February 2005

6th February:- With the weather today being very changeable I used my vehicle to traverse the tracks around Pego Marsh. First went to check if the 2 Glossy Ibis were still in the same flooded field, which they were and also 100's of Little & Cattle Egrets. Next I crossed the minor road look for the Fieldfare seen previously. Here held a large number of Chiffchaffs, Lapwings, Water & Meadow Pipits, Reed Buntings, Bluethroats, Black-headed & Audouin's Gulls, Grey & White Wagtails, 6 Little Ringed Plovers, 3 Green Sandpipers, a photogenic Black-tailed Godwit, and the elusive Fieldfare. Further on a small party of ducks included Mallard, Shoveler, and Red Crested Pochard, but a male Marsh Harrier caused them to fly off to the other side of the marsh. A quick walk into the reeds produced 2 Purple Gallinules, Coot, Moustached Warbler, Kingfisher and a few calling Water Rail. Finally I found a very large mixed flock of House & Tree Sparrows, Chaffinch, Greenfinch & Reed Buntings, and whilst watching these Little Owl made an appearance on a nearby Finca roof.
15th February:- Having just got back from a week in Scotland I managed a couple of hours at Pego Marsh before dusk. The high winds made conditions difficult but I drove slowly round the paddy fields using the vehicle as protection. There were a lot of Gulls around that may have been displaced from the coastline, the majority was Yellow-legged & Black-headed Gulls but there was also a good number of Audouin's Gull (67) as well. Waders were also quite prevalent with lots of Common Snipe, Lapwing & Green Sandpiper as well as a few Dunlin & a Black-tailed Godwit. As usual Water Pipits, Bluethroats, & Reed Buntings frequented most of the large pools around the fields, with some coming into Spring plumage. Finally whilst watching a particularly handsome male Marsh Harrier, two birds flew up from behind the reeds and to my surprise it was the now long-staying Glossy Ibis, which circled and dropped into their original field.
16th February:- Called in at Pego Marsh and stopped and chatted to couple of friends of mine Steve & Debbie who were watching the 2 Glossy Ibis. Whilst we were there I spotted a very pale looking warbler amongst the Chiffchaffs. It's size and shape resembled the horde of 'Collybita' Chiffchaffs around it, as was it's behavior. We all watched it over the next hour eliminating certain species and eventually deciding it was one of the 'northern-race' Chiffchaffs either Abietinus or Tristis. Without it's call these two are very difficult to separate so I left the others saying I would get further information from friends. I posted my photos to various people in Spain and Britain and the general consensus was that it was of the race 'Abietinus' from northern Scandinavia, with which I agreed.
17/18th February:- These two days were spent guiding Mr. Keith Hudson from Javea around the area. The first day was spent locally going to Oliva Beach, Pego Marsh, and the hills above Oliva. The second day was spent further south around Alicante taking in the Clot de Galvany, Santa Pola Salinas, and the reservoir above Tibi. We had a very good time (apart from me breaking my telescope) and Keith saw many new birds, which included Mediterranean Shag, Great White Egret, Spoonbill, Greater Flamingo, White-headed Duck, Booted Eagle, Purple Gallinule, Slender-billed, Audouin's & Mediterranean Gull, Wryneck, Moustached & Cetti's Warbler, Penduline Tit, Raven, and Rock Bunting. With a trip list of around 90 species it was a very enjoyable and quite successful couple of days.
22nd February:- Went out locally with David Barkway for a few hours this afternoon first going to Pego Marsh. Even with the high winds raptors were visible with Booted Eagles, Marsh Harriers, Peregrine, and Kestrel all showing well. Other birds around included loads of Herons & Egrets, Kingfishers, Bluethroats, Water & Meadow Pipits, Crested Larks, Southern Grey Shrike, lots of Audouin's & Black-headed Gulls, Lapwings, and Green Sandpiper. Next we went to the beach at Deveses, here we found an adult winter Slender-billed Gull amongst the Audouin's & Yellow-legged Gulls, and on the sea we saw Balearic Shearwaters, Gannets, and Sandwich Terns.
23rd February:- Due to the slightly inclement weather I went out to Pego Marsh to try and find some migrants. It was clear there had been a small influx of Meadow Pipits with well over 200 birds seen around the paddy fields. Although the highlight of today was flushing a Great Spotted Cuckoo from the edge of the reeds and watching it fly across the open fields. Apart from this most of the things were what I had seen the day before apart from, 2 Golden Plovers in with the 100+ Lapwings, Water Rail, Common Buzzard, and a large flock of Coot & Red crested Pochard. Very good, but where are the House Martins & Swallows?.
24th February:- Had a half day tour today that entails doing a few areas within my local recording area. We started at the beach around Oliva Marina, which was generally quiet apart from a few Balearic Shearwaters, Sandwich Terns, Black-headed Gulls, and Sanderling. Next we moved to the south end of Pego Marsh and straight away we found 4 Glossy Ibis amongst the Cattle & Little Egrets. Further scanning produced Common Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit (4) and several Black-winged Stilts. Whilst scanning through the Mallard & Shoveler I saw a big white shape asleep on the far side. I was sure it was a Spoonbill and this was confirmed when it woke and fed, in full breeding plumage. Very pleased we moved to the paddy fields immediately we found 4 Golden Plover with the Lapwings, but unfortunately the large flock of Coot & Red Crested Pochard had moved off. A scan of the reedbed produced a Moustached Warbler and lots more singing, also a pair of Penduline Tits showed very well. A pale phase Booted Eagle & adult male Marsh Harrier soaring together made a handsome sight, which the couple really enjoyed. Other highlights in this area included Bluethroats (7), Water Pipit (10+), Kingfisher (6), Hoopoe, Cetti's Warbler, Southern Grey Shrike, & 100+ Audouin's Gulls. Whist on the eastern track a large bird appeared above the reeds that was clearly a White Stork and landing in the fields beyond. We quickly made our way to where it landed and obtained great views, also here were Ruff, more Common Redshanks, Green Sandpipers, Little Ringed Plovers, & Common Snipe. Finally we went to river out-flow at Deveses where a lot more Audouin's Gulls stood on the sand. Amongst this flock were also a couple of Lesser Black-backed Gulls, several Yellow-legged Gulls and Sandwich Terns. A small raft of Balearic Shearwaters sat off-shore, and more Sanderling and a Kentish Plover ran around the beach. This had been an excellent 5 hours birdwatching with us seeing almost 70 species.
26th February:- After the previous days heavy rains I went out to Pego Marsh to see if anything new had dropped in. Starting at the south end I quickly re-found the adult Spoonbill, and there were now 5 Glossy Ibis showing very well. Next I checked the paddy fields in addition to the previous waders I found 21 Golden Plover with the 200+ Lapwings, as well as 2 Avocet, Little Stint, & Common Sandpiper. Raptors included Common Buzzard, Booted Eagle & a Peregrine Falcon creating havoc amongst the Black-headed & Audouin's Gulls. In one quiet corner a Spotted Crake gave fantastic views as did Penduline Tits, Bluethroat, and a Moustached Warbler.

