Story:

Where did I see that juicy morsel; down there?

I could have sworn it was in this hole.

Perhaps it was over here ...

... down in this dark hole.

Nope! I can't think where else to look.

How about over here ...

... or down there?

Nothing, nada! I've had enough of this nonsense, I'm off!

That's better. Peace and quiet away from the madding noise of those silly old chaps in that wooden shed!

Photographs taken between 16.00 and 17.30 hours on Wednesday 14 December 2011using a Canon D50 with Canon f5.6 400mm prime lens.

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Fabulous Fuente with the Axarquia Bird Group

2011-12-16T09:50:00.020+01:00

Male Stonechat Saxicola torquatus

The December meeting of the Axarquia Bird Group was, once again, held at Fuente de Piedra in order that we could both find the visiting Cranes and have a celebration “Christmas Lunch” (extras provided by Jenny). Following a very breezy night in the area we did set off in bright, but rather cool, sunshine and dropping down off the mountain towards Antequera were greeted by shades of Brigadoon as the whole town was sheathed in low-lying mist. However, all was clear by the time we arrived at the Visitors’ Centre car park and even the wind had abated. Lovely to see eleven of us plus visiting guests Joan and Chris Wallace from Ontario, Canada who will be returning to their snow-bound home at the week-end.

What a start; Andy Paterson with news that there might be two or three lesser Flamingos present, Eric and Pat Lyon with the news that a couple of weeks ago there was nothing to be seen, Steve and Elena Powell informing me that there was not a Crane in sight last Saturday plus the ever-hopefuls Lesley Laver, David and Janet Watson, Jenny and myself. Nothing in sight? By the time we had reached the bar for lunch and completed the recording we had a marvellous list of 56 birds and, I would imagine, every one of us had, individually, reached the magic fifty mark. Bird of the day? Take your pick from Lesser Flamingo to Bluethroat or was it a thousand Cranes to a magnificent Buzzard?

Bluethroat Luscinia svecica

Starting at the Mirador in front of the Centre overlooking the main pool we spent much time both searching out the Lesser Flamingos as well as checking out all the other birds present. Greater Flamingos were spread far and near and probably totalled well in excess of 2000 with a huge flock of approximately 250 Lesser Black-backed Gulls to our right. Close by was a score or more Lapwing and in between many Mallards, Black-winged Stilts and Coots. The small pool to the right held mainly Moorhen, Teal, Shoveler and a few Stilts but, on the far side, a single Meadow Pipit was bust feeding. Immediately in front of us we had a range of LBJs including House Sparrows and especially Black Redstarts and Stonechats. However, a little perseverance also produced Sardinian Warblers and then a rather lovely first winter Bluethroat. Naturally, there were scores of Chiffchaffs all over the place. A single Kestrel was found resting in a distant tree and, almost immediately, we had our first Marsh Harrier of the day drift by in front of us; that certainly got many of the smaller birds exercising their wings!

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros (Steve Powell)

But back to the Flamingos. Much searching by Andy eventually found a single Lesser Flamingo sheltering in front of one of his larger cousins. If one did not know better the bird could easily have been mistaken for a duck-like floating specimen; there again, another identification clue. When the Greater Flamingos are resting/feeding look for the individual without any legs. Unfortunately, the light was in the wrong direction to really appreciate the bird’s colouring but, nevertheless, a lovely sight at the start of the day.

Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis (Steve Powell)

A walk round to the small laguna behind the Centre confirmed more ducks including Pochard and many Shovelers. We also had our first of quite a few Corn Buntings and neighbouring hide also produced a pair of Zitting Cisticolas. Back on the track in front of the Centre we managed to find a pair of Snipe (the only other wader seen during the day) and then a magical moment. Watching the antics of a handful of Chiffchaff on the fence I noticed the very upright tail of a Dartford Warbler on the grass behind the fence. Fortunately, whilst the bird disappeared into the undergrowth almost immediately, within a minute or so it reappeared and then flew out and right over the group giving a good view to many.

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniculus (Steve Powell)

Over the low wooden bridge to walk the far trail, passing yet another Snipe and a couple of Reed Buntings, the scrubby area on the far side held quite a number of feeding Reed Buntings. However, it was on the fence alongside the far path that w had our next good find of the morning. Whist watching a resting Corn Bunting on top of the fence it was suddenly joined atop the fence post by a Water Pipit, giving both good viewing and perfect opportunity for comparing sizes and markings, etc. Then it was back to the cars with, in the bushes as soon as we had re-crossed the bridge, at least one Spanish Sparrow in with the House Sparrow flock. At this point I ought to point out that those who took an early comfort break managed to find a handful of Jackdaws near the car park and others had also seen a Hoopoe in the same vicinity.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta (Steve Powell)

Leaving the car park we drove in an anti-clockwise direction around the lake with a stop at the Cantarranas Mirador on the way where, in addition to more of the same, we also picked up a pair of Avocets. But not before we had recorded a couple of Little Egrets feeding near a small tributary stream just after our departure to add to the large numbers of Cattle Egrets that had already been noted feeding on the fields as we approached Fuente de Piedra. The other bird of note here was the Crag Martin with at least fifty plus feeding over the water.

Adult Crane Grus grus

No sooner had we left the Mirador and arrived at the far end of the water than we had our Cranes. No feeding on the fields but, rather, at least a thousand resting and feeding near their roosting quarters on a spit of land near the lake’s shallow end. Possibly, all the Cranes might have been present suggesting a late departure for fresh fields or, like some of us, they had decided on a stay-at-home day! Lovely birds even if somewhat more distant than I would have liked.

At the road junction near the farm we took a right turn so that we could pay a short visit to the Laguna Dulce. Here, whilst the water level had begun to recede, there was still plenty of the wet stuff and also plenty of wildlife. Greeted on arrival by a few Chaffinches who bade an early exit into the nearby trees, the wildfowl were mainly ducks including numerous Shovelers plus Mallards, Teal, Pochard and Gadwall. More searching also produced a rather lovely Tufted Duck and a number of White-headed Ducks on the far left-hand bank of the laguna. In addition, we had both Little and Black-necked Grebes not to mention those most gorgeous of ducks, the Red-crested Pochard. White Wagtails to the front and Black-headed Gulls above but we decided to return and continue our circuit of the Fuente laguna.

Juvenile Crane Grus grus

No sooner had we turned back off the main road than we had a rather magnificent Buzzard rise up from the top of a pylon to our left and soar away over our heads. Reaching the farm we turned left to check out the eastern side of the water with the target bird being the Stone Curlew. Having stopped to check out some smaller birds and conform Crested Lark, Eric also managed to find a few Lesser Short-toed Larks on the roadside, we immediately had those big yellow, chicken-like eyes giving us the once over. Yes, we had fond a small number of Stone Curlews. Whilst a few remained on the ground and between the trees at the far back, the small number that did take to the air simply landed on the other side of the road exposing more individuals; and now we had the sun behind us. Marvellous! In addition, the five that flew were immediately in front of a passing flock of Spotless Starlings whilst, back at the roadside, a smaller flock of Serin were also moving about accompanied by a number of Goldfinches.

