I spent the day at Quinta do Lago as a change from raptor watching, at this popular lakeside setting adjoining the golf course. Most of the species seen here were residents and little had changed from previous visits. It was still an interesting time photographing birds in close proximity. A male Red-crested Pochard. Together with Common Pochard, quite a few pairs were seen. One of two juvenile Spoonbills which finally woke up and made a good subject. The Purple Gallinule or Purple Swamphen is a bird easily seen at this sight now. Once rare, it breeds well and when the golfers' have finished for the day, they can be seen walking in the open on the golf course. This one swam directly towards me and into the reeds below the hide. Some strange looking Shovelers around at the moment, as they come out of their moult. One of six Glossy Ibis glinting in the sun, again two or three could be seen wandering on the golf course, feeding in the grass. I located a Common Snipe tucked away in some cut down reeds, it eventually came out to feed. A female Bluethroat, more elusive than the Snipe showed momentarily from the reeds. This Cormorant and Common Sandpiper were by my car when I returned. This is a great site for Azure-winged Magpie in good numbers. A little patience and they will come close.
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