March 2005

2nd March:- Went out for a couple of hours in the evening although the weather was still very poor. I started at the south end but there was no sign of the Spoonbill, yet the 5 Glossy Ibis were still there and looking beautiful. Other species in the area included 2 Black-tailed Godwits, several Black-winged Stilts, Common Redshanks and Shovelers. A drive around the paddy fields produced a lot of small birds with Bluethroat, Water Pipit, Reed Bunting all in good numbers and even my first Yellow Wagtail of the Spring. Little Ringed Plovers seemed now to be everywhere but the Golden Plover flock had reduced to 12, yet the 2 Avocets were still feeding in a partially flooded field along with 10 Green Sandpiper. Whilst watching these I noticed a movement just away from the car and a Spotted Crake came out into the open no more than 10m from me. It was fantastic to get such great views of these normally secretive birds. As dusk fell i watched the Marsh Harriers come into roost, which is always a brilliant sight.
3rd March:- A phone call saw me rushing to Pego Marsh to confirm a sighting of a rare wader found by holidaying birdwatcher Bill Brooking. I quickly found the field and started scanning, first I found a 2nd winter Mediterranean Gull amongst the Audouin's Gulls then got on to the bird in question. Immediately I confirmed it was a Sociable (Plover) Lapwing, which I aged as a 'first winter' bird. I watched it for a long time through the telescope and giving tremendous views both on the ground and in flight. During this time other waders were noted including quite a few Common Redshanks, Ruff, & Green Sandpiper. A dark phase Booted Eagle drifted over causing mayhem, and my first Swallow of the year flitted across the paddy field. Despite efforts this bird was enjoyed by just 2 people today, which speaks volumes for finding potential of this area. Leaving the scene I travelled around the rest of the paddy fields seeing the Avocets, Green Sandpipers, Common Snipe & Black-winged Stilts. Checking the open water in the reeds I found a mixed flock of around 300 ducks, mostly Coot & Red Crested Pochard, but also a lot of Shoveler. At the south end the 5 Glossy Ibis were still there, as were Black-tailed Godwits, Common Redshank, and Green Sandpipers. Finally I had a quick look at Deveses Beach and there was the Slender-billed Gull with the good number of Audouin's Gulls, a great end to the day.
4th March:- First thing I went to see if the 1st winter Sociable Lapwing was still around and soon enough I found it in the same place. As I only had limited time (work committments) I stayed watching the paddy field for other species. Other waders I found were 8 Common Redshank, 2 Ruff, 28 Lapwing, 18 Common Snipe, and 2 Black-tailed Godwits. The 2nd winter Mediterranean Gull was still amongst the 75 Audouin's & 57 Black-headed Gulls. This evening I decided to check the other areas and started at the south corner where the 5 Glossy Ibis were feeding. Also here were several Black-winged Stilts, Common Redshanks, Green Sandpipers, Shovelers, Southern Grey Shrike and a pair of Penduline Tits. Next I went to check the paddy fields and found lots of Little Ringed Plovers, Bluethroats, Water & Meadow Pipits, Reed Buntings & Crested Larks. In one muddy corner I found another Spotted Crake showing very well, along with Moustached and Cetti's Warblers. Finally I checked on the 2 Avocets and while watching these I saw a few Golden Plover in the next field. So I moved on and parked up where I could see the whole area, and it soon became clear there had been an arrival. During the next hour I counted 32 Golden Plovers, 8 Green Sandpipers, Ruff, Common Redshanks & Lapwings. However the best find of the day was a couple of birds I saw feeding amongst the sparse vegetation between the fields. These were gorgeous Lesser Short-toed Larks a species I had not previously recorded at Pego Marsh, and continuing a fantastic couple of days.
6th March:- Got out early and looked to see if the Sociable Lapwing was still around and it was although it & the Lapwings seemed flighty (maybe the weekend disturbance). Other birds around there were 2 Ruff, 5 Common Redshank, 17 Common Snipe, 4 Black-winged Stilts, and a pair of Penduline Tits. Next I saw the 2 Avocets and with them were 7 Green Sandpipers, 15 Little Ringed Plovers, and 2 Common Redshanks. The next field held the Golden Plover flock with still at least 30 birds along with another Ruff, 1 Spotted & several Common Redshanks, 4 Green Sandpipers and a few Lapwings. Raptors were in evidence with a Sparrowhawk patrolling the area as were 2 Common Buzzards, several Marsh Harriers, and a Kestrel. Unfortunately there was no sign of the Lesser Short-toed Larks but the field still held plenty of Water & Meadow Pipits, Bluethroats, Reed Buntings, Crested & Skylarks, Chaffinch & Spotless Starlings. Then I moved on to the south end and quickly picked up the 5 Glossy Ibis, along with the Audouin's & Black-headed Gulls, Shovelers (8 pairs), Mallards, and Cormorants. However the surprise bird was finding 3 Garganey (1 male, 2 female), plus a few Yellow Wagtails & Swallows.
That afternoon I was contacted by good friends Keith & Val Hudson who wanted to see the Sociable Lapwing so I arranged to pick them up and take them to the marsh. We had an excellent 3 hours although the bird wasn't in it's usual field and after a search I relocated it in the field with Golden Plover and all the Lapwings. During our search I spied a Harrier from the car that turned out to be a gorgeous male Hen Harrier, which looked incredibly pale in the sunlight. In addition to these species we saw most of what I had seen earlier that day apart from another male Garganey, now making two pairs.
8/9th March:- Incredibly the Sociable Lapwing is still around even though a lot of Lapwings have departed in the recent good weather. Most of the Golden Plovers (6) have gone but there are still plenty of Black-winged Stilts, Green Sandpipers, Common Redshanks, Common Snipe and Little Ringed Plovers around. The 5 Glossy Ibis remain and now looking resplendent, as are the Cattle & Little Egrets, and today saw my first 2 Purple Herons of the Spring. Plenty of raptors are still around including Booted Eagle (light phase), Buzzards, Sparrowhawk, Marsh Harriers, & Kestrels, and also yesterday a Raven made an appearance. The Shoveler flock is now well over 50 birds and there is now a pair of Red Crested Pochards, but the Garganey seemed to have moved on. Penduline Tits are currently very active and vocal making them very easy to find at the moment, as are Spotted Crakes with a pair now being seen regularly. Today I saw my first House Martin and the Swallows are starting to arrive in good numbers, joining the host of Crag Martins.
10th March:- I was lucky enough today to take a couple up to our rental property in the 'Vall de Gallinera' today. Whilst sat on the roof terrace enjoying the Spring sunshine a flock of 60+ Choughs came over the hillside, wheeling around, making their distinctive call above our heads. Then from nowhere an adult Golden Eagle appeared, and a couple of the Choughs mobbed the Eagle, which eventually landed out of sight, and the flock moved on, such a fantastic spectacle. Surprisingly the couple love the property.
11th March:- Back at Pego Marsh I started at the south end flood, where wildfowl is starting gather. Mallards (100+), and Shoveler (60+) were all over, but new in were a pair of Pintails, more Red Crested Pochard, Teal, and Garganey. Waders included a Spotted Redshank and several Common Redshank, with Green Sandpiper, Black-winged Stilts (lots), & Common Snipe. The 5 Glossy Ibis were still around as was a very pale Common Buzzard that made me look twice. A pair of Penduline Tits chased each other through the reeds calling incessantly, and the Bluethroats & Water Pipits looked exquisite in their breeding dress. Next I went to look for the Sociable Lapwing and found it in it's usual place with the Lapwings. A Purple Heron flew across the paddy fields and Hirundines included lots of Crag Martins & Swallows, along with several House Martins and a single Sand Martin. The Golden Plovers had moved fields and were now back at 6 birds, and in on flooded corner a pair of Spotted Crakes showed very well as did a pair of Moustached Warblers. Finally I watched the Marsh Harriers coming in to roost and counted 8 birds including 3 males.
12th March:- Another quick look at Pego Marsh this evening produced most of the birds seen yesterday plus 4 Spoonbills & an Avocet at the south end flood. Then went to Deveses Beach for the last hour and saw several close-in Balearic Shearwaters, Sandwich Terns & Audouin's Gulls.
13th March:- After overnight rain and still quite misty this morning, eventually I headed out to Pego Marsh. I started at the south end flood and quickly picked out 3 Spoonbills and assumed one had departed. A phone call from a Spanish birders wanting to see the Sociable Lapwing took me away sooner than I had liked, and as I passed a small pool I saw 4 Garganey. I met the guys and went to where the bird had mostly been seen, and sure enough it was there but unfortunately a Marsh Harrier disturbed the Lapwings making them all fly. Luckily we refound it in an agricultural field and everyone got very good views much to their pleasure. I left them and went to a little pool, sat and watched and was rewarded with very good views of the Spotted Crakes feeding in the open. Also were a few Common Snipe, Green Sandpiper, Bluethroats, Moustached Warbler, & Little Grebe. I then made my way back to the south end flood since the mist had cleared and the weather was improving a little. As I got there 100's of Hirundines were swirling around mainly Swallows, Crag & House Martins, but there was also a few Sand Martin, single Common Swift and 2 Alpine Swifts that really stuck out amongst their smaller cousins. The flood was full of ducks with good numbers of Mallard, Shoveler & Red Crested Pochard, and also Wigeon, Pintail, Common Teal & 20+ Garganey. The Spoonbills were still there with the 4th bird now showing, as were the 5 Glossy Ibis. A Lesser Black backed Gull was found with the Audouin's & Black-headed Gulls, and also the Spotted Redshank was still there. With the wind being a light N/E and improving visibility I decided to try Oliva Marina for a quick seawatch. This paid major dividends with 500+ Balearic Shearwaters patrolling around offshore, along with 2 Arctic Skuas, Sandwich Terns, and a Black necked Grebe sat on the sea. Best of all was sat on the breakwater rocks, with the other Gulls & Terns was breeding plumage Mediterranean Gull.
14th March:- Got my scope back from Swarovski (an excellent service) today so took it out to try and get some photos of one or two things. Unfortunately I was unable to locate the Sociable Lapwing today but as major compensation I found a Redwing with the other Thrushes. Everything I saw the day before was still there, plus the Avocet, which I couldn't find yesterday.
15th March:- Went out first thing to try and find the Sociable Lapwing for my good friend Malcolm Palmer who was coming up from Alicante with a few friends. Sure enough after checking a couple of fields there was the Sociable Lapwing with other Lapwings. I carried on looking round and again saw the Redwing, and a Stock Dove was a great surprise sat on one of the over head wires before dropping into a nearby field. The south end flood held all the birds of the previous days along with a majestic Great White Egret, my first of the year. Later in the morning I met up with Malcolm and we re-found the Sociable Lapwing (and Stock Dove), which gave superb views. Whilst watching this it started to drizzle and with this brought 6 Alpine Swifts amongst a large flock of other hirundines.
16th March:- First went out to the south end flood and re-found most of the birds seen previously including the Great White Egret, 5 Glossy Ibis, 4 Spoonbill, 300+ Red Crested Pochard, 50+ Shoveler, 13 Garganey, Wigeon and Pintail, a great start. Next I went to look for the Sociable Lapwing and found it in it's usual area, with Lapwings, Redshanks, Green Sandpipers and a 'newly in' gorgeous male Wheatear. Next I went round to a small pool where I'd seen some good birds. Here I sat in the car and waited, over the course of an hour I saw 4 Spotted Crakes together, 2 Bluethroat, 5 Water Pipits, 2 Moustached Warblers, Green Sandpiper, Purple Heron, Reed Buntings, Peregrine, and several Marsh Harriers. Finally as I was leaving i saw a group of birds flying away, so I stopped and sure enough it was 7 (adult) Night Herons, the first of the year.
18th March:- Got out for the morning and with it being so nice I decided to walk around the 'south end flood'. All of the birds I had been seeing previously were still around, except the Great White Egret. In addition to the usual I found a few Eurasian Teal, Purple Gallinule, Spotted Redshank, Ruff and Common Sandpiper, 3 Booted Eagles, Common Buzzard, with lots of Yellow & White Wagtails, Meadow & Water Pipits, Tree Sparrows, Bluethroats and Reed Buntings. A quick check of the small pool produced 3 Spotted Crakes, Purple Heron, 4 Green Sandpipers, Bluethroat and Yellow Wagtail. Finally I looked for the Sociable Lapwing but failed to find it or any Lapwings, so it may have gone. On the way home I decided to check the beach and was pleasantly surprised to find an Oystercatcher with the 30+ Sanderlings and a pair of Kentish Plovers. On the rocks sat a 2nd winter Mediterranean Gull, with 27 Sandwich Terns, and off-shore sat a small raft of Balearic Shearwaters. All in all a good morning.
20th March:- A warm and sunny day and whilst sitting on the roof terrace I saw a male Marsh Harrier heading north and a Magpie (2nd record for the area) on the nearby hillside. In the evening I went to Pego Marsh and a quick look at the south end flood provided 4 Spoonbills, Spotted Redshank, a pair each of Wigeon & Garganey, plus lots of Mallard, Red Crested Pochard , and Shoveler. Next I had a drive around the paddy fields finding a new Spotted Crake site, 5 Ruff flying over, 20+ Coot, 200+ Little & Cattle Egrets, 50+ Audouin's Gulls, and Moustached Warblers. Best of the evening was first hearing and then seeing 2 Savi's Warblers, with another 4 (at least) along the same track, with their highly distinctive reeling.
21st March:- A quick look at the marsh after work today produced my first Whiskered Terns (2) on the south end flood, which is always nice. Also here were the Glossy Ibis and Spoonbills, Spotted Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Pintail, Wigeon and Garganey amongst others. Around the paddy fields was quite quiet although 100+ Audouin's Gulls in a ploughed field was notable and 2 Spotted Crakes working a reed edge is always good to see. I met another birdwatcher from England who had seen a Collared Pratincole earlier in the day, but unfortunately I failed to see it. Hopefully another day.
23rd March:- Due to the weather being overcast and drizzly I went out to Pego Marsh quite early. A stop along the bottom track quickly produced another confiding Spotted Crake, a few Redshank, Coot, Red Crested Pochards, Purple & Grey Herons 9 Whiskered Terns, and my first Squacco Heron of the year. Further on stopped again and found the 'reeling' Savi's Warblers, with one showing particularly well enabling a few photographs. While I was here there was an influx of 'Hirundines & Apopidaes, with lots of Barn Swallows, Crag, House & Sand Martins, a few Pallid Swifts, and single Red rumped Swallow & Common Swift. Next I had a drive around the paddy fields and found another Spotted Crake with a Green Sandpiper, Bluethroat and a full summer plumage Water Pipit. A few Marsh Harriers and Audouin's Gulls were sat in the dry fields and as I watched these another wave of Swifts and Swallows came through this time with 12 Alpine Swifts, to complete the set. Finally I checked the south end flood and all the usual birds were still around plus another Spoonbill and 4 Ruff.
25th March:- Went out today with a friend of mine, Peter Powney into the mountains around where he was staying. Got to his villa and sat for a while watching the adjacent rock face, which produced a Raven, several Blue Rock Thrushes, and Kestrel. We then set of for an area near the village of Gorgos, on the way picking up lots of Chough, Stonechat, and Black Redstart. At the wooded valley we parked and walked and quickly heard a calling Wryneck and lots of Great Tits. A little further on we saw two huge birds come over the hillside, which turned out to be a pair of Golden Eagles. For several minutes we watched them soar round until eventually one bird dropped into a hole in the rock face that was their eyrie. The other bird then started to display flying up high and dropping like a stone with it's wings closed, a magnificent sight. The (male) bird eventually drifted off so we continued our walk finding Green Woodpecker, Jay, a few Red-legged Partridge, and a feeding flock of Crested, Coal, & Long-tailed Tits, Short-toed Treecreeper, and Firecrest. During our walk the male Golden Eagle returned and again gave fabulous views both flying and briefly sat on the rock face, before eventually going into the eyrie as well.
26th March:- Although the weather wasn't brilliant I sat on the roof terrace this afternoon and was lucky enough to have 9 Marsh Harriers heading north. Later I went out to Pego Marsh for a couple of hours and started at the brick tank where there was 4 Wood Sandpipers, a Ruff, and a Spotted Crake. Following the east track I saw another 3 Spotted Crakes and a Black-tailed Godwit, but best was finding my first Osprey on their usual pylon feeding on a fish. Again the Savi's Warblers were showing well along with Moustached & Cetti's Warblers. A quick run around the paddies produced lots of Audouin's Gulls, Cattle & Little Egrets, Purple & Grey Herons. At the small (drying out) pool were another 3 Spotted Crakes, Green Sandpiper, and Water Pipit. Finally I went to the south end flood and again saw the 5 Glossy Ibis, and 5 Spoonbills, with the Spotted Redshank, and several Common Redshank, Ruff, and a single Common Sandpiper. A Squacco Heron flew over the reeds and a pair of Garganey put in a brief appearance, with the heaps of Red Crested Pochard, Shoveler, Mallard, and Coot.