Distant Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus

Then followed the final short drive back to the village for our “Christmas lunch” (not that the owners had any idea of what was about to descend upon them!) with Elena and company managing to pick out a couple of Red-legged Partridges. And just when we thought that we had “done birding” for the day, a look out of the restaurant window produced a Grey Wagtail happily feeding on the sad-looking swimming pool.

A truly lovely way for the Axarquia Bird Group to finish the year; great company, lovely birds and always the promise of more to come in 2012 when we next meet at the Guadalhorce in Malaga. (Details opposite and also on the web-site at www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com)

A peaceful Christmas and a happy, healthy and wonderful birding New Year to all our members and followers.

Birds seen:

Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal,Red-crested Pochard, Pochard, Tufted Duck, White-headed Duck, Red-legged Partridge, Little Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Greater Flamingo, Lesser Flamingo, Marsh Harrier, Buzzard, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Crane, Avocet, Black-winged Stilt, Lapwing, Snipe, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Hoopoe, Crested lark, Lesser Short-toed Lark, Crag Martin, Water Pipit, Meadow Pipit, White Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Robin, Bluethroat, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Zitting Cisticola, Chiffchaff, Dartford Warbler, Sardinian Warbler, Jackdaw, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Spanish Sparrow, Chaffinch, Serin, Goldfinch, Corn Bunting and Reed Bunting.

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Charca de Suarez with raptors and Bluethroats

2011-12-14T22:23:00.000+01:00

Booted Eagle with Moorhen for dinner!

Leaving the mountain under the watchful eyes of a male Blue Rock Thrush, there was time for a late afternoon visit to the Charca de Suarez reserve just west of Motril. After first checking out the apartment at Velez de Benaudalla, which included calling in at the river control (Rio Guadalfeo) just below the village where the usual Mallards, Moorhens, Coots and White Wagtails were to be seen plus at least four Common Sandpipers. Then it was on to the Charca with time to spare.

Approaching the entrance from the side track at the back there was much to be seen. Not the small flock of Rock Doves or the many Greenfinches and Serins, nor the House Sparrows and copious numbers of Black Redstarts and Stonechats, rather the sudden sight on the track in front of me with a rather lovely Booted Eagle just about to start on his recently taken prey. This was one Moorhen that would definitely not see Christmas never mind the breeding season. But, lovely that it was from a birding perspective, it was a photographer’s nightmare. Camera removed from the passenger seat and pictures taken through the car’s windscreen. Not the best but, at least, the bird was only a mere five metres away. Not only a Booted Eagle but the arrival of one of two present Marsh Harriers to see if there might be some pickings. Once the birds took leave, without their meal, I was able to try and capture a few aerial shots.

Also seen before entering the actual; reserve were a pair of Zitting Cisticolas, Blackbird and a rapidly departing Kingfisher from the flooded ditch in front of me.

Bluethroat

All the usual birds were present and stopping at the original hide looking north over the smaller pool I had not only a Cetti’s Warbler but a busily feeding Bluethroat. Further out on the water I could see a number of Mallard and Shovelers plus a couple of Little Grebes in addition to the many feeding Coots.

So on to the main pool where there were numerous feeding Chiffchaffs immediately below the hide. Before long they had been joined by a rather clean and fearless Snipe who stayed for the next hour or so and was joined by another Bluethroat. In addition to more birds of the same as seen on the previous pool there were also a few Black-headed Gulls and three Cormorants. More White Wagtails and then the appearance of a Water Pipit on the large island immediately in front of the hide.

Having also recorded a handful of feeding Crag Martins, I next walked round to the previous pool to successfully find a couple of Purple Swamphens. Three Black-winged Stilts, Pochard and Robins were also added to the total.

Snipe

With the light rapidly going to leave a lovely red glow in the sky, I made a slightly early departure with the first of the Cattle Egrets approaching to take up their favoured roosting spots - but did manage to record a Grey Wagtail on the final pool. All in all, a very enjoyable couple of hours with a final tally of 34 species.

Shovelers, Mallards and Black-winged Stilts

Birds seen:

Mallard, Shoveler, Pochard, Little Grebe, Cattle Egret, Cormorant, Heron, Booted Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Moorhen, Purple Swamphen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Snipe, Common Sandpiper, Black-headed Gull, Kingfisher, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Water Pipit, White Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Robin, Bluethroat, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Blue Rock Thrush, Zitting Cisticola, Cetti’s Warbler, Chiffchaff, House Sparrow, Serin, Greenfinch.

White Wagtail

Grey Heron

Early breeding Peregrine Falcons at Fuengirola

2011-12-09T10:48:00.000+01:00

Female Peregrine Falcon (Photo: Ivan Zink-Nielson)

No sooner do I receive news that a Red-throated Diver has been present in the harbour at Fuengirola for the first week of this month (ma be still present?) than I receive an email form Ivan and Inger Zink-Nielson, a lovely Danish couple that I met down at the Guadalhorce last month. Inger and Ivan spend regular periods in Fuengirola and over the past week or so they have been watching a pair of Peregrine Falcons on the roof of the Hotel El Puerto which is immediately opposite the said harbour.

By mid-November the male had been identified and it was wearing, in addition to a metal ring, a red plastic ring on its right leg engraved with a white “R” over an “X”. (The next task will be to see if I can identify the ringing group/person that applied the rings and when and where.) Two days later on the 15^th the female was seen as well as the male Peregrine and continued to be observed until the 22^nd when Inger and Ivan departed for their home in Denmark. During this period of observation, the birds were seen to mate on two occasions plus numerous hunting expeditions. It could well be that the birds will nest on the hotel’s roof or an adjacent building and, in which case, if successful there might be youngsters in the nest in January.

It, therefore, presents an early opportunity to not only go down to the harbour to check out the Red-throated Diver but also look across the road to the Hotel El Puerto and see if you can see the above Peregrines.

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Rutland Water and another 50 species

2011-12-06T20:18:00.000+01:00

Mute Swan

Up and down to my local patch at Rutland Water by 9.30 this morning where I found frost on the ground, ice on the puddles and a blusteringly cold wind! But at least it was dry. It makes you realize how lucky we are to do most of our birding in southern Spain where, even during the winter months, you can usually rely upon the sun on your back.

Approaching Rutland Water there were many sightings of both Carrion Crow and Rooks with the occasional Magpie. To keep the corvids happy, I was also soon amongst the very many resident Jackdaws; they were everywhere. The first Greylag Geese were seen in the field adjacent to the approach road from Empingham village and, in the car park, the first of very many Blackbirds seen during the morning. A Chaffinch flitted about in the trees and even a couple of Moorhen wandered out to see what all the fuss was about.

Chaffinch

The feeding area was currently hosting two hen and one cock Pheasant with a mixture of Great Tits and Blue Tits on the nearer feeder. The back feeders were busy with both Goldfinches and Chaffinches. Always aware of the potential for a free meal, a couple of Grey Squirrels made regular visits to the nuts to see what they, too, might, scavenge.

Walking to the new “Sandpiper” hide overlooking Lagoon 4 I had my first Redwing of the winter with a handful feeding in the trees alongside more Blackbirds. The lagoon itself, in addition to Black-headed Gulls, contained mainly Wigeon and Gadwall with a few Common Pochard and a small number of Mallards and a single Little Grebe. Indeed, Gadwall was by far the most popular duck with, probably, Wigeon next in line. The “Shoveler” hide overlooking Lagoon 3 was full of ducks and all sorts including a dozen or so Mute Swans. Apart from more Gadwall and Wigeons, there were Shovelers, Shelduck, Common and Red-crested Pochard, Teal and Tufted Ducks, not to mention a couple of Pintail. The edges contained a small number of Canada Geese and Grey Herons whilst the trees held many Wood Pigeons and a few Collared Doves. However, it was also lovely to record good numbers of Lapwing and Coot plus a few Cormorants but, the main prize, must surely go to the five Goldeneye.

