I began with a short walk from Figueira towards the sea, watching Red-rumped Swallows take to the early morning air. Cetti's Warblers called and I noticed my first Robin of the Autumn. In an area of tall bamboo, several warblers were feeding the first of which was a Reed Warbler. I heard a loud sound which I thought resembled a Great Reed Warbler but, as I didn't find one I thought perhaps it was a marsh frog. Sardinian Warblers were showing in places and a Melodious Warbler appeared soon after. On arriving at Cabranosa late morning, there was a distinct quietness around the bushes. Some of yesterday's birds were still here, including a smart Tawny Pipit in the same location. Redstarts and Spotted flycatchers were evident, a Whinchat and Wheatear were perhaps new arrivals. There were at least three Woodchat Shrikes including one adult bird. It was still around thirty degrees in the sun and the presence of Golden Oriole for two days running made me think Summer isn't over yet. Raptor identification was extremely difficult today with all birds flying really high and at times, lost in cloud. Certain records were - 1 Peregrine, 5 Honey Buzzard, 16 Black Kite, 6 Short-toed Eagle, 4 Booted Eagle, 2 Sparrowhawk, 1 Goshawk. The juvenile Goshawk was particularly interesting as it separated a Honey Buzzard away from some Black Kites. Continually harassing it, the juvenile attacked the buzzard and remained attached to it, all the way down to the woods ahead of us. A sizeable prey but I don't doubt the Goshawk's ability for one minute. I am open to contradictions however I do believe, the following large warbler is a Western Orphean Warbler (1w). and finally, a beautiful Swallowtail butterfly.
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