May 2005

15th May:- An early start with my three Icelandic colleagues saw us heading for the Albacete Region in search of it's specialty birds. A little outside Bonete the first stop set the tone for the day starting with the expected Calandra & Thekla Larks. However careful scanning by Edward produced a male Little Bustard, which was closely followed by another, then our first pair of Black-bellied Sandgrouse flying in the distance. I picked up a distant flying Great Spotted Cuckoo but only Gulli managed to get on to it, much to Edward's dismay since this species is his nemesis, not having seen one after three visits to Spain. We continued towards Coral Rubio and at our next stop we found 13 Great Bustards again in the distance, as well as Rock Sparrows, Southern Grey Shrike and Northern Wheatears. As we were leaving Gunni picked up 2 more Great Bustards closer to a known track, which we followed for some very good views. Beyond Coral Rubio the tracks again produced more Rock Sparrows and Lapwings but an inspired stop by Gulli we found a perched Peregrine, Little Owl, Common Buzzard, and 2 Black Kites. A little further we flushed 16 more Great Bustards off the track right in front of us...., which flew to the ridge and then walked away, spectacular. We approached Petrola and as we passed a small pool 2 more Black-bellied Sandgrouse flew up from it's edge giving fantastic views. Just outside Petrola we tried a track that previously had been successful for me and this time was no exception. I spied an object in the field and shouted "STOP", there not 5m away were 2 Pin-tailed Sandgrouse in all their glory. As expected they flew but only a short distance before dropping allowing us to get out find the birds and get brilliant scoped views of their magic plumage. We continued seeing several Kestrels but one bird sat on the fence top looked different, quite quickly it dawned on me what it was a 2cy female Red-footed Falcon. Over the next 30 minutes we watched this marvelous bird perform all it's repertoire of hovering, catching insects on the wing and on the ground, hopping after them, fantastic. To cap it all we at one point had 4 Black-bellied Sandgrouse in the same view flying around, could it get any better. Eventually we left and went on to Petrola Lagoon, which held the usual Little Stints, Wood Sandpiper, Dunlin (2), Common Redshanks, Collared Pratincole (1), Gull-billed Tern (5), & a Short-toed Eagle. Things now were starting to quieten off due to the heat of the day so we had lunch, but after another check of one or two other places didn't produce much at all, so we left the area. We got back to Pego Marsh late afternoon and had a whistle stop tour that produced all the previously seen species plus a Greenshank and a Whinchat. Although a Moustached Warbler singing from the top of a reed was the guys favourite as it was one of their targets. We retired to the guesthouse for a well earned beer, hoping for a similar time the next day.
16th May:- Today Edward, Gulli, Simmi, & I were heading for Alicante to meet up with Malcolm Palmer and try and find some of it's local specialities. Our first stop was around the Santa Pola headland were we almost immediately found (due to it's distinctive call) our target a gorgeous Rufous Bushchat strutting around on the floor with it's tail cocked. Whilst we watched it another bird joined the first for a brief while to participate in their incredible dance. Another great start and then to the Clot de Galvany where we again quickly found another target 3 male White-headed Ducks showing well on the pond. We decided then to walk around the reserve to the scrape although it's water was receding every day. A couple of Little Owls en-route, then a scan produced several Little Terns, Little Stint, 3 Curlew Sandpipers, and a Purple Gallinule. Although after a careful search we turned up the other 'wanted' wildfowl, 4 Marbled Ducks. We left there very satisfied with the morning so far. Next was a run up into the hills around Tibi were we aimed to find a very rare breeder in these parts. On the way we got very good views of Bee-eaters, Woodchat Shrikes, and Rock Sparrows, and nearing the area we flushed 2 birds from the roadside that Malcolm suspected to be our targets. Out of the car we hunted for a while and then the distinctive call was heard and a fabulous male Trumpeter Finch flew right past us in all it's pink glory. Unfortunately it didn't land but several minutes later it flew back again giving close flight views. We left and decided to take lunch as it was starting to get quite hot. After an ample lunch we made our way to the edge of El Hondo reserve and right on cue 2 male Montagu's Harriers appeared and showed over the reedbed, and this was soon followed by 2 Rollers sitting on the edge a Palm plantation. Again we headed for the hills but this time around Crevaillante to canyon that holds a Bonelli's Eagle eyrie. We arrived seeing Raven on the way and found only the 2 well-grown eaglets in the nest shuffling about, so we waited seeing Rock Bunting, Black Wheatear, Alpine Swift, & Crag Martins. Eventually an adult Bonelli's Eagle came into view soured around for a couple of minutes and alighted onto the nest, where it proceeded to feed it's young, a highlight and treat for us all. This bird also represented the 200th species seen by the Icelanders during their short stay in North & East Spain, a great achievement. We left and returned to a little-known reedbed on the edge of El Hondo were we saw Little Bittern, Squacco Heron, Marbled Duck, Common Cuckoo, Moustached Warbler, and our target Bearded Tit (although only twice briefly in flight). Time was now getting late and Malcolm & I had agreed to stay out and try and find them Eagle Owl so we made our way to the site. Whilst waiting for light to fall we managed to find Iberian Green Woodpecker, Turtle Doves, and Black Wheatear. Unfortunately the Owls were not performing and we failed to see or even hear one bird, which was only slightly disappointing after the day we had. We dropped Malcolm at home and made our way to Oliva after over 14 hours of birding and travel.
Prior to their departure for Alicante Airport the next morning we had Gandia Television at the guesthouse that ended up with Edward nervously giving an interview about their stay and the birds they had seen, and thanks for the kind words.
20th May:- This morning I took out Terry & Val Strong who were holidaying in Moraira while their villa was being built. We met and drove out to Pego Marsh; our first stop was around the brick tank that was unfortunately dry. Birds in this area included Whiskered Terns, Grey, Purple & Squacco Herons, but were generally quiet. So we drove the eastern track and soon found a Savi's Warbler reeling on top of the reeds, and this was quickly followed by a Moustached Warbler doing the same thing. A Common Cuckoo called and was eventually found by Terry sat on a pylon in full view, a first for me on Pego Marsh. Also here we had our first Little Bittern flying over the reedbed beyond. After this we drove around the paddy fields seeing Greenshank, Ruff, and Common Sandpiper, Ringed & Little Ringed Plovers with the Little & Cattle Egrets, Squacco Herons, Kingfisher and a calling Water Rail. Next we went to the western track and walked around the allotments, which produced a Nightingale (singing in full view), another Little Bittern sat on top of a Dog Rose Tree, Melodious & Sardinian Warbler, Tree Sparrows, Corn Buntings, & Serin. We then headed for Lluent seeing Crested Larks, Woodchat Shrike, Great & Eurasian Reed Warblers, Hoopoes, and Audouin's Gull. At Lluent we found 6 Spoonbills and a Glossy Ibis with the breeding Red Crested Pochards, Purple & Squacco Herons, and Black-winged Stilts. We then left this area for the Vall de Gallinera seeing Bee-eaters on the way up, once there we focused on the Golden Eagle eyrie that held at least one young eaglet. Unfortunately the adults were no where to be seen but there was Choughs, Kestrels, Blue Rock Thrush, and lots of Common Swifts around the crags. A last ditch effort to see the eagles saw drive further up the valley to where they are known to frequent. As we set up I found a large bird over the adjacent hillside and just assumed it would be an eagle, but when it came closer it was obviously a Griffon Vulture. Over the next few minutes it slowly soared around going right over us and away to the south giving everyone a very good view. We set off back to Oliva and on the way down flushed 2 Red-rumped Swallows off the road right in front of us, culminating in another very good morning in this area.
22nd May:- Today was the first of 3 days out with James Lowther & Carol McKay and decided to stay local so Carol could go horse-riding late morning. We started at the beach but it was quiet with just a few Audouin's Gulls moving north and a Gannet off-shore. We then went to Pego Marsh where we quickly saw Moustached & Savi's Warblers singing from the tops of the marsh grass, as well as Marsh Harrier, Whiskered Terns, Purple & Grey Herons, Little Ringed & Kentish Plovers. We then drove around the paddy fields finding a few Squacco Herons, Cattle & Little Egrets, Kingfishers, Redshank, Common Sandpipers, Tree Sparrows, & Little Grebe. After leaving Carol, James & I walked the track into La Revolta finding a lot of similar species but also female Little Bittern (sat on a reed), Spoonbills, Great Reed & Eurasian Reed Warblers, Corn Buntings, & Red Crested Pochards. We left to pick up Carol and returned to the guesthouse until late afternoon. Later we set off up the 'Val de Gallinera' in search of eagles. Our first stop was near the top for a pair of large birds circling over the near hillside. We confirmed them as a pair of adult Bonelli's Eagles but unfortunately they dropped out of sight soon after seeing them. We hung around for quite a while but didn't see them again, however there were a few Chough and a Spotted Flycatcher to occupy us. We left this area and returned down the valley to where the Golden Eagle eyrie is situated. Almost immediately I picked up an adult Golden Eagle sat on top of the cliff, which showed very well even though it was distant. During our stay this bird was harassed by a Magpie and then a Chough causing it to fly a short distance nearer the nest, and we confirmed 2 eaglets in the eyrie, which is brilliant news. Other birds seen in this area included several Bee-eaters, male Cirl Bunting, Red rumped Swallow, Crag Martins, and a calling Cuckoo.
23rd May:- As well as James & Carol we were joined by John & Maureen Murray for our early start into Castilla la Mancha. We arrived at Bonete and parked in the same place as the previous week initially seeing Thekla & Calandra Larks very well. Then careful scanning produced our first target species a male Little Bustard but it wasn't easy to see. We moved positions and got better views of this little gem displaying with it's distinctive neck-expanding & 'head-butt' action. We continued towards Corral Rubio and James called to halt the vehicle saying he had seen another Little Bustard. Unfortunately it disappeared into the long grass but whilst we looked for it 3 Great Spotted Cuckoos flew right in front of us calling, giving excellent views. I then found 4 distant Great Bustards but the views were spoilt by the increasing heat-haze. Again we moved on seeing a smart male Marsh Harrier en-route before we stopped over-looking the expansive plain, firstly seeing a few Rock Sparrows and a Hoopoe around the derelict buildings. Carol then found a Stone Curlew in a near-by field, which was quickly followed by her finding 9 Great Bustards that were closer but still difficult to see well. While we watched these birds 2 Black-bellied Sandgrouse flew past but gave only a brief view before disappearing. Beyond Corral Rubio we found more Rock Sparrows, Woodchat Shrike and some lovely Short-toed Larks but the highlight was seeing another 15 Great Bustards this time quite close and showing well. We headed to Petrola and after a short break drove around the tracks near the town finding 1 more Great Bustard, Crested, Short-toed & Calandra Larks, a calling Quail, and even briefer views of 2 Black-bellied Sandgrouse. Finally we decided to look at Petrola Lagoon but is was the heat of the day and viewing quite difficult, however we did see Little Stints, Kentish & Little Ringed Plovers, Lapwings, Avocets, Shelducks, Great Reed Warbler, Northern Wheatear, & Stonechat. We returned to Oliva very satisfied with what we had seen.
24th May:- A change of venue saw all the people from the previous day out together again, this time around Alicante. We started at the Santa Pola headland and after a brief search found our first target a singing Rufous Bushchat, that eventually showed extremely well in the morning sun. We moved away after having a short walk around the dwarf pines finding Spotted Flycatchers & Sardinian Warbler. Next we went to the 'Clot de Galvany' having a Little Owl and Red rumped Swallows at the entrance. At the main pond 3 male & 1 female White-headed Ducks showed very well doing their strange display before getting amorous, also here was a female Eurasian Teal, which is unusual for this time of year. The walk to the scrape produced Hoopoe & Southern Grey Shrike, whilst at the scrape 5 Marbled Ducks, Purple Gallinule, & Shelducks showed well. We left here and made the short journey to the Salinas, where there are still 100's of Greater Flamingos, as well as Little & Whiskered Terns, Slender-billed Gull, Avocets, Purple Heron, & Great Crested Grebes. As it now nearing lunchtime we left for El Hondo reserve, as we drove around the edge a gorgeous male Montagu's Harrier flew up from the reeds followed by a second bird. We continued our on towards the reserve centre passing through the Palm Groves when James calls a stop, he had seen 2 Rollers sat in a palm. We got out and returned but unfortunately the birds flew before everyone got a view. We decided to go on for lunch and return later, so we got the centre and sat down for our picnic in the designated area. While we sat there 2 Collared Pratincoles flew close by and a Marbled Duck and Squacco Heron showed briefly on the adjacent pool. After lunch we strolled around the reserve walk and from the watchpoint we saw more Collared Pratincoles, Marbled Ducks, Common & Red Crested Pochards, Great Reed Warblers, and at least 5 Glossy Ibis. As we returned to the car another male Monty's flew over the reeds quite close giving everyone an excellent view. We returned to the Palm Grove but this time going to an area I had seen previously, and finding again 2 Rollers sat on the wires. We watched these birds for a long whole as one (male?) kept flying to the ground picking up an insect and feeding it to the other, an interesting courtship perhaps. Next we left for Montnegre in the hills above Tibi, where we found Thekla Larks, Rock Sparrow, Black & Black-eared Wheatears, Bee-eaters, Pallid Swift and Crag Martins. The highlight however was watching 2 adult Bonelli's Eagles fly over our heads and then proceed to be mobbed by a pair of Ravens that went on for a full 10 minutes. The Trumpeter Finches were however slightly disappointing with only brief flight views of a calling male, and James finding a (far off) female whilst attending the call of nature just before our departure. It was becoming early evening and decided to do a short coastal walk and have some dinner before our final target. So as night drew closer we went out to the Santa Pola Sierra and found a great position on the edge of the pines and waited. Before long the distinctive Kotok Kotok Kotok call could be heard as well as the wailing of Stone Curlews, and soon after our first Red-necked Nightjar flew into view. We continued to peer into the fading light seeing at least 6 birds with one actually landing about 10m from us enabling a good look at it's cryptic plumage even in poor light. This was a brilliant end to a long yet excellent day, making the journey home very satisfying.
26th May:- Today I was taking out John & Ann Moon on a return trip to Alicante area, with John wanting to photograph some of the area's birds. We followed a similar itinerary to the previous time starting at Santa Pola Headland and finding 4 probably 5 Rufous Bushchats, two of which showed very well for photos. Next we went to the 'Clot de Galvany' for hopefully close White-headed Ducks, unfortunately a party of school children were at the watchpoint creating havoc. We hung around and the party left and soon enough the birds showed well, as did, Common Pochard, Black-winged Stilt, and a Little Owl. We left for the Salinas and quickly found Common, Little, & Whiskered Terns, Greater Flamingos, Avocets, Great Crested Grebes, Kentish Plovers and a surprising Curlew. As the time was moving on we went for lunch at El Hondo reserve, but a short detour produced a fantastic Roller, and Bee-eater. During lunch we saw Squacco Heron, and Little Terns but a walk to the watchpoint we found another Common Tern, Collared Pratincoles, Little & Black-necked Grebes, Marbled Ducks, Shelducks, Red Crested Pochards, Purple Gallinule, and 2 Glossy Ibis. The walk back to the reserve centre produced a calling Quail, Corn Bunting, Eurasian & Great Reed Warbler, Crested Lark, & Yellow Wagtail. After a look around the visitor centre we left and headed back to Santa Pola stopping for a male Montagu's Harrier sat in the bottom of a bare tree. The Sierra de Santa Pola was a speculative stop that didn't reap many rewards (due to the time of day) apart from Thekla Lark and Woodchat Shrike. Our final destination was at Montnegre in search of Trumpeter Finch, and from the car I heard the distinctive call. We slowly walked around to where I had heard it seeing Black, & Black-eared Wheatears, Pallid Swift, Bee-eaters, and more Thekla Larks. John then casually said "what's these sat here?", and sure enough a pair of Trumpeter Finches were sat on a small tree about 50m away. These flew after a while, but 5 minutes later the male returned and started honking form the top of another tree, before dropping to the ground to feed. Eventually we left and whilst driving out of the valley we had excellent views of a Southern Grey Shrike sat on the wires. (Rufous Bushchat photo by Mr J. Moon)
27th May:- This morning I was out with John & Maureen Murray for the 3rd time this time staying locally around Oliva. First we went down to the beach but things were quiet apart from a couple of Rose-ringed Parakeets flying around. So we quickly moved on to Pego Marsh where we started at the northern end, as they had two particular lifers that I knew occur in this area. I stopped the car after hearing a familiar call got out and after a few minutes found our quarry, a Moustached Warbler. I got the scope set up and they both got prolonged views of this handsome bird, and while doing this I then found their second target a 'reeling' Savi's Warbler, which they also got great views of. We stood there for quite a while watching Little Bitterns, Grey, Purple & Night Herons, Whiskered Terns, Little Ringed Plovers, and Zitting Cisticolas. We left for a drive around the Paddy Fields that soon produced Squacco Heron, Cattle & Little Egrets, & Black-winged Stilts but an adult Audouin's Gull caused a stir as this was also a lifer for the couple (making 15 for the trip). A stop at the allotments we found a young Peregrine Falcon sat in a tree, along with Tree Sparrows, Serins, and a singing Nightingale. A little further we found a Great Reed Warbler singing out in the open and Crested Larks on the track. Finally at the marsh we headed round to La Revolta where we found a lot more Herons & Egrets as well as 5 Spoonbills to add to the list. We then headed up into the hills to Gallinera where I showed them the Golden Eagles nest with it's two (near-grown) young. After a while one adult Golden Eagle appeared and flew around giving good scope views to all before drifting off over the ridge. With that we decided to go for a well-earned drink at the local tavern while watching the young in the eyrie.