Female Great Tit

Checking out the last hide, “Lapwing” I was surprised to see how much the water had receded so providing ample feeding ground for a large flock of Dunlin, over a score of Common Starling and a dozen Pied Wagtails. On the water were both Herring Gulls and Lesser Black-backed Gulls.

The walk back to the Visitors' Centre produced a small flock of Long-tailed Tits whilst, back at the Feeding Station, the previous occupants had now been joined by a pair of Marsh Tits, Greenfinches and a solitary Dunnock plus a rather shy ans skittish Rat! Lagoon 1 in front of the Visitors’ Centre had four Goosander up close plus a pair of Bewick Swans with their two off-spring. A little further back a lone Great Crested Grebe was busy feeding. Meanwhile, on the other side of the lagoon seen from the “Mallard” hide, a couple of Little Egrets were also actively feeding and overhead I had a hovering Kestrel before seeing more Redwings.

Goosander

With a total of 48 species recorded I decided to finish the morning by driving down to the water inlet at the shallow corner of Manton Bay in the hope of a Robin and Wren to round up the score. No such luck but, on the other hand (and, of course, no camera with me), I did have a very good and close view of a magnificent resting Buzzard and a single Black-tailed Godwit was feeding in the inlet channel. So, mission accomplished, 50 species recorded and still home for lunch a little after 1 o’clock.

Birds seen:

Mute Swan, Bewick Swan, Greylag Goose, Canada Goose, Shelduck, Gadwall, Wigeon, Mallard, Teal, Shoveler, Pintail, Pochard, Red-crested Pochard, Tufted Duck, Goldeneye, Goosander, Pheasant, Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Heron, Little Egret, Buzzard, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Lapwing, Black-tailed Godwit, Dunlin, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Wood Pigeon, Collared Dove, Pied Wagtail, Dunnock, Blackbird, Redwing, Long-tailed Tit, Marsh Tit, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Magpie, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow, Rook, Starling, House Sparrow, Chaffinch, Greenfinch and Goldfinch.

Red-throated Diver and House Martin

2011-12-05T16:33:00.000+01:00

Red-throated Diver (Photo: Andy Paterson)

As reported on the website, no sooner do I disappear for a few days than "things" start to happen! First an email from Andy Paterson to inform me that he had been down to Fuengirola harbour to see the (very rare occurance in this part of the world) Red-throated Diver that had been present for at least the past four days. No sooner read and cursed my bad luck than I received a second email from Steve Powell informing me about hios exploits on the same day (yesterday, 4 December) on the other side of Malaga at the Charca de Suarez reserve onthe outskirts of Motril. Not content with seeing the usual good birds plus Marsh Harrier, Black-necked Grebe, Chiffchaffs, Snipe, Water Pipit and Bluethroat at close quarters, the loveley Elena managed to pick out a very late House Martin taking a breather on a nearby tree! And here was me thinking it was the Irish who had all the luck.

Very late House Martin at Charca de Suarez (Photo by Steve Powell)

For me, as yet, no birding in Britain but I have promiosed myself to spend tomorrow morning at my local patch of Rutland Water. On the other hand, I have seen loads of Pheasants, Wood Pigeons and Magpies plus Robins, Dunnocks and Blue Tits in brother-in-law Chris's back garden near Southampton (still top of the Championship even if they did lose 0- 1 away to bottom team Doncaster Rovers). The journey down to Southampton last Friday produced Red Kite and Buzzard and, the journey back this morning produced a further three individuals plus a trio of Kestrels. Similarly, it would appear that other corvids such as Rook, Carrion Crow and Jackdaw are also doing well judging by the numbers seen thought not so many Common Starlings on this visit. Hopefully, tomorrow will produce my first redwings and Fieldfares of the winter.

As always, many thanks to both Andy and Steve for keeping in touch and providing the photos.

Red-throated Diver (Andy Paterson)

Bluethroat (Steve Powell)

Marsh Harrier over the Charca de Suarez (Steve Powell)

Snipe (Steve Powell)

Water Pipit (Steve Powell)

Cracking Cranes in the Antequera Area

2011-11-27T12:05:00.000+01:00

Common Crane Grulla Comun Grus grus

Saturday 26 November 2011

Leaving the house early we travelled down the mountain passing a Kestrel and pair of Hoopoes followed by half a dozen Azure-winged Magpies as we came off the last hill before Antequera on our way to join the monthly meeting of the Andalucia Bird Society (ABS) at Laguna Dulce. Whilst we left in brilliant blue skies with lovely sunshine, as soon as took the Campillos road from the motorway we were in very low mist and much reduced visibility. A good job that the start time was 10 rather than 9.30 or we would have seen nothing; as it was a couple of members actually drove past the laguna lay-by such was the poor visibility.

To be expected, the early sightings were restricted to the near water and consisted mainly of close by Coots, a trio of Black-winged Stilts and a few hazy Mallards and Shovelers. We had already passed a small flock of Cattle Egrets following a ploughing tractor just before the venue and there was a further handful to the left of the hide along with the odd Lapwing and Moorhen. As the mist rapidly lifted so we gained better views of the above plus a good number of both Little and Black-necked Grebes. At the rear of the water a resting Marsh Harrier was quite visible perched on a dead tree until it, along with a second individual, entertained us to a slow fly-past.

Now with full light we were able to pick out more species including good numbers of both Common Pochard and Red-crested Pochards. Similarly, there were very good numbers of White-headed Ducks but only a handful of Gadwall. Only Black-headed Gulls were readily observable whilst, in the bushes below us, there was constant activity from mainly Chiffchaffs, a few Stonechats and a Black Redstart. We also had the occasional Corn Bunting and, as usual, a good number of White Wagtails. Similarly, a look at the trees behind the hide and neighbouring reeds also produced Goldfinches, Serins, House Sparrows and a pair of Zitting Cisticolas.

Part of a 300 plus-strong flock of Cranes

Only a very small number of Cranes flying in the far distance but no chance of landing on their regular feeding field as the week-end hunters were out in force. Even the Jackdaws and Spotless Starlings remained in closely grouped flocks near the distant ruined farm. However, perhaps the biggest thrill of the morning was to find a Merlin resting on a distant fence post but still easily identifiable. What a great bonus!

Whilst the remainder of the group were going to take a look at the neighbouring Campillos lakes and then move westwards towards Olivera, Chris and I left within a couple of hours to visit Fuente de Piedra and the small Laguna Herrera. The drive round to the back of the Fuente laguna produced more Serins and Crested Larks before finding a large flock of 300+ Cranes on a grassy field between the olive groves in the direction of Laguna Dulce. We had previously counted about 20 Cranes in the shallows of the laguna but little else and no sign of any Flamingos.

