To my knowledge there have been no sightings of 'rare' birds recently, to have me chasing off in a particular direction. Instead, maintaining the usual diligence on familiar sites has brought about some interesting days out in the Western Algarve. I have known for some years of the existence of a Night Heron roost at Quinta do Lago but have not seen its full capacity, until a visit was made last week. The disturbance made by some garden machinery close by, was enough to empty the pine trees of some 24 Night Herons. All but three of the herons were adults, the brown juveniles can be seen in these images also. On the main lake here, a count of ten Tufted Ducks was more than usual. Good numbers of Black-tailed Godwits and Avocets are still on the saltpans at Ludo. Among many Redshank on one pool were four juvenile Ruff, three of which are shown here:- Increasing water levels at Salgados is making wader watching a little more difficult, unless that is when a Marsh Harrier puts birds in the air. Around twenty Golden Plover passed over me as I took this shot. This gull (centre) has been giving me problems. I've come to the conclusion it is a first winter Mediterranean Gull, judging by the bill shape and colour alone. The neck marking appeared strange for such a bird. Any other thoughts welcomed! Ahh, well done guys. I completely overlooked Audouin's even though I see them there. The head shape and streaking fits precisely. Not seeing the leg colour didn't help of course. Seven Caspian Terns resting here today was the most I have encountered according to my records. I mentioned in my last blog about residing in 'the land of Fischer's Lovebirds' and as I watch them more and work out their behaviour - where they feed and what on etc, more images keep materialising! I haven't worked that one out yet!! Black-winged Kites have shown well in at least three regular sites. Two pairs seen are almost certainly displaying already.
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