June 2005

1st June:- Today it was a pleasure to be taking Val & Keith Hudson (from Javea) to the Alicante area. Malcolm Palmer was kindly joining us for the morning so after picking him up we headed for the hills above San Vicente to Montnegre. Upon arrival we saw Black & Black-eared Wheatears, Thekla Larks, Woodchat Shrikes, Rock Sparrows, Bee-eaters and a brief flight view of a female Trumpeter Finch. We searched the area and after about a 1/2 hour I heard the familiar call and saw a pair of Trumpeter Finches flying over. Luckily these birds alighted on the top of a near-by mound and showed extremely well to all of us, with their 'pinkness' being a surprise to Keith & Val. Soon after we left seeing a Rock Bunting on the en-route to Tibi and then the mountain woodland of Maigmo. We got out the vehicle and straight away saw a Short-toed Treecreeper, Mistle Thrush, and Chaffinch and a short walk to some drinking pools added Crossbills, Goldfinches, Long-tailed & Crested Tits. We continued the walk for a while and by the time we had returned we had also added Coal & Great Tit, Firecrest, and a calling Green Woodpecker. After saying our farewells to Malcolm and his wife Juani we headed for the hills above Crevaillant for our lunch with the resident Bonelli's Eagles. The nest was quite but a scan of the rock face produced both adults sat out in the open showing extremely well, and as we watched one bird flew to the eyrie and tended it's 2 young. Other birds seen in this area also included Blue Rock Thrush, Ravens, Chough, Crag Martin, Alpine, Pallid & Common Swifts, Woodchat Shrike and Thekla Larks. It was now late afternoon and we decided to have a drive around El Hondo reserve where we found one Roller, 3 male Montagu's Harriers, Kestrel, Wood Sandpiper, Little Ringed Plover, Sand Martins, Little & Cattle Egret. From here we drove towards Santa Pola passing the Salinas and seeing Greater Flamingos, Black-winged Stilts, Avocets, and Little Terns. Early evening we arrived at Santa Pola headland looking for another 'target' bird and initial forays proved fruitless. Then I heard it's familiar and soon enough we were enjoying close views of a male Rufous Bushchat singing from the top of a dwarf pine, a fantastic sight. Soon after we quietly left the bird singing in the warm evening sunshine to go for an evening meal. Our final destination was the 'Sierra de Santa Pola for one of it's special species and while we waited for nightfall we recorded a Stone Curlew, Hoopoes, Turtle Doves, Woodpigeons, Thekla Larks, Southern Grey & Woodchat Shrikes, and Green Woodpecker. However at dusk the Red necked Nightjars started to give their very distinctive call and soon after 3 or 4 birds flew around our watchpoint, again to the amazement of Keith & Val. This was a wonderful end to a fantastic (although very long) day, and well worth it.
5th June:- Today I was out for the morning with Rod & Christine McVeigh who are on holiday in Oliva. We decided to start at Pego Marsh at the northern end around Lluent, and immediately saw a Marbled Duck flying over the reeds, also from here we added Grey & Purple Heron, Little Egret and Red Crested Pochard. A bit further on the track I stopped and got the scope set up and found a 'reeling' Savi's Warbler, very close to the track. We stood there for quite a while watching quite a few Little Bitterns, a Night Heron, Whiskered Terns, Little Ringed Plover, Great Reed & Eurasian Reed Warbler. We moved on and headed round to La Revolta where we found 6 Spoonbills amongst the Squacco & Purple Herons, Black winged Stilts and Mallard. Next we had a drive around the Paddy Fields that soon produced more Squacco Herons, Cattle & Little Egrets, and 6 Audouin's Gulls with several Yellow legged Gulls. A stop at the allotments produced 2 singing Melodious Warblers, along with Woodchat Shrike, Tree Sparrows, Serins, and a Nightingale. A little further we saw Hoopoes, Corn Buntings, Yellow Wagtails, and Crested Larks on the tracks. Although best of all was while watching a close Purple Heron, 4 Collared Pratincoles came in and fed over the rice fields for a while before heading north. Finally we headed up into the hills to Gallinera where we saw 2 young Golden Eagles on the nest, and soon after one adult Golden Eagle appeared and landed in the nest dropping some prey. It soon departed and soared around for a while being mobbed by a Kestrel & 2 Choughs, then was joined by a second adult giving fantastic views above the ridge.
9th June:- An airport run to Valencia meant I could go to a little known reserve on the northern edge of the city near Pucol. This place is not set in one of the nicest of areas with some heavy industry dotted around it's border, but still an outstanding place. As I walked towards the first viewing platform I saw Great Reed, Eurasian Reed, Savi's & Cetti's Warblers, Zitting Cisticolas, and a couple of Audouin's Gulls flying along the beach. At the platform it was easy to see some freshwater with lots of Whiskered, Little, & Common Terns, Black-headed Gulls and Collared Pratincoles flying around. On the water there was a single Marbled Duck, White-headed Ducks, Common & Red Crested Pochards (with young), Mallard, Coot, (Crested Coot also breed), Little & Black-necked Grebes. Little Bitterns flew between the reeds along with Grey & Purple Heron, Little Egret and Black-winged Stilts. I left and continued to the next platform seeing Kentish Plovers, and Collared Pratincoles sat on the coastal strip giving superb views. The second pool held 3 pairs of Purple Gallinules feeding their young right out in the open and an adult Night Heron sat on the edge of the reeds, along with most of the other species seen earlier. Unfortunately time was against me and I had to leave but I will definitely return in the near future.
12th June:- Went out this morning for a quick run around Pego Marsh, starting around Lluent on the northern side. I slowly drove the track finding Crested Larks, Savi's Warblers, Eurasian Reed Warblers, Zitting Cisticolas, and Hoopoe, as well as the usual Little Egrets, Purple & Grey Herons, Little Bitterns, Red Crested Pochards & Coots. So I moved on to the paddy fields but an impending cycle race made me reconsider and move on, but not before I had seen Whiskered Terns, Black winged Stilts, Squacco Herons, and Cattle Egrets. Finally I drove along the La Revolta track seeing the 6 Spoonbills with lots of other herons & egrets, and also a couple of Audouin's Gulls. As I drove back I heard a familiar sound and stopped to see a male Reed Bunting quite a rare breeder on the marsh. A little further I stopped for another bird singing from the reeds a Moustached Warbler, which I decided to try and photograph. Whilst doing this I then heard a Chiffchaff singing and eventually found the bird in question, this is also very unusual at this time of year, and a very good record.
14th June:- This morning I was out with Edward and Beth a local couple for a half day tour of Oliva, Pego & the Val de Gallinera. We started at the beach, which was very quiet indeed with only a lone Gannet to see in the short time we were there. At Pego Marsh we started at the northern edge of Lluent where we stood for a while and watched, finding Whiskered Terns, Little & Cattle Egrets, Purple & Grey Heron, Little Ringed Plovers, and Yellow Wagtail. We continued down this track and stopped to listen, and sure enough a Savi's Warbler was reeling close to where we were. We got out and I set the scope up on the bird giving great views, whilst we were there we added to our species with Little Bitterns, Night Heron, Zitting Cisticolas, but best of all was a fly past Marbled Duck. After a while we left and had a quick drive around one set of paddy fields that held only Black-winged Stilts, Mallards, & Yellow-legged Gulls. Next we went round to La Revolta were we got cracking views of a lot of the previous species as well as 3 more Marbled Ducks sat out in the open Red Crested Pochards, Spoonbills, Squacco Herons, and Crested Larks. On the way out the Moustached Warbler was singing but due to the high winds was very difficult to see. As it was getting warm I decided we would head up into the hills were we stopped and scoped the Golden Eagle eyrie. Luckily an adult was on the nest dropping some prey off and within minutes departed soaring around the cliff in front of us, giving superb views. It eventually drifted off and we turned our attention to the nest where we watched the 2 young tear into whatever the adult had brought, these are now well grown and will surely be flying themselves very shortly. Whilst we were there we also saw Red rumped Swallows Choughs, 2 Kestrels, Serin and a singing Nightingale. Sadly we departed and headed back towards Oliva calling in for another look at Pego Marsh, around the south/east corner, finding Turtle Dove, Hoopoes, Great Reed Warbler and Crested Larks. As we were leaving I saw another set of Gulls sat on a bank and scanning these I found 6 Audouin's Gulls amongst the Yellow legs, a very good end to the morning.
18th June:- Today I was birdwatching with Corinna Smart who caught the early train from Valencia and I picked up at Gandia Station. We headed for Alicante and when we arrived at our first destination of Monnegre it was already getting hot. The journey in had produced excellent views of a pair of Black Wheatears, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Long-tailed Tits & Thekla Larks. Unfortunately our target species of Trumpeter Finch was no-where to be seen but we did find another pair of Black Wheatears, Black-eared Wheatear, Rock Sparrows, Bee-eaters, Woodchat Shrikes, Red-rumped Swallows, Pallid Swifts, and Blue Rock Thrush. We left and drove to the hills above Crevaillant in the hope of finding our main target bird, Bonelli's Eagle. I found the nest but unfortunately no birds so we proceeded to scour the canyon, after discussing possible movements from a large hole in the rock I found a juvenile Bonelli's Eagle sat out in the open. We watched this bird for a long while it played with a dead Partridge in a fascinating insight into a young eagle learning (and failing) to feed from a fresh carcass. Next we went to the Clot de Galvany where we got good close views of Marbled Duck, White-headed Ducks, Purple Gallinule, Common Pochard, Little Grebe, and Black-winged Stilts on the main lake. Elsewhere we saw Little Owl, Sardinian Warblers, Hoopoe, Serins, Gold & Greenfinches. At the Salinas we logged Greater Flamingos, Little Egrets, Little, Common, and Whiskered Terns, Black-headed & Yellow-legged Gulls, Great Crested Grebes, and Avocets. It was now getting very hot but we continued on to El Hondo where we found another target bird, a Roller. It was sitting in the shade of a date palm allowing us to get quite close and very good views. Here we also saw a newly fledged Kestrel (still with some downy feathers) that wasn't sure what to do when we passed by, so it bounced up and down and shook it's head. The heat was now unbearable (around 40o) so we decided to head back north to Oliva managing to cool off in the car. At Pego Marsh a quick visit produced (the hoped for) Little Bittern, with Corinna finding a female and then having a male pass right in front of us. Also here we found 4 Audouin's Gulls showing very well along with plenty of Purple, Grey, & Squacco Herons, Cattle Egrets, Red Crested Pochards and singing Savi's, Great Reed & Eurasian Reed Warblers, and Zitting Cisticolas. Finally we drove up the Val de Gallinera, and as we stopped I saw an adult Golden Eagle above the hillside We got out and watched as it flew around for a while being mobbed by 4 Choughs before landing allowing good scoped views. While it was sat it was constantly harried by a Blue Rock Thrush and eventually it flew again this time out of sight. We then turned our attention to the nest and the 2 juveniles are now very close to leaving since they were constantly moving and stretching their wings showing the classic 1st year plumage pattern. While we were there a Peregrine flew through showing well, as did several Red-rumped Swallows, Alpine Swifts and Crag Martins, a good end to a good day. (White-headed Duck by J. Moon)
22nd June:- This evening I went up to the Vall de Gallinera (i was also here 2 evenings ago with Keith & Val Hudson) to see how the young Golden Eagles were doing. They are almost ready to leave the eyrie and spend a lot of time stretching their wings and sitting on the edge of the nest. Their plumage is all but complete and I am sure their next step will be the big one off a 70m drop. In addition to these the Choughs are still showing well and there is now an impressive mass evening gathering of Common, Pallid, and Alpine Swifts screaming along the rock face. Other birds seen this evening included Bee-eaters, Red-rumped Swallows, Kestrel, and a young Grey Wagtail.
26th June:- Again I went up to the Vall de Gallinera to see how the juvenile Golden Eagles were doing and they are still waiting to fly. In addition to getting great views on the young eagles I was also treated to mega views of both adults as they flew around overhead. It is such a privilege to watch these magnificent 'birds of prey' on such a regular basis.
29th June:- Got out to Pego Marsh this evening for a couple of hours starting at the south end in the La Revolta area. There were now 7 Spoonbills & a Yellow billed Stork, amongst the Grey, Purple & Squacco Herons, Little & Cattle Egrets, Black winged Stilts, Coot, Mallards & Red Crested Pochards. Also there were the first returning waders with 10 Wood Sandpipers feeding in the shallow waters. Next I drove around the paddy fields find a large flock of Whiskered Terns (200+) feeding over one field and with a Collared Pratincole amongst them giving great views. Other birds around here included Little Ringed Plovers, Common Sandpiper, Great Reed & Eurasian Reed Warblers, Crested Larks, Woodchat Shrikes, Yellow Wagtails, and Hoopoes. Finally I drove along the Lluent track seeing several Night Herons flying in to roost, with a 2 pairs of Little Bitterns showing well flying over the reeds. A Savi's Warbler 'reeled' from the marsh grass, and 2 Moustached Warblers sang from the top of the reeds along with several Zitting Cisticolas. As dusk fell a Purple Gallinule fed along the reed edges and 100's of Spotless Starlings, Jackdaws, and hirundines came into roost.