With very little else to see we continued on the main Visitors’ Centre passing a large feeding flock of Rock Doves. Nothing in the nearby pools but there was plenty to see on the main water including a raft of about 300 Lesser Black-backed Gulls. In the same area there was a large flock of mainly adult Flamingos and a handful of Shelduck. Even with more Flamingos to the left of the Mirador, the total number of Flamingos present is now probably down to the mid-hundreds rather than the tens of thousands of the early summer. On the fence in front of the stream a lonely Sardinian Warbler competed with Stonechats and House Sparrows.

Quartering Marsh Harrier Aguilucho Lagunero Circus aeruginosus

The small laguna at the rear of the Centre was relatively quiet with a mainly Shovelers and a few Mallards in addition to the resident Coots. However, we did find five Teal and a rather lovely Marsh Harrier. A very loud Cetti’s Warbler made his presence known along with a healthy number of Stonechats.

The continuing clockwise circuit of the laguna brought not only a good number of Lapwings and a large flock of Calandra Larks but a further 150+ Cranes. This smaller flock was much nearer to the road so we were able to achieve far better views and distinguish many juveniles.

The Laguna Herrera was rather disappointing in that, whilst there was water, the levels were still insufficient to start attracting ducks, Flamingos and Avocets. A couple of White Wagtails, three Black-winged Stilts and a reasonable sized flock of Black-headed Gulls was all we got for our trouble. On the other hand, we did have good views of Buzzard, a number of Kestrels and at least five individual Hoopoes. On the flooded field behind, in addition to the gulls, were a couple of Herons and a single Little Egret.

Adult Common Cranes

And so back to Casa Collado where we were welcomed back up the mountain by more Serins and a pair of Rock Buntings at the bottom of the drive. All in all, a rather lovely extended morning with a final tally of 44 species.

Juvenile Crane looking for his Mum!

Juvenile Crane

The graceful flight of departing Common Cranes

Birds seen:

Shelduck, Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Red-crested Pochard, Pochard, White-headed Duck, Little Grebe, Black-necked Grebe, Flamingo, Cattle Egret, Heron, Little Egret, Marsh Harrier, Buzzard, Kestrel, Merlin, Moorhen, Coot, Crane, Black-winged Stilt, Lapwing, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Rock Dove, Hoopoe, Crested lark, Calandra Lark, White Wagtail, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Cetti's Warbler, Zitting Cisticola, Chiffchaff, Sardinian Warbler, Azure-winged Magpie, Jackdaw, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Serin, Goldfinch, Corn Bunting and Rock Bunting.

Check out the accompanying website at http://www.birdingaxarquia.weebly.com for the latest sightings, photographs and additional information.

Axarquia Bird Group - November Field Trip

2011-11-24T12:06:00.000+01:00

Grey Wagtail Lavandera Cascadena Motacilla cinerea

Wednesday 23 November

This month’s field trip of the Axarquia Bird Group was very much “home based” with a day’s birding completely within the Axarquia area and included a variety of habitats. Starting at the Rio Velez on the outskirts of Torre del Mar in beautiful sunny weather, we seven (Eric Lyon, Gerry Collins, Steve Powell, David and Janet Fisher, brother-in-law Chris and myself) took in the river bed, surrounding files and beach before moving inland to visit the wooded slopes above Alcaucin and, finally, after a most enormous and enjoyable Menu del Dia a forty minute visit to the old railway track up to the tunnel above Venta de Zafarraya to walk off some of the excess food and drink!

Hoopoe Abubilla Upupa epops

Everything seemed very quite at first, literally, with hardly a bird song or sound to be heard. Yes, there were the usual resident Rock Doves below and around the road bridge and a small group of Moorhens but little else until a pair of Grey Wagtails were spotted. After that, birding seemed to pick up with a steady stream of sightings all morning. Almost immediately our first White Wagtail (and we were to see many more Grey Wagtails as we walked down the riverside track), a drake Mallard accompanied by two ducks and in the neighbouring shrubs and trees a range of smaller birds including many Chiffchaff, Serin and Goldfinches. A Robin put in an appearance and the first of a few Blackbirds scuttled across the river whilst, immediately in front, we had a rather obliging Cetti’s Warbler. Meanwhile, feeding on the fields to our left, were at least half a dozen Ringed Plovers, Black Redstarts and Crested Larks. At the back a pair of Cattle Egrets and then the first Stonechat.

Snipe Agachadiza Comun Gallinago gallinago

Arriving at the pump house we found a number of Meadow Pipits on the grassy waste between track and river and at least a pair of Hoopoes. Spotless Starlings were about and as we walked to the beach via the eastern growing fields, the bottom part of the track being somewhat under water, we also had loads of House Sparrows, a single Greenfinch and an over-flying pair of Monk Parakeets. A number of Zitting Cisticolas were observed before reaching the beach where all appeared to be very quiet save for a solitary Sanderling watching the lone angler. A small number of Crag Martins passed overhead along with the occasional Black-headed Gull and a pair of Cormorant. Meanwhile, out at sea, a rather large raft of Lesser Black-backed Gulls was taking a morning siesta and, in the distance, the occasional diving Gannet could be observed.

Crossbill Piquituerto Comun Loxia curvirostra

The walk back to the cars located at least three Snipe and a single Common Sandpiper plus a lone Little Egret. More sightings of the previously seen passerines plus a Sardinian Warbler. Gerry took his leave of us and then we made our way up the mountain above Alcaucin and its wooded picnic site. Naturally, we saw many Collared Doves along the lower road and then, as soon as we were on the mountain track above Alcaucin we had our first Chaffinches quickly followed by a pair of Red-legged Partridge. As with the river bed at the start of the day, all seemed very quiet when first we arrived at our destination; we were desperate to hear any sort of bird including House Sparrows! But, with a little patience, all was revealed. First a Nuthatch in reasonable view (and a better view later) quickly followed by more Chaffinches and then a whole range of tits including Great Tit, Blue Tit and Long-tailed Tit. A walk to the end of the site produced a single Firecrest before returning to the picnic area and, finally, hearing then seeing our first Crossbill of the morning. Just like the “Number 9 bus” no sooner had we seen one than we seeing dozens of these strange finches. Indeed, back in the car park overlooking the tree tops, we had many views of the Crossbills and, below us, more Black Redstarts and then both a Short-toed Treecreeper and a single Crested Tit. Just to add to the pleasure, feeding on the grass between the lower level picnic tables was a rather large and healthy looking Mouflon and her well-grown kid. Unlike the Ibex of the higher slopes, whilst a little wary of our presence there was no desire to rush away so giving us plenty of time to study these rather “woolly” animals with the distinctive dark lines down the front of their legs.

Stonechat Tarabilla Comun Saxicola torquatus

Rather than return in the same direction, we continued on up the mountain track seeing Jays, more Red-legged Partridges, three Mistle Thrushes and a small flock of Azure-winged magpies to the top and, following the main road, made our way to Venta de Zafarraya where we had a rather large Menu del Dia. It seemed a pity not to take advantage of the old railway track across the road so a quick walk up to the tunnel and back was called for just to check that the usual birds were about. Again, as had happened oat the two previous sites, it was a rather slow start but soon we had Black Redstarts and Stonechats. By the tunnel we had also recorded a few Rock Buntings and a very large,probably in excess of 50 individuals, flock of Rock Sparrows. A single Blue Rock Thrush and a number of Black Wheatears we also seen but we had to walk through the tunnel (which also took us back into the warm sunshine) to find the Choughs. However, before the 40+ black birds drifted over we were rather spoilt by the sight of the resident Peregrine Falcons wandering away from their crag-like fortress. No wonder the Crag Martins kept on the move and the single Great Tit dived into the nearest bush!

