An early start bang on sunrise allowed me to see a Little Bustard in flight in the Vale do Santo area, North of Sagres. It is thought most of the little bustards have moved from this area now, so I was pleased to see one, although briefly as it veered round a small hill. During the hours I was there, little change in the raptor situation with 6 light and 1 dark Booted Eagles, 2 Egyptian Vultures, 1 Goshawk, 2 Sparrowhawks and 2 Kestrels being the sightings. Instead I searched for ground birds and found 4 Short-toed Larks among the Theklas. Short-toed Lark. Around the farm, 20 Choughs flew in and the resident Little Owl stepped out to warm up! Looking in the fields again, House Sparrows, Goldfinches and Linnets were all in small flocks, but the Ortolon I keep searching for is not conspicuous yet. This Whinchat was more easily seen and 4 Corn Buntings flew over too. Staying around the farm area I didn't expect to see this next bird, an absolutely cracking surprise in the form of a 1st winter Dotterel. The first I've seen in this plumage and a first for my Algarve List. Other notable birds today - numerous Stonechats, Wheatears and Fan-tailed Warblers. 2 Ravens, 2 Blackbirds, 12 Spotless Starlings and a skulking Sub-alpine Warbler which rounded off the session perfectly. Then it was off to a lovely quiet beach, for a bit of relaxation!!
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