July 2005

10th July:- Today saw a welcome return to some birdwatching as I was guiding Derek Charles for the first of 5 days. We arrived at Bonete around 7am on a cold grey morning but at least the birds were active and our first stop produced 2 juvenile Great Spotted Cuckoos being fed by a Magpie, 3 Stone Curlews, Thekla Larks, Southern Grey Shrike, and Iberian Green Woodpecker. As we continued towards Petrola we found our first (of 53) Great Bustards including a young bird with it's parent. Also in this area we saw 3 Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Short-toed & Calandra Larks, 3 Marsh Harriers, Common Buzzard, Rock Sparrows, Linnets, Red-legged Partridges, Little Owls, Pallid Swift, Northern Wheatear and a Quail walking in the open. At Petrola we followed the tracks out into the cereal fields and quickly found another 4 Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, followed by 4 Black-bellied Sandgrouse. A flock of 20 Great Bustards showed very well here and raptors included 2 more Marsh Harriers and a pale phase Booted Eagle. Finally we went to Petrola Lagoon where the water level was very low but we still found Green & Wood Sandpipers, Little Stint, Avocet, Ringed & Kentish Plovers, more Pallid Swifts and 2 Shelduck. This evening after the days rains we started at Oliva Marina doing some sea-watching which paid good dividends. Sandwich Terns made a steady passage north as did 2 Common Terns with some harrying Yellow-legged Gulls. Derek found 2 Balearic Shearwaters and then I found a rare bird European Storm-petrel, which was closely followed by two more. A Gannet drifted south as did several Audouin's & Black-headed Gulls. Our last stop was Pego Marsh where we found all the usual suspects 7 Spoonbills, Cattle & Little Egrets, Grey, Purple & Squacco Herons, Little Bitterns, Whiskered Terns, Little Ringed Plovers, 2 Savi's Warblers, etc. In addition Gull-billed Terns showed very well with 3 young birds amongst the adults, 2 Ruff flew over, and Woodchat Shrikes fed their young. A very good start to the week with over 80 species seen during the day. (Photos by Derek Charles)
11th July:- Today saw another good day with Derek this time we headed north to sites around the City of Valencia. Our first stop was Moro Marsh where we walked to a viewing platform overlooking a large pool seeing Red Crested & Common Pochard on the way. Little Bitterns were everywhere and on the pool a male White-headed Duck showed well amongst the other ducks and Little Grebes. Other birds around the pool included an adult Night, Grey & Purple Herons, Purple Gallinules, Great Reed & Eurasian Reed Warblers, whilst overhead Little, Common & Whiskered Terns, Collared Pratincoles, Redshank, and the odd Pallid Swift flew around. Eventually we left and walked along the beach seeing Wood Sandpiper, Little Ringed Plovers, Audouin's & Black headed Gulls, Bee-eaters and a very showy adult Collared Pratincole with it's young. Finally we checked the second viewing platform and we hit the jackpot with 2 Red-knobbed Coots a very rare breeder at this site, with one bird especially showing very well. Other birds included more of the same species plus Southern Grey Shrike and Cattle Egrets but as we walked away we got good views of a Moustached Warbler working it's way through the reeds. Next we went to the Albufera d'Valencia a huge coastal freshwater lake, which is vitally important for breeding gulls & terns. We stopped at the viewing area and soon found Great Crested Grebe and Cormorants, with good numbers of Gull-billed, Common, & Whiskered Terns around. Careful checking of the Black-headed Gulls produced adult and young Slender-billed Gulls that Derek desperately tried to get a photo of but to no avail. Finally we went to the Albufera's reserve Raco d'Olla were we eventually found a pair of Marbled Duck amongst the Mallard & Coot. Apart from a few Avocets and Spotted Flycatchers most of the other species had been recorded earlier in the day. This afternoon we headed up to the Vall de Gallinera hopefully in search of some eagles and other montane species. Our first stop was the eyrie that was now empty but in a quick search I found a Golden Eagle sat on the crag, which was quickly followed by a second (definite) young bird being mobbed by a Blue Rock Thrush. Other birds seen here included Alpine & Pallid Swifts, Red rumped Swallows, Bee-eaters, & Sardinian Warbler. We left and drove further up the valley stopping for Derek who had found a Sub-alpine Warbler and a little further a Sparrowhawk flashed passed. Around the rock pools Crag Martins were feeding their young and a Melodious Warbler showed very well, as did Spotted Flycatcher and Woodchat Shrike. Finally we stopped at a watchpoint and soon found 4 Chough on the far crags and whilst watching these 2 Bonelli's Eagles came into view and soared around for a few minutes before drifting off. The day was rounded off when as we were about to leave a juvenile Crossbill showed very well in the pine tree next to where we were standing. (Photos by Derek Charles)
12th July:- Day 3 with Derek saw us firstly going to Aitana one of the highest peaks in the Valencian Region. A stop near the top produced a singing Wren and a few Red Deer but at the top a party of 6 Hoopoes and a Stonechat was a nice start. A walk around was quiet but we did manage to see a Woodlark, Green Woodpecker, Great & Coal Tits, Chaffinches, and a Jay. We left and dropped down towards Alicante where we picked up Malcolm Palmer before heading for Monnegre. As the road wound up we saw Black-eared Wheatears, Southern Grey & Woodchat Shrikes, and Bee-eaters but a shout of "Bushchat" from Derek brought an immediate halt. Sure enough there were 2 gorgeous Rufous Bushchats pumping their tails and running around, we watched enthralled until they flew across the road and out of sight. This was a great find as we had never seen them in this area before and were clearly a pair. We continued up and another couple of 'odd' looking birds flew across the road so we stopped again. This time we watched a pair of Western Orphean Warblers as they made their way through the stunted bushes, this was again the first time seen in this area. Around Monnegre we found 2 Black Wheatears, Thekla Larks, Spotted Flycatchers, Common & Pallid Swifts, but unfortunately no Trumpeter Finch. Next we went to Xorret de Cati another wooded mountain used in the Tour de Spain cycle race. One area there are some natural pools and here we saw several Crossbills, Spotted Flycatchers, Goldfinches, and Pallid Swifts. Further searches produced Stonechat, Woodlark, and Blue Rock Thrush but unfortunately the heat was keeping things hidden. After some confusion with roadwork's and mis-leading directions we dropped Malcolm at his home and headed for Santa Pola Salinas. Here the 5000+ Greater Flamingos showed very well as did 2 Marbled Ducks, Great Crested & Black-necked Grebes, Avocet, Mediterranean, Slender-billed, Audouin's, Black-headed & Yellow-legged Gulls, Little, Common & Whiskered Terns, and Kentish Plovers. Finally we called into the Clot de Galvany but the water levels in the main pool were very low. However it meant things were out in the open and a Water Rail, and Purple Gallinule showed very well along the reed edges. Other birds included a male White-headed Duck, Common Pochards, Coots, Little Grebes, and Black-winged Stilts. (Photos by Derek Charles)
13th July:- Day 4 and again we headed to Alicante this time starting at El Pinet where we checked the gulls and terns. Scanning produced 13 Mediterranean Gulls and several Audouin's, Slender-billed, Black-headed, & Yellow-legged Gulls, with Sandwich, Common & Little Terns. Waders included Avocets, Common Redshank, Collared Pratincoles, Kentish & Ringed Plovers, with Night Heron, Southern Grey Shrike and Crested Larks. We left and headed inland towards El Hondo and as we were skirting the reserve I spied a Roller sat on a wire. We stopped and got good views of this bird and another before they flew out of sight into a nearby Palm Tree. We continued and an impromptu stop at Rio Vinalupo produced 6 more Rollers sat in a hay field including some juveniles. We watched for a long time as the young were fed and interactions with a neighbouring Kestrel, also here were Little Owls, Sand Martins, Black-winged Stilts, and Cattle Egrets. We carried on around the reserve observing more Rollers and seeing a grand total of 12 birds certainly my highest ever count. The next stop was to view over the large reedbed and soon enough we had found our target a Montagu's Harrier, which was preceded by 2 more birds all female/1st winter types. Whilst watching these we also got good views of 2 Cetti's Warblers, several Eurasian Reed & Great Reed Warblers, and Zitting Cisticolas. We arrived at El Hondo Centre but water levels were desperately low and we only managed to add Little Grebe, Common Pochard, Coot, Yellow Wagtail, Stonechat, and a distant Short-toed Eagle. Our final destination was Maigmo a protected Pine covered hillside just inland from Alicante. We stopped and ate lunch and Derek found a Short-toed Treecreeper, then a walk to the artificial pools produced excellent views of Crested Tit, along with Great & Coal Tits, Crossbills, Chaffinches, another Short-toed Treecreeper, and overhead another Short-toed Eagle gave good views. That evening we tried an unsuccessful seawatch before moving to Pego Marsh. Here we got much the same species as previously but did manage to add several Tree Sparrows to our ever growing list of species. (Photos by Derek Charles)
14th July:- Derek & I's final day together of a very successful trip, and we decided to stay local so Derek could concentrate on some photography. We started at the beach but things were quiet apart from a Balearic Shearwater, several Sandwich Terns, and Yellow-legged & Black headed Gulls. We drove then to Pego Marsh and checked the north end where 13 Wood Sandpipers flew in to join the Little Ringed Plovers and Black-winged Stilts. Little & Cattle Egrets, Grey, Purple, Squacco & Night Herons were all seen as were several Little Bitterns. Further on the track a male Reed Bunting was a nice find and a Moustached Warbler was seen briefly while Savi's Warblers reeled but did not show. At the south end Hoopoes gave Derek the photographic run-around but he did manage shots of the Spoonbills feeding and close Squacco & Purple Herons. As it was heating up we decided to go up the Vall de Gallinera were we stopped at the entrance trying to find one of the several singing Nightingales but did manage to see a few Long-tailed Tits, Sardinian Warblers, Serins, & Spotted Flycatcher. At the watchpoint we found a distant adult Golden Eagle and good views of a Short-toed Eagle as well as several Kestrels, Common & Alpine Swifts, Crossbill, and Woodchat Shrike. In the evening we headed out to Cap de San Antoni, where we got good views of Blue Rock Thrush, 50+ Pallid Swifts, Iberian Green Woodpecker, and Yellow-legged Gulls. Our final foray was late at night were I took Derek to a location near my home for one of his main target species Red-necked Nightjar. As we drove the track we managed to get stunning views of 5 of these gorgeous birds sat in the car headlights a real treat for us both. Then as we drove back to Oliva I detoured to the town centre where a Scop's Owl sang from a tree top but unfortunately remained hidden, a memorable end to this 5 day tour. (Photos by Derek Charles)
22nd July:- This morning I was out with Mike & Yvonne Chandler for a few hours locally. We started at Pego Marsh at the north end where we quickly found Whiskered Terns, Black-winged Stilts, Little Ringed Plovers, and Grey Herons, but checking the mud there was a Common Redshank. As we watched 2 more birds flew in and dropped out of sight, unfortunately they never showed again to us. I suspected what they were and got confirmation today (after getting back from England) that they were Temminck's Stints. Following the track we saw Little Bittern, Purple and Night Herons, Little Egrets, Hoopoe, Woodchat Shrikes, Eurasian Reed & Great Reed Warblers & a Little Owl flew through. The south track added plenty of Squacco Herons and Cattle Egrets, Yellow Wagtails, a Kingfisher, Tree Sparrows, Yellow-legged & Black-headed Gulls, and Common Sandpiper. Elsewhere were much the same species but we did manage to add Crested Larks, Sardinian Warbler, Serins, Gold & Greenfinches. We left for the Val de Gallinera were we positioned ourselves in view of the eagles eyrie and scanned. Alpine, Pallid & Common Swifts buzzed around the rock face and a Spotted Flycatcher fed from the orange grove, then Mike said “what’s these". Incredibly there were 3 Golden Eagles flying around together one adult and the 2 young ones giving fantastic views in the telescope. We watched these for 15 minutes before they all departed, then 10 minutes later possibly the second adult appeared over the ridge, flew around, being mobbed by a Kestrel, eventually drifting off in the same direction as the others. A great end to this short tour. (photo by Jose Llacer)
29th - 31st July:- I have currently got very good birdwatching friends Ken & Kathy Shaw and their daughter Joanna staying with us. As this is essentially a family holiday we have just been birding for a couple of hours in the morning or from the beach in the afternoon. The highlights of these short trips to Pego Marsh have included Marbled Duck, Gadwall, Curlew & Green Sandpipers, Little Stints, Little Ringed Plovers, Little Bitterns, Purple, Squacco, & Night Herons, Whiskered Terns, Woodchat & Southern Grey Shrikes. On the 31st we had a short seawatch in the morning and while at the beach in the afternoon, with the highlights being; 8 Whimbrel heading south, Common Sandpiper, 3 Mediterranean Gulls (inc. 2 - Ist Summers), 300+ Audouin's Gulls (heading south), Lesser Black backed Gull, Gannets, & Sandwich Terns.