Returning Choughs Chova Picquirroja Pyrrhocrax pyrrhocorx

No doubt other members of the group, like Chris and I, recorded a Kestrel on the way home so that our final tally for the day was a rather splendid 54 species. Great, unexpected, weather and, yet again, great company to complete a rather special day.

Birds seen:

Mallard, Red-legged Partridge, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Gannet, Cormorant, Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, Moorhen, Ringed Plover, Snipe, Sanderling, Common Sandpiper, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Hoopoe, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Monk Parakeet, Crested Lark, Crag Martin, White Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Meadow Pipit, Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Black Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush, Blackbird, Mistle Thrush, Cetti’s Warbler, Zitting Cisticola, Sardinian Warbler, Chiffchaff, Firecrest, Short-toed Treecreper, Nuthatch, Crested Tit, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Azure-winged Magpie, Jay, Chough, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Rock Sparrow, Chaffinch, Serin, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Crossbill and Rock Bunting.

Journey Home from Portugal

2011-11-20T12:37:00.000+01:00

Saturday 19 November

Azure-winged Magpie Cyanopica cyanus

It was a really wet and stormy night but much brighter at daybreak so that the car could be packed in dry weather. After breakfast and check-out we started our journey back from Quinta do Lago, Portugal to Casa Collado in the mountains above Los Romanes via Huelva, Matalascañas, El Rocio and Seville in lovely sunny weather with sun glasses on. Lots of Azure-winged Magpies, Blackbirds and Collared Doves as we left the site and then a rather lovely female Hen Harrier near Almancil. But from here it was downhill all the way!

With the cloud increasing and the light rapidly disappearing, we were welcomed over the Rio Guadiana bridge into Spain as the first drops of rain fell. Before long it was pouring and continued for the next hour plus with a mixture of persistent light and heavy showers. Arriving in the Donana National Park from the coast we were quickly encountering both Cattle and Little Egrets plus Herons and White Storks. The usual Rock Doves near Matalascañas and a pair of Carrion Crows flew over the road as we approached the main roundabout for the turn to El Rocio.

What a shame as we wanted to introduce our friend to the delights and wonder that make up El Rocio. However, as we drove into the town, which was packed with cars and people, the rains stopped and we were able to park at the new SEO Observatory. Considering the amount of water which had both filled the lagoon and flooded many of the low-lying roads, I was amazed at how relatively easy it was to actually drive on the sand-sodden roads. Very dull weather and choppy waters but we were able to make out Mallards and a few Teal plus a small number of mature Flamingos on the far bank not to mention the Coots and a good-sized flock of Greylag Geese. The only wader n sight was the Lapwing of which there were a good number. A single hunting Red Kite over the far bank was a bonus but not as good as actually seeing the resident Spanish Imperial Eagle take a short exploratory flight over the far trees.

White Stork Ciconia ciconia

A short coffee break and then it was on towards Seville via the Isla Mayor. The initial part of the journey brought Crested Larks, Corn Buntings and Stonechats plus the odd Kestrel in addition to more Azure-winged and Common Magpies. In addition, at least three Southern Grey Shrikes were seen during this part of the journey. The rice had already been harvested and most fields ploughed but still enough flooded land to show our guest. Loads of White Storks, Cattle and Little Egrets plus numerous Herons before a single Spoonbill flew overhead. Approaching the Isla Mayor township, we also had a pair of Squacco Herons take off down the main drainage channel. Needless to say there were plenty of gulls to be seen made up mainly of Black-headed and Yellow-legged Gulls. A number of Marsh Harriers were also seen. However, the biggest surprise was to see at least five very late Barn Swallows in and around the above town.

Following lunch at the roundabout venta on the edge of the Donana, we took a short detour up to the main lake of the Dehesa de Abajo passing a rather sodden and bedraggled Buzzard taking shelter on a cable in the shelter of the roadside trees. Again, just about every next occupied by a White Stork (or two in many cases) but, on arrival, and no rain once again, the water was heaving with birds, mainly ducks, and a constant movement of Cormorants to and from the lake. Whilst there was a good number of Mallards, the population consisted mainly of Shovelers and Common Pochards with a good number of Red-crested Pochards thrown in for good measure. In addition, there were a small number of Gadwall and a couple of Little Grebes. On scanning the periphery of the main flock with the scope I was rather pleased to find a single Ferruginous Duck and then a single Marbled Duck sheltering in the lee of a nearby island. All the Coots were gathered at the back of the lake with a small number of Flamingos close at hand and many more White Storks roosting in the nearby trees. A number of Jackdaws were busy scavenging around the animal pens. Nearer at hand, half a dozen resting Night Herons whilst, on the road in front of me, some large-sized flocks of House Sparrows, a smaller flock of Serins and the occasional Chiffchaff flitting about in the poolside bushes. Meanwhile, on the neighbouring fields, there were dozens of Marsh Harriers quartering the ground plus large numbers of Lapwing.

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina

With the rain restarting, it was time to make a start on the final leg of the journey back to Lake Vinuela. Basically very quiet as the rain really settled in once again but we did have a handful of Red-legged Partridges fly across the motorway immediately in front of us and eventually recorded a White Wagtail to take the day’s total up to 48 species.

Birds seen:

Greylag Goose, Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Marbled Duck, Teal, Pochard, Red-crested Pochard, Ferruginous Duck, Red-legged Partridge, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Night Heron, Cattle Egret, Squacco Heron, Little Egret, Heron, White Stork, Spoonbill, Flamingo, Spanish Imperial Eagle, Red Kite, Marsh Harrier, Hen Harrier, Buzzard, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Lapwing, Black-headed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Crested Lark, Barn Swallow, White Wagtail, Stonechat, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Southern Grey Shrike, Azure-winged Magpie, Magpie, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Serin and Corn Bunting.

Ludo - Ria Formosa National Park

2011-11-18T17:44:00.005+01:00

Caspian Tern

Another warm sunny day but with a little more light cloud forecast so off to Ludo in the Ria Formosa National Park straight after breakfast. The girls dropped me off at the entrance to the salina tack so that I could explore the ponds on a receding tide whilst they continued on over the causeway to the beach just beyond Faro Airport.

No sooner inside the gate than a Sandwich Tern dived into the eater immediately in front of me whilst, to the left, there was the usual flock of Coots. A pair of Common Magpie passed low over the track so revealing a pair of Crested Larks foraging below me. There was a small flock of Serin feeding and then a larger number of Goldfinches moved away. In the distance on the far ponds I could see a small number of Flamingo but nearer, as the water edges became exposed, the first of the small waders starting with Turnstones, Ringed Plovers and a number of Redshanks.

Zitting Cisticola

As I left the main track and made my way to the now mainly empty ponds a number of Herons and Little Egrets could be seen. Nearby, flitting in and out of the low shrubbery, a number of Sardinian Warblers, Stonechats and Zitting Cisticolas. However, before reaching the main pool itself, in term of bird life, a small pool on my left held a couple of pairs of Shoveler and a couple of prospecting Sanderling. But, on the small island to the back, not just a couple of Yellow-legged Gulls but seven (7) resting Caspian Terns. The birds seemed to be in mixture of moulting plumage and three were wearing metal rings. I wonder from whence they had come? In the trees at the back of the pool a number of Cormorants were busy sunning themselves as the temperature began to soar.

