Griffon Vulture flocks have been coming and going around Sagres almost daily during the last week. A juvenile Black Vulture has been in the hills to the North and yesterday, we watched it leading a flock of Griffons over Martinhal. This morning, probably the same bird brought a flock of around 230 Griffons towards Cabranosa. The flock took a considerable time coming to our position. First seen over Raposeira wind farm, the flock moved towards the coast, passing over Sagres and as far as the lighthouse at Cape St. Vincent before turning back. The Black Vulture was seen losing height as it returned and the Griffons followed in line, as if under instruction. The moment we all hope for finally arrived when the vultures turn towards us and give us remarkable views. As is often the case, various other species accompany the vulture flocks and below, the Black Vulture is seen with two Griffons, a Short-toed Eagle and a pale Booted Eagle. The entire flock departed to North-east and we were left to watch the smaller birds, in better numbers now. Pied and Spotted Flycatchers have returned. Both Common and Black Redstart were seen in close proximity, Chiffchaffs are in greater numbers and finch flocks are arriving too. It was mid-afternoon when another 220 Griffons appeared, lead by the Black Vulture!! A Griffon Vulture approaching the Black Vulture. In this flock, at least two juvenile Black Storks were present. Around six Short-toed Eagles and several Booted Eagles were seen among this flock and a nice Bonelli's Eagle annoyed the Black Storks occasionally. When this large flock finally left, the Black Vulture was seen to break off and go in a different direction. This seems a peculiar behaviour and it will be interesting to see if this bird accompanies, or 'leads' further flocks in the days to come.
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