August 2005

1st August:- Went out to Pego Marsh with Ken & Kathy and immediately saw 5 Marbled Duck showing well at the north end, also here was a Curlew Sandpiper, Kentish Plover, & 3 Common Terns flying south. At the southern end we saw 3 Ravens, Common Snipe, Little Stint, Pallid & Alpine Swifts, along with the usual herons & egrets, with Little Bitterns, Yellow Wagtails, Hoopoes, Cetti's, Eurasian Reed & Great Reed Warblers. That night I took out Ken, Kathy & Joanna to try and find the local Red necked Nightjars and were successful with 3 birds, one of which gave prolonged views in my vehicles headlights much to the delight of Kathy, a major lifer for her.
2nd August:- As I was taking guests to Alicante Airport, Ken & I decided to do a little birding in that area before returning to Oliva. We made our way to Santa Pola Salinas and stopping at the first pull in we saw hordes of Greater Flamingo's, Great Crested Grebes, Marbled Duck, Little & Whiskered Terns, Yellow-legged, Black-headed, & Slender-billed Gulls, Avocets, Kentish Plovers, Turnstone, and Curlew Sandpipers. The next stop a little further on produced our first Black Terns (both adults & juveniles), along with Black tailed Godwits, Common & Curlew Sandpipers, Shelducks, Black-winged Stilts, and lots more Avocets. Next we drove round to El Pinet where there were a lot of gulls & terns sat around the salt pans, including lots of Slender-billed, Yellow-legged & Audouin's Gulls, although searching produced 3 Mediterranean Gulls. Also in good numbers were Little Tern, with fewer Sandwich & Common Terns sat amongst the gulls. Waders here included a few Collared Pratincoles, Little Stints, Curlew Sandpipers, and Black tailed Godwits, with Crested Lark and Southern Grey Shrike in the scrub areas. Finally we went to the Clot de Galvany seeing both Greenshank and Common Redshank at the side of the road from the car. Unfortunately this place was being managed so all the waterbirds had departed, but we still got good views of several Bee-eaters and Pallid Swifts.
4th August:- It was Ken & Kathy's final full day we decided to spend it birding around the Albacete Region looking for it's specialities. We arrived and drove the road from Bonete to Petrola taking in some of the better tracks into the area of cereal fields. Our first stop produced 32 Great Bustards and this set the tone for the rest of the day with a fantastic total of 75 seen during it's course. Raptors were very visible with 3 (1st year/female) Montagu's Harriers, 2 Common Buzzards, Peregrine Falcon and plenty of Kestrels. Other birds seen included 8 Stone Curlews, good flight views of 4 Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Thekla & Skylarks, Northern Wheatears, 3 Iberian Green Woodpeckers, Woodchat & Southern Grey Shrikes, Rock Sparrows, lots of Bee-eaters, Stock Doves, Carrion Crows, and Magpies. At Petrola we had our lunch in the nearby fields finding 6 more Black-bellied Sandgrouse feeding close to the track, a Marsh Harrier, calling Quail, more Thekla Larks and Iberian Hare. Next we went to the lagoon we quickly found another male Montagu's Harrier sat on a rock, and a Short-toed Eagle hunted over the far side. Waders and wildfowl included 7 Greater Flamingos, Curlew Sandpipers, Little Stints, Wood, Green, & Common Sandpipers, Ruff, Avocets, Ringed, Little Ringed & Kentish Plovers, Shelduck and Shovelers, whilst lots of Common & Pallid Swifts flew overhead. We met another birdwatcher who informed us of a possible Marsh Sandpiper at Higuela Lagoon so we drove slowly round to the area seeing a lot more of the same birds. At the lagoon we immediately saw a European Cuckoo in a sparse tree, also here there were Coots, Little Grebes, Green & Common Sandpipers, Little Stints, Curlew Sandpipers, 2 Lapwings, and a Common Buzzard. As we were about to leave we found a Melodious Warbler and a small flock of Linnets and Goldfinches. We left this area and headed home via Monnegre where we got great views of Black Wheatear a new bird for Kathy. Another birds here included both Dartford & Sardinian Warblers, Blue Rock Thrush, Thekla Larks, and Bee-eaters.
9th August:- This evening I had a quick drive out to Pego Marsh looking for any waders that might have arrived. Around the paddy fields things were quiet although in the top corner I found a small body of water with some exposed mud, which held plenty of birds. Here there were plenty of Wood Sandpipers with smaller numbers of Green & Common Sandpiper, Ringed & Little Ringed Plovers, Little Stints, Black-winged Stilts, as well as Yellow & White Wagtails, Crested Larks, Southern Grey Shrike, plus Cetti's & Great Reed Warbler. Next I went to the south marsh where there were still lots of Squacco, Purple, & Grey Herons, Little & Cattle Egrets, with a few Little Bitterns and Night Herons. Again there were Wood & Green Sandpipers, Little Stints, Common Redshank and a lone Whimbrel being harried by the Black-winged Stilts. A scan of the reeds produced my first 2 Marsh Harriers of the Autumn and the odd Pallid Swift with Common Swifts passed overhead. Finally I made my way back towards Oliva stopping at the north marsh where 2 Marbled Duck, and 2 Teal were amongst the Mallard and Coot. A Snipe fed on the waters edge and as I was about to leave 2 Black-tailed Godwits dropped in to roost, rounding off a very pleasant evening.
11th August:- Got up this morning very early and went out to Pego Marsh to see if the previous nights rains had brought anything new to the area. I started at the north end, which was quiet apart from the (almost) resident Yellow billed Stork, a few Whiskered Terns, 2 Gadwall, and a Teal. Next I made my way to where the waders had been previously and in transit I saw several Little Bitterns flying over the paddy fields. At the pool there were still good numbers of Ringed, & Little Ringed Plovers, Wood & Green Sandpipers and Little Stints, with also some Ruff and a couple of Common Snipe. The reed edges produced Moustached, Great Reed and Eurasian Reed Warblers as well as a fishing Little Bittern & Water Rail. However the best was when I heard the Black-winged Stilts alarming and looked up to find a gorgeous juvenile Montagu's Harrier flying in front of me. I watched as it quartered the area being mobbed by Swallows and causing chaos with the waders, before drifting off over the fields. Again Common Swifts were heading south in good numbers with a few Pallid Swifts amongst them, making identification easy with direct comparison. Sadly I left this area and went down to the south marsh where the Whimbrel was still amongst the other commoner waders. The wet meadow held lots of Squacco, Grey & Purple Herons, Cattle & Little Egrets, Black-headed Gulls, Mallard and a couple of Red Crested Pochards. A very enjoyable morning's visit.
14th August:- Just called into the south marsh on my way home in the evening seeing the usual good numbers of herons and egrets. However amongst the small flock of Black-headed Gulls, sat 3 moulting adult Mediterranean Gulls and 2 Gull-billed Terns. Waders included Wood & Green Sandpipers, Little Stints, Black-winged Stilts and Little Ringed Plovers, a female Marsh Harrier caused chaos amongst the growing number of Mallard and Red Crested Pochard. Land birds included Crested Larks, Tree & House Sparrows, Southern Grey Shrike, Hoopoes, Zitting Cisticolas, Reed & Cetti's Warblers.
17th August:- Got up early and went out to Pego Marsh where I met holidaying birdwatcher Eddie Marsh, trying to find the best areas. He wanted to see Moustached Warbler and had read on this website that the marsh was a good area to try, so we joined company for a couple of hours. We were at the south end so we continued there seeing plenty of Little & Cattle Egrets, Grey, Purple, & Squacco Herons, Kingfisher, Southern Grey & Woodchat Shrikes, Hoopoes, Crested Larks & Zitting Cisticolas, but not much else. So we drove to were we might have a chance of the elusive warbler and sure enough it paid dividends. Pego Marsh for the next 6 weeks is a 'constant effort' ringing site and the two Spanish (lady) ringers were in position with birds in the boxes. The first bird was a Eurasian Reed Warbler, which was meticulously measured and then a gorgeous juvenile Moustached Warbler in fresh plumage. Over then next half hour we chatted and watched as birds including 2 Great Reed Warblers were caught and assessed. during this time we also saw Pallid Swift amongst Common Swifts, Marsh Harrier, Red Crested Pochards, 2 Purple Gallinules, Whiskered Terns, Jackdaws, Wood Pigeons, and Turtle Dove. We left and went round to the wader pool which held Wood, Green & Common Sandpipers, Little Stints, and Little Ringed Plovers, Kingfisher, Squacco Herons and a Little Bittern. The rest of the time was spent working the area seeing more of the same species including another Moustached Warbler.
19th August:- Went out to Pego Marsh again at first light starting at the north end were I found 5 Little Stints and several Little Ringed Plovers in the puddles made from recent rains. On the main marsh there was a Purple Gallinule working it's way along the reeds plus Grey, Purple & Night Heron, Coots, and a Whiskered Tern. Next I went along to the ringing table were I was lucky enough to see the second Little Bittern in the hand just prior to release. Other birds ringed here included several Eurasian Reed Warblers and one Great Reed Warbler. As I drove round to the wader pool I saw Hoopoes, Stonechat, Southern Grey Shrike, & Crested Larks. At the wader pool there was the usual gathering of Squacco Herons, Black-winged Stilts and Little Ringed Plovers, with smaller numbers Wood & Green Sandpiper, and Little Stint. However careful scanning produced more waders including a summer plumage Dunlin, 2 Greenshanks, and at least 4 Ruff, making for a nice scene. After a while I was joined by Eddie and over the next hour we also saw a female Marsh Harrier, Kingfisher, Cetti's Warbler, and plenty of Cattle & little Egrets. I had to leave so drove back past the ringers just in time to connect with another young Moustached Warbler before being released. This evening I went back to Pego Marsh seeing pretty much the same species encountered in the morning. However an adult male Marsh Harrier joined the female creating havoc amongst the Black-winged Stilts. The other highlight was the start of the Purple Heron migration south, with an initial flock of 9 birds flying and calling around the marsh. By the time they headed south an hour later the number had risen to 56, a very impressive sight. The calling birds also encouraged other movement and at one point there were 50+ Purple, 12 Night, & 5 Squacco Herons, and a few Little Egrets in the air together.
22nd August:- Got up early and went to the beach for an hour where I found 4 Sanderlings, and a Ringed Plover amongst the Kentish Plovers. Seabirds were quiet apart from a few Common & Sandwich Terns, Audouin's, Yellow-legged, & Black headed Gulls, and Common Swifts headed north in a constant stream. Although strangest thing of all was watching a Hoopoe coming in off the sea from way out. In the evening I was back out at Pego Marsh where at the north end a returning Osprey was sitting our their usual pylon. Also here were lots of waders including plenty of Little Stints, Green & Common Sandpipers, Snipe and Little Ringed Plovers, plus a Curlew Sandpiper and Greenshank. Other birds here included Marsh Harrier, Whiskered Terns, Crested Larks, Red Crested Pochard, Kingfisher, & Zitting Cisticolas. At the wader pool there were several Wood Sandpipers and a solitary Ruff with the other waders, plus a Little Bittern and Squacco Herons patrolling the reed edges. On the edge of an open area of paddy field I found a Purple Gallinule, with more Little Stints and Wood Sandpipers, plus Water Rail, Yellow & White Wagtails, Eurasian Reed & Great Reed Warblers, Little & Cattle Egrets, and Southern Grey Shrike.
23rd August:- Again this evening I went out to check Pego Marsh for a couple of hours starting at the north end. Here there was much the same species as the previous day with Little Stints, Wood, Green & Common Sandpipers, although the Curlew Sandpiper numbers had risen with a few newly arrived juveniles. The Osprey was still on it's pylon, the Whiskered Terns flew around in family parties and a Savi's Warbler showed well in the marsh grass. At the south end the low water levels meant there were now only a few Grey, Squacco, Purple & Night Herons around as well as Hoopoe, Crested Larks, Marsh Harrier, and Southern Grey Shrike. At the wader pool there were several Green & Wood Sandpipers, Little Stints, 3 more Curlew Sandpipers, Little Ringed Plovers, Snipe, and a 1st year Marbled Duck showing very well. Finally as the light was fading a flock of 27 Gull-billed Terns flew through heading south, along with another smaller party of Purple Herons.
29th August:- Today I was taking out Phil & Dace Burman on a local half day who are very new to birdwatching and wanted a taste of Spanish species. We left early and went to the beach, which was pretty much tourist free, on the sand were a few Sanderling, Kentish Plovers and a Ringed Plover showing very well. The rocks held a remarkable 17 Common Sandpipers and a few Sandwich Terns, Black headed & Yellow legged Gulls loafed offshore. A walk along the dunes produced a Hoopoe and several Spotless Starlings, but it was the plant life that was of most interest with a variety of species. At Pego Marsh we started at the north end seeing our first Little Egrets, Black-winged Stilts, Grey Herons, & Crested Larks. The waders included a Greenshank, Common Snipe, Wood & Green Sandpipers, Little Stints and Little Ringed Plovers, as well as Iberian race Yellow Wagtail and the Yellow billed Stork. Next we stopped at the ringing station were the first bird out the bag to Phil & Dace's delight was an adult male Kingfisher. This was followed by Savi's & Eurasian Reed Warbler, which was great to get close detailed comparison of these hard to identify species. Next we walked into the south marsh seeing a lovely Southern Grey Shrike on the way. At the marsh edge we stopped and scanned, finding our first Purple & Squacco Herons, Cattle Egrets, and another Kingfisher. As we left I heard a familiar call and then found scores of Bee-eaters heading south. As we watched these lots of Alpine and the odd Pallid Swift followed suit with the swifts flying just above our heads, showing extremely well, a real highlight. When we got back to the vehicle for a drink a male Little Bittern flew right in front of our path showing it's obvious two-tone plumage. We made our way slowly around the paddy fields seeing a lot more herons and egrets before departing this sight for the Val de Gallinera. In the hills we stopped just above the village of Benissiva, where we had a good view of the surrounding area. Here we found a Spotted Flycatcher, Sardinian Warbler, Goldfinches & Greenfinches in the orchards. A pair of Red legged Partridges sat high on the crag but it was a 1st year Golden Eagle found by Phil was the real target. Our final stop at Alpatro was quiet apart from a couple of Eurasian Kestrels and a small flock of Red billed Chough, all in all an excellent morning.