Looking in the opposite direction at the “main pool” there were not only Herons and Little Egrets but twenty Spoonbills, a couple of White Storks, the odd Moorhen and Black-winged Stilt plus about 50 Black-headed Gulls. Meanwhile, at the far end in front of me above the trees a Kestrel hovered and four Buzzards made lazy circles in the sky (shades of “Oklahoma”!!!!).

Great Crested Grebe

Making my way back to the entrance I had more Crested Larks, Sardinian Warblers, Goldfinches and Stonechats plus a single feeding Great Crested Grebe. By now the water had receded far enough to attract a small number of Dunlin, Ringed Plovers, Redshanks and the odd Kentish Plover. Walking across the causeway I stopped to observe a number of Grey Plovers and picked up a solitary Oystercatcher whilst a Kingfisher dashed up a drainage channel and a number of Chiffchaffs fed in the neighbouring trees and bushes. Having met the ladies, taken coffee and started our return trip the Quinta do Lago site, I stopped once more on the causeway to point out the Oystercatcher. Whilst, unfortunately, this bird had moved on he had at least been replaced by a rather grand Whimbrel.

Sanderling

Back on site we made a short stop at our local lagoon, having passed scores of Azure-winged Magpies on the way, where, in addition to the many Coots and Cormorants, there was a single juvenile Flamingo and half a dozen feeding Sanderling. The neighbouring small pool held a pair of Gadwall, a pair of Teal and a very active pair of Little Grebes in addition to both White Wagtail and Common Sandpiper. Finally, back to the villa for a late lunch and Portuguese siesta with a total of 44 species recorded.

Male Teal

Male Sardinian Warbler

Caspian Terns (3 of 7 present wearing rings)

Birds seen:
Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Flamingo, White Stork, Spoonbill, Heron, Little Egret, Cormorant, Buzzard, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Oystercatcher, Grey Plover, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Whimbrel, Turnstone, Redshank, Common Sandpiper, Sanderling, Dunlin, Black-headed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Caspian Tern, Sandwich Tern, Collared Dove, Kingfisher, Crested Lark, White Wagtail, Stonechat, Zitting Cisticola, Chiffchaff, Sardinian Warbler, Azure-winged Magpie, Magpie, House Sparrow, Serin and Goldfinch.

Formosa Estuary and Tavira Area

2011-11-17T22:23:00.003+01:00

Spoonbill

The promise of a long, dry and sunny day with a visit to the Rio Guadiana, which forms the border between Portugal and Spain, to explore the area to the north of Castro Marim, the lovely, scenic hilltop village of Cacela Velha and then, via the coastal road, to Tavira in order to take the little narrow gauge railway to the beach at Pedras del Rey. But first, up very early in order to be in the hide overlooking the golf course lake before daybreak in the hope that a Little Bittern or something else might be seen before the day’s general disturbances.

It may have been warm and sunny later in the morning but at 7 o’clock it was decidedly on the cold side! No Little Bittern but I was in time to see the dispersal of the roosting egrets, about 150 Cattle Egrets and at least 50 Little Egrets. In addition, there were at least 20 Glossy Ibis roosting in the same reed beds. As the light increased so the ducks started to show some activity; first the Coots and then the Gadwalls closely followed by a few Teal and Shoveler. The odd Moorhen but the Purple Swamphens had empty stomachs to fill so at least half a dozen were busy either climbing reeds or tugging at the roots. With even more light, the Moorhens were seen and the first of the Tufted Ducks. Blackbirds were active around me as the gulls arrived, a mixed flock of Lesser Black-backed and Black-headed Gulls. Finally, a couple of Herons and a few Little Grebes were seen before I set off for the alternative hide overlooking the Formosa estuary.

Serin

Outside the second hide there was much activity in the nearby low cover as a good-sized flock of Serins set about their morning search for food. Crested Larks made an appearance whilst, on the little exposed mud, a couple of Turnstone and Redshanks could be seen. A Kingfisher flashed across the water, and, in the trees behind, a small number of Azure-winged Magpies was recorded. House Sparrows, Chiffchaffs, Sardinian Warblers, Grey Plovers and a number of Ringed Plovers then time to think about returning to the villa and some breakfast and a hot drink. This time, no Green Woodpecker but a pair of Red-legged Partridges on the grass verge deciding which luxury villa would provide their morning sustenance.
However, at the last minute, I decided to call in at the Quinta do Lago pool and check its water level and what birds might be about. A White Wagtail and a Hoopoe on the way and then lots of Coots and Cormorants plus the usual water birds which did include a couple of Spoonbills and a White Stork. A Greenshank and two Sanderlings fed at the water’s edge and then to the neighbouring small pool which held Teal, Shoveler, Black-winged Stilt, a pair of Common Sandpipers and a most handsome Grey Wagtail.

Resting Wigeon

Breakfast completed and we were off to the Guadiana. A total of four Buzzards and a hovering Kestrel on the journey but very little, other than a Green Sandpiper, Robin and a number of Stonechats at the Castro Marim reserve. On the other hand, as we left the area we did have both a good-sized flock of Goldfinches and a number of Meadow Pipits.

Meadow Pipit

All that remained was to complete the journey to Cacela Velha with a Southern Grey Shrike on a roadside electricity cable. Very little on the mud below but we did find a single Bar-tailed Godwit.

Arriving at Pedra del Rey to cross the river and take the little train to the beach we had our first Collared Dove of the day and a small number of feeding Dunlin in the exposed mud below the track. At the beach, a small number of Sanderling were playing “chase” along the water’s edge whist, out at sea, even with the scope, we could see a number of Gannets diving from on high in search of their next meal. The return journey, on arriving back on the mainland, produced, in addition to the aforesaid Dunlin, a Whimbrel, Grey Plover, number of Ringed Plovers and a handful of Little Stints.

Tufted Duck

Birds seen:
Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Red-legged Partridge, Little Grebe, White Stork, Spoonbill, Glossy Ibis, Cattle Egret, Heron, Little Egret, Buzzard, Kestrel, Purple Swamphen, Moorhen, Coot, Grey Plover, Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, Bar-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Greenshank, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Turnstone, Sanderling, Dunlin, Little Stint, Black-headed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Collared Dove, Kingfisher, Hoopoe, Crested Lark, White Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Meadow Pipit, Robin, Stonechat, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Sardinian Warbler, Azure-winged magpie, Spotless Starling, Southern Grey Shrike, House Sparrow, Serin and Goldfinch.

Loule Parish, Portugal

2011-11-16T20:25:00.000+01:00

Wednesday 16 November

Another lovely day with very warm sunshine in the morning but some cloud during early afternoon and a little cooler. Today we explored the hills above Loule, taking a circular tour through the countryside and then returned in time to visit the coast at Quinta de Lago and the fresh-water lake overlooking the golf course. By the time we returned in the late afternoon another 40 birds had been recorded.

The hills produced Common Magpie, House Sparrows, Chaffinches and Goldfinches but as soon as we returned to our home site we had a very close look at a feeding Green Woodpecker and “tame” Hoopoe. Continuing on to the first hide overlooking the Ria Formosa inland waters, a single White Stork greeted us and a whole selection of small waders including Dunlin, Turnstone, Grey and Ringed Plovers, Redshank, Bar-tailed Godwit and Whimbrel.

Next off to the second hide overlooking the golf course pool where seven ducks and at least that number of Purple Swamphens were seen along with Moorhens, Coots and the roosting Black-headed and Yellow-legged Gulls. Ducks included Wigeon, Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Pochard and Tufted Duck. Meanwhile, over head we had a passing Kestrel, a couple of Crested Larks and a small flock of Serin. Back at the car, a Robin, Sardinian Warbler and a few Chiffchaffs in the nearby bushes.

Ria Formosa Estuary National Park

2011-11-16T20:21:00.013+01:00

Spoonbill

With the weather promising a sunny day and only a slight possibility of a light shower and the ladies off to tour Cliff Richard’s winery, I took myself off for a long morning to explore the Ria Formosa Estuary Reserve for a long morning. Starting at Ludo I quickly progressed to both sides of the river itself just to the west of Faro and then back to Quinta do Lago and a couple of the fresh water lakes. In the end, a most successful few hours with a final tally of 47 species but no Hoopoe, Kestrel, Goldfinch, Robin or Tit of any species.

Little Egret

An early stop produced a couple of Cattle Egret, some Moorhens and Mallards plus the odd Coot and a Little Egret. As always, there were Azure-winged Magpies all over the place plus the resident flocks of HouseSparrows, a good number of Blackbirds and Serins and occasional White Wagtails.

However, it was a stop to walk the trail out into the eastern bank of the Ria Formosa that started the real fun. Sardinian Warblers all around me and the odd Stonechat but, on the mud below, first a couple of Turnstones and Little Egrets followed by the first of many Redshanks and then the silhouette of numerous ducks, waders and Cormorants on the bank of an island. On the retained, looking fresh, water behind me many Coots, a handful of juvenile Flamingo, Little Egret, Heron and Mallards. There had to be a way to get to the other side and so put the sun behind me. Yes, I could see a causeway that would allow me to cross as if going to the beach. So, back to the car, passing a rather tired looking Crested Lark, and over the traffic light-controlled causeway to the western bank.

Turnstone

With the scope out to scan the mud flats and edges I was in for a real surprise. Not just the expected Ringed and Kentish Plovers, Redshanks and Turnstones but a whole range of ducks and waders. Resting with the Cormorants were a few Herons and a pair of Spoonbills plus at least a dozen Wigeon and a handful of Pochard. In front of me Sanderlings were chasing the water and, further out on the mud, a feeding Whimbrel and at least three Curlews. Perhaps the most common of the larger waders was the Grey Plover, of which there were many individuals but also a rather lovely Bar-tailed Godwit. On the other hand, a lone Oystercatcher was also worth observing. The many gulls seemed to be mainly Yellow-legged Gulls and mostly resting.

Redshank

Back at the nearby Quinta do Lago pools I was rather surprised to see that the lower pond still contained water; obviously this pool is not allowed to drain naturally as, I think, it is still used for fish farming. Lots of Cormorants and Coots on the water plus more Redshanks and Turntones. A couple of Sanderling had turned up to join the Herons and Little Egrets but most of these larger birds were in the creeks between the pool and the sea. Then, including the Spoonbill and the very large flock of gulls, everything was in the air other than the odd White Stork as a quartering Marsh Harrier drifted over the marsh.

White Stork

Returning to the car park I stopped at a very small and shallow pool to look a pair of Shoveler and discovered both Black-winged Stilt and more Redshanks. As I settled down, at least a dozen Gadwall (the most common duck of the area) put in an appearance and there were also a pair of Teal in a small creek at the back of the water. I even had a very sleepy Green Sandpiper resting on the sand just across the water. The bushes and trees were alive with Chiffchaff and we even had a visiting Zitting Cisticola and Sardinian Warbler.

Finally, it was off to the hide overlooking the golf course lake. I expected and found Gadwall, Mallard and Shoveler along with Moorhens and Coots but the remaining were a very pleasant bonus – even if the camera battery expires at this moment and, to my horror, the spare battery in my pocket was also flat. (But all now re-charged in readiness for future visits!) There were a number of Common Pochard present and scoping the reeds I found first a pair if Red-crested Pochard quickly followed by a small number of Wigeon. However, the real delight was to find a pair of Tufted Duck and, as the minutes passed by, so more and more became apparent. Once the numerous Black-headed Gulls had moved away I was able to concentrate on the Purple Swamphen that put in an appearance immediately in front of the hide. And so, in a very happy frame of mind, it was back to the villa.

Birds seen:

Gadwall, Wigeon, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Red-crested Pochard, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Little Grebe, Flamingo, White Stork, Spoonbill, Cattle Egret, Heron, Little Egret, Cormorant, Marsh Harrier, Moorhen, Purple Swamphen, Coot, Oystercatcher, Black-winged Stilt, Grey Plover, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel, Curlew, Redshank, Green Sandpiper, Turnstone, Sanderling, Black-headed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Collared Dove, Crested Lark, White Wagtail, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Zitting Cisticola, Chiffchaff, Sardinian Warbler, Azure-winged Magpie, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow and Serin.

Whimbrel

Almargem - Monday 14 November

2011-11-15T17:52:00.000+01:00

Purple Swamphen Calamon

Continuing our stay on the south-west coast of Iberia, yesterday saw us at the mouth of the Almargem stream, slightly east of the small resort of Quarteira. It had been a strange day with a continuous mix of very warm sunshine when out of the breeze and short, heavy rain showers. We were on our way back to the resort and decided to pay this recommended site a visit as in was directly on our route. The guide suggested that this small lake during the winter can hold a number of ducks, including Red-crested Pochard and, in low water when the mud is exposed, is very good for waders.

Presumably, mid-November does not constitute winter. We found the lake very full with a good number of Coot at the northern end and a healthy flock of Black-headed and Yellow-legged Gulls sheltering at the coastal end. However, there were also a few Moorhen and a handful of Mallard plus a male and two female Gadwall in addition to at least one pair of Little Grebe. On the other hand, there were seven Purple Swamphen busy feeding and quite exposed on the far side of the narrow water.

Drake Gadwall

Zitting Cisticola

In the short reeds between us and the water we had a very active Zitting Cisticola and there were White Wagtails and Blackbirds on the track with the occasional Azure-winged Magpie. The short walk over the golden sands to the beach confirmed that swimming in the rough water was not an option, even if you were prepared to accept the sea temperature, and the edge was devoid of any bird life. So, an interesting stay of well less than an hour and we were on our way home again as the next heavy shower commenced.

Rio Formosa, Quinta do Lago,Portugal

2011-11-13T18:44:00.002+01:00

Sunday 13 November

Suddenly back on GMT time so, although the clock says we are out early, it really is nearer 10.30 by the time we reach the end of the now empty inlet. Driving down we had already seen Azure-winged Magpies in the garden and more on the way plus a very close Hoopoe that flew parallel and level with the car. A departing Green Woodpecker was rather a pleasant surprise and then the waterside.

Common Waxbill

On the fresh-water side we had a few Coots and Little Grebes plus a solitary Little Egret whilst, on the now empty salt-water side there were no end of Coots plus a range of other water birds including White Storks, Herons and Little Egrets. In between a single Spoonbill provided a little variety. Only a few ducks to be seen; a mixture of Mallards and Shovelers. Waders included many Redshank, a few Ringed Plovers and Turnstones plus a couple of Black-winged Stilts and a number of Black-tailed Godwits. Whilst there were many gulls resting further over n the lee of the beach, representative Black-backed and Yellow-legged Gulls could be seen on the exposed mud.

The low scrub, bushes and trees on the landward side of the water held a mixture of passerines including Hoopoe, Azure-winged Magpie, House Sparrows, a Zitting Cisticola, Sardinian Warbler and Serin but then a good-sized flock of Common Waxbills. A lone Jay dashed from cover into the nearby trees. Further along the nature reserve track there were Goldfinches and, in the muddy inlets, a mixture of waders including Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Dunlin, Whimbrel and Curlew. Then there were the lovely Grey Plovers and, not to be missed, a number of Turnstones. A Stonechat was seen perched on the marsh and, overhead, a passing Gannet to complement the number of resting and feeding Cormorants below.

Birds seen:
Mallard, Shoveler, Little Grebe, Spoonbill, White Stork, Heron, Little Egret, Gannet, Cormorant, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Grey Plover, Black-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel, Curlew, Redshank, Greenshank, Turnstone, Dunlin, Black-headed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Collared Dove, Green Woodpecker, Hoopoe, Stonechat, Zitting Cisticola, Sardinian Warbler, Azure-winged Magpie, Jay, House Sparrow, Goldfinch and Common Waxbill.

NOTE:
Only limited access to the Interner so more photos will appear when i return home.

Casa Collado to Portugal

2011-11-13T18:41:00.001+01:00

Saturday 12 November

All packed and off the mountain to collect our friend Pauline from Los Romanes in time for a 9.30 departure to Portugal. The car was not so much full as packed to the gunwales with even a large suitcase on the back seat, albeit I did manage to make sure that the binoculars and camera were also inside the car. But, immediately before our departure, I did have a new “First” for Casa Collado. On going up to the studio for a last check for emails, shut down the system, etc I saw a brief light flash from a small bird in the almond grove behind the house. Thinking it was probably a departing Great Tit, I fetched the spare bins from the studio. No sign of a Great Tit but there was a small flock of Greenfinches accompanied by a few Chaffinches. Strange to also see a pair of starlings but, on closer inspection, I actually had a single Spotless Starling and a first Common Starling. Add on Sardinian Warbler, House Sparrow and Stonechat and the first half-dozen plus for the day had already been recorded.

With the cloud gradually breaking up as we progressed westwards via Casabermeja, It became a lovely, warm drive down to the Spanish border and so on to the golf course at Quinta do Lago where we had reserved a luxury villa for the week. But could you travel that far and simply bypass some great birding sites? You could not; so a first short stop was made at Fuente de Piedra and, later in the day, a very slight detour to the pool and salinas at the northern end of the Odiel marshes.

Roosting Little Owl

Arriving at Fuente de Piedra we were greeted by a couple of Thekla Larks on the front drive and then a rather lovely Southern Grey Shrike perched on top of a tree at the entrance to the cark acting as a sentinel over all who entered. A Marsh Harrier appeared as soon as I walked round to the back track, keeping low over the nearby pool and managing to scare off just about everything. As I approached this now disappearing water, plenty of Stonechats moving about and then the vision of the hundreds of Flamingos on the main laguna. At this point, only a lonely White Wagtail occupied the pool but there were many Black-winged Stilts on the water’s edge at the other side of the bank. Still a very large roost of Black-headed and Lesser Black-backed Gulls to the right as I made my way towards the path up to the mirador and on to the back pool.
Looking back, the Moorhens were gradually coming out of the reeds to once more feed on the above smaller pool plus a single Black-tailed Godwit but nothing else until I reached the hide overlooking the rear pool. Relatively quiet at first sight with mainly Mallards and the occasional Coot. However, to the right and also reappearing from cover, a small number of Shoveler and a single female Teal were noted. Not to be outdone, concentrated searching did eventually find the resident Little Owl that was roosting on the ground in its usual place next to one of the small saplings. Walking back to the car via the Visitors’ Centre but noting on the way that there were at least 30+ Shelduck on the edge of the main laguna plus a small number of Avocets whilst, on the nearby small pool, a single Redshank was wading across the shallow water. Both Chiffchaffs and Black Redstarts were seen in the vegetation and, as we departed, a Kestrel moved by overhead to wave us goodbye.

There is always something to see on a long journey and our drive towards Sevilla was no exception. First a large flock of over 50 White Storks soaring up into the sky rapidly followed by the sight of more storks on the old nests above many of the electricity pylons, with increasing occupation as we moved through Huelva Province. Next a Buzzard and then a pair of Magpies.

Departing Redshanks

Crossing the Odiel at Huelva for a quick detour to the Odiel Marshes, it was obvious that our arrival had coincided with high tide and the water lapping at the field on each bank. With no exposed feeding area on the river, well in excess of an hundred Ringed Plovers were resting on a dry salina opposite the salt works and accompanied by a small number of Kentish Plover and Dunlin. The small pool before the Visitors’ Centre held mainly Shoveler but also some Mallard, a pair of Gadwall and Little Grebes. A couple of Little Egrets fed on the neighbouring marsh with a second Southern Grey Shrike for the day looking on from above whilst, across the road, on the water-covered salinas, were over a hundred Redshanks with mainly Black-headed Gulls and Yellow-legged Gulls plus a small number of Flamingos. More Flamingos could also be seen in the distant pools. In the hedges and trees at the side of the water a trio of Tree Sparrows were bust feeding.

The final drive down to the border produced a number of Azure-winged Magpies criss-crossing the road between the trees, the occasional Collared Dove and then a small flock of Cattle Egrets feeding amongst a flock of sheep. Finally, another pair of Ravens and then a second Buzzard just before the river border between Spain and Portugal. And so, having crossed the border into Portugal, we arrived at our destination to be greeted by a pair of Blackbirds, the first of the day.

Birds seen:
Shelduck, Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Little Grebe, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, White Stork, Flamingo, Marsh Harrier, Buzzard, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Avocet, Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Dunlin, Black-headed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Little Owl, Collared Dove, Thekla Lark, White Wagtail, Black Redstart, Stonechat, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Sardinian Warbler, Southern Grey Shrike, Azure-winged Magpie, Magpie, Raven, Common Starling, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Tree Sparrow, Chaffinch and Greenfinch.

An Evening out with a Marsh Harrier

2011-11-11T18:49:00.000+01:00

The Marsh Harrier Aguilucho Lagunero Circus aeruginosus

Forget going out for a "Take-away," whether it be fish-and-chips, a Chinese or an Indian. If you want really fresh food then you need to catch it live and really savour the taste.

First decide where you want to shop

Was it here?

Could it be there?

Maybe here?


Ah, this looks a likely place and full of potential

This definitely looks the place


Yes, I'm coming down to check out the menu

That's it, I'm full up and need a little siesta after all that.

Ah, raptor rapture! Any pudding?

Move over sunshine, I've just seen my afters!