September 2005

2nd September:- Went to Pego Marsh early starting at the north end with waders including a Spotted Redshank, 3 Dunlin, several Curlew Sandpipers, Green & Common Sandpipers, Little Stints and Little Ringed Plovers, along with an adult Purple Gallinule, Whiskered Tern, 2 Kingfishers, and a few Turtle Doves. Along the southern track some of the reeds had been cut making good feeding for 100+ Cattle & Little Egrets, Grey & Purple Herons. Further along Squacco Herons fished in the shallow pools along with Wood Sandpipers, Red Crested Pochard, Mallard and Black headed Gulls. Finally I visited the ringing station where I stayed for a couple of hours seeing plenty of species in full detail. Most birds netted were Eurasian Reed Warbler, but we also had male & female Bluethroats, another Kingfisher, Savi's, Cetti's, Moustached, & Great Reed Warblers, which was fantastic. Other birds seen whilst chatting with the volunteers included 2 Marsh Harriers, Peregrine Falcon, Kestrel, Willow Warbler, Southern Grey Shrike, Alpine Swifts, and Jackdaws.
3rd September:- Again went to the marsh but this time I checked another area, but not before a quick visit to the ringing station. Here another Bluethroat was caught as was Cetti's, Moustached, & Eurasian Reed Warblers, again a lot of Alpine Swifts were around as was the Peregrine Falcon. However the best bird was a juvenile Montagu's Harrier that drifted through as I was leaving. The paddy fields are now being cut and in the fields lots of Cattle & Little Egrets were following the harvesters, with lots of Swallows, House & Sand Martins catching the displaced insects. At the hillside I heard a familiar call and found 20+ Bee-eaters in the nearby trees, but at the back of the hill a further 100+ were sat on the wires making a lovely sight. I stopped and watched in this area finding several Hoopoes including 4 in one dead tree, also 4 young Whinchats in the field, a Red rumped Swallow, Southern Grey Shrike, Cirl Buntings, Sardinian Warblers, Blackbirds and a Spotted Flycatcher. Over the far hill 2 Short-toed Eagles circled around before drifting off inland, and good numbers of Woodpigeon sat in the trees.
7th September:- After a day of intermittent rain I managed to get out for a few hours this evening before more rain. At the south end there was a Great White Egret with the big numbers of Little & Cattle Egrets, Squacco & Purple Herons. Waders included a few Wood & Green Sandpipers, and a Ruff, with Little Ringed Plovers and Black winged Stilts. A Sparrowhawk flew through and 2 Marsh Harriers hunted over the reeds. Land birds included Crested Larks, Yellow & White Wagtails, Hoopoe, Zitting Cisticolas, Eurasian Reed & Cetti's Warblers. At the north marsh there were even more waders with lots of Little Ringed Plovers, Curlew Sandpipers and Little Stints, as well as more Wood & Common Sandpipers, Dunlin, Spotted Redshank, Greenshank and Snipe. Also 3 Purple Gallinules fed on the reed stems, with Whiskered Terns and Kingfishers fishing in the shallow waters. An Osprey had returned to their pylon and another Marsh Harrier hunted over the reeds, and a single Bee-eater flew over calling. The dark rain clouds loomed and lightening struck a huge flock of 80+ Purple Herons and a few Night Herons dropped out of the sky, as did a Spoonbill right in front of me. All the time 100's of Barn Swallows, House & Sand Martins, plus 2 Red rumped Swallows headed in low from the coastline and out over the reedbed, making a very impressive end to the day.
8th - 13th September:- A fantastic trip to the southern tip of Spain with my very good friends from Scotland, staying just outside the coastal town of Tarifa. This is just a brief overview with a full report following shortly when I return from the Pyrenees this weekend. I saw a total of 21 species of raptor including 3 (possibly 4) Ruppell's Vultures, Spanish Imperial & Bonelli's Eagle, Osprey, 2 melanistic Montagu's Harriers, 6 Black shouldered Kites in the air together, Red Kite, Goshawks, and Hobby. Land birds were also excellent with Little Bustards, Stone Curlews, Tawny Pipits, Calandra, Thekla, Crested, and Short toed Larks, Glossy Ibis, Spoonbill, Black & White Storks, etc etc etc. Altogether we saw in excess of 120 species during the visit, with a very good time had by all.
14th September:- This morning I was taking out Paula Closs for a half day tour around Pego Marsh. We started at the north end seeing plenty of Little & Cattle Egrets, Squacco & Grey Herons, Purple Gallinule, a brief Little Bittern, Osprey, Marsh Harrier, Coot, Black winged Stilt, Common Sandpiper and Little Ringed Plovers. We then moved to the other end where we saw some similar species along with Purple Heron, Gadwall, Dunlin, Greenshank, Crested Lark, Hoopoe, Yellow & White Wagtails, Zitting Cisticolas, and Southern Grey Shrike. Next we made an extended stop at the ringing station where Paula took an active interest of what was being caught. During this time we processed a 1st winter male Bluethroat, 2 Moustached Warblers, Savi's, Cetti's, and Eurasian Reed Warblers much to the delight of Paula who had never seen such species before. Other birds seen from here included a Great Reed Warbler, Marsh Harrier, Kestrel, Kingfisher, Common Swifts, House & Sand Martins. Finally we headed to the back of the reserve to the allotments for a short walk. There were lots of birds around with plenty of Whinchats & Stonechats, Northern Wheatear, Woodchat Shrike, Pied & Spotted Flycatchers, Sardinian & Willow Warblers, Cirl Buntings, Blue Rock Thrush, Green Sandpipers, and a few Bee-eaters sat on the wires.
15th September:- Today I was guiding Terry Strong and Paula Closs, we were going inland to the steppe area east of Albacete. We arrived in the general area around 9am and our first stop was on the main road heading into Petrola, where we found a large mixed flock of Corn Buntings, House & Tree Sparrows, Thekla Larks and Spotless Starlings, along with a few Turtle Doves, Woodpigeons, Carrion Crows and a Little Owl. Just outside the town we headed along one of the farm tracks seeing our first Northern Wheatears and Whinchats. A little further and a juvenile Montagu's Harrier was seen in flight so we stopped the vehicle and watched it drift by. While we were there a Great Bustard flew into view looking magnificent in the morning sun, this was followed by another 8 walking in the fields. Also here were a large flock of distant Calandra Larks, several Kestrels and 2 Marsh Harriers. We continued on our way and further on I saw a 'duck-like' flying bird and knew it was a Little Bustard, so we quickly got out and watched as it was joined by 7 more flying around in front of us. We stayed in this place for a while as there was another flock of 300+ Calandra Larks giving much better views, and what were probably 5 Short toed Larks but they were only seen briefly in flight. Several Rock Sparrows showed well along with another 10 Great Bustards and raptors included a lot more Kestrels and Marsh Harriers as well as a Common Buzzard being mobbed by crows. We returned to Petrola and headed the short distance to Las Anorias where searching the tracks produced 6 Lesser Short toed Larks, with more Thekla & Calandra Larks, Stone Curlew, Marsh Harrier, plus lots of Northern Wheatears and Whinchats. Next we went to Petrola Lagoon with all the birds concentrated around a small body of water which held Black winged Stilts, Ringed, Little Ringed & Kentish Plovers, Little Stints, Dunlin, Curlew, Wood & Green Sandpipers, Ruff, Common Snipe, Gadwall, Eurasian Teal, Mallard and a Shoveler. Also Crested Larks were all around and a pair of Ravens flew by giving their distinctive 'glonk' call. After lunch we tried some more tracks looking for sandgrouse but to no avail, however we did see 4 more Stone Curlews, a Stock Dove, and a lot more of the previously mentioned species. Our final stop was at La Higuera Lagoon where we found more waders and wildfowl including several Pintail, Shoveler, and Coot, plus 3 Greater Flamingos, a Greenshank and Common Sandpiper. We then walked into the adjacent trees were we found both Pied & Spotted Flycatchers, Willow Warblers, Stonechat and a fantastically showy Western Bonelli's Warbler, a fine end to a great day.
17th, 18th & 19th September:- These few days were spent with James Lowther around the Pyrenees and Zaragoza Plains looking for their speciality species. An early start on Saturday morning saw us at San Juan de la Pena searching the woods around the old and new monasteries. Although we failed to see or hear Black Woodpecker we did manage Great Spotted Woodpecker, Dunnock, several Nuthatch, Rock Buntings, Tree Pipits, Firecrests, Crested, Coal, Long-tailed, Great & Blue Tits, Pied Flycatchers, Black Redstarts, Raven, Red billed Choughs, Short toed Eagle, and the ubiquitous Griffon Vulture. Next we went to the stunning Riglos seeing Booted Eagle and lots of Red Kite and Common Buzzard on the way. Unfortunately it was busy with climbers so we only managed to add Blue Rock Thrush and Northern Wheatear to our tally. After here we drove further down into the pre-pyrenees to the dam at Vadiello, where on arrival one of the first birds seen was a stunning young Lammergeier amongst the Griffons showing very well. We walked up to the dam getting brief views of a Bonelli's Eagle, Sparrowhawk, a few Rock Buntings and another Blue Rock Thrush, but as we returned 2 adult Lammergeiers came into view and flew around for a while giving excellent scoped views. We left here and headed for our hotel at Jaca quite pleased with the birds seen during the day.
Another early rise found us going up into the high Pyrenees to the Refugio de Gabardito were the early high cold winds made birdwatching difficult. However on the short grass around the car park we did manage to find at least 5 Citril Finches with the other Chaffinches and Goldfinches. We walked along the track towards the cliff seeing a Ring Ouzel head towards us and away down the valley. At the cliff we stood and waited for our quarry during this time we saw Iberian Green Woodpecker, Jays, 50+ Alpine Choughs, Goshawk and a 1st year Golden Eagle. Then a bird flashed by us showing crimson wings and landed about 50m away on the rock face, a beautiful Wallcreeper. We watched it for a couple of minutes before it disappeared around the corner being seen briefly again before flying back from where it came. we returned to the car and the sun was now warming the area so a quick look around the car park revealed 3 Marsh Tits, Crossbills, Pied Flycatchers, and better views of the Citril Finches. After breakfast we headed for the ski resort of Candanchu where we parked the car and walked up into the mountains. Near the car park we found 30+ Red billed Choughs, Water Pipits, and Black Redstarts, but going high we found a huge flock of 100+ Alpine Choughs showing very well. As we continued we saw a small herd of Chamois and a few Marmot, as well as a flock of 20+ Citril Finches showing down to about 3m as they drunk from a trickle of water. The return journey produced a Yellowhammer, Linnets, Rock Buntings, White Wagtails and 2 Yellow Wagtails as well as Common Buzzard plus an adult and young Lammergeier. Finally we called into Astun were the only thing of note was watching an adult Lammergeier dropping a bone to feed on, a fantastic sight.
This morning we headed south to Belchite starting at the Las Lomazas Reserve but again the early high winds made viewing difficult. A walk along the footpath produce a couple of Lesser Short toed & Thekla Larks, with a covey of Red legged Partridge. However as we returned to the car a 'ringtail' Hen Harrier drifted past closely followed by 2 Hobbys making it a worthwhile visit. Next we drove the short distance to the El Planeron reserve where birds certainly seemed more prevalent. Along the track we found large flocks of Calandra (100+) & Lesser Short toed Larks (500+) as well our prize a Dupont's Lark which showed well briefly before scurrying off into the undergrowth. As we searched for the Dupont's, 8 Pin tailed Sandgrouse flew very closely passed us and as we watched they joined a flock of at least 100 birds. These split and we followed where one party dropped into the ground and went to find them. At a disused farm we parked and walked to the ploughed fields were we quickly flushed 27 Black-bellied & 3 Pin tailed Sandgrouse that 'dropped in' close to where we were. Moving to a new position we found these birds feeding giving James a chance to scrutinise another lifer through the telescope. We left this area very satisfied with what we had seen and headed for Barcelona to catch our flights, but giving ourselves enough time to visit the adjacent reserve the Llobregat Delta. here we boosted our trip list enormously seeing a lot of new species including 4 Spoonbills, Little & Cattle Egrets, Purple Gallinule, Bar tailed Godwits, Ruff, Wood Sandpipers, Dunlin, Snipe, Common Teal, Shoveler, Kingfisher, Monk Parakeet, Common Redstart, Reed & Willow Warblers. This was a brilliant end to an excellent few days birding in N/E Spain.
20th September:- Went out to Pego Marsh this morning to see if anything new had arrived while I had been away. The water levels at the north end had risen a little and 5 or 6 Purple Gallinules strode along the reed edges and a few Common Teal flew up from the middle. Waders were scarce with just a couple of Dunlin, Common Snipe, Little Ringed & Ringed Plovers, but a pair of Kingfishers showed quite well. After a while I moved to the ringing station where they were processing a gorgeous male Bluethroat, closely followed by a 1st winter male and a female, making for a nice comparison. During the time I was there they also ringed a few Eurasian Reed Warblers and the odd Moustached, Cetti's, & Great Reed Warblers. Other birds seen here included Marsh Harriers, Purple Heron, Little & Cattle Egrets, Southern Grey Shrike, Crested Larks, and lots of Sand Martins. Next I went to the allotments and found quite a few Whinchats in the open fields along with several Cirl Buntings, White & Yellow Wagtails, Northern Wheatear, Pied Flycatcher and a Wryneck. The model aircraft field held no less than 11 Hoopoes, Woodchat Shrike, and more Whinchats. Finally as I was leaving I found 2 raptors circling which turned out to be a Marsh Harrier and a pale phase Booted Eagle giving tremendous views. In the evening I returned and went to the areas not covered in the morning finding a few Wood, & Common Sandpipers, Red Crested Pochard, Common Teal, and Coot at the south end along with a fly through Hobby causing the hirundines some concern. To finish I went to the beach which was quite quiet apart from a few Yellow-legged & Audouin's Gulls, Sandwich & Common Terns, plus a party of 14 Avocets heading south low over the water.
25th September:- Today I had the great pleasure of leading the first field trip organised by the newly formed Costa Blanca Bird Club (www.cbbirdclub.org) around Pego Marsh. A healthy 12 people gathered from all over the area at 10am and while we were waiting for everyone we saw Yellow & White Wagtails, Little & Cattle Egrets, and Grey Heron. Our first stop was at the ringing station where they had just trapped both Moustached & Sedge Warblers, the latter being a very scarce passage migrant. It was fantastic to compare the subtle differences in the plumages of these two enigmatic species while being processed. As ever Eurasian Reed Warblers dominated the other birds being ringed much to the interest of the group. While we were there I picked up a falcon flying over the paddy fields and immediately recognised it as a juvenile Hobby and called it up. To the delight of the group it showed extremely well as it caught insects and fed on them whilst on the wing, later it was joined by a second bird for a short while. Other birds here included 2 fly through Black tailed Godwits, juvenile Purple Heron, 3 Marsh Harriers (including 1 adult male), Hoopoes, and 2 Kestrels. We left the station and walked around to the south marsh on the way seeing a distant Ruff, Kingfisher, and a Squacco Heron. At the marsh Cetti's Warblers made their distinctive call, and a few Whinchats posed on top of the marsh grass but generally it was quiet. The walk back produced more views of the Hobby, an intermediate phase Booted Eagle and Crested Lark, plus a quick look at a reedbed pool produced brief views of Purple Gallinule & Water Rail. It was now getting very hot so we decided to adjourn for a well-earned drink. After this we returned and again had a gentle stroll around the north side hill but things were still pretty quiet. However we did manage to see both Stonechat & Whinchat together, Sardinian Warbler, Gold & Greenfinches, and another Hoopoe. Over the model aircraft field the same or another juvenile Hobby performed fantastically catching and eating an insect right above our heads. A Green Sandpiper was flushed from a nearby channel, a Southern Grey Shrike sat on a power line, and a Sparrowhawk created panic amongst the local Spotless Starlings. As we returned to the cars to head home another pale phase Booted Eagle drifted through making for a nice finale.
28th September:- Today i spent a few hours looking and walking around Pego Marsh. At the north end there was a couple of Purple Gallinules with the usual Little & Cattle Egrets. In the brick tank the small amount of water held a few Little Ringed Plovers as well as a Dunlin and Common Snipe. Along the southern marsh there were a few Hoopoes, Whinchats, Northern Wheatears, and Crested Larks, as well as a Greenshank and several Wood Sandpipers. A Marsh Harrier created havoc amongst the growing number of Mallard, Coot, and Red Crested Pochards. At the ringing station things were quiet although I did manage to see a Moustached Warbler get processed plus 2 Kestrels and a Sparrowhawk headed across the reserve, so I decided to go for a walk. I went south along the edge of some paddy fields and soon found a pair of Bluethroats, as well as another 2 Purple Gallinule, Purple & Squacco Heron and a Kingfisher. A little further on I found another pair of Bluethroats that performed wonderfully on the track, along with several Whinchats, Yellow Wagtails and Cetti's Warblers. As I returned to the car I heard a wader call and looked round to see 5 Grey Plovers pitch in near to where I was, my first view of this species at Pego Marsh. I moved on and went to the allotment fields finding a few Cirl Buntings, more Hoopoes, Whinchats, Yellow & White Wagtails, Southern Grey Shrike, and a Spotted Flycatcher. Finally as it was getting hotter 4 raptors circled over the fields, which turned out to be 3 Booted Eagles & a Common Buzzard.
29th September:- This morning I was again helping at the ringing station for a while and although things were still generally quiet we did still manage several Eurasian Reed Warblers with the odd Moustached, Cetti's, & Willow Warblers. However the highlight was to have 2 Great White Egrets drop in to the adjacent flooded paddy field both showing extremely well. Other birds seen in the area included several Purple Gallinules, Marsh Harriers, Bluethroat, Southern Grey Shrike, and Whinchats.

October 2005

2nd October:- Early morning I went to Oliva Beach were I found an Oystercatcher with the Ringed & Kentish Plovers and Sanderlings. Lots of Yellow-legged & Black-headed Gulls, and Sandwich Terns were moving south as well as a few Balearic & Cory's Shearwaters, Gannet, and a Mediterranean Shag. Next I went to Pego Marsh seeing White Stork, Great White Egret, with lots of Little & Cattle Egrets, 2 Purple Herons, an Osprey, several Marsh Harriers, 6 Ruff, a young Grey Plover and 4 Bluethroats around the Paddy Fields. At the southern end marsh there was a Greenshank, with Wood & Green Sandpipers and Little Ringed Plovers, as well as lots of Spotless & European Starlings, Jackdaws, Crested Larks, Hoopoes, Yellow & White Wagtails. A walk along the reedbed tracks produced several Purple Gallinules, Water Rail, Eurasian Reed & Cetti's Warblers. Finally I went around the the allotments finding a handsome male Common Redstart, as well as Cirl Buntings, Sardinian & Cetti's Warblers, Whinchats, Stonechat, Southern Grey Shrike and Northern Wheatear.
3rd October:- Today there was an annular eclipse directly over this area so I went out to Pego Marsh for some uninterrupted views. While waiting for the eclipse to start I logged the White Stork, Great White Egret, several Ruff, 4 Spotted Redshanks, Green Sandpipers, Common Snipe and my first 3 Lapwings of the autumn. At 10:35 the moon started to pass across the sun and the pictures below show the timeline culminating in it's totality at 11:03 (09:03 GMT). During this time the birds stopped singing, bats started to fly and we cast 3 shadows in the eerie light. Then as it began to get lighter again raptors started to appear, and over the next hour I saw a single Short-toed Eagle, 8 Booted Eagles, 5 Marsh Harriers, Osprey, Sparrowhawk, & 5 Common Kestrels. That evening my son and I were back helping to ring Barn Swallows, although before dusk fell we also caught House & Tree Sparrow, Reed & Savi's Warblers. Interestingly during the session we re-trapped a young Swallow that had been originally processed in Britain, the number has now gone to the BTO.
9th October:- With Amanda back from her short break in Huddersfield I was able to go out to Pego Marsh with my friend Dave Barkway. With the hunting season about to start this week most of the tracks around the reserve have been chained off, however access to some of the better areas is still possible. We started at the south side paddy fields seeing lots of Grey Herons, Little & Cattle Egrets, House & Tree Sparrows, Goldfinch & Greenfinch, Marsh Harriers, Black headed Gulls, and Mallards. Yet with careful searching we also found the White Stork, Great White Egret, juvenile Greater Flamingo, 4 Spotted Redshanks, Green Sandpiper, Common Snipes, a fishing Osprey, Jackdaws, and a Cetti's Warbler. On the edge of the reeds we found the first of several Purple Gallinules, as well as a pair of Bluethroats, Stonechats, a Northern Wheatear, Hoopoes, Crested Larks, and a Zitting Cisticola. A small flock of 30+ Common Teal was flushed (by a harrier) from a reedy pool, and over the open water there were Barn Swallows, House & Sand Martins catching insects and taking water. We then moved to the northern side of the marsh seeing a lot of the similar species but over the hillside we saw a large raptor with 2 smaller ones. I drove to the area and got out of the vehicle immediately finding one adult Hobby hunting dragonflies over the reeds; this was then joined by a second bird giving excellent views. Strangely in the reeds a Great Reed Warbler was in full song and Water Rails called from all over. We moved position finding an open area next to the reeds with 2 Purple Gallinules acting very strangely so a quick scan revealed a pale phase Booted Eagle sat on the ground about 50m away. We were able to get good views of this bird before taking off and disappearing over the hill, other birds here included another Bluethroat and a Chiffchaff. Our final highlight was watching 3 Hobbys chasing, and occasionally catching pipestrelle bats right over our heads, making for a fantastic spectacle.
12th October:- Today I was out with Ray Swain in the Alicante area, where we began in the hills above Crevaillant. The en-route we saw a Black Wheatear and Little Owl and after a short wait in the canyon we found our target species, a pair of adult Bonelli's Eagles. Unfortunately they didn't show for long before drifting out of sight but enough to see the salient features. Other birds seen in this area were Blue Rock Thrush, Thekla Larks, Rock Bunting, and Crag Martins. Next we dropped down to the south side of El Hondo Reserve where we endeavoured to find a White headed Duck but they weren't there. However we did manage to see 2 Booted Eagles, Marsh Harriers, Little & Cattle Egret, Southern Grey Shrike, Grey Wagtails and Little Grebe. From here we went to the 'Clot de Galvany' and on the main pool there were lots of Eurasian Teal, Shoveler, Mallard, & Common Pochard, along with a showy Purple Gallinule, Common Snipe, Little Grebe, Moorhen, Coot, Cetti's & Sardinian Warbler. Next we made the short drive to El Pinet finding 6 Stone Curlews, Common Redshank, Dunlin, Avocets, Black-winged Stilts, Yellow-legged, Lesser Black backed, Black headed & Audouin's Gulls, Southern Grey Shrike, and Stonechat. Finally we went to the salinas were we saw lots of Greater Flamingos, Little Egrets, Grey Herons, Cormorants, Great Crested & a Black necked Grebe, Slender billed & Audouin's Gulls, Sandwich Terns, Avocets, Little Stints, Black tailed Godwits, Sanderling, Common Redshank, Greenshank, Turnstones, Ringed & Kentish Plovers, Shelduck, Marsh Harriers and an Osprey.
13th October:- After taking the children to school I went down to Oliva Marina. It wasn't brilliant but I did manage to find an adult winter Mediterranean Gull with the several Audouin's & Black headed Gulls, Sandwich Terns, and lots of Swallows coming in off the sea. On the beach there was a Kentish Plover, a Grey Wagtail around the rocks, and a few Ring necked Parakeets in the Palm Trees. Next I went to Pego Marsh and at the north end there was Coot, Mallard, Eurasian Teal, Little Ringed Plovers, a Kingfisher, and a Moustached Warbler. In the paddy fields the White Stork was still there, along with 6 Spotted Redshanks, Common Snipe, Green Sandpiper, Lapwings, Grey Herons, Little & Cattle Egrets, Bluethroat and Purple Gallinule. In the drier fields there are now good flocks of Skylarks, Meadow Pipits, Reed Buntings, Greenfinch, House & Tree Sparrows, Crested Larks and Jackdaws, with the constant attendance of at least 4 Common Kestrels. Around the allotments there were Cirl Buntings, Southern Grey Shrike, Hoopoes, Stonechats, Long tailed Tits, White Wagtails, Blackbirds, Robin, Eurasian Reed, Cetti's & Sardinian Warblers, Blackcap, and Chiffchaffs. A nice find was a Short toed Eagle with the 3 or 4 Booted Eagles hunting along the hillside.
15th - 22nd October:- All this week I have been leading an all-inclusive birdwatching trip to 'The Pyrenees & N/E Spain' that went extremely well seeing over 160 species during our time there. The highlights of the week included stunning views of a Wallcreeper (John Moon's inset photo), White backed Woodpecker, 2 Black Woodpeckers, 10+ Lammergeyers, loads of Alpine Chough, Ring Ouzels, Marsh Tits, Hawfinches, 2 Goshawks, Golden Eagle, Hobby, good views of Duponts Lark, Pin-tailed & Black bellied Sandgrouse, Great Bustard, 100's of Common Cranes, flocks of Lesser Short toed & Calandra Larks, Great White Egrets, Caspian Terns and much much more.
24th October:- Managed to get to Pego Marsh for the last 1.5 hours before nightfall with very good results. My first stop was at the west side of the paddy fields where I walked for a short while. From the edge of the fields it was evident that a large number of birds had arrived during my absence with big flocks of Reed Buntings, Meadow Pipits, Skylarks, Chaffinches, Gold & Greenfinches. An adult female Hen Harrier flew close by having a half-hearted attack at one or two birds, then a pale phase Booted Eagle drifted over. A goat herder was moving his goats through the fields with their attendant Cattle Egrets flushing numerous Common Snipe. Then as they moved through a wetter field a smaller shorter billed snipe flew up with a very distinctive jerky flight, it was my first Jack Snipe of the marsh. I made my way back to the car seeing Hoopoe, Stonechat, Spotless & European Starling, Zitting Cisticola, Crested Larks and a Kingfisher. Next I went to the north end where a track through the reeds produced several Purple Gallinules, Little Egrets, Grey Herons, Northern Wheatear, 3 Bluethroats, Cetti's' & Eurasian Reed Warbler, and 3 Green Sandpipers. Finally I went back to the main road to watch the harriers roost, here I also found the White Stork striding through the fields, with at least 9 Marsh Harriers (inc. 1 adult male) and the Hen Harrier flying around above the reedbed
25th October:- Went out this morning for a 1.5 hour sea-watch at Oliva Marina with some very good results. On the beach there were plenty of Sandwich Terns, with a few Audouin's, Yellow legged, & Black headed Gulls. Kentish Plovers and Sanderlings ran along the beach and a Turnstone fed on the offshore rocks. Out to sea there was a steady passage of 100+ Balearic Shearwaters, as well as several Gannets, 3 Arctic Skuas, 7 Great Crested Grebes, Cormorants with more gulls and terns moving south, and on the water sat 2 Mediterranean Shags.
28th October:- This morning I was guiding the Knowles family on a local half day, and as relative newcomers to birdwatching they wanted to see easy birds. So we started the tour on Oliva beach where I found a mix flock of terns and gulls stood on the sand. The majority were Sandwich Terns (30+) but there was also Black headed & Yellow legged Gulls, 5 Mediterranean Gulls (1st Winter, 2nd Winter & 3 adults), and 2 Audouin's Gulls making for a good comparison. Also on the beach was 2 Kentish Plovers and several Sanderlings, with a Little Egret and 3 Grey Wagtails on the rocks. Out to sea we found more gulls and terns as well as a close in Balearic Shearwater, 2 Mediterranean Shag, and an Arctic Skua. Interestingly while we were there a steady passage of migrants was taking place involving Skylarks, Meadow Pipits, and White Wagtails. Finally as we returned to the vehicle we added a male and female Black Redstart to the list. Next we went to Pego Marsh with the initial stop producing good numbers of Little & Cattle Egrets, Grey Herons, a White Stork, Chaffinches, Goldfinches, Skylarks, Reed Buntings, and Meadow Pipits as well as our first Marsh Harriers. Driving around the tracks (now restricted for hunting) we saw 2 Stock Doves, Southern Grey Shrike, Kestrel, Jackdaws, Lapwings, Crested Larks, Stonechats, Hoopoes, Spotless & European Starlings. We stopped again and found a 1st Winter Flamingo in a flooded paddy that everyone enjoyed. We then walked into the reeds which produced our target species, a Purple Gallinule, along with Zitting Cisticola, Cetti's Warbler, Common Snipe, Green Sandpiper, a very brief Bluethroat, Moorhen, and a small flock of Common Teal. As time was moving on we decided to head into the hills in hope of finding a Golden Eagle. We drove into the 'Val de Gallinera' but unfortunately there were none to be seen, however we did mange to find a Sparrowhawk, Kestrels, Sardinian Warbler, Serins, Robins, Blackbirds, and Black Redstarts.
30th October:- Went out this evening for a couple of hours seawatching with some good results. There was a steady passage of 126 Balearic Shearwaters, and 43 Mediterranean Gulls (mostly adults) with a Gannet, 4 Mediterranean Shags, a Cormorant, 3 Avocets, an Arctic Skua, 4 Red Crested Pochards & a Common Teal all moving south. On the beach there were plenty of Sandwich Terns with smaller numbers of Audouin's, Yellow legged, & Black headed Gulls, along with a Kingfisher (on the rocks), 10+ Sanderling and a single Kentish Plover

November 2005

1st November:- A short walk (until my son decided to fall in the water!) around the paddy fields at Pego Marsh produced most of the usual birds including the White Stork, female Hen Harrier, 3 Booted Eagles, Lapwings and also 2 (1st winter) Spoonbills being a nice surprise.
4th November:- This morning I was ringing at Pego Marsh from early morning catching 20+ Reed Buntings, 3 Bluethroat, Robin, 2 Reed Warblers, 10 Moustached Warblers, and 6 Chiffchaff. In addition to these I saw my first 2 Penduline Tits of the winter, 5 Marsh Harriers (including an adult male), Booted Eagle, White Stork, 5 Red Crested Pochards, 10 Eurasian Teal, Cormorants, Crested & Skylarks, Meadow Pipits, Greenfinches, 2-3 Brambling, 70+ Chaffinches, and Goldfinches.
8th November:- This afternoon I went out to Pego Marsh for a couple of hours mainly walking around the paddy fields area. During this time I managed to find a 1st year Peregrine sat on the edge of a field, a female Hen Harrier seriously disturbing the finches and sparrows, a Common Buzzard sat on a pylon, a Kestrel and several Marsh Harriers including an adult male. The White Stork is still around and at least a couple of Bramblings are in with the host of Skylarks, Chaffinches, Goldfinches, Reed Buntings, & House Sparrows. Along the edges of the fields there are plenty of Water Pipits and a few Bluethroats, as well as Cetti's Warbler, Chiffchaffs, Zitting Cisticolas, White & Grey Wagtails, Lapwings, Common Snipe and a Green Sandpiper. After here I made a quick visit to the coast but it was fairly quiet with several Sandwich Terns, Audouin's & Black headed Gulls, a Cormorant, and 2 Kentish Plovers.
11th November:- After the previous two days of rain this morning I went out on my usual circuit of the beach and some of Pego Marsh. At the beach the swell was tremendous with some very big breakers coming inshore, but sea passage was minimal apart from good numbers of Yellow legged & Black headed Gulls, although a Mediterranean Shag flying south was good. On the beach it was better with 30+ Sandwich Terns, 1st & 2nd winter Mediterranean Gulls, Audouin's Gull, Sanderlings, Kentish Plovers and a Black Redstart. At Pego Marsh I stopped off at the northern end, which has been quiet of late but the higher waters had brought several Purple Gallinules out into the open. At the brick tank I sat and watched finding a late Little Ringed Plover, Green Sandpiper, Water Pipit, Robin, Grey & White Wagtails, plus 3 Bluethroats including one cracking male all dancing about in the open. next I went to the paddy fields and a scan produced the White Stork amongst the Grey Herons, Cattle & Little Egrets but also 50+ Audouin's Gulls stood with 100+ Black headed Gulls, Jackdaws with a few Swallows and Crag Martins flying overhead. A careful look